advice hub

Topic
Sort by

Dreaming of building your next home?

9/20/2022

If you’re ready to move but just can’t find the perfect home in your area, chances are you’ve started dreaming of building your home. But, it’s not always as cut and dry as it appears on TV. From finding the land to choosing the floorplan, furnishings, design, and everything in between, building can seem like an exciting yet intimidating process.

Learn More

The Fed Rate Hike and What It Means

8/3/2022

After two years of low interest rates, the Federal Reserve increased rates in the spring of 2022. The increase means rates on products like savings accounts, mortgages and credit cards will likely rise.

Learn More

Affordable Homeownership With Rising Rates

8/9/2022

In a rising rate environment, it can be easy to shy away from buying a home or even buying too quickly before rates rise again. But don’t let the rising rates scare you away just yet. When interest rates are on the rise, the best thing you can do is do your research and be prepared to be flexible.

Learn More

Benefits of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage

7/28/2022

In a rising rate environment, an Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) could be the most appealing because of its initial lower rates and lower monthly payments.

Learn More

How to Finance Your New Construction

7/19/2022

Understanding the ins and outs of a Construction-to-Permanent Loan

Learn More

Tips to Manage Joint Finances After Marriage

6/28/2022

Marrying the love of your life is an incredible feeling, but marrying someone with debt can be challenging.

Learn More

Using a Contactless Credit Card

6/21/2022

More than half of Americans use some form of contactless payments. That includes tap-and-go credit cards and mobile wallets, including Apple Pay.

Learn More

Consider This Before Signing a Rental Agreement

6/17/2022

Renting an apartment or finding a house to rent in your neighborhood can be exciting. But before you sign a rental agreement, you should check these things out.

Learn More

Should You Refinance Private Student Loans?

6/14/2022

Here's a quick look at when you should consider refinancing as an option for private student loans.

Learn More

Want to Be a Millionaire?

6/9/2022

Becoming a millionaire overnight might is tough, but planning ahead and building your net worth and personal wealth is easier than you think.

Learn More

8 Tips to Win a Bidding War While Buying a Home

4/12/2022

It sounds paradoxical, but the best way to win a bidding war is to not have one. Sometimes that’s possible. Other times, a bidding war is inevitable.

Learn More

Mortgage Refinancing Basics: What to Know

4/1/2022

If you're a homeowner and see changes in interest rates, sirens are probably going off in your head. Decide if the time is right to refinance.

Learn More

7 Smart Ways to Use Your Bonus this Year

3/29/2022

If you got a bonus at work, you’ve got a decision to make—should you save for your 401k or spend it to pay off debt. There are benefits to both options.

Learn More

Keeping Your Information Safe Online

3/29/2022

If you do a lot of online banking, protecting your identity is extremely important. Here are some tips on how to spot scams and protect against bank fraud.

Learn More

How to Spot a Scam

3/27/2022

Phishing. Smishing. Vishing. Are you familiar with these phrases? Learn how to spot a scam from criminals trying to steal your identity or attack your computer.

Learn More

How to Consolidate Debt with a Plan

3/26/2022

Debt consolidation is important for a healthy financial future, and knowing how to consolidate debt is the first step to building an action plan.

Learn More

Diversify Your Investment Portfolio with Share Certificates

3/25/2022

A balanced investment portfolio begins when you diversify your investment portfolio. Learn how to diversify your portfolio with Share Certificates.

Learn More

Using a Credit Card to Build Credit

3/25/2022

Using a credit card is a simple way to help improve your credit score, if you manage your debt responsibly.

Learn More

Organizing Your Tax Documents

2/28/2022

Your guide to getting prepped for tax time and knowing what you need to keep and what can go.

Learn More

Ditch Your Bank and Join a Credit Union

2/26/2022

Ever wonder about the difference between a bank and a credit union? Here are five reasons why you should use a credit union.

Learn More

How Much To Save In An Emergency Fund

2/24/2022

Here are four steps to help you get started saving money for emergency fund.

Learn More

On Your Way to a Better Budget

12/28/2021

As you take the steps for control of your money, you'll find financial success is much more likely.

Learn More

How to Start Your Own Business

11/24/2021

Have you ever wondered what it takes to start your own business?

Learn More

Should I Carry a Mortgage into Retirement?

9/22/2021

If you're mulling whether to make a mortgage part of your retirement plan, here are some considerations to help you decide one way or the other.

Learn More

One Simple Step to Securing Your Accounts

9/2/2021

Adding two-factor authentication is a far more secure solution than relying on just passwords alone. Learn about this one simple step to be more secure with your accounts.

Learn More

Securely Using the Cloud

8/16/2021

Cloud services are neither good nor evil. However, you are essentially handing over your private data to strangers. Make sure you use cloud services properly.

Learn More

Securing Your Mobile Devices

7/12/2021

It may surprise you to know that the biggest risk to your mobile device is yourself. Learn how to protect your device.

Learn More

Securely Using Mobile Apps

6/3/2021

Cyber criminals have mastered their skills at creating and distributing malicious apps. Here are steps to securely use most of today's apps.

Learn More

Saving for College

5/18/2021

There's no denying the benefits of a college education but these advantages come at a price. How do you plan?

Learn More

Student Loan Tips to Study

5/18/2021

Knowing how to pay for college and deciding which student loan is best is key to getting a great start after high school. These tips will help you choose.

Learn More

Vishing – Phone Call Attacks and Scams

5/5/2021

While some of today’s cyber criminals do use advanced technologies, many simply use the phone to trick their victims.

Learn More

Choosing a Rewards Credit Card

5/4/2021

Get the rundown on the different types of reward cards and how they differ.

Learn More

Kids Inherit Financial Habits from Parents

4/26/2021

See what studies say about kids' financial habits and how you can talk to them about money.

Learn More

Should You Buy or Lease Your Next Car?

3/17/2021

Compare the pros and cons of buying or leasing your next vehicle.

Learn More

Identity Theft - Protecting Yourself

3/5/2021

Protect yourself from identity theft by learning how to detect it, what it does, and how to defend against it.

Learn More

Best Ways to Buy a New Motorcycle

2/12/2021

Be prepared to budget for your new bike.

Learn More

I'm Hacked. Now What?

2/12/2021

If you suspect you have been hacked, learn how to take back control.

Learn More

Design Trends That Could Hurt Your Home Value

2/9/2021

8 regrettable home trends causing headaches for home seller.

Learn More

Securing Wi-Fi At Home

1/14/2021

Here are five simple steps to securing your home Wi-Fi to create a far more secure home for you and your family.

Learn More

How to Get the Best Deal on an RV

1/8/2021

Buying an RV is much like buying a car, but it's also like buying a home. Here are things to consider to get the most out of your RV.

Learn More

Second Round of Stimulus Checks

12/30/2020

A summary of what you need to know about the second round of Stimulus Checks and how to get yours.

Learn More

Essentials for Your Digital Wallet

12/8/2020

Learn what a digital wallet is and the different options you have.

Learn More

Securing the Generation Gap

12/2/2020

Key steps to help keep family members, who may be struggling with technology, safer.

Learn More

How to Use Credit Card Rewards

12/1/2020

Get more bang for your buck and see what a rewards credit card can do for you.

Learn More

Online Shopping: Picking the Right Card

11/24/2020

The ins and outs of shopping online and the advantages of using different types of cards.

Learn More

Preventing Credit and Debit Card Fraud

11/12/2020

Learn some easy ways to protect yourself and your credit from fraud.

Learn More

Using an HSA to Pay for Medical Expenses

11/2/2020

HSAs give you control over how you want to spend your health care dollars. Learn about its benefits.

Learn More

Social Engineering

10/28/2020

Learn how social engineering, a cyber attack mechanism, work and what you can do to protect yourself.

Learn More

What Does Your Credit Score Mean

10/19/2020

Increasing your score can give you leverage to save money if you understand what goes into building and maintaining a good score.

Learn More

Fake News

10/7/2020

In today's fast-paced world of social media, fake news surrounds us every day. Take the time to follow these basic steps to help ensure you make informed decisions based on facts.

Learn More

Paying Off Credit Card Debt

9/30/2020

More than half of U.S. adults had credit card debt in 2020 — here are four smart steps you can take now to help you pay off credit card debt.

Learn More

How to Use a Credit Card Balance Transfer

9/23/2020

Doing a balance transfer can help you tackle your debt faster by helping you avoid paying high-interest rates for a few months.

Learn More

How Refinancing Your Car Loan Can Save You Money

8/12/2020

If you aren’t happy with your current car loan payment, or if your financial situation has changed since you bought your car—it might be a good idea to think about refinancing to a better interest rate.

Learn More

Buyer’s Market vs. Seller’s Market: What to Know

7/29/2020

Whether you are buying in a seller’s market or selling in a buyer’s market, remember to tailor your approach to the current housing market.

Learn More

How Buying a Home Differs During a Recession

7/29/2020

You may be able to use an economic downturn to your advantage to find the house you want at a price you love.

Learn More

Credit Union vs. Bank vs. Mortgage Broker: Which One Is Right for You?

7/29/2020

You have plenty of options when taking out a mortgage. However, call us biased, but we think credit unions are great.

Learn More

A Step-by-Step Guide to Mortgage Relief Options

7/29/2020

If you need help making mortgage payments, here are some tips to get mortgage relief and avoid foreclosure.

Learn More

Determining Your Home Value and How It Helps

7/29/2020

Knowing your home value gives you more control over these processes and provides clarity to future financial decisions.

Learn More

Understanding How a Skip Payment Option Works

7/21/2020

Before you take a skip payment offer, make sure you understand how they work.

Learn More

A Guide to Building Your Dream Home in 5 Simple Steps

7/2/2020

Here’s what you need to know before you build your dream home.

Learn More

How Does Your Credit Score Affect Your Mortgage?

7/2/2020

If your credit score is lower than you’d like, here are a couple of ways to boost it.

Learn More

Why You Should Make a Home Inventory Today

7/2/2020

Your home inventory is an essential resource in case of property loss.

Learn More

4 Mistakes People Make During the Mortgage Process

7/2/2020

Your mortgage is the most significant debt you will ever carry. Don’t make it more expensive than it has to be.

Learn More

Five Easy Steps to Get The New Car Price You Want

7/2/2020

Before you talk to a car dealer, read these five easy steps to getting the new car price you want.

Learn More

What Is a Construction Loan, and Do I Need One?

7/2/2020

A construction loan is a useful tool to build your dream home. Here’s what you need to know to qualify for a construction loan.

Learn More

Buy a Car Online

6/9/2020

Four easy steps that will help you purchase a new car online.

Learn More

Here’s What Impacts Your Mortgage Interest Rate

5/6/2020

If you're like most people, you want low interest rates. Understanding the factors that go into mortgage rates will prepare you for negotiating the best interest rates possible.

Learn More

Financial Stress? It May Be Time to Get Smarter About Money

4/19/2018

Poll: 87 percent of full-time workers are "somewhat stressed" about current finances.

Learn More

Fraudulent Shipping Scams

9/23/2022

The holiday season is usually about goodwill toward one another, but there are Grinches out there who like to use the holidays to help them steal information, data, and even money.

Learn More

Planning Ahead for the Holiday Season

9/22/2022

By now, we’ve all grown accustomed to seeing stores with holiday displays in September and October. And while this can feel cringe-worthy, it’s actually a good reminder to start planning your holiday budget in order to avoid the financial sting that can arrive with the New Year.

Learn More

Creative Ways to Use Your Home Equity

5/14/2020

Most homeowners don't know much about home equity. Learn how your home equity can be a useful tool to eliminate debt and more.

Learn More

First-Time Home Buying in 6 Steps

5/6/2020

Buying a new home for the first time is exciting. Here's a guide for first-time home buyers to help along the way.

Learn More

5 Ways to Get the Highest Offer for Your Home

5/14/2020

Make sure you get the most for your house when you decide to sell. Here are five tips to help.

Learn More

Keep your personal information safe on Social Media

7/5/2019

Social media sites are amazing resources, but also come with risks. Find out how to keep your activity and information safe by using social media securely.

Learn More

How to Make Pets More Affordable

10/3/2019

Every pet parent knows a new furry, four-legged family member can come with a steep price tag. Here are some ways to curb the costs.


Learn More

Keep Your Identity Safe

4/14/2020

Here’s an easy way to remember the types of account information you should never give away.

Learn More

Online vs In-Person Banking

10/13/2016

Here is an article from NerdWallet about how to decide whether banking with a virtual or brick-and-mortar financial institution is right for you.

Learn More

The Pros and Cons of Personal Loans and Home Equity Loans

5/14/2020

Both personal loan and home equity loan can provide the funding you need for covering unexpected or large expenses. Learn which one is right for you.

Learn More

Saving for a Home Is Easier Than You Think

5/14/2020

It's easier than you think. While a 20% down payment can be daunting, here is how to make saving for a home easier than ever.

Learn More

What Is Mortgage Prequalification?

5/6/2020

As you prepare to buy a house, you’ve probably come across the phrases qualified and preapproved mortgage. While the two are similar, they are not synonymous.

Learn More

The Security of Online Banking

2/11/2020

Learn why it’s important to balance convenience with security to help defend against online fraud

Learn More

Tips to Avoid IRS Impostor Scams

3/31/2020

Don't fall for IRS imposter scams. Read here to get tips on how to avoid them.

Learn More

Tips to Prevent Summer Budget Burn

7/24/2019

Having fun in the sun doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out these ten tips for how to save money this summer.

Learn More

Top Places to Take a Road Trip

6/24/2019

If one of your summer vacation ideas includes hitting the open road in search of fun, these destinations should certainly be on your road trip list.

Learn More

The Fed Rate Cut and Why It’s Important

5/6/2020

The current fed rate is almost zero. Who cares? While the Federal Reserve may feel far-off and nebulous, it impacts you in several ways.

Learn More

Online Shopping Security Tips

9/22/2022

No matter where you bank or what you buy, under consumer protection laws, credit cards are a safer bet than debit for purchases – online or otherwise.

Learn More

Why Your New Job Matters When Buying a Home

5/14/2020

While you can still get a mortgage if you change jobs, here is how it will impact your mortgage qualifications.

Learn More

3 Tips to Opening a New Checking Account

7/4/2019

Opening a new checking account is an important decision. By following these tips, you’ll know how to decide which is best for you, and what to avoid.

Learn More