Credit card interest is often discussed, but not always understood. Despite the number of people who keep a credit card (or several) in their wallet, not everyone can explain the math that goes on behind the scenes. Understanding how your monetary tools work is an important part of financial literacy, which is why in this article, we’ll break down credit card interest into basic dollars and cents.
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Along with buying a house, getting an education, and starting a family, choosing a vehicle is one of the biggest financial and lifestyle decisions you’ll make. And whether you’re a new driver or you have millions of miles behind you, you might be wondering if it’s better to buy or lease your next ride. First off, let’s take a look at some numbers. If you have a make and model in mind and know the purchase price and lease price, you can use our free online buy vs. lease calculator to estimate your monthly payment for each scenario. For now, here’s a simplified example:
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As the temperature outside starts to rise, so does the cost of keeping your home cool. Typically, electricity rates are higher during the summer due to increased demand, leading to higher summer electric bills. If you want to secure a lower electric bill (without feeling like you’re living in a sauna), check out these 26 energy-saving tips for summer. We’ve got ideas from A to Z!
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Whether you’re traveling near or far, having the right protection for your vehicle can help ensure everything goes smoothly. Luckily, American Heritage members receive special discounts on various auto insurance plans – just another reason to become a member if you aren’t already!
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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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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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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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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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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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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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