Eagle Community Blog

Feeling generous but worried about scams? This blog post is your shield against charity crooks. Learn how to spot red flags, research legit organizations, and donate like a pro.

Explore the booming popularity of minimalism and its potential to reduce clutter, expenses, and anxiety. This guide breaks down the key principles of this lifestyle, helping you decide if embracing minimalism could benefit your finances and well-being.

It's time to take control of your finances and make 2024 your year of financial goals! Check out these 6 steps you can take to get there faster!

Whether you are college bound or heading into the workforce, there is something all young adults need to know about: your credit score. Think of this three-number score as your financial GPA. It holds the keys to your dreams of owning a car, renting your first place, or even landing that dream job.

The best part? Laying the foundation for a great score requires minimum effort. The trick is to get started early. The following guide will highlight strategies to build your credit score and tips to keep your score favorable. It’s easier than you think and can tremendously impact your future self.

With the new school year right around the corner, feelings can be mixed. While teenagers dread the thought of waking up before noon, most parents crave the structure and routine of the school day.

However, there’s much to do before school bells ring and buses fill the streets. By now, you’re probably already receiving school supply lists and noticing most of your kids’ clothes no longer fit. Use the following tips to tackle all your back-to-school shopping adventures while keeping your wallet happy.

Ahh...summer! What’s not to love about the season of flip-flops and fireworks? But, when you’re stuck in the office on another endless summer day, dreaming about the beach and your upcoming vacation, summer can be conflicting. The good news is, there’s no real reason to let your productivity and performance dip during the hottest season of the year. Here are five tips to help you stay focused throughout the summer.

Ever felt like opening a long-term savings account and interested in reviewing your options? Let us tell you about something called a CD ladder and whether it's a good choice.

Between flip-flops and baseball, beach days and the Fourth of July, there’s so much to love about summer! Unfortunately, though, the warmest season of the year can be incredibly expensive. Family activities, higher utility bills and steep fuel prices are just some of the ways summer can get pricey. A great way to combat a swollen summer budget is to take a financial fast on a summer weekend – or several of them. Here’s how.

Buying a home is a long and complicated process, and scammers want to complicate things even more to capitalize on the confusion. Mortgage scams are growing increasingly prevalent and can be difficult to detect. Here’s what you need to know about these scams and how to prevent yourself from becoming a victim.

When it comes to convenience, service and sheer scope of products, nothing beats Amazon. The world’s largest and most popular online marketplace is the 21st century shopper’s go-to for virtually any product under the sun. Unfortunately, though, Amazon is also rife with scammers. Here are five Amazon scams and tips from the e-commerce giant for protecting yourself from falling victim to these schemes.

In today’s sizzling housing market, purchasing a manufactured or mobile home can be a great way to find an affordable place to call home. However, you’ll likely need a way to fund this sizable purchase. Although smaller than a typical home loan, a loan for covering a manufactured or mobile home is a big deal, so you’ll want to choose your lender carefully.

A credit union can be a great way to cover the cost of one of these homes.

How is a Credit Union different than using a big bank? Should you move all of your accounts to a credit union?

Many Americans are dissatisfied with their banks. And many of them, are looking to make a switch. In fact, a Gallup poll found that as many as 74% of Americans had “some or very little confidence” in banks, while only 10% said they had a “great deal” of confidence.

As a credit union member, you can expect to have a much more rewarding and meaningful experience.

Everyone needs and deserves a nice vacation. It’s a chance to escape the daily grind, have fun with family and friends, and unwind. Whether you’re embarking on a fun-filled family excursion or a relaxing retreat, a lot of preparation goes into creating your perfect getaway.

As your vacation date inches closer and the excitement builds, it’s easy to overlook some last-minute household items to check off your to-do list. Preparing your home before you leave on vacation will help protect your property and provide a pleasant atmosphere to return to after your trip.

Ensure your home is vacation-ready with the following tips.

Society today runs on credit, and that’s not a bad thing. Very few people can afford to pay cash upfront for things like cars, homes, or a college education. Access to credit and loans allows you to achieve major milestones and improve your financial position.

However, with such easy access to credit, many find themselves over-relying on it. And if a financial setback were to occur, such as unplanned medical bills or a job loss, too much debt can strain your finances and become costly.

While eliminating debt can often feel impossible, many are surprised to learn they have more control over the situation than they believe. If you’re ready to tackle debt head-on, the following guide is perfect for you.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way we live and work. Unfortunately, though, it’s also revolutionizing the way scammers con unsuspecting victims into sharing their personally identifiable information and their money. Here’s what you need to know about AI fraud and how to protect yourself.

When it comes to investing your money, a wide range of options are available. These opportunities include stocks, bonds, traditional savings accounts, and real estate, all of which offer the potential for financial growth. However, with a plethora of choices also comes the possibility of increased risks.

What if there was an option to invest your money and earn a significant return without any risk? You’d probably think it’s too good to be true. It’s not a myth; it’s called a Share Certificate Account.

It’s never too early to begin teaching kids about money. Responsible money management is a vital skill they will carry throughout their lives. However, the subject isn’t always the most entertaining, especially for younger children. Many find it dull or have difficulty understanding the concepts.

Fortunately, there are many fun and engaging ways to educate your child about money. All it takes is a little time and some creativity.

Kids these days are growing up with more access to financial products than ever before. From debit cards to mobile apps and specialty accounts, they have so many options when it comes to managing their money. In honor of Youth Month, let’s take a look at why it can be a good idea to open a savings account for your child.

Every parent knows that feeling when a child is begging for candy at the checkout line or your teen asks for cash before going out with friends. Do you give in or make them use their allowance money? While paying allowances to children is common today, it’s wise to use this practice as a means to teach responsible money management and important decision-making skills.

It’s never too early to begin teaching your children the importance of saving money. Whether they receive tooth fairy money or earn a paycheck at their first job, all are teachable moments that can have a tremendous impact on their future financial lives.

Nowadays it’s almost too easy to spend money. Everything you could possibly want is only a swipe of your credit card or few clicks away. While convenient, this also propels instant gratification and can lead to overspending and poor money management skills. Teaching children about money at an early age will allow them to build proper savings habits, better manage their money in adulthood, and hopefully avoid the temptations that come with the ease of spending.

Tax season is here, and it tends to put most people on edge. Many are anxious to file their returns because they rely on the money from their tax refund. Others find it stressful to locate all their tax documents and file on time. Add in people’s fear of the IRS and making mistakes on their returns, and it creates the perfect environment for scammers.

Fraudsters feed off uncertainty, and tax time provides multiple opportunities to deceive taxpayers. Fortunately, protecting yourself can be easy with the right knowledge.

While the tactics used by fraudsters are constantly evolving, their scams tend to fall into three general categories. Familiarize yourself with each to avoid falling victim this year.

"I’ve filed my taxes, and I’ll be getting quite a sizable refund this year. I love getting free money in my checking account, but I’ve heard this may not be a good thing. Am I doing something wrong?"

Everyone loves getting money from the government, but your concerns are absolutely valid. Let’s take a look at why an extra-large tax refund may not be in the taxpayer’s best interests, along with how to lower a refund in the future.

Tax season is here again! Before you start stressing over those forms, though, read this guide for what you need to know about filing taxes in 2023.

Spring break is a tradition that most students want to add to their college experience. Whether it’s visiting a popular hot spot or exploring someplace off the beaten path, it’s a chance to create fun memories with friends.

But spring break isn’t necessarily cheap. And it can be hard to say “no” when all your friends are going. Before you start eyeing your credit card that’s only for “emergencies,” review the following ten tips to help make your spring break funds go further.

Saving. Do you view it as an ongoing journey? Or do you consider saving as someplace you arrive at? At ECCU we are in the camp that saving is a habit, not a destination. And it’s a habit that can be formed at any age. Whether you are a parent trying to instill this habit in your children or you want to change your own saving behaviors, there are strategies that savers of all ages can develop.

Making the decision to pay down debt, particularly consumer debt, can be mixed with emotion.

What do homes, education, and retirement all have in common? They are major life milestones that require advance planning and saving large amounts of money. That amount of advance planning and money saved that is needed may make you doubt your ability to reach these goals. Even if you don’t feel that way today, you may have in the past or may in the future. 

How often have you heard that saving for life’s unexpected events is very important and a necessary part of being financially prepared? Most likely A LOT! Accompanying this message often is the statement that you need three to six months of expenses in your emergency savings account. Instead of focusing on what you haven’t accomplished, here are a few strategies to consider that may help you build your financial confidence and begin or continue on your path to saving for the unexpected.

The most simple and effective way to save is to set up automatic savings. Let us explain ...

With uncertainty surrounding the unfolding pandemic, on March 13, 2020, most federal student loans went into “Administrative Forbearance.” During this time, eligible loans had their interest rates set to 0% APR and loan payments were paused.¹

On December 31, 2022, nearly three years later, the administrative forbearance was set to end – meaning federal student loan payments would resume in 2023. However, this date was extended due to ongoing litigation about the U.S. Department of Education’s student debt relief program. Student loan payments will now resume either 60 days after the litigation is resolved or 60 days after June 30, 2023, whichever is sooner.²

For many borrowers, this is causing panic and stress. While the initial effects of the pandemic have largely passed, rising prices and record inflation are already hitting borrowers’ wallets. Before your student loan payments resume, review the following tips to ensure you’re financially ready.

Did you know that your savings portfolio should be diversified just like your investments? Financial experts recommend giving your savings as much chance at growth as possible. Let’s take a look at an especially great choice for diversifying your savings: a share certificate.

It’s time to celebrate the significant other in your life! If you’re thinking that means pricey gifts, expensive dates and blowing an entire day’s salary on a restaurant meal, think again. There’s no need to drain your wallet while trying to create the perfect Valentine’s Day. Instead, use these eight hacks for a dream Valentine’s Day that don’t break the budget.

If you haven't looked into scholarships yet, it's time to start your search! There are multiple scholarship opportunities not only for new students, but also for students who are currently enrolled in college. They can be as broad as academic and merit scholarships or as specific and unusual as duck calling scholarships (start practicing your best "quack" - it may be worth some good money). Eagle also offers an annual scholarship to members who apply. Learn more in this article.

Smartphones are the millennial’s answer to the disorganized life. You can buy practically anything with just a few swipes, schedule your appointments and store all your photos and home videos in this one, convenient location. [You can also manage your accounts, check your balance and deposit checks through ’s mobile banking app and/or website]. Unfortunately, all of that convenience comes at a price: Your mobile devices pose an inherent risk to your security if they fall into the wrong hands. The good news is, there are ways to protect your phone and your information from fraud. 

Here are 6 tips for keeping your device safe and secure.

A question that lurks in everyone’s mind is, “How much money do I need to retire?” While it’s a simple question, the answer is anything but that. Unfortunately, there is no magic number or one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone’s number will vary due to a multitude of factors. So, while one person might need $2 million to retire, another may only require $750,000.

The following guide will reveal ways to estimate your retirement number and identify crucial factors often overlooked by future retirees.

The world today revolves around instant gratification – we want everything, and we want it now. And, thanks to businesses across a spectrum of industries, it’s made possible. Credit cards and Buy Now Pay Later programs give you instant access to money. Computers and smartphones answer just about any question you could imagine instantly. Everything from expedited college degrees to promises of shedding pounds overnight is within your reach.

But this “instant anything” mentality can have real-life consequences. For children that see and copy everything, this could cause a multitude of challenges down the road. Finding ways to instill patience and goal-setting skills in children is crucial – and the sooner you begin, the better.

What’s your January shopping style–all shopped out, or ready to hit the mall again as soon as the last guest leaves? Whatever it is, we’ve got you covered! January begins with a bang, but there are no major shopping holidays once the new year gets underway. Of course, you can still pick up great bargains this month, or find that you’ve overpaid on items that get price drops just weeks after you’ve purchased them. Here’s what to buy and what to skip in January.

The holidays are drawing closer and there’s still so much to do! You’ve got gifts to buy and wrap, meals to prepare and more items on your to-do list than gifts on your preschooler’s wish list. Some days, it can seem like your stress levels will keep rising while the money in your wallet keeps dwindling–all the way up until the holidays arrive. Want some good news? It doesn’t have to be this way! With just a bit of planning and organization, you can have a stress-free and affordable holiday season. Here’s how:

Economists are divided on whether we’re already in a recession or likely heading toward one. All signs seem to be pointing towards a recession: inflation has hit a 40-year high, interest rates have hit a two-decade peak and investing in the stock market now is like riding a terrifying roller coaster. 

Taking steps to improve your financial health in case of a recession is a responsible and forward-thinking move. Here’s how to be in position for weathering a recession.

The holiday season is here and while you are planning time with family and friends, it is also the time of year to be mindful of protecting yourself and your wallet with these helpful security tips.

Inheritance scams have been around forever, and they’ve only gotten more prevalent with the advent of online communication. Unfortunately, if the victim falls for the scam, they’ll only inherit the loss of funds, possible identity theft and more. 

Here’s what you need to know about inheritance scams and how to protect yourself.

December blows in at the peak of the holiday shopping frenzy, and then it tiptoes out with the end of the year and post-holiday calm. Black Friday deals are long over, and there are no major shopping holidays this month, but you can still find a fabulous deal before and after the holidays. So, whether you’re finishing up your holiday shopping or looking for year-end bargains in any category this month, we’ve got you covered. 

Here’s what to buy and what to skip in December.

Black Friday, arguably the greatest shopping day of the year, is almost upon us. As the gateway to the holiday shopping season, it’s the perfect love story between retailers and consumers.

Businesses seeking to end the year strong and in the positive (or, in accounting terms, in the “black”) offer some of the year’s best sales. And consumers looking to save money happily flock to the stores to cash in on these amazing deals.

Between the festive atmosphere and being in the giving spirit, it’s easy to get carried away. However, with a bit of preparation, you can make the day fun and memorable – and score some awesome deals!

The twinkling lights, delicious foods, and festive music are all signs the holiday season is upon us. Add in the precious moments with family and friends, and it’s a reminder of why it’s the merriest time of the year.

Whether it’s decorating, buying gifts, traveling, or entertaining guests, the holidays are also one of the most expensive times. But this year has people even more stressed as prices continue to soar.

Before you let today’s economic woes bah humbug your holiday spirit, review the following tips to help boost your spending power.

We owe the strength and security of our country to our heroic veterans. These brave men and women sacrifice the comforts of home, time with family and often their physical well-being to protect us. Unfortunately, though, many veterans are struggling to make ends meet and to support their families.

If you are a veteran, you likely already know about VA loans, which are no-money-down home loans just for veterans. But did you know there are many other ways the government and charitable organizations can help you get back on your feet?

Here’s a list of financial resources created especially for veterans. Having served our country, you deserve all this and more.

The biggest shopping month of the year is here! With Black Friday deals running for as long as the entire month of November and Cyber Monday giving the internet a chance at boasting super-low deals, too, ‘tis truly the season to save. Before you start charging up a storm, though, keep in mind that not every Black Friday deal is really all it’s cracked up to be. Some purchases should wait until December – or until after the holidays have passed. Lucky for you, we have the info you need to score the best deals this month (and beyond). Here’s what to buy and what to skip in November.

Scammers follow the money, and this holds true for digital money as well. There are dozens of scams that use cryptocurrency to con people out of their money and their information. As a non-regulated currency, stolen crypto is virtually impossible to reclaim. Here are five crypto scams to know:

Most new parents are shocked when they discover the cost of childcare today. With prices per child often near $1,000 per month, the total can become extremely expensive for those with multiple small children. The rising cost of childcare can force parents to question whether it’s more economical for one parent to forgo working and raise their children until they can attend elementary school.

Unfortunately, not everyone can afford to stop working for an extended period. Many families depend on two incomes, and most single parents need to work. However, there are steps you can take to lower childcare costs and better plan for the ongoing expenses.

Welcoming a new baby is a joyous and exciting time for parents. Whether this is your first child or your third, you know this new addition will come with extra expenses. For most, navigating these costs while also continuing to save money can be tricky.

The good news is that you can take steps to keep your finances and budget on track while growing your family. Here are nine tips to help manage your money with a new baby.

Looking for ways to up your productivity levels while at work? These innovative apps can help you stay on top of your game at the office, always.

Like most people, you probably receive loan offers regularly in the mail or via email. Whether for auto loans, credit cards, debt consolidation loans, or home loans, the verbiage is probably very similar – they all offer you the opportunity to apply for a loan.

However, you may have noticed that some of the solicitations reference being “pre-qualified,” while others say “pre-approved.” These terms seem similar, but they actually have two separate meanings. Understanding their differences could give you some insight into where you stand with the lender and what your next steps should be.

You’ve got mail! But beware, because this particular missive telling you that you’ve been preapproved for a large loan – maybe even a mortgage – may not be as it seems! The exciting news may be accompanied by a check that’s made out to you and even for the full loan amount! It’s a dream come true. Until, of course, it all turns into a living nightmare. 

Here’s what you need to know about preapproval scams and how to stay safe.

In a roller-coaster-type fashion, consumer saving and spending have seen their ups and downs during the Covid-19 pandemic.

First, when the pandemic started, not only did spending on travel come to a screeching halt, but entertainment rapidly declined, as did in-person shopping. In general, people were spending less of their money, preferring to hold onto their cash partly or fully due to the unknown.

Then, as the pandemic continued, government stimulus payments started hitting consumers’ accounts, and many people decided to safeguard these payments too. This scenario resulted in a rise in consumer savings.

However, that shift in consumer saving over spending is starting to reverse course as a result of a few key drivers, making it harder to maintain the savings you built.

Just when you think they can’t possibly jump any higher, gas prices start rising again. They’ve long passed the $5 mark in much of the country, and in some areas they’ve even gone beyond $6 a gallon. This means it’ll cost the average American close to $100 just to fill a 16-gallon tank. With prices peaking on so many other goods, the pain at the pump is real.

There isn’t much you can do about the cost of gas, but there are ways you can pay less at the pump. Here are six ways to save on the cost of gasoline.

Most parents warn their kids against taking candy or accepting a ride from a stranger, but there’s a digital equivalent to conventional kidnapping that is unknown to many people. Digital kidnapping happens when a crook takes control of a target’s social media profiles and holds them until a ransom is paid. It can also involve “kidnapping” photos that are posted on social media pages. Here’s what you need to know about digital kidnapping and how to protect yourself from falling victim.

Get ready for savings on big-ticket items this month! Retailers are looking to bring the crowds back after the big back-to-school storm has passed, and bargain prices are always a great way to attract shoppers. They also need to clear shelves before the holiday season blows in with its shopping frenzy. Add in the Labor Day sales that kick off the month, and it means big savings during September – but not on everything. Here’s what to buy and what to skip in September.

Your credit score will play a tremendous role throughout your adult life. From determining how much you’ll pay on loans to deciding if you’ll be approved for an apartment, your credit comes into play. Whether you have a stellar score or life threw you some financial curveballs, it’s always in your best interest to monitor and improve your credit score.

One of the simplest ways to better your credit is by correcting any errors on your report. While the process will require a little work on your end, the damage could negatively affect your score long-term if left unchecked.

Learn how to obtain a free copy of your credit report and the steps to correct any errors in the following guide.

Everyone dreams of winning the lottery, but scammers are out to turn that frequent dream into an absolute nightmare. A fake lottery scam involves a fraudster, or a ring of criminals, misrepresenting themselves as a legitimate lottery company to con victims out of their information and money. Here’s all you need to know about fake lottery scams.

If starting college is your first time living away from home, then there’s probably a lot on your mind. Setting out on your own means more independence and all of the responsibilities that come with it, which can be both exciting and daunting. One thing you want to keep in mind as you’re starting the transition is your finances.

Learning to manage your money early will set you up for more financial freedom later on and lead to less stress. There are steps you can take before you leave for school to secure your finances and moves you can make once you’re at school to maximize your funds.

Here are seven financial tips for first-year college students.

The housing market always goes through its ups and downs. During the pandemic, homeowners and homebuyers alike were able to benefit from record-low interest rates. Now, as inflation continues to soar and the Federal Reserve raises rates to offset the climb, the market is cooling down.

The combination of higher home prices and rising interest rates are forcing many would-be homebuyers out of the market. While conventional fixed-rate mortgages reign king during periods of low rates, other home loan options shine in uncertain markets. One of these loans is an adjustable-rate mortgage or ARM.

With the ability to lock in lower introductory rates, ARMs are making a comeback. Is an adjustable-rate mortgage the right solution for you?

Independence Day sales are long gone and Labor Day is a month away, but you can still pick up great bargains in August. Here’s what to buy and what to skip this month. 

Life in your twenties can be exciting and full of new opportunities. There are many milestones young members might cross off their lists during this period: graduating college, beginning their careers, getting married, and even starting families.

While long-term financial goals might seem a lifetime away, the decisions you make today can significantly impact your future fiscal success. When it comes to building wealth, time is your best friend. The sooner you begin laying the foundation for the future, the better your position will be when you approach your next financial milestone.

Here are several wise money moves you can make in your twenties to prepare yourself for financial events yet to come.

Survey scams are almost as old as the internet. They’re so prevalent, you can hardly spend an hour online without running into an ad for a “super quick” survey promising a reward for just a few minutes of your time. 

What actually happens, though, is that the scammer walks away with a free survey, or worse, your information and/or your money. The alert consumer can spot a survey scam easily, but fraudsters are unfortunately becoming more sophisticated at luring innocent victims into their schemes. 

Don’t get caught! Here are eight ways to spot a survey scam:

Keeping large amounts of cash in envelopes, kitchen drawers or stuffed under the mattress is not recommended during times of inflation – or at any other time. Here’s all your questions on handling cash during times of inflation, answered.

Thousands of drivers are grappling with this question as gas prices peak. While an electric vehicle (EV) might be the right choice for many, there are lots of variables to consider before making this decision. Here’s what to know about electric cars before going this route:

Refinancing a large loan, such as a motorcycle loan, into one that offers more affordable payback terms can make a huge difference in a monthly budget. Here are six reasons you may want to refinance your motorcycle loan through your credit union. 

 

A company culture describes the beliefs and values a business upholds. It generally includes the company’s long-term goals and visions, its mission statement, as well as various details about its work environment and company policies. 

Establishing a positive company culture in your workplace can have several significant benefits:

With prices rising on everything, including hotel stays, record numbers of vacationers are choosing to rent private homes or apartments on sites like Airbnb and Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO). Unfortunately, though, vacation rental scams are on the rise as well. Here’s all you need to know about these scams and how to avoid them.

Ahh…summer! The season of flip-flops and sunscreen, of lemonade and baseball games. What’s not to love about summer?

Unfortunately, though, summer is also the season of overspending for many. When the sun is blazing across a cloudless sky and the day stretches on with endless possibilities, purse strings are looser and cards are swiped with abandon. But nothing kills summer fun like a busted budget and a mountain of debt. So, how can you stay financially fit this summer?

Keeping your finances intact throughout the summer is well within reach if you’re ready to plan ahead and make responsible choices. Here are four hacks for a summer of financial fitness. 

With cars in hot demand, and selling at all-time high prices, many lease customers are looking at trade-in values for their vehicles with the intention of buying out their lease. While this can be a smart choice for many consumers, it’s important to consider all relevant factors before making a decision. Here’s what you need to know about buying out your lease.

Enrolling in college can often feel like a double-edged sword. It can be an excellent investment in your future and provide you with more opportunities throughout your professional career. On the other hand, the costs can be high – forcing you to rely on student loans to cover at least a portion of the expenses.

The trick is to limit how much you borrow. With loans, you have to consider the amount you need to repay, plus interest that is accruing at the same time. Since student loans typically have longer repayment periods, the interest can add up quickly – even with favorable rates.

To prevent yourself from becoming overloaded with student debt upon graduation, find ways to reduce the amount you need to borrow.

A college degree remains one of the best investments in your future self. It can open the door to new career opportunities and increase your earning potential significantly. However, the cost of higher education today leaves many wondering if it’s worth the investment.

While college expenses continue to rise, there are many ways to lower the financial burden. One of the most popular means to do this is through college scholarships.

Scammers will capitalize on anything to pull off another ruse, even the special bond between a grandparent and grandchild. Grandparent scams are not new, but they have gotten a lot more sophisticated in recent years, so they can be difficult to spot. Here’s what you need to know about grandparent scams and how to avoid them. 

Every parent wants the best for their child, and schooling plays a significant role in determining what opportunities await them later in life. While there are many techniques to help children excel in school, a commonly debated topic is whether you should pay your child for good grades.

On the one hand, incenting your child may encourage them to devote more time and energy toward their schoolwork. Yet, on the other hand, it could devalue learning as your child only focuses on the prize and not necessarily what they are being taught.

It’s a popular discussion among parents and professionals, but the decision ultimately comes down to you, the parent, and what you think will work best for your child. Before you decide, it’s important to understand how paying for grades works and the potential benefits and drawbacks. 

Making the transition from high school to college means you're in store for some significant changes in your life. Among those changes is the need to establish credit and build a solid credit score.

Your credit score is one of the most important things for you to nurture as an adult. It will affect almost every purchase you make on credit, your auto insurance rates, and your ability to rent an apartment. It may even impact your ability to get employment in desirable industries.

Unfortunately, it isn’t easy to build credit if you don’t already have a credit history. Lenders are reluctant to extend credit without it. So, how do you build credit if you don’t already have credit? As your credit union, we want to help our members do just that. Here are a few steps you can take to begin building a strong credit history and develop a great credit score.

Scammers never take a break from dreaming up new ways to con people out of their money. Recently, they’ve even been hijacking QR codes to pull scams on innocent victims. Here’s all you need to know about QR code scams and how to avoid them. 

You might have heard that the Fed plans to raise the interest rate this year and now you wonder: How will this impact the economy and the current inflation rates? Let’s take a deeper look at what the current economic circumstances mean for the average consumer as well as steps you can take to protect your investments and manage your money in the most optimal manner. 

The big day is drawing near, and if you haven’t already done so, it’s time to file your tax return! Before you file, though, it’s a good idea to review your return to ensure you haven’t made any mistakes or forgotten any deductions or credits you’re eligible to claim. Below, we’ve compiled a list of last-minute tax tips to know before you file. 

Opening your first credit card can be both an exciting and daunting experience. On the one hand, a credit card offers more financial freedom and flexibility. On the other hand, you likely heard horror stories of people falling into a debt cycle that’s hard to escape.

The truth is that you should start working to build your credit score as soon as you’re able. Even if you have no plans to purchase a car or rent an apartment anytime soon, building credit takes time. And while it may seem backward, one of the best times to build credit is when you’re a young adult with limited financial obligations.

Upon reaching adulthood, one number that can dramatically impact your life, both financially and otherwise, is your credit score. A good score can help you receive the loans you need and ultimately pay less interest on those loans. But it can also help when applying to lease an apartment, and some employers even check your score before hiring.

While a good credit score is to be desired, it isn’t always easy to obtain. Life throws everyone curve balls that knock their financial plans and budgets off track. So how do you build and maintain the high credit score you desire? In this article are seven habits commonly found among those with high credit scores.

For some people, buying a new car is exhilarating. After all, the thought of driving a brand-new vehicle with all the bells and whistles is exciting. On the other hand, many others may find the process intimidating and stressful.

Buying a new car can be challenging because it’s not something you often do. On the other hand, dealerships sell vehicles all day, every day, and know exactly how to work deals in their favor. For this reason, members often leave wondering if they got a good deal. 

Regardless of whether you’re buying your first car or third, everyone wants to feel like they got the best deal possible. Before heading to the dealership for your next vehicle, create a plan using the following tips to ensure you drive away happy.

Buying your first car is an exciting experience! However, buying a car also means you’ll have additional expenses each month. If financing your vehicle, you’ll have to consider the down payment and ongoing monthly payments. Plus, you will need to budget for gas, insurance, and maintenance. While saving for your first car may take some time, you’ll be on the road to freedom in no time by utilizing these seven tips.

It’s no secret that having a great credit score is beneficial today. It makes being approved for loans easier and ensures you pay less interest on those financial obligations. But its benefits stretch beyond loans. For instance, some employers will check your credit score before hiring you. Landlords will often review your credit before you can move in. And some companies, such as utilities, may waive the required deposit if your score is high enough.

You should always be on the lookout for ways to improve your credit score. And while often overlooked, tax season is the perfect opportunity to give your score a boost. To understand how, first review the components of your credit score.

Anyone buying a new car, or even a cup of coffee, will notice that prices are going up. From utilities and groceries to filling your car at the pump, inflation is definitely on the rise affecting everyone’s finances in one way or another. As a result, many households are feeling the strain on their budgets.

While inflation won’t disappear overnight, there are steps you can take to help ease the effects of these rising costs. With a bit of planning and reviewing your spending habits, you can create a strategy that will help keep your finances in check.

It’s tax season, and while that may mean you’re drowning in forms and paperwork, for scammers it means millions of taxpayers they can potentially dupe out of refunds or scare into making irrational moves. Here’s what you need to know about tax return scams and how to avoid them. 

Super Bowl parties are always great fun to host, but they can cost a pretty penny. To help cut the costs, we’ve compiled some hosting hacks so you can pull off the party of a lifetime without breaking your budget. 

Filing your taxes can be a bit of a headache each year. While many people may have good intentions of filing as soon as they get their W-2s, the reality is people often procrastinate. Then, before they know it, the deadline sneaks up and forces them to reorganize their schedule to make time to file, causing a great deal of unnecessary stress.

If that scenario sounds familiar to you, it’s time to consider filing your taxes early. Doing so will not only relieve your stress and anxiety levels, but there are many other benefits you’ll experience.

As you turn on the TV or glance through the latest news stories, you can’t help but hear about the “Great Resignation.” With more and more people leaving their current jobs, businesses are struggling to find workers. Due to staffing shortages, some companies are even adjusting their hours or closing one or two days a week.

But what exactly is causing this mass resignation event? Many people believe it’s all about employee pay and benefits. Others argue it’s caused by the leniency of stimulus programs made available through COVID-19 government programs.

However, as the “Great Resignation” continues, a different cause is coming to light – new opportunities.

Anyone buying a new car, or even a cup of coffee, will notice that prices are going up. From utilities and groceries to filling your car at the pump, inflation is definitely on the rise affecting everyone’s finances in one way or another. As a result, many households are feeling the strain on their budgets.

While inflation won’t disappear overnight, there are steps you can take to help ease the effects of these rising costs. With a bit of planning and reviewing your spending habits, you can create a strategy that will help keep your finances in check.

Without the holiday festivities to distract us, the winter months can suddenly seem very gray and drab. If you find yourself feeling blue after the holiday season, you’re not alone. It’s normal to start feeling down as the flurry of the holidays winds to a lull. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to beat the blues, and they don’t need to cost you any money.

Here are some simple tips to use this winter that may help lift your spirits:

Spend less, save more, pay down debt — how can you make 2022 the year you actually stick to these and other financial resolutions? 

We’ve compiled a list of tips that can help you keep your financial resolutions throughout the new year. 

In today's world, it’s not uncommon for people to have their money spread out among several different financial institutions. For example, many folks often have their checking or savings at one institution and loans at another. It’s even more common to carry multiple credit cards from various institutions in your wallet.

While this is a common practice, especially in today’s digital world, there are many reasons why it’s so beneficial to have your accounts and loans at the same financial institution.

With the holiday shopping season heading into its final frenzied stretch, scammers are out in full force to take advantage of busy shoppers. In particular, credit card fraud is rampant during this time of year. With most purchases paid for with plastic, scammers have their pick of vulnerable prey before the holidays. Stay safe this season and protect yourself and your cards from fraud with these safety measures and preventative tips: 

Nothing beats the joy of treating yourself! Many people feel drawn to the thrill of buying new items, pampering services, or tasty meals. However, overspending can become a financial problem when you’re not keeping track of your budget, leading to unwanted debt and stress.

The good news is there are ways to curb excess spending while still being able to enjoy yourself.

In our digital world, passwords are as much a part of our lives as Netflix and Amazon. Keeping information stored in dozens of accounts across the web can make it easier to stay on top of your finances, order a new pair of jeans or even schedule a dentist appointment. Unfortunately, though, passwords can be relatively easy for scammers to hack, opening the door for identity theft, credit card fraud and more. 

Here’s where multifactor authentication (MFA) comes into play. As a means of securing your information, MFA provides an extra layer of protection for your accounts and sensitive data. 

Here’s all you need to know about MFA, how it works and why it’s an important step in protecting your information. 

Black Friday has traditionally been the day that kicks off the holiday shopping season, sending hordes of crowds surging through malls and big-box stores all over the nation. Unfortunately, it’s also been a day that kicks off the season of shopping scams. 

Here are four scams to watch out for this Black Friday and throughout the holiday shopping season:

You’ll often hear homeowners talking about tapping into their home’s equity to solve a variety of financial challenges. But what exactly is home equity? And if you do tap into your home’s equity, how can you use those funds?

There are several ways to access your home’s equity, including a Home Equity Loan and a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). Both options are similar, but each has its own pros and cons.

We owe the strength and security of our country to our heroic veterans. These brave men and women sacrifice the comforts of home, time with family and often their physical well-being to protect us. Unfortunately, though, many veterans are struggling to make ends meet and to support their families.

If you are a veteran, you likely already know about VA loans, which are no-money-down home loans just for veterans. But did you know there are many other ways the government and charitable organizations can help you get back on your feet?

Here’s a list of financial resources created especially for veterans. Having served our country, you deserve all this and more.

 

The holidays are coming and it’s time to hit the shops! Retailers and consumers around the nation are anticipating a holiday season that’s a lot closer to pre-pandemic days than last year’s festivities. Unfortunately, though, suppliers are cautioning consumers to expect supply shortages, shipping delays and higher price tags than ever.

With that in mind, here’s a look at what you might expect to see this holiday shopping season.

That cackling, long-haired witch might send your heart fluttering with fear, but these Halloween scams are even spookier! Here’s what to know about these common Halloween scams. 

Are you as excited as we are to celebrate International Credit Union Day?

ICU Day is celebrated on the third Thursday of every October since 1948! The day has been designated as an occasion for credit unions all over the world to recognize the history behind the credit union movement, its spirit and its philosophy. It’s a day to share your experiences as a member and to reflect upon all the benefits you enjoy by being a part of your credit union.

You already know how wonderful it is to be part of a credit union, but in the spirit of ICU Day, let’s take a quick look at four factors that make a credit union outstanding and allow your dreams to thrive.

You’ll often hear homeowners talking about tapping into their home’s equity to solve a variety of financial challenges. But what exactly is home equity? And if you do tap into your home’s equity, how can you use those funds?

There are several ways to access your home’s equity, including a Home Equity Loan and a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). Both options are similar, but each has its own pros and cons.

Nowadays, everyone in the family is using technology - from kids to grandparents. These convenient digital tools instantly connect everything, from friends and family to financial accounts and shopping. Unfortunately, they also open the door to fraudsters.

It’s more important than ever to educate your family members about online safety and how to avoid becoming a victim of the latest scam.

With online transactions increasing each year, it’s more important than ever for people to become vigilant in protecting their identity. Identity theft and fraud are on the rise, and scammers are becoming smarter and more creative with how they’re targeting people and their accounts. Figuring out where to begin to protect yourself can be overwhelming. Here are ten things you can start doing right now to help keep your accounts more secure.

It’s commendable to try raising your kids today with an eye toward their future. Teaching your children how to be financially independent will help smooth the transition into adulthood. It will also give them the tools they need to achieve and maintain financial wellness throughout their life.

Here are some tips for raising kids to grow into financially independent adults. 

You and debt are so over. You’ve just about had it with those endless piles of credit card bills and those hideous numbers that never seem to get any lower. It’s time to kiss that debt goodbye!

Getting rid of high debt will take hard work, willpower and the determination to see it through until the end, but it is doable. Here, we’ve outlined six steps to help you start crushing debt today. 

Whether you’re purchasing your first car or your seventh, buying a new vehicle is exciting. From the model, features, and color, you have many important decisions to make. However, that excitement can wane the minute you start talking about finances.

Because vehicles come with higher price tags, most people cannot pay cash for a new car. Instead, they turn to auto loans for their financing needs. Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s crucial that you understand the most common terms associated with vehicle loans and how they will impact your finances.

Sometimes loans and borrowing money can have a negative connotation. The truth is that loans are powerful instruments that can drastically improve your financial standing when used properly. Whether you’re investing in yourself through higher education, purchasing a home for your family, or just need cash flow for monthly expenses, loans often make the impossible possible.

However, while loans may serve a financial purpose, that doesn’t mean you should come to rely on borrowed funds. Instead, use the loan as intended and work to become debt-free as quickly as possible.

Formulating a plan to pay off loans early is a great way to save on interest and free up valuable funds for other needs.

If you’re ready to purchase an RV or an ATV, the number of choices to make can be overwhelming. The price range for different vehicles is enormous, choosing between a new or used vehicle can be tricky and securing financing can be a nightmare all its own. To help you through the process, we’ve outlined the steps to take, factors to consider and general tips for purchasing an RV or an ATV. Let’s get started!

Would you love to pick up some great bargains as the summer winds down? Which products typically go on sale in August and which should be pushed off for another time? As host to the second-biggest shopping season of the year, the tail end of summer brings some fantastic finds, but some overpriced products as well. Here’s what to buy and what to skip in August:

If you’re thinking of road-tripping your summer getaway, think RVs. Recreational vehicles and their close cousin, campervans, are growing increasingly popular as more families hit the road for a true American adventure that’s easier on the wallet and heavy on the fun. When purchasing an RV, you can go all out with a fully loaded luxury vehicle, or go the less costly route by opting for a campervan, also called a Class B motorhome. 

If you’re still not convinced, here are seven reasons to buy an RV or a campervan

Did you know that the cost of the average wedding in the U.S. is $28,000*? That’s an awful lot of money to spend on one event, especially when you consider that just 12% of couples have wedding savings when they get engaged, according to a study by Behind the Wedding Budget. This means that for many couples, the honeymoon is over as soon as those bills start coming due. 

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way. With some careful planning, prioritizing what’s important to you and your spouse-to-be, and by following some of the cost-cutting tips outlined here, you can have the wedding you desire and your budget, too.

While it appears to be a seller’s market, and the perfect time to put your home up for sale, there are many variables to consider before going forward. Below, we’ve outlined important points to know about today’s market so you can make an informed decision about selling your home in 2021.

With mask mandates and occupancy limits easing and/or lifting, millions of Americans are looking forward to a summer getaway with more excitement than usual. Entertainment venues are opening, attractions are up and running again and for some, it’s been two years since they’ve enjoyed a real summer vacation.

While it’s great to get away for some fun in the sun, it’s important to stick to a budget, even when on vacation. An over-the-top vacay you can’t really afford can mean spending months catching up on credit card payments and paying high-interest rates that may make it not worth the price. This year, attack your vacation with a financial plan that you can actually keep by following the tips outlined in this article.