Looking 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.
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The 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.
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The 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.
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Online 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.
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That “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.
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If 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.
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A 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.
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When 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.
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Auto 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.
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September 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.
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Thinking 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.
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September 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.
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Between 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.
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Walmart’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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Let’s be real—moms are the original multitaskers. On any given day, you might be meal planning, managing school drop-offs, juggling work calls, and maybe (just maybe) drinking a cup of coffee before it goes cold. And somehow, you’re expected to do it all while saving money.
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From groceries to electronics, you’ve likely noticed prices going up—and staying up. While different factors influence the cost of everyday items, trade tensions and tariffs are part of the picture. But what does that mean for your personal finances, and how can you protect your budget when global markets feel unpredictable?
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Ever checked your account balance and thought, Where did all my money go? You’re not alone. A well-structured budget doesn’t have to be about cutting back – it’s about gaining control, reducing stress, and working toward what matters, whether that’s paying down debt, saving for retirement, or (finally) taking a vacation.
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Spring brings a trio of special occasions—Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduation season. And while flowers, ties, and gift cards from big-box stores are classic for a reason, there's something extra thoughtful about giving a gift with a local touch.
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Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s also the perfect time to tidy up your finances and make sure your money is working for you. Here are seven easy ways to give your bank accounts a seasonal refresh.
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The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to unlocking financial aid for college, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans. To help you successfully complete your FAFSA, here are some essential tips to streamline the process and maximize your financial aid.
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