We provide links to third party websites, independent from 1st University CU. These links are provided only as a convenience, we do not manage the content of those sites. The privacy and security policies of external websites will differ from those of 1st University CU. Click 'Continue' to proceed or click 'Return To Site' to stay on this site.
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.
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.
Read MoreLet’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.
Read MoreFrom 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?
Read MoreEver 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.
Read MoreSpring 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.
Read MoreSpring 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.
Read MoreThe 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.
Read MoreA sudden loss of income can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can weather the storm and come out stronger. Instead of panicking, it's crucial to take strategic steps—assess your financial situation, cut unnecessary expenses, find immediate income sources, and set yourself up for long-term stability. Whether you're dealing with a layoff, reduced hours, or unexpected job loss, this guide will walk you through practical, no-nonsense steps to manage your finances, access resources, and create new opportunities.
Read MoreDid you know that the number of family caregivers supporting older adults increased by nearly one-third between 2011 and 2022? This trend means more individuals are juggling the responsibilities of caring for both aging parents and their own children. For dual caregivers, the financial strain is overwhelming: nearly 80% of family caregivers incur out-of-pocket costs averaging $7,200 annually. These expenses—coupled with reduced work hours or leaving jobs entirely—can lead to lost income and long-term implications for financial stability. However, with the right strategies, you can manage your finances effectively and ensure a stable future for your loved ones.
Read MorePassing down prosperity or generational wealth – money and assets passed down through families – is vital for a strong community, however, many barriers including race, gender, and income keep people caught in a cycle of debt, preventing them from creating a lasting financial legacy. Join us for an insightful recorded webinar where you will learn how to make decisions to invest in yourself and the future generation, to build a stronger financial future.
Read MoreWhen it comes to saving money, you have plenty of options—but not all of them offer the security and guaranteed growth of a Certificate of Deposit (CD). If you’re looking for a steady, risk-free way to grow your savings, here are five reasons why a CD might be the right choice for you.
Read MoreTurn Your Pantry Odds and Ends into Gourmet Meals! This Weekend’s Challenge: Skip the grocery store and get creative with what you already have in your pantry, fridge, or freezer. You’d be surprised how a little creativity can transform random ingredients into gourmet-style dishes.
Read More
