Maximizing Your Spending with Credit Card Rewards: A Practical Approach
In today's world, where every dollar counts, finding ways to maximize your spending can significantly benefit your financial health. One of the most effective strategies is leveraging credit card rewards.
Coin Counter Services at SCU Credit Union
Turn Your Loose Change Into Savings
At SCU Credit Union, we offer you convenient and hassle-free coin counting services. Whether it’s spare change from the couch cushions or a jar full of coins, our self-service coin counters are here to save you time and effort.
Understanding Skip a Payment and Defer a Loan Payment Programs
The end of the year can be a stressful time for many people, with holiday expenses piling up on top of regular financial commitments. That's why many credit unions, including SCU Credit Union, offer programs like "Skip a Payment" or "Defer a Loan Payment" to provide a little financial breathing room during the holiday season.
Save Money & Be Safe with CardValet & the SCU Mobile App
Today, managing finances has become increasingly convenient thanks to the SCU Mobile App and CardValet. These tools offer a range of features designed to make banking easier, enhance security, and save you money.
The Power of Emergency Savings
Life is unpredictable. Whether it's a sudden medical emergency, an unexpected natural disaster like a flood, or the surprise of car repairs or home improvement needs, these unforeseen events can disrupt our financial stability. That's why having an emergency savings account is crucial.
Is It Time to Renew or Turn in Your Auto Lease?
If your auto lease is coming to an end, you might be wondering what your next steps should be. This can be both an exciting and a daunting time, as you decide whether to renew your lease, turn in your vehicle, or perhaps even purchase the car outright.
Maximizing Your Spending with Credit Card Rewards
Credit cards can be more than just a tool for making purchases—they can be a way to earn rewards. If you're like most consumers, you may not be fully utilizing the benefits that come with credit card rewards.
Fleet Financing for Growing Businesses
Fleet financing is an invaluable tool for business owners looking to expand their operations with a fleet of vehicles. Whether you're in transportation, delivery, or services, having reliable transportation can be crucial to your success.
Mass Save Home Energy Assessments
Home energy assessments, also known as home energy audits, are a great way to learn how to save money on your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact. Mass Save offers home energy assessments to residents of Massachusetts at no cost.
Building a Budget to Reach Your Long-Term Financial Goals
When it comes to personal finance, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, one thing that is essential for everyone is having a budget.
Buying a Business - How to successfully navigate an employee buyout
Taking over a business from the current owner is a significant step, one that requires careful planning and consideration. It's a journey that's as much about personal fulfillment as it is about business acumen.
Is Now a Good Time to Refinance? You May be Able To Remove Mortgage Insurance
If you bought a home in the last two years, you might be wondering if now is a good time to refinance your mortgage. One significant factor to consider is the possibility you could get rid of PMI (private mortgage insurance).
Your Dream Vacation Awaits - Start Saving Today
Planning a vacation is one of life’s most exciting endeavors. Whether you’re picturing yourself lounging on a pristine beach, exploring ancient ruins, or dining in a quaint European café, the anticipation of a getaway can bring immense joy. But to make that dream a reality, smart saving is essential. That's when an automated savings account comes into play.
Be Aware of These New Scams – Romance, Smishing and Impersonation
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to steal personal and financial information. Here are some of the most prevalent scams targeting checking and savings accounts.
First Time Home Buyers in Rhode Island & Massachusetts - Is the Answer an Adjustable Rate Mortgage
In today's housing market, adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) can be a way for first-time homebuyers to break into the market.
Affordable EVs are Here
Considering an electric vehicle (EV)? Explore affordable new & used EV options, federal & Massachusetts EV incentives, and cost-saving tips get you in a greener ride!
Worried about Check Fraud – Shred Your Checkbook
Is it time to start talking about shredding our checkbooks?
A Personal Loan: Your Ally to Conquer Debt & Big-Ticket Purchases
Life throws a lot our way, and sometimes, those curveballs come in the form of expenses that stretch our budget thin. That's where personal loans step in to help you manage expenses and interest cost.
Understanding Adjustable Rate Mortgages
Choosing the right mortgage can be as crucial to your financial health as selecting the right home is to your personal happiness.
Get to know your Commercial Lender – Before you apply for a Loan
Building a relationship with a commercial lender before you get started on getting a loan can be invaluable.
What You Didn’t Know About Home Loans
If you’re in the market for a new home, it’s best to learn all you can about home loans and how they work before you get too deep into the process.
Read on to learn more!
HELOCs Explained – What is a HELOC?
A HELOC is a powerful financial tool, but it's vital to understand the terms and use it responsibly.
LTV Why is it Important - HELOCs Explained
Loan-to-value (LTV) is the percentage of a home's value that is financed by a mortgage, including a home equity line of credit (HELOC).
Beware of Callers Impersonating SCU Credit Union
Spoofing can make a call or text seem legitimate, displaying a familiar name or number on your caller ID.
What is a Draw Period - HELOCs Explained
Understanding the Draw Period of a Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, will help you know if a HELOC is right for you.
What is the Best Checking Account for You?
Most people rarely or never think about their checking accounts. This may be a mistake as checking accounts range in the fees they charge
Mass Save Rebates Being Phased Out - April 30th Deadline
Massachusetts is getting serious about sustainability! Seize the opportunity to upgrade to energy-efficient solutions, maximize your savings, and contribute to the collective effort in combating climate change.
How to Negotiate When You Buy a Car
Negotiating with a car dealer can feel intimidating, but with some preparation and the right tactics, you can save money on your car purchase.
Wedding Planning Tips to Save Money and Make it a Day to Remember
By rethinking your approach and embracing some creativity, you can have a beautiful and memorable wedding that doesn't break the bank.
Understanding Savings Accounts
Rising interest rates have given savers a real opportunity to see their savings grow.
Interest Only Payments - HELOCs Explained
With a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), it's important to understand the difference between interest-only payments and principal and interest payments.
5 Questions Your Auto Dealer Hopes You Can't Answer
Let’s go through some of the more challenging parts of automotive financing.
Lower Heating and Cooling Bills with a Mass Save® Heat Loan
The Mass Save® Heat Loan program presents residents with 0% interest loans, making it substantially easier to manage the upfront costs of energy-efficient upgrades. Imagine being able to enhance your home's comfort and value, all while keeping your savings intact.
Understanding money market accounts: How you can earn more on your savings
A money market account can be a great way to earn more interest on your savings without being tied down to a long-term investment.
Lower Payments or a Shorter Term - Why You May Want to Refinance Your Car
Refinancing your car loan can often be a smart financial move, potentially saving you money. Here's why you should consider it.
Your Debit Card Earns Rewards on Every Purchase with uChoose Rewards®!
Earning points using your SCU Credit Union Debit Mastercard® is easy... and redeeming the points you earn is fun. With uChoose Rewards®, whether you're filling up the tank, making the weekly grocery run, or shopping online, every time you use your Debit Mastercard® adds valuable points.
Make the right mortgage moves with SCU Credit Union
When you get your mortgage from us, you’ll always know where to go with questions. That’s because we service every home loan we make. Whether you’re making a payment or asking a question, you’ll work with the same friendly team throughout your loan.
First-Time Homebuyers: Don't Be Overwhelmed, Be Prepared
When is the best time to buy a home? Whenever you are ready. Whether home prices are rising or dropping, supplies are tight or plentiful, you can be a successful house hunter.
A Guide to Budgeting with SCU's Money Management Tools
By integrating technology with financial expertise, SCU Credit Union is helping individuals plan for a brighter and more secure financial future with robust budgeting tools.
CDs versus Share Certificates, is there a difference?
Are you confused about the differences of share certificates and Certificates of Deposit? Our latest blog entry highlights the differences between the two, and how SCU will help keep your money safe and insured.
A Guide to Bill Consolidation
Managing multiple bills and loan payments can feel like a juggling act if you don’t have a plan. Bill consolidation emerges as a practical solution to simplify your financial life, reduce stress, and potentially save money. The goal is to streamline your monthly obligations and create a more structured approach to debt repayment.
Your Complete Guide to "Santa Shock" Budget Recovery
As the credit card bills from the holiday season begin to arrive, many of us experience a phenomenon known as "Santa shock." Its primary symptoms include the aftermath of a disorganized household and disrupted daily schedules, coupled with the looming presence of credit card statements revealing the ghosts of past purchases. Learn how to bounce back by reading our guide to Santa Shock Recovery on our latest blog post.
Debt Consolidation: Build a Plan, Choose Your Strategy
Struggling with debt? You're not alone. Building a plan and choosing a strategy are the first steps to ditching debt and building a brighter financial future.
Streamlining Your Finances: A Guide to Linking SCU Credit Union Cards with Apple Pay and Google Wallet
Discover the future of effortless transactions with SCU Credit Union! In this quick guide, learn how to link your SCU Credit Union Debit Mastercard and SCU Credit Union Visa Credit Card to Apple Pay and Google Wallet. Enjoy the convenience of contactless payments, enhanced security features, and real-time transaction alerts.
Black Friday Savings: 10 Tips to Maximize Your Shopping Spree
Ready to make the most of this year's Black Friday? Discover expert tips on planning, researching deals, and staying safe while scoring fantastic discounts. Don't miss out on this guide to a stress-free shopping experience.
What You Need to Know About Government Shutdowns
Government shutdowns can have devastating consequences, impacting everyone from government employees to local communities. Learn about the effects of a government shutdown and how SCU Credit Union can help you in the event of a shutdown.
Protecting Yourself from Debt Collection Scams
Scammers are capitalizing on financial worries, using threats and manipulation to coerce victims into paying non-existent debts. Don't let fear and deception lead you into their traps. Learn how to spot these scams and safeguard your finances with our latest blog post.
What Do I Need to Know About the Recent Student Loan Changes?
With student loan payments set to resume in October, you're probably wondering what you need to know. Our latest blog post addresses your questions and provides essential information on dates, helpful links, and crucial next steps to take.
Navigating How to Donate Safely and Wisely
When natural disasters, such as the Hawaii Wildfires occur, the desire to offer assistance can often be confused by a wave of requests from dozens of organizations. It is important to do research before making a donation, but how? Our latest blog post answers this question and offers numerous resources to ensure that your donations reach legitimate organizations and offer the maximum impact for affected communities.
The Benefits of Creating a Monthly Budget
From reducing stress and debt to enhancing savings and fostering smarter spending habits, embracing a monthly budget empowers you to take control of your finances and pave the way to lasting financial freedom. Our latest blog posts highlights eight benefits to creating a monthly budget to help shape your financial future.
Should I Make A Credit Card Balance Transfer?
When used responsibly, credit cards offer convenience, security, and numerous financial benefits. However, if not managed carefully, they can lead to a cycle of high-interest debt. For individuals facing mounting credit card debt and struggling with high interest rates, a credit card balance transfer can be a game-changer. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of credit card balance transfers and how they can help you regain control of your finances.
Beware of Counterfeit Stamp Scams
The United States Postal Service recently raised the price of a First Class stamp from 63 cents to 66 cents. Due to this, there has been an influx of counterfeit stamp sellers posting ads on social media, offering discounts of up to 50% off the face value of a stamp. Learn how to protect yourself in our latest blog post.
What Makes a Credit Union Different?
As a member of a Credit Union, you're also an owner/shareholder. Without outside shareholders or investors trying to maximize profits at the expense of our members, credit unions can conduct business based on the best interest of the membership. Read more to see more differences between banks and credit unions.
AI Fraud and How to Protect Yourself
Artificial Intelligence provides new ways to automate tasks, but unfortunately, it can also give scammers help in pulling off schemes. Learn what to look for and how to keep yourself safe!
How to Save Money? Here's Help Planning a Spend-Free Weekend.
50 Budget-Friendly Activities to Try This Summer
Summer is officially here! Here are fifty fun activities you can do to make your summer memorable without breaking your budget.
Four Home Improvement Projects With High Long-Term Return
Improving your home doesn't just refresh your living space, but it can also significantly increase the value of your house. Here are some projects you can do to provide some long-term return to your property.
How To Recognize and Protect Yourself From Scams
If it sometimes seems like #scams are everywhere, it’s because they are!
Read on to learn all of our tips on how to recognize and protect yourself from scams.
Money and Mental Health
A recent study found that finances were one of the most frequently cited causes for stress and anxiety. Take a look at how improving financial stability can help improve mental health and lead to peace of mind and improved relationships on our latest blog post.
Is Your Tax Refund Too Large?
While it may seem exciting to get a refund check from the government, getting a tax refund essentially means you've been providing the government an interest-free loan throughout the year, and now they're paying it back to you. Our latest blog explains why getting a big refund isn't "free money" and how you can lower your refund next year.
World Backup Day: Ensure Your Professional Data is Safe and Secure
World Backup Day presents an excellent opportunity to ensure that all of your data is safe and secure. Whether you choose a local backup, cloud backup, or a hybrid of both, creating a backup strategy will help protect your data should disaster strike.
Protecting Your Loved Ones from Elder Fraud
The elderly population has become even more susceptible to fraud with the increase of convincing and persuasive techniques that aim to scam them. It is important to know the techniques of these fraudsters in order to protect them and make sure they don't fall victim.
Don’t Get Caught in a P2P Scam
P2P payment services like Zelle and Venmo make sending and receiving money with friends simple, but they can also leave your money vulnerable if you aren't careful. Learn how to keep yourself safe on our latest blog post.
Six Ways to Save on Airfare
Much of the cost of an overseas trip can come from the airfare alone. Knowing where and when to look for flights can ease a lot of frustration and save you time and money, as well.
How to Budget in Times of Inflation
Inflation levels are steadily increasing, which makes budgeting and saving even more difficult. Our latest blog post highlights some simples ways you can help minimize the effects of inflation on your personal budget.
How to Stay Safe From Credit Card Fraud
According to data from the Federal Trade Commission, there were nearly 250,000 cases of credit card fraud reported in the first half of 2022 alone. Learn how to keep yourself safe from fraud on our latest blog post.
What to Buy and What to Skip in January
The major shopping holidays may be over, but there are still great deals out there, if you know where to look! Our latest blog post covers what you should buy and what you should skip while shopping in January.
5 Workplace Resolutions for the New Year
We're officially into the new year, which means you're likely focusing on your resolution list. Our latest blog post focuses on going beyond the typical weight loss resolutions to introduce some changes into your workplace life as well.
Beware of Check Washing Scams
Check washing is an old-fashioned scam that is making an unfortunate resurgence. Follow the steps in our latest blog post to keep your money safe.
Last-Minute Holiday Hacks
Does last-minute holiday prep have you stressed? Use the tips outlined here to enjoy a stress-free and budget-friendly pre-holiday season.
What to Buy and What to Skip in December
Sure, Black Friday is over, but there are still great deals in December! From electronics to toys, we’ve got all the info you need to shop smart!
How Can I Save on Holiday Shopping?
Does inflation have you feeling like a Scrooge this year? You don’t have to let your holidays be ruined by price spikes. We can help you get the best deals!
SCU Credit Union Warning Members of Texting Scam
Text messages that provide a link to update your account security are NOT from SCU. Please do not click the link or enter any information. This is a scam!
How to Build and Maintain an Excellent Credit Score
Maintaining a good credit score is a crucial part of your financial health. Our latest blog post covers the steps to raising your credit score by keeping credit cards open and active, paying bills on time, and keeping credit utilization low.
All You Need to Know About SIM Swap Scams
Is your private information actually private? Keep your personal info out of the hands of scammers and make sure you don't fall victim to a SIM swap scam by reading our latest blog post.
Knowing When and How to Indulge
Being on a path toward financial wellness doesn't mean that you have to live a life free of any indulgences. Knowing when and how to indulge yourself is vital to living a life that is both fulfilling and financially rewarding.
My House Skyrocketed in Value. Now What?
You have likely seen the value of your home increase in value recently, but what does this mean for you? Whether you plan on moving or using your home's equity, our latest blog post will help you prepare.
Cybersecurity Crash Course
Hackers and scammers are constantly developing new techniques to gain access to unsuspecting victims accounts. This crash course will teach you how to protect yourself from cyberattacks.
Financial Lessons You Can Learn from Fantasy Football
Football season is almost here! If you're like many Americans, you may have a fantasy football team that you manage throughout the season. But did you know that there are many strategies that cross over from managing a fantasy football team to managing your finances? Our latest blog post features helpful tips that will keep your money growing and keep your fantasy team at the top of the standings!
Age Your Way: 5 Tips to Manage Today’s Financial Challenges
Today's uncertain economy and rising costs have forced many seniors to put their retirement plans on hold. Our latest blog post covers plans for budgeting on a fixed income, supplementing income, managing debt, and more.
How to Pay Yourself First
One of the most important steps to financial wellness is "paying yourself first", making sure to set aside money for the future before covering any other expenses. This simple concept allows you to set money side for emergency funds, while also planning for short-term and long-term savings goals. Our latest blog post covers budgeting your spending, planning for an emergency, automating your savings, and more.
Beware of Malware Scams
Malware scams aim to trick victims into giving them access to their personal information, passwords, and bank account information by claiming to be employees of legitimate technology companies. Learn the warning signs of these scams, and what to do if you've been targeted on our latest blog post.
What to Buy and What to Skip in July
Summer time is in full swing which means retailers have some great deals for shoppers! Here is a list of what you should buy and what you should skip in the month of July.
How to Avoid Vacation Rental Scams
Vacation rentals through services like Airbnb and VRBO are becoming increasingly more popular, with the ability to rent an entire house instead of just a single hotel room. Unfortunately, there are many scams associated with vacation rentals that can put a huge damper on your travel plans. Stay vigilant by following the tips outlined here.
Tips for Preparing a Post-College Budget
Graduating college is a major accomplishment that comes with huge life adjustments. The most important of all is setting aside a budget to pay for all of your expenses. Here are some useful tips to navigate the first steps of managing your post-college finances.
Don’t Get Caught in a Grandparent Scam
Grandparent scams exploit the special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren and take advantage of a a potentially vulnerable population. Stay safe by learning how these scams play out and steps you can take to avoid them.
What to Buy in May
May is right around the corner! Here is a list of what you should buy and what you should hold off on buying until later in the year.
Last Minute Tax Tips
Tax day is almost here! If you have waited until the last minute to file your taxes, we have some important tips you won't want to miss!
Beware of Debt Relief Scams
It’s tempting to think there’s a company out there that can get you instant debt relief or rapidly fix your credit score, but it’s just not possible. There are many scams that will try to take advantage of people by offering claims such as these to people who are in dire financial situations.
Five Steps to Eliminating Debt
Paying off your debt can seem like an uphill battle, but by changing your mindset, the process can seem a lot less intimidating. We’ve outlined five steps you can take to eliminate your debt once and for all.
6 Ways to Boost Your Credit Score
Having a good credit score is one of the most important pieces to buying a car, getting an affordable loan, or even getting a new credit card. But how do you improve or maintain your score? Our latest blog will provide you with important tips.
Steps to Financial Wellness: Creating a Budget
A well-designed budget can provide you with a sense of financial security and freedom. But sticking to a budget can be easier said than done. Check out these helpful tips and tricks to setting a monthly budget.
Leaving Your Job? Make Sure Your Wallet is Ready
It may seem like everyone around you is taking part in the "Great Job Resignation" and you’re thinking about doing the same. But be sure you’re ready for the move!
The Beginner’s Guide to Credit Cards
Sometimes it seems like the world revolves around credit cards, so knowing how to use them right and protect your credit score is really important. We can help you learn how!
Beware Tax Filing Scams
You know that tax preparer offering you double the refund for half the fee? It’s quite likely a scam. We’ll teach you how to spot tax preparer scams, and what to do if you fall for one!
10 Tips for ATM Safety
Winter’s darkness provides extra opportunity for theft and fraud at ATMs. Use our list of tips to protect yourself and your money while you’re doing business at our machines!
All You Need to Know About Multifactor Authentication
A hacker may be able to steal your password, but nowhere outside spy films do they get your retina scan, fingerprint or face. Learn why we use Multifactor Authentication for online and mobile banking.
How Do I Raise My Kids To Be Financially Independent Adults?
It’s a big, scary world out there, and you want your kids to be prepared! Teaching them how to manage money is not a quick process, but putting in the time will save your kids from a lot of headaches in the future! Read more
18 Ways to Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15! There are tons of ways to do it, and we’ve got suggestions to get the party started, from making arepas to learning music!
Why You Need to Be Financially Fit
Did you get some exercise today? How about working out with your money habits? You need to get yourself financially fit just as much as physically, and we can help!
When Should I Do It Myself and When Should I Leave it to the Pros?
Looking to do a little DIY home improvement? There are books and YouTube videos by the thousands to teach you, and SCU Credit Union might be able to help with financing. Just remember: Don’t wade into anything where you’re risking personal injury, and don’t try to take on more than you can handle.
How to Save on Wedding Costs
When it comes to your wedding, of course you want the best of everything...but are you willing to pay for it? 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.
Six Reasons to Switch to eStatements
Ever open your mailbox and feel like it’s exploding all over you? If you get buried by the deluge of bills, correspondence, bulk mail and ads every month and worry about losing something really important, like your bank statement, it’s time to try eStatements!
Don’t Get Caught in an Auto Warranty Scam
It’s another call about your car’s warranty expiring offering to extend it or sell you some other warranty-type service. How can you tell if it’s a scam? We’ve got all the info you need!
The Benefits of Using Mobile Payments
Read on to see the benefits of using mobile payments!
How to Travel Safely this Summer
Are you desperate for a vacation? As long as you do some advance planning, pack your cleaning supplies and take proper precautions, you can minimize the risk.
Read on to learn more!
Timeline of a Home Purchase
Read on to learn more about the timeline of a home purchase!
5 Discounts for Older Adults You May Not Know About
You might have grown up seeing your parents and grandparents getting a senior discount, and now it’s your turn. Before you open your wallet for anything, check for a senior discount!
Read on to learn more
4 Reasons To Get Pre-Approved for a Loan
Are you in the market for a large loan-dependent purchase like a new home or a new set of wheels? Don’t forget to get your pre-approval first!
Read on to learn why
Tips for Empty Nesters Downsizing
When the last kid leaves your home, you officially become an empty nester. Suddenly, you’ve got room for … well, everything! We’ve got some tips on how to handle the change.
Read on to learn more!
Your Complete Guide to Using Your Credit Cards
Don’t let your credit cards become a hassle! You can build a great credit score and enjoy rewards cards without diving deeply into debt.
Read on to learn more!
What are the Advantages of a HELOC?
You might be living in your best source of funding for anything from home improvement to debt consolidation or anything else! A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, lets you borrow against the equity you have in your home.
Read on to see why a HELOC from SCU Credit Union just might be your best choice.
4 Incredible Facts in Honor of Black History Month
In honor of Black History Month, SCU Credit Union is proud to share four little-known facts about Black history, along with a list of fun ways to commemorate Black history and culture.
Read on to learn a little Black History.
The Importance of Being Financially Fit
It’s time to check your financial fitness! There’s a lot that goes into this money workout, but you’ll appreciate the new you in the end! We’ve got all you need to do laid out!
Read on to work those money muscles!
How To Dispute An Error On Your Credit Card Report
Sometimes you may find an error in your credit card report. It might be a sharp decline in your score when you know you haven’t changed your spending or bill-paying habits, a large transaction you’re sure you’ve never made or an unfamiliar line of credit. While it can be disconcerting to find a mistake in your credit report, the good news is you can contest errors like these and fix your score.
Read on to learn all of our tips on how to dispute an error on your credit card report:
All You Need to Know About Data Breaches
Here at Sharon Credit Union, your financial success and safety is our primary goal. To help keep your information and your finances secure, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on data breaches.
Read on for our whole guide on data breaches.
5 Must-Have Gadgets For Students
You’ve already got your laptop, tablet and, of course, your smartphone. What more can you need for school? Check out our list of 5 super-convenient gadgets that every student should know about.
Read on for our full list!
7 Steps To A Mid-Year Financial Checkup
It's time for a mid-year financial checkup! Take a look at your monthly budget and see if it needs any adjustments, and try to factor in any large expenditures coming up. Give yourself a financial checkup before the summer gets away from you.
Read on to learn all 7 of our steps to a mid-year financial checkup!
6 Ways to Finance a Home Renovation
Home renovations are a great way to make your old house feel new again. Whether it be a renovation just for the sake of change, or a necessary change due to an unexpected emergency, SCUCredit Union may be able to help. We are suggesting 6 Ways that SCU Credit Union could finance your home renovations and providing options that are attractive and sutiable to different member needs or financial situations.
Read on to find out how SCU Credit Union could help finance your home renovations.
8 Ways to Spot a Home Improvement Scam
If springtime has you wanting to spruce up your home, beware of home repair scams! The scammers will take your money then do shoddy work, leave the work unfinished or simply never show up at all.
Read on to learn how you can avoid being a victim and spot a scammer right way!
Features You Should Look for in a New Car
Picking out the features you want in a new car can be like picking items off a menu … you want a bit of everything! Fortunately, we’ve gone through the most popular ones to help you pick the most important ones, the fun ones and the ones to skip.
To learn which must have safety features you should seriously consider in your next vehicle and which fun options might be right for you, read on.
7 Signs You're Living Beyond Your Means and How to Fix Them
If you can’t seem to dig out of a financial hole, you might be living beyond your means. But how to tell? Are you saving or are you living without rainy day and emergency funds? Carrying a credit card balance month to month? Do monthly bills create tremendous stress? Do your house and car payments bust your budget? If some or all of these apply to you, read how you can make fixes.
All You Need to Know About Buying a Used Car
If you’re in the market for a deal on used wheels, follow the steps below for a smoother ride!
Step 1: Crunch the numbers
How Many Credit Cards Should I Own?
Hopefully, you’re working hard to keep a high credit score by using your cards and paying on time. You may be wondering, though, if more is better. Is several credit cards and more available credit a good idea? Or, are too many cards a liability to your score?
Student Discounts You Can Use
Between astronomical tuition bills, piles of textbooks to purchase, foods costs and supplies, being a college student is definitely not cheap.
Lucky for you, there are loads of companies out there that think you deserve a budgeting break.
Debit Card Safety
How do you pay for your purchases? It may be instinct for you to pull out any piece of plastic without thinking, but your random card of choice might not be the safest way to pay. Let’s explore when and how to use your debit card.
Daily Worth
If you’re a young parent trying to make sense of the stock market in between grocery shopping and PTA meetings, you likely don’t have the time or headspace for the in-depth articles on sites like Investopedia and Bankrate. And yet, mommy-brain notwithstanding, you don’t feel comfortable plunking down your money without first reading up on your investment of choice.
Saving on Mother's Day
It’s wonderful to show your love and appreciation for your mother, especially on Mother's Day, but you don’t need to blow your budget to make that happen.
Here are some low-cost ways to show Mom how much you care.
15 Tricks to Sell Your Home Quickly
Spring is in the air! And aside for the hum of lawnmowers, newly bloomed flowers and the chime of the ice cream truck, spring means the chance at a fresh start in a fresh, new home.
Working It Out
One of the most fundamental financial lessons your kids are going to have to learn is about how you work for your money. Do your kids understand that every time you pull out a wad of bills or swipe a card to pay for a purchase, that money is directly linked to time you put in at the office?
FAQs About Share Secured Loans
Wondering about share secured loans? Here’s all you need to know about this unique product that can provide a low-interest rate plus credit building and repair:
1.) What are share secured loans?
Ready, Set, Go...to College
It may seem like yesterday when you were sending your child off to preschool. And now you’re preparing him for college!
The process of a child leaving home is a major milestone that is made extra complex because of the emotions it generates.
Beware Debt Relief
More than 42 million Americans have student loan debt, with their collective debt topping $1.4 trillion. Unfortunately, these big numbers make student loan debtors excellent targets for scams.
The Dos and Don'ts of Credit Repair
Looking for ways to improve an unfavorable credit score? Look no further! Our handy guide will help you get on the road to improving your score.
Do: Determine your actual credit score
Dealing With A Financial Setback
If you’re hit with hard times, here are some tips to keep in mind.
Financial setbacks come in all shapes and sizes. It can be an expensive household repair, a medical emergency, getting laid off or the birth of a baby. Whatever the situation, it’s impossible to plan for every financial hit you will take in your lifetime.
Retirement Savings For Self-Employed People
Moonlighting is the new normal. It seems like everyone has a side hustle or a personal project they hope to someday turn into a business. While this money-making ambition is good for the pocketbook, it can be a little tricky come tax time.
Financial Tips For Single Parents
Single parenting brings unique budgeting challenges.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that it costs an estimated $241,080 for a middle-income couple to raise a child to age 18 – and many single parents shoulder that responsibility alone.
12 Back-To-School Savings Tips
Like most people, we’re sure you want to get through the back-to-school season without spending a small fortune. Back-to-school time is the second largest shopping season of the year. If all that spending makes your head pound, take heart. Sharon Credit Union has your back!
Deciding Which Bills to Pay First
The following is a guest blog post from our partner, Greenpath Financial Wellness.
8 Ways To Save On A Vacation
Just because you’re going on vacation, that doesn’t mean your budget has to take a hike. Use these tips to save big and still have a wonderful vacation!
Plan For The Payoff When You Plan Your Student Loans
When your student understands the long-term consequences of accumulating..
20 Ways To Celebrate Father's Day -- Without Breaking The Bank
We all want to show our dads that we care on Father’s Day. Many people panic and run straight for the ties. But unless your father is a necktie aficionado and you can land him the rarest of rare finds in men’s fashion, you may want to consider something else that shows how well you know and appreciate your dad.
How To Be Smart About Student Loans
There is one thing you can start doing this year to take away a lot of stress in your 20s.
Train Your Young Entrepreneurs
Your kids may be too young to know the first thing about running a business, but that doesn’t mean they can’t learn! Teach them all about scouting a market, creating a great business model and earning money with this fun and educational activity.
Top 7 Home Improvements You Can Do Yourself With A Little Help From Sharon Credit Union
Consider these great home improvement ideas that you can do yourself!
Mother's Day on a Budget
Along with the blooming flowers and blazing sunshine comes the plans for celebrating Mother’s Day.
Put Your Trust In A Trust: 4 Reasons Trust Accounts Make Sense For You
A trust is a private contract that is living.
3 Common Changes That Might Mean It's A Good Time To Refinance Your Vehicle
Your Down Payment On A House
When you think about your down payment, balance is key.
Traditional Electricity Production vs. Solar Electricity Production
It is important to know how your current electricity is being produced.
4 Quick Tips When It Comes To Paying Your Wedding Bill
In a perfect world, you already have all the money you need saved in the bank.
5 Ways To Save On The Cost Of Your Wedding Day
If you’re tying the knot this year, read on for five ways to save on the cost of your big day!
Leasing vs. Buying A Car
Here are some things to think about before making that decision.
Talking To Your Kids About Taxes: How Much Should You Share
Your taxes are a major family expense, and at some point, your children will come asking questions about them. What should and shouldn’t you share?
Two of the main factors to consider are age and maturity level.
4 Tricks To Cutting Your Property Tax Bill
If you want to cut your property tax bill, try these four tricks.
Do's And Don'ts When Preparing Your Taxes
You need to be aware of some potential pitfalls that you could easily fall into.
Going From New Homeowner To Happy Home: Tips For Recent Homebuyers
Check out these common homeowner situations.
Credit Cards Or Debit Cards - What's The Smartest Swipe?
Which one should you use? The answer depends largely upon your lifestyle.
Personal Loans: The Swiss Army Of National Finance
Sometimes life throws expensive surprises.
Beware The Boom: Diversify Your Portfolio To Protect From The Bust
There’s always a “next big thing” in investing