What an exciting time! You’re in the market for your first car, which means newfound freedom to go places. You’ve likely set a budget and have some idea of what vehicle type you’d like – however, you may also need an auto loan to help make this dream happen. Don’t worry! Auto loans are pretty straightforward and simple. Here’s what you need to know:
Topics: Financial Fitness, Credit, Loans, How To
Identity theft is nothing new, and yet it still manages to cost its victims billions of dollars (yes, that’s billions with a “b”) globally each year—not to mention the time and hassle involved in recovering a stolen identity.
Topics: Financial Fitness, Infographic, It's A Money Thing, Credit, How To
Loans help finance some of our biggest goals in life. They can provide access to possibilities that we can’t afford upfront—possibilities like going to school, buying a home or starting a business (to name just a few).
Topics: Financial Fitness, Infographic, It's A Money Thing, Credit, Loans
You’ve likely heard about credit scores before (thanks to all those commercials with terrible jingles), but what do you actually know about them? How long have they been around? And what’s the deal with checking them?
Topics: Financial Fitness, Infographic, It's A Money Thing, Credit
Has the steady employment you depend on suddenly come to an end? Many Alaskans are finding themselves in unsure waters these days as our job market changes and the economy adapts. If your own job is ending or at risk, there are steps you can take to prepare for the future! Act now before your bank account suffers – and remember that you always have a helping hand at Credit Union 1.
Topics: Savings, Budgeting, Alaska, Credit, Loans, Spending, How To
Recently, Alaska’s economy has faced a variety of changes. For some folks, this means a job lay-off, pay changes or other uncertainty – and no matter your age or career status, this type of change is never easy. Thankfully, when life throws you a curveball, you’re not alone! As a CU1 member, we want to make sure you have the help you need. With lots of options to protect your credit, security and overall well-being, you’ll rest a lot easier while forming a plan for the future. Check out a few ways we can help:
Topics: Debt Management, Alaska, Credit, How To
With the new year in full swing, we’re going to go out on a limb here. Do you have a bit of aging credit card debt you’d like to wipe off your slate? DON’T WORRY! It’s totally normal to want a fresh start. Plus, if you’ve chosen your existing credit cards wisely, you won’t pay an arm and a leg in interest as you work toward paying down your balance.
The question is how do you choose the right card?
Main priorities should be your interest rate, terms and any associated perks of the card (such as One for All Rewards). Take a look at a few different options below:
Topics: Financial Fitness, Infographic, Savings, Credit
You know what the best part of cooler weather is? It’s TREAT season! October, November and December are each full of indulgence in their own ways, which means a particular treat may be on your mind. Dreaming of an ATV, snowmachine or Hawaiian vacation? What about a simple dinner and movie night? No matter what your idea of “splurging” entails, we can help you plan ways to afford it. Check out the following seven tricks to afford your next treat!
Topics: Financial Fitness, Debt Management, Credit, Loans
Can you feel the excitement in the air? PFD season is upon us, and Alaska is brimming with joy! This year, you’re going to make that PFD stretch further. Have more fun, reach more goals, and most of all avoid PFD hiccups that can cause a serious hassle. How exactly? Check out the following five mistakes that Alaskans commonly make with their PFDs, and learn how to avoid them. With our advice in your pocket, you’ll save time, energy and funds!
Topics: Financial Fitness, Savings, PFD, Alaska, Credit, Spending
A few weeks ago, we shared a blog about what exactly your credit score means and we gave you the scoop on 13 things you didn't know about credit. Now that you know what your number represents, let’s look at ways to improve it! When you have a healthier credit score, you’ll enjoy lower loan interest rates – which basically means you pay less for the money you borrow. Win-win!
Want to learn even more about credit? Sign up for a FREE Discover Financial Fitness class offered in-person and online.
Topics: Financial Fitness, Infographic, It's A Money Thing, Debt Management, Credit, How To