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Renting makes sense for many seasons of life, but homeownership is how many people build long-term stability and wealth. With today’s low-down-payment mortgage options, including FHA, VA, and USDA loans, turning rent into equity may be more achievable than you think. This guide breaks down realistic costs, mortgage insurance, and the paths renters can take to move toward ownership with confidence.
Read MoreSpring Break sneaks up fast! Whether you’re dreaming of beaches, Hill Country charm, or a simple staycation, we’ve rounded up travel ideas that won’t blow your budget — plus smart money tips to help you plan ahead with confidence.
Read MoreFinancial wellness doesn’t require strict budgets or perfect spreadsheets. A few small, realistic habits can help you feel more in control of your money in 2026 — without burnout, guilt, or financial stress.
Read MoreStarting the year with a plan matters. Creating a will or trust is one of the simplest ways to protect your loved ones, reduce stress, and ensure your wishes are honored. Learn how easy and affordable estate planning can be with 1st University Credit Union.
Read MoreBefore the New Year officially kicks in, take 10 minutes to knock out a few simple financial to-dos that can make a big difference next year. No stress, no spreadsheets… just easy wins that add up fast.
Read MoreHomeownership isn’t just about having a place to live. It’s the single biggest wealth-builder for most Americans. In fact, recent data shows the typical homeowner holds nearly 40 times more net worth than the typical renter. Why such a huge gap? Because owning a home lets you build equity automatically as the mortgage balance drops and the property value rises over time. Renters keep paying, but nothing builds. If you’ve ever wondered whether buying is worth it in a higher-rate environment, the numbers make the case — owning wins, almost every time.
Read MoreLooking for easy ways to keep Thanksgiving affordable without sacrificing flavor? Try these smart swaps, clever shortcuts, and hosting strategies that make holiday cooking lighter on your budget.
Read MoreThe FAFSA is open for the 2026–27 school year! Whether you’re starting college or heading back, applying early can help you secure grants, scholarships, and low-rate loans. Here’s what to know before you apply.
Read MoreThe holidays are about joy, but all too often they come with some financial juggling, too. And with prices up nearly everywhere, many families are feeling the squeeze this season. Whether it’s travel, meals, or gift-giving, the costs add up fast. But with a little planning and creativity, you can keep the joy without the stress.
Here are a few ways to celebrate meaningfully, spend wisely, and enter the new year feeling financially confident.
Read MoreOnline car shopping makes it easier than ever to find your dream car from the comfort of home. But convenience can come with a few hidden costs. Before you click “purchase,” learn what to watch for, how to compare financing options, and why a pre-approval from 1st University Credit Union gives you the confidence to shop anywhere, online or in person.
Read MoreThat “instant 20% off” at checkout can feel like a holiday miracle — until the bill arrives in January. Before you add another store card to your wallet this season, take a minute to peek behind the glittering perks. GreenPath breaks down the real pros and cons of retail credit cards, why they’re so easy to say yes to, and when saying no might save you a financial headache later.
Read MoreIf you’ve been hearing people talk about “529s” and wondered what the buzz is about, you’re not alone. College savings plans can sound complicated, but they all boil down to one simple goal: helping families save for future education costs.
Read MoreA government shutdown can cause sudden income loss, but there are steps you can take to reduce stress and stay afloat. Having information helps you plan and adjust. In this post our financial wellness partner, GreenPath, provides sound advice and resources for managing your finances through a government shutdown.
Read MoreWhen a new family called to open accounts, they told us, “Ashley was so knowledgeable and kind — we felt completely comfortable moving forward.” That’s what being part of a credit union feels like — having someone in your corner who listens, cares, and puts your needs first. In this post, we share eight powerful reasons why choosing a credit union can make your money work harder and make banking feel more human.
Read MoreAuto loans come with plenty of questions — from how to make extra payments to whether you really need GAP or other loan protection options. In this post, we answer the most common questions about auto loan repayment so you can save money, stay on track, and feel confident about your next payment.
Read MoreSeptember is National Preparedness Month, which makes it the perfect time to take one small step toward being ready for the unexpected. Whether it’s signing up for emergency alerts, building a basic kit, or starting an emergency savings fund, just “do one thing” this month to get more prepared. Little steps add up to big peace of mind — and we’re here to help you do life, no matter what comes your way.
Read MoreThinking about buying a new car? Starting with the 2025 tax year, a new federal law will let some borrowers deduct interest paid on qualifying auto loans — a first for today’s consumers. That could mean extra savings at tax time, but there are important details to know about eligibility, income limits, and how much you might really save.
Read MoreSeptember and October may still feel far away, but they’re two of the busiest — and spendiest — months for the average household. The good news? Planning now can help you spread out expenses, take advantage of pre-season deals, and avoid budget stress later.
Read MoreBetween sports practice, school events, and social lives that seem to run on fast-forward, today’s teens are busier than ever. And so are their financial lives. If your child is between the ages of 14 and 17, it might be time to do more than just hand over a $20 bill or send money through a shared app. It’s time to consider helping them open a checking account of their own.
Read MoreWalmart’s got the bins out—yep, back-to-school season is here. But before you get swept up in the highlighters-and-hoodies frenzy, here are a few less obvious ways to keep your spending in check this year.
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