- While we’re certainly one-of-a-kind, we didn’t invent the co-op. Financial cooperatives and credit unions have been around since the 1800s, evolving with a shared set of principles that govern and guide like-minded companies around the globe. From our commitment to community, to our unique mission in financial services, to your relationship and role as a member – the Eight Cooperative Principles…, Democratic Member Control, and, Concern for Community, . Democratic Member Control “Credit unions are democratic organizations owned and controlled by their members. Each member gets one vote, no matter their financial status, to help make the organization’s policies and decisions.” – National Credit Union Foundation We’re accountable to our members. That means our volunteer Board of Directors, President/CEO, and staff leaders listen to your voice…, Explore our cooperative principles:, , Autonomy and Education, , Democracy and Community, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, , Cooperation Among Cooperatives, Membership and Participation
- Seasonal Budgeting Ideas, Busy, costly seasons or seasons of reduced income can lead to financial anxiety – but they don’t need to. Smart financial strategies can help to make your toughest season’s budget more manageable and keep your money in check. , Tailor your budget., In addition to your standard expenses such as rent or mortgage, utility bills, or subscriptions, what seasonal expenses are you expecting? Write them down in an itemized list and consider any opportunities to reduce costs or eliminate unnecessary purchases. Once you have a firm budget, make sure you stick to it and plan the savings you need to cover those costs. Our printable budgeting worksheets…, Save year-round., We have a variety of certificate terms and special savings accounts that are great for supporting seasonal budgets. Open a share or certificate that fits your plan and make weekly or monthly deposits to it throughout the year. For example: If December is an annual challenge, you could open a Lucky Savers 12-Month Share Certificate around Thanksgiving to support your holidays the following year.…, Shop early., For purchases you could make early, such as gifts, non-perishable foods, and supplies, put them on your shopping list months in advance. By waiting until the last minute, you could miss out on coupons, sales, and other deals. Plus, anything you buy early can save you time and stress by removing those purchases from your seasonal errands. , Cash in your cash back., Credit cards can have their perks. If you’re earning rewards like cash back , explore the ways they could support your seasonal budget. Here are some ideas: Budget for holiday gifts based on your cash back total Use your rewards or cash back to get gift cards Save your cash back until you need to cover unexpected expenses Redeem your cash back to fund a “Self-Care Day” You could even rack up your…, Skip a payment (if you're eligible)., When you have eligible Visions loans, you could qualify to skip a month of loan payments – with Skip a Pay ! Visit your local branch or call 800.242.2120 to find out if you’re eligible, then complete the Skip a Pay form to enjoy the extra space in your budget. , Phone a friend!, The more you can plan ahead and stick to your budget, the more you can breathe easily as the season comes to a close. For support on that financial journey, we’re here to help! For tips and tricks, detailed budgeting review, or simply a second opinion, you can tap into our accredited financial counselors. We offer free, confidential financial wellness counseling. You can make an appointment to…
- Separating Fact from Fiction, While insurance is essential to our financial well-being, it’s often surrounded by myths and misunderstandings that can lead to confusion – or worse, financial mistakes. Let’s set the record straight and debunk some of the most common insurance myths so you can be confident that your coverage is exactly what you need. MYTH 1: You don’t need life insurance if you’re young and healthy. The…, Get the Facts, Stay Protected, Myths and misunderstandings can easily lead to under-coverage or unnecessary expenses. By debunking these common myths, you can ensure you’re making well-informed decisions about your policies. Review your insurance coverage with a fresh perspective. It’s a simple way to ensure you’re fully covered and prepared for whatever life throws your way. Easily compare policies for auto, home, life, and…
- Family Budgeting, Although raising kids is unlikely to be a low-cost lifestyle, you can use smart financial strategies to reduce expenses and make your budget more manageable. Consider these helpful ideas for your family budget. , Know your family’s finances., When you’re planning to or expecting to have a child , don’t put off reviewing your finances. Consider the potential impact on your budget and start saving early. Then, continue to review your budget regularly as your family grows and your financial situation changes. As with any budget, you’ll need to track your cash flow. Note which expenses and income sources are fixed versus variable, which…, Look for cost savings and tax relief., While child care costs add up, many of these expenses could be reduced by seeking affordable or discounted alternatives. Some may even qualify for tax-exempt benefits. Even if it means downsizing or relocating, growing families will sometimes seek more affordable housing to accommodate their finances. In a similar way, by locking in a lower monthly payment for Internet services, transportation,…, Plan your budget – together!, For a family budget to be effective, it’s best to have everyone on the same page. Make it a priority to discuss these ideas together with all contributing earners and spenders in your family unit. Although financial conversations may be challenging, they’re a valuable way to set shared goals and expectations for your family finances – and we can help! We offer free financial counseling to help…
