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Build Credit Confidence: Smart Habits for a Strong Financial Future

By: American Heritage 03.05.26 3 minute read Credit

Building confidence with your credit is about more than knowing your credit score. It is about understanding how credit works, making informed decisions, and using it as a tool to support your long-term financial goals. When you feel informed and in control, credit becomes less stressful and more empowering. During National Credit Education Month, it is a great time to check in on your credit health and take steps that can help you feel more informed, empowered, and prepared for the future.

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What Do I Need to Open a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)?

By: John Lutz 02.26.26 4 minute read Home Equity

Home equity is one of the most valuable resources you have as a homeowner. If you’ve decided to take advantage of your equity and open a home equity line of credit (HELOC), there are a few steps you should follow in the application process. This includes submitting documents like proof of income, employment verification, property information, and more.

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What is Amortization?

By: John Lutz 02.19.26 4 minute read Policy & Economy

Loans, whether it be a mortgage, auto loan, or personal loan, all follow a basic structure. But as a borrower, you may be wondering how exactly your monthly payments are calculated. If you look ahead to your payment schedules, you may ask why you're paying more than what you initially applied to borrow. The process that details this is known as amortization.

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The Pros and Cons of Using a HELOC for Debt Consolidation

By: John Lutz 02.17.26 5 minute read Home Equity

The benefits of using home equity extend far beyond simple home improvements. You can use home equity to pay for school tuition, fund a family vacation, or start your own business. Many also use home equity funds to consolidate bills. But are there drawbacks that outweigh the benefits of consolidating debt with home equity?

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Am I a Good Candidate to Refinance My Mortgage?

By: John Lutz 02.12.26 5 minute read Mortgage

As mortgage rates rise and fall over time, you may be wondering how you can take advantage of the market as a homeowner. You probably hear the term "mortgage refinancing" brought up often, especially when rates are lower than they typically would be. But what exactly is mortgage refinancing, and how do I know if I'm a good candidate?

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Protect Your Data in a Digital World: Simple Steps for a Safer 2026

By: American Heritage 01.29.26 2 minute read Security

Every day, we rely on digital tools—like online shopping, mobile banking apps, social media, and email—to make life easier. But all of this convenience comes with significant risk. Cybercriminals constantly look for weak spots, and even one reused password or an accidental click on a suspicious link can open the door to identity theft or financial loss.

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Using Home Equity? Don't Forget These Important Tax Implications

By: John Lutz 01.22.26 4 minute read Home Equity

Whether it's a home equity loan or line of credit, home equity is a valuable resource for you to lean into as a homeowner. There are several ways in which you can use the funds because of your equity, and the benefits don't stop with that variety. You can also receive significant tax advantages depending on how you're using the home equity funds.

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What is a Home Equity Line of Credit and How Does It Work?

By: John Lutz 01.15.26 4 minute read Home Equity

Being a homeowner is a major accomplishment in life. Your home is likely the biggest purchase you'll ever make, and you deserve to be rewarded for your hard work and perseverance in owning a home. A Home Equity Line of Credit is a perfect opportunity for you to maximize your home's value and achieve long-awaited goals.

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