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Level-up your financial literacy by taking advantage of our free blog! Enjoy topics ranging from money lifestyle tips to fun local activities for the whole family. 

Buying a Computer for College: How To Get the Most From Your Budget

By: Kevin McNamara 08.17.23 5 minute read

With the start of the school year right around the corner, now is a good time to make decisions about what you will need to bring with you to college, especially as a freshman. One of the things that you are most likely going to bring is a computer. With classes moving towards online or hybrid learning, the need to have access to a reliable machine becomes more and more necessary with each passing year. With so many options for performance, features, and of course price, how do you choose a machine that will fit your needs without burning your budget?

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Your Student Loan Repayment Options

By: Kirstin Wilson 08.10.23 4 minute read

The Department of Education’s pause on federal student loans and interest accrual ends September 1, 2023. Payments will start back up in October 2023, so if you haven’t selected a repayment plan yet or are looking to adjust your payments to fit your current circumstances, now is the time to do your research.

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Tips to Break the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Cycle

By: American Heritage 07.27.23 4 minute read

Between the rising cost of groceries, gas, and general life expenses, it can be hard to stay on top of all your bills, let alone get ahead. If you’re struggling to make your money last until your next payday, you’re not alone. This survey found that more Americans than ever are living paycheck to paycheck – including a third of people who make six figures a year. Maybe your finances are stretched thin because you’re living beyond your means, like if you bought a fancy new car with a budget-breaking payment. Or maybe you were getting by just fine – until an unexpected medical issue or urgent car repair popped up. Whatever the reason, if you’re having a hard time making ends meet, these tips can help you break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle and start making progress toward your financial goals.

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What Happens If I Miss a Loan Payment?

By: Holly Love 07.20.23 3 minute read

Life is unpredictable. An emergency, unexpected illness, or a bout of forgetfulness can all end in a missed loan payment. While missing a single payment may come with unwanted consequences like fees or penalties, it will not result in financial ruin. Stay calm and keep reading to learn what happens if you miss a loan payment.

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Retirement or College: Which Savings Goal Comes First?

By: American Heritage 07.15.23 3 minute read

As every parent knows, juggling is part of the job. When it comes to financial matters, though, knowing which ball to keep airborne is not always clear. Case in point: Should you prioritize saving for retirement or for your child's college education? Financial planning is similar to parenting in that the decisions are complex and not always straightforward. While the best choice for you will depend upon your unique situation and needs, a few general considerations can help you create an informed strategy.

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Is Now the Right Time to Buy Out My Auto Lease?

By: American Heritage 07.13.23 3 minute read

These days, the used car market is greased lightning, with prices soaring by 44% over the last five years. As your lease comes to an end, you’ll find yourself at a crossroads: Should you return the car for a different model or buy out your lease to own the car you’ve already got? In this article, we’ll help you determine which route to take.

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How to Use a Secured Credit Card as a Stepping-Stone to Better Credit

By: Kirstin Wilson 07.06.23 3 minute read

If you’re new to borrowing, your first step is to establish credit. Secured credit cards can be an alternative to unsecured credit cards with the same conveniences. Secured credit cards are designed to help borrowers take positive steps towards financial freedom. The best candidates for secured credit cards are high-risk borrowers, those with damaged or insufficient credit history, those who are just starting out with credit, and those looking to avoid overspending.

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