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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. 

6 Topics to Discuss Before Your New Grad Moves Back In

By: American Heritage 05.19.22 3 minute read
 

Spring is a beautiful time of year. The flowers blooming, the fresh air, the recent college grads moving back home… wait, what?

Many young adults are moving back in with parents after graduating. This is mostly for economic reasons; low entry-level salaries and high student loans can make moving back home a necessity while recent graduates gain their financial footing.  And thanks to the pandemic and shortage of affordable housing, there are more fledgling adults living with parents than ever.

No matter the reason your new grad is returning to their childhood home, it’s important to set boundaries and communicate them clearly to make the transition as smooth as possible for everyone involved. A little common courtesy will go a long way toward making cohabitating a pleasant experience for you and your new grad. These tips can help parents and their “boomerang” kids adjust to their new normal.

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Need a New Vehicle? Here’s How to Sell Your Car

By: Holly Love 05.12.22 3 minute read
 

It’s time to upgrade your vehicle to something that better suits your lifestyle and needs, but what’s the best way to get rid of your old car? If it is in good condition, many owners choose to sell their car to put money towards the cost of the next one.

Selling a car is not as simple as selling other belongings and requires additional effort and paperwork. In this blog, we break down the process for car owners to pass on the keys.

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How to Buy a Home in a Hot Real Estate Market

By: American Heritage 05.05.22 3 minute read
 

A hot real estate market can pose a real challenge for hopeful buyers – especially for those looking to buy their first home. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a place you love and get your offer accepted. It just takes a combination of patience and fortitude, plus a little homebuying know-how.

Not sure where to start? Read on for some smart steps to follow.

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7 Home Improvement Projects That Won’t Break the Bank

By: American Heritage 04.28.22 3 minute read
 

Your home is likely your biggest investment – and it’s where you and your family should feel safe, comfortable, and connected. So, whether it’s your forever home or you’re planning to make a move in the near future, you might want to consider some home improvement projects that can deliver value, efficiency, and style.

Wondering where to start? Here are seven cost-effective home renovations to consider:

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Teach Your Children These Key Money Skills

By: American Heritage 04.06.22 3 minute read
 

As a parent, you’re responsible for teaching your kids important life lessons. You help them learn their ABCs, how to tie their shoes, and to look both ways before crossing the street. But do you teach them about saving money? Learning how to budget and save responsibly are key skills they’ll need to succeed later in life. In honor of Financial Literacy Month and National Credit Union Youth Month, here are six ways to cultivate smart savings habits as your child grows up.  

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Can I Get Approved for a Mortgage with Student Loan Debt?

By: Holly Love 04.01.22 4 minute read
 

Getting approved for a mortgage when you have college debt can be complicated – but having student loans does not mean an automatic denial. Nearly 46 million Americans have student loan debt as of 2022, and many of those holding loans are looking to be homeowners soon.

If you owe a student loan debt or are planning to buy a home in the future with someone who owes, don't fret! Owning a home is not out of the question. Knowing how mortgage approvals are determined and what to expect will help you on your way to homeownership.

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Product Spotlight: Bump-Up Certificates

By: Holly Love 03.24.22 2 minute read
 

When it comes to saving, the way you choose to save will greatly influence your return on investment. Aggressive options may have the highest yield while posing the greatest risk of loss, where conservative saving options offer a slower, but risk-free return.

Certificates of deposit, also known as just certificates, are in the latter group and provide a safe way to grow your funds over time. To explore this savings option, continue reading.

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Get Your Vehicle Spring-Ready in 7 Steps

By: Kirstin Wilson 03.18.22 2 minute read
 

With the warmer months right around the corner, our spring-cleaning list usually includes tasks like decluttering closets, storing away snow supplies, and even organizing finances for the year. One task that should not go overlooked is keeping your vehicle up to date with the season! Getting your vehicle in tip-top shape can save you money down the road and can protect you and your family from preventable hazards.

The outside of your vehicle will show the most noticeable effects of the winter months. Most of your vehicle’s mechanical work will need the help from a professional, but you can easily do your surface level cleaning yourself, like removing unnecessary items and trash, as well as shampooing and vacuuming the seats and floors.

Additional repairs and updates your vehicle may need include:

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ATM Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

By: American Heritage 03.09.22 3 minute read
 

There’s no doubt about it – we’re living in an increasingly cash-free society these days. Between credit cards and mobile wallets, you may spend long stretches of time without using actual cash. But eventually there will come a time when paying with plastic just won’t cut it.

If you need to pay the babysitter, a vendor who doesn’t accept cards, or an unexpected toll on your next road trip, having cash in your wallet can definitely come in handy. And ATMs are a convenient way to get money when you’re out and about, without having to go into the branch during business hours. However, not all ATMs are created equal.

Whether you’re using a stand-alone ATM, one inside a grocery store, or a drive-through ATM, here are some ATM safety tips that can help keep you, your money, and your financial information safe from would-be criminals.

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