tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66260735196017415682024-03-14T01:08:24.483-05:00Financial One Credit UnionAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-60793809910087287052019-01-15T10:30:00.000-06:002019-01-15T10:56:23.883-06:00Tips to Keep Your New Year’s Financial ResolutionIt’s the same thing year after year - people around the globe resolve to make better spending and saving decisions. Second only to dieting and getting in shape, saving money is one of the most <a href="https://vitagene.com/most-popular-2019-new-years-resolution/">popular new year's resolutions</a>. <br />
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Unfortunately, all new years resolutions have one thing in common; they’re usually deserted within a few weeks. <br />
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If you’re struggling to stay on track with your financial goals this year - or need help jumping back on the wagon - we’ve compiled some budgets and tips and tricks for success this year. <br />
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<img height="401" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/SrKd-xlfC25eqq_67zIwPvLpkEJc9wjWo1Wn1QdsJ24swpK65wE3Dhpki-T8W_AvK1NzcEVfPYGR6CP1GYG7X7VPsr_KPx7S8RUbm-GGatV85n2FrzV1g8KA4YECf-1p49KAslc8" width="640" /></div>
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Set Realistic Goals</h3>
Goals are hardest to reach when they’re set too high. The first step is to identify what you want out of your finances. Are you looking to buy a house this year - or maybe a new car? You shouldn’t be browsing real estate sites and dealerships just yet. Start smaller. <br />
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First, check your credit. Not looking so great? You might want to meet with a <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/resources/education/financial-education.html">financial adviser</a> before you make the first moves. How about your savings account – does that need a boost to get to your goals? Identify the steps you need to make, then break down your next moves into smaller, more manageable actions. <br />
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Cut the Small Charges</h3>
Start by making a list all your monthly expenses: rent or mortgage payments, bills, loans - anything you can expect to pay in a given month. Don’t ignore small monthly charges like a gym membership, online music and/or movie streaming services (most people have multiple nowadays), Amazon Prime membership, Costco Membership, Home Owners Association fees… <br />
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Forget a cup of coffee a day, these fees really add up! In fact, <a href="https://www.marketwatch.com/story/how-to-save-money-if-you-sign-up-for-way-too-many-subscription-services-2017-11-20">Marketwatch.com</a> says 10 percent of millennials spend $200 or more a month on subscription services. Get a good idea of the “small” charges that make a big impact on your budget and get trimming. <br />
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<img height="426" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/fN7RvKwBrZaO3wY_x9tZ9AqgKjlsp0lFUjYXPXDU0H7flX_TNBJ8sOl7ccjQBXNYQELWqKHEUa31oKkLLnPY9U_OkqnyWvVmjlbG6L1o2y3n5SSMsFMKuB11et_AgdfIJIIApLJr" width="640" /></div>
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Get a Complete Understanding of Your Spending</h3>
Take a long, hard look at your spending habits. If you’re spending too much money on eating out, maybe your new year's goals shouldn’t be to save enough to buy a house but to prepare more meals at home. Narrowing your goals to something more concrete will not only give you a better look at your finances, but your savings account will grow without you even realizing!<br />
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Get More Options</h3>
Too many people give up on their goals because they just aren’t aware of the available options! Refinancing high-interest loans can save you hundreds - if not thousands - in the long run, and make an instant impact on your monthly finances. Take a deep look at any outstanding loans you may have - especially student loans. There are plenty of options such as refinancing and more forgiving payment plans available. <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans">Just ask the experts</a>. <br />
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Shopping around isn’t just good advice for loans. When’s the last time you shopped around for insurance? These companies are in insanely competitive markets and new customers get great deals. <br />
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Need more tips to reach your financial goals this year? Get in touch with the friendly experts at <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html">Financial One Credit Union</a>. We’re always happy to help you reach your goals - no matter the time of year. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-90903710342789343642018-11-28T08:00:00.000-06:002018-11-28T08:00:10.772-06:00Saving Money During the Holidays<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />There’s no doubt that the holidays are the most expensive time of year. Between giving gifts, decorating, and sending cards, the expenses can add up quickly. <br /><br />Here are a few ways to make the holidays a little less stressful and a lot less of a financial burden.<br /><br /><h3>
Plan Ahead</h3>
If you haven’t started to consider holiday costs, now is the time to begin! Adding up projected costs is a great place to start. In addition to considering gifts, remember to think of small items such as <a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/2014/11/06/5-financial-to-dos-to-prep-for-the-holidays">wrapping paper, holiday cards and postage.</a> At this time of year, small<a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/slideshows/prepare-your-finances-for-the-holidays"> lifestyle changes</a> are amazingly helpful. It’s as simple as packing lunch instead of going out or having a family movie night at home. <br /><br />Shopping lists aren’t just for the grocery store! Before you go out,<a href="https://kalynbrooke.com/your-money/10-ways-to-financially-prepare-for-christmas/"> make a list</a> of what you need. Don’t get sidetracked by all of the appealing deals. Even though something is on sale, you are still spending money.<br /><br /><h3>
Give Homemade Gifts</h3>
All homemade gifts don’t have to look homemade! By making a gift, you are also giving your time. Take advantage of something that you’re good at. If you’re a baker, a<a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/2014/11/06/5-financial-to-dos-to-prep-for-the-holidays"> delicious treat</a> is a perfect option. You can even<a href="https://kalynbrooke.com/your-money/10-ways-to-financially-prepare-for-christmas/"> package them</a> so they look store-bought. If you make jewelry, do that! These homemade items are also perfect for gift exchanges, such as a Secret Santa.<br /><br /><h3>
Collect Coupons and Look for Sales</h3>
Collecting coupons can take some time and organization, but it’s definitely worth it in the long run. One easy way to do this is with<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/12-simple-ways-to-prepare-for-the-holiday-spending-season-2016-11"> technology</a>. Apps can find the best deals and coupons – and keep you organized.<br /><br />If you know what you need ahead of time, keep checking for sales. Remember, Black Friday isn’t the only time to shop! Save by paying attention to the regular price of an item. If the original price is what you’re hoping to spend and you find the item on sale, don’t worry about buying more to <a href="https://kalynbrooke.com/your-money/10-ways-to-financially-prepare-for-christmas/">make up the difference</a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="426" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0J8N_JJCTE8YJ5duFgPXuRaf3lTO-7qMcmL3pixjLaizS2TBNssXeEx0_yz0ahn0DUHbxlndGuY_09kKNpT-WpHTIMh4KUqrv7DHUHJfkauOJiqht4lEg1_Rndf8ZUVpI4wk-aj" width="640" /></div>
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Use Cash Back and Rewards</h3>
A lot of credit cards offer<a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/2014/11/06/5-financial-to-dos-to-prep-for-the-holidays"> rewards</a>, and this is the time of year to take advantage! Keep an eye on what promotions your credit card may have for the holiday season. Often, you can get cash or gift cards back for your regular purposes. Also, keep an eye out for store rewards. A lot of stores offer loyalty programs and you may be lucky enough to have money available.<br /><br />It can take a bit of preparation, but planning your holiday finances will definitely benefit you in the long run. Remember that financial planning doesn’t have to only take place during the holidays.<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/"> Financial One</a> is there to help you with your finances whenever you need it.<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-17153773226262598102018-09-18T08:00:00.000-05:002018-09-18T08:00:06.038-05:00Navigating Life’s Financial StagesWith each life stage, our needs, wants, and dreams change. So do our financial needs. <br /><br />Where your money goes when you’re 20 probably won’t be the same places as when you’re 50. That’s why planning for each new life stage is a crucial step to having a healthy financial life.<br /><br />Some years bring major money shifts, however, some goals span many decades, like saving for retirement. Consider these steps as you navigate new stages. And remember, we’re always<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html"> here to help</a>.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="462" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/mw0Vn0-Kbk8Ws-QiAhbfbhNkHLK37ipSOEueRMIPI5CsdgeWO6w-kaUUt7n99C7uz6r2Sg6Cp-0fRIU2jCgpnvxUJPnzt6wzo8fReael3e1guH1Z6hWiVd_EOkSRwMMfXFA0ecFb" width="640" /></div>
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Post-Secondary and Early Career</h3>
Whether you’re furthering your education or jumping into the workforce, your 20’s are a critical time in your life. Building a firm financial foundation is key to success down the road.<br /><br /><ol>
<li><b>Make a Budget.</b> Know how much money you’re making and where exactly your money is going. Many people spend more than they make in these early years – try to <a href="http://v/">do the opposite</a>.</li>
<li><b>Save for Emergencies.</b> A good<a href="https://www.wellsfargo.com/financial-education/basic-finances/manage-money/cashflow-savings/emergencies/"> rule of thumb</a> is to save 3 to 6 months worth of your necessary expenses in an easily accessible account.</li>
<li><b>Pay Down Debt.</b> Interest builds quickly, so avoid shucking out extra cash by paying down debt on time, or faster if possible.</li>
<li><b>Save for Retirement. </b>If your employer offers a 401(k), 403(b), or another retirement account with a match, save at least the amount required to get that – think of it as free money. Retirement might seem light years away, but the sooner you save, the better off you’ll be.</li>
<li><b>Get Disability Insurance. </b>When you’re young and healthy, you may shrug off disability insurance and think, “I’ll get to it later.”<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/young-adults-need-disability-insurance.aspx"> Experts think</a> otherwise. Disability insurance is often extremely affordable and easily accessible. Everyone – no matter his or her age – should have it.</li>
<li><b>Designate Beneficiaries.</b> When you do this, you’re designating who receives your assets in the event of your death. Since you’re probably not married at this stage, it’d most likely be your parents or siblings.</li>
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<img height="428" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2_TVV12sb-J_aA6UFqFAMsk1IYyzBYz776Bc_M9xJcdES4yWgrzg4nwPDRLmQD3-zbGEs5DIrEErjTszSXTIzKOwzTSG-6P-g9EM2TV0k-pPa-7c23czvKnKMo_UjC_2MR2KMT1a" width="640" /></div>
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Building a Family and Advancing Your Career</h3>
These are exciting times! You may be getting married, starting a family, looking to buy a home, or jumping further into your career. Typically, your income is rising, which means there are a few new things to think about.<br /><br /><ol>
<li><b>Negotiate Your Salary.</b> If you’re switching employers, or even sticking with the same one, never be afraid to ask for what you’re worth. If you’re nervous, read<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurashin/2013/06/26/new-grads-heres-how-to-negotiate-your-salary/"> this article</a> on how to negotiate your salary.</li>
<li><b>Bring Your Money With You.</b> If you do switch employers, don’t leave your retirement account behind. Either roll it into your account with your new employer, or move it into an IRA you control at a brokerage firm.</li>
<li><b>Find a Financial Planner. </b>Now that you’re making more money and your responsibilities are growing, it’s important to seek advice from a professional. A<a href="https://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/mark.d.cheeley/myteam/"> financial planner</a> can help you see the bigger picture and guide you down a successful path.</li>
<li><b>Update Beneficiaries, Will, Power of Attorney, and Other Important Documents. </b>If you find yourself getting married, you’ll probably want to add your spouse’s name. If you’re single, you may want to update based on life events.</li>
<li><b>Purchase Life Insurance.</b> Picking the right life insurance policy for you, your family, and your unique situation can be complicated. <a href="https://www.thebalance.com/understanding-and-choosing-life-insurance-1289279">Here’s a good place to start</a>.</li>
<li><b>Purchase a Home. </b>When buying a home, it’s important to evaluate your current financial situation (including debts) and make a decision that won’t put too much stress on your finances.</li>
<li><b>Start Saving for Your Child’s Future. </b>If you have children, or plan to in the future, opening a 529 account for them is a great way to start saving for their education. Set up automatic monthly payments to make saving seamless.</li>
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Pre-Retirement</h3>
At this point, you’re probably making the most you ever have in your career. You most likely own a home, a car, and have been paying down debt while saving as much as you can. Now’s the time to look ahead to retirement.<br /><br /><ol>
<li><b>Max Out Retirement Contributions. </b>Save as much as you can both in your employer-sponsored account and in your own Roth IRA or traditional IRA.</li>
<li><b>Reduce Taxes.</b><a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/taxes/how-to-find-best-tax-preparer-near/"> Meet with a CPA to maximize your deductions.</a> Consider opening up a Health Savings Account.</li>
<li><b>Pay Off Your Mortgage and Remaining Debt. </b>If you’re still paying off debt from a home, car, or education, now is the time to pay that off.</li>
<li><b>Consider Your Family Members. </b>If you’re going to be the caretaker for your parents, it’s important to consider those expenses when mapping out your own financial priorities. Health care is expensive and can cause familial strain. Talk with your siblings to come up with a plan that works best for each of you.</li>
<li><b>Begin Planning Your Retirement.</b> You’ve spent all those years focused on saving money for retirement that you haven’t stopped to think about what you’ll do once you get there. Meet with your financial planner to discuss how to turn your retirement savings into income.</li>
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<img height="423" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/i0THhNEFSEXw3bGVFqvz-SNqj-WU24Muz7ISHSosWc35v9Vw_R8CzpnWs1E08IaSaswLHZ4IkwTSOO-Kuz7coCuSt-PoM3ydlS905bRgsD3FQDbm8YnVAZJapEN504Bm7Qm0uUdV" width="640" /></div>
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Retirement</h3>
Whether you’re spending your retired years on a porch swing or wrangling grandkids in the backyard, it’s an exciting time that you’ve worked hard to achieve. You’ve come this far, don’t lose track of your finances now!<br /><ol>
<li><b>Reevaluate Your Budget. </b>Now is the time to sit down with your spouse and financial planner to decide how much money you’ll need monthly, how to make a steady income, and when to start taking Social Security.</li>
<li><b>Downsize. </b>Buying a smaller home can save you money on utilities, property taxes, and other expenses.</li>
<li><b>Make Changes to Your Will and Estate Plan. </b>By this time in life, plenty has changed. Make sure your legal documents are up to date and reflect your current choices.</li>
<li><b>Consider Moving to a Retirement Community. </b>The benefits go far beyond financial. Moving to a new community brings new friends, new opportunities, and far less stress than owning and caring for your own home.</li>
<li><b>Enjoy! </b>Travel. Take up a new hobby. Whatever new adventure you’d like to take – take it! You’ve earned it!</li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-76580549127966433132018-06-22T08:00:00.000-05:002018-06-22T08:00:07.993-05:00Save on Road Trips This Summer!Summer is here, and for many, this means summer vacations are calling. But with airlines’ increasing fees and charges, you may find yourself opting to hit the open road instead of the sky.<br /><br /><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/OVbDW5ajXx-HHKcpLZO1VfmMl4DD7eysWHlqVgAl_TlT6atcpgWwL9OGdXfYX9phFK6czDLbIz_3BzAGOUuJ1_RsBs7aTmWUr4lZ4XvOsJVpBZwaaj6M-y5R8DiOlToAbC34ytTp" /><br />Slow down speed racer; if you’re not careful, road trips can get pricey, too! Since we all deserve a break and some fun in the sun, we’re giving you our best tips to pinch every penny and make the most out of your next road trip.<br /><br /><h3>
Budget First</h3>
Make travel a piece of your<a href="http://financialonecreditunion.blogspot.com/2018/01/how-to-set-personal-budget-for-2018.html"> monthly budget</a>. Determine how much your ideal trip will cost and how much you can reasonably set aside. Start saving months in advance. This way, when trip time rolls around, you aren’t scrounging through the couch cushions digging for nickels.<br /><br /><h3>
Plan, Plan, Plan</h3>
Once you’ve got the cash, the real fun begins. Start researching your destination(s) and planning activities and restaurants you’d like to visit while there. Often tickets to parks, events, concerts, etc. are cheaper in advance. A simple Google search of “destination and date and events” will let you know what’s going on.<br /><br />You’ll also want to set up accommodations before you go. Booking sites like Hotels.com and Booking.com search for the best deals, so you don’t have to. There’s also Airbnb and campsites if you’re going the nontraditional route.<br /><br />Mapping out your route not only saves you time, but can save you money by helping you avoid tolls, travel the least amount of miles, and drive through more affordable areas. Apps like Waze can help you find the best route and automatically change routes if something pops up – like construction or car accidents.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="426" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/w2_tBStWS0iDQXDqaERLjkTNAGguO4lyV_u333eSHrRvRj34Urtwh5GChzJncuEmukC1nIV2WCjhakprAY0swFvrl0o9m5cAje3BO0oZiTw9MnLvlIOWKCaLlMGdxzokjIDJgPer" width="640" /></div>
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Guzzle Less Gas</h3>
Gas isn’t cheap, with the average price sitting somewhere around $3 per gallon. Use GasBuddy.com to calculate how much you’ll be spending, and make sure this number finds its way into your budget.<br /><br />Use less fuel and save more money by:<br /><ul>
<li>Packing the vehicle as lightly as possible</li>
<li>Following the speed limit</li>
<li>Avoiding aggressive driving</li>
<li>Filling tires to the correct pressure and making sure tire tread is sufficient</li>
<li>Renting a fuel-efficient vehicle</li>
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Pack Snacks</h3>
Driving for hours can really get the tummy rumbling, but constantly stopping at convenience stores to grab food can put a major dent in your wallet. Pack a cooler with the essentials like granola bars, fruit, cheese sticks, crackers, chips, bottled water, and other drinks. Pro tip: buy in bulk and separate into individual bags – or go family style and dig right in.<br /><br />Packing “picnic lunches” can also save you lots while on the road. Toss some bread, peanut butter, and jelly in the cooler for a quick lunchtime meal that costs you pennies.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="426" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/l-RVge5lIcnJYLYdOujnQ759L3IQQywJjxrEL5ld1K_oW0ouChRry2bgeZ2kWK6oHnJtaKsexn39L7t2wFuHCJ5A1bi9UVOSV2G__QahqQYH518F2QO819gTK0pXC9Le044_Nn0k" width="640" /></div>
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Dine In</h3>
If dinnertime rolls around and you’re absolutely famished, skip the drive-thru and opt for a mom-and-pop shop instead. These places are often tastier and have better deals than big name restaurants. Plus, they allow you to get a little flavor of the area you’re in.<br /><br /><h3>
Check for Coupons</h3>
Coupon clipping isn’t just for Moms on TLC. If there are specific stops you’d like to make or attractions you’d like to see, check online for any coupons. Do this simply by typing, “destination and coupon” into Google.<br /><br />You can also use GroupOn before heading out to get deals on food and fun.<br /><br /><h3>
Get Going!</h3>
Now all that’s left to do is jump in the car and go! Don’t forget to call your bank and let them know you’ll be on the move. Oh, and don’t forget your chargers either – a good road trip calls for lots of photos!<br /> <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-66260073781078635042018-05-21T08:00:00.000-05:002018-05-21T08:00:03.811-05:00Factors to Consider Before Buying A New Boat<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gMimjj4qh5vlTtMUp4M_-LFIWKlHCEVKiqNwCXLcaEQ5q2lrj2WzQQyQvW57BAAGzCoNWd1aBRVb7O4DatXkTtTPHPsfax01FbDXt2pRVGbB5Ts7ExByEXE0h0MNN9pkoUsBAP2-" /></div>
<br />The open water and sunny days are calling, but what are the actual costs of purchasing a boat, and is it worth it? Part of advising our members on financial decisions is revealing some of the hidden costs you need to be aware of before you take the plunge into a life on the water.<br /><br /><h3>
The Purchase Price</h3>
Whether you’re shopping used boats or new, sailboats or speed boats, obviously the biggest part of your overall price is the ticket price.<br /><br /><h3>
Insurance</h3>
<a href="https://www.trustedchoice.com/boat-insurance/coverage-faq/">Boat insurance</a> generally covers collision, property damage, theft, and/or bodily injury liability. Your cost will vary by state, the type of motor and boat, and whether you’re boating on freshwater or open ocean.<br /><br /><h3>
Boat License</h3>
Watercraft licenses are required in most states for boats over a certain length. In Minnesota, boat dealers will help you apply for<a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/watercraft/index.html"> title and registration</a>, and are good for three years.<br /><br /><h3>
Trailer</h3>
If you plan on visiting other lakes or taking your boat on the move, you’ll need a trailer, not to mention a vehicle that can tow something as heavy as a boat.<br /><br /><h3>
Storage in Winter</h3>
With many local options for winter rack storage,<a href="https://blog.storage.com/where-to-store-your-boat-during-winter/"> these storage</a> facilities make sure to prep your boat, wrap it, and store it for a monthly or annual fee. Some boat owners choose to store their boats on their own property over the winter, which still requires winterizing and boat wrap.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="425" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/52Ch5w2oO5SF6vrcRdGQKNRqkNrE5riwRoS20T3MmGuInFTw5i0eduY-Srg07iRk9aI3v5FYHkuWK4WwMigdK6uqdsvcBxvPTo_gOZ0vdNYoOo3_Fo22pVEIRu1UA-LfOKG6ARaY" width="640" /></div>
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Dock and/or Marina Space</h3>
Now that you have your boat, where will you dock it? You may be purchasing a dock for your own property or renting marina or dock space on a nearby lake, both additional costs to take into consideration.<br /><br /><h3>
Maintenance</h3>
Last, don’t forget the costs<a href="http://www.discoverboating.com/owning/maintenance/default.aspx"> for cleaning, repairs, and maintenance</a> to the boat, sail, or motor.<br /><br /><br />For additional advice on making a boat purchase, or questions about<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans/recreational-vehicle-loans.html"> recreational vehicle loans</a>,<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html"> contact us at Financial One.</a> <br /><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-51995076209461334252018-03-23T11:36:00.003-05:002018-03-23T11:36:49.446-05:00Navigating Home Loan Options and Rates<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/NbZfeN8JjHhLplh6xj3z_kBIAhHJo5dGX6PTj5IOEnQkGZX9llT72NnFIGKrp6m-XU2Qvg-1HJqv14nUGEVcs44WMo127jo8LquNRV0hxgz3mANxf2JawvGFfypt4-tGqbPHmetk" /><br />
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With the Spring Home buying season around the corner, there may be some confusion over the different types of home loans available for those making the big purchase.<br />
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<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans/home-mortgage-loans.html">Financial One Credit Union</a> is here to help – both with providing answers and with financing your new home.<br />
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Types of Home Loans: </h3>
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1. Adjustable Rate Mortgage</h4>
ARMs give you a fixed interest rate for a certain number of years (the “adjustment period”) at a very reasonable rate. Following that period, your mortgage then becomes what is called a variable rate mortgage, where the rate adjusts on an annual basis based on market conditions, usually +/-1%.<br />
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2. Fixed Rate Mortgage</h4>
With these loans, the interest rate is fixed for the term of the loan – usually for 15 or 30-year terms. Fixed rate mortgages are more stable over the long-term even though you may see a higher interest rate than you’d get at the beginning adjustment period of an ARM.<br />
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3. Home Equity Loans</h4>
These loans take advantage of the equity you have in your home and are available if you owe less on your home than it is worth. <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans/home-equity.html">Home Equity loans</a> give you large amounts of funds to use for a variety of reasons and are available through Financial One Credit Union as lump sum loans (up to 100% loan to value) or as a Home Equity Line of Credit (up to 80% loan to value variable rate).<br />
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Interest Rates</h3>
Interest rates fluctuate daily<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/insights/forces-behind-interest-rates/"> based on changes in financial markets</a>. Your <a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/7-factors-determine-your-mortgage-interest-rate/">individual interest rate</a> will be determined based on your credit score, your income vs. debt ratio, down payment amount, the amount being borrowed, and the term of the loan. If you have any questions about how interest rates are calculated or why they fluctuate, please don’t hesitate to <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html">contact us</a>.<br />
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Rates at Credit Unions are Often Better than Banks</h3>
According to<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/1211/6-benefits-of-using-a-credit-union.aspx"> Investopedia</a>, Credit Unions are able to turn income into savings for their members. “Since profits to stockholders aren't a part of the company vision, credit unions are free to pass surplus money on to members.” In addition, Credit Unions don’t need to answer to stockholders; we are member-owned and are concerned with benefiting members over anything else.<br />
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<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/applications/loan-application-home.html?page=126432&type=page&id=126432">Apply now</a> for a Home Mortgage Loan from Financial One Credit Union, or<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/rates.html#mortgage"> view our current rates here</a>.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-69497932316963144312018-01-05T10:11:00.000-06:002018-01-05T10:11:30.409-06:00How to Set a Personal Budget for 2018<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="401" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/h90jiL0pzVukQWSGr4YrWsPhp_e1LvICI3lyYKqjhjzzCbblxSgSAIVOgAkItmbslTzc0Yfx9_QK_irMHF4Shbve2W5HkryFfRl3BDaQnNF9Kfb3JEHKLbH0iUuz3wXrPzpPgHLY" width="640" /></div>
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In a season known for indulging and overspending, the holidays can be the last time you want to think about a budget.<br />
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However, the start of a new year is the perfect time to revamp the way you think about your money. It’s a way to set yourself up for 2018 to make your budget work for you, instead of working for your budget. <br />
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With that attitude in mind, take these three steps as you begin budgeting for 2018:<br />
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1. Start with the Basics</h3>
You might feel tempted to go way into detail when you first set out to budget, but that’s <a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2013/10/18/8-steps-to-creating-a-personal-budget">not necessary</a>. Divide your budget into simple categories in a program such as Microsoft Excel so you’ll easily be able to make edits and be realistic with the amounts you set for each category. Don’t be too hard on yourself.<br />
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Think about how much you’re already spending in each area and visualize what you could cut back on. Draw your budget as such.<br />
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Be honest about the best way to keep your budget. If you like math, it could be pen and paper. If you’d like to be more hands-off, try a budgeting program such as <a href="https://www.mint.com/">Mint</a>, which categorizes your purchases as you make them.<br />
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2. Save for the Worst</h3>
Build an <a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/banking/life-build-emergency-fund/">emergency fund</a> into your budget. This type of <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/accounts/personal-savings">savings account</a> will give you a financial buffer in the case that illness or injury, hospital bills, or other times of need make money tight. Putting money into the fund can be as easy as the change from your lunch, cutting unnecessary expenses, or saving your tax return.<br />
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Build the fund with the requirement that it be used strictly for emergencies, and not as general savings. Don’t use the fund for holidays or planned expenses. This way, when the unexpected happens, your money will be ready.<br />
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<img height="244" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/fElAVgv2y3IELTyF9XKL6TTVXQMLWYW8wiPEmKmozIGhSZNfa97NLUCmz7HWHAcMOVxFJEp1voI7_ePKYrKMBxU1u9iAxxejGBZ1TNzXIL8lEzRcjkOL2Y29i68U4q-q6Y9R_tSk" width="400" /></div>
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3. Don’t be Afraid to Make Changes</h3>
Your budget shouldn’t be set in stone. As you start spending in 2018, see where your estimates and actual spending don’t match up and take a look at why that is. <br />
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If money is tight, it’s tempting to underestimate costs as you set your budget. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Allow room for fun and an occasional splurge. Get too restrictive too soon, and it will be harder to follow the budget as the year goes on.<br />
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If things still don’t add up, think about adding to your income instead of cutting from your expenses. An extra part-time job, some freelance work or selling something you’re not using can free up some space in the budget.<br />
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No matter your budgeting goal for 2018, <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/">Financial One Credit Union</a> is here to help. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-83985731225137730462017-11-29T13:40:00.000-06:002017-11-29T13:40:19.063-06:005 Tax Season Tips You Need To Know Before 2018It’s never too early to start thinking about tax season. <br />
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There are many things to consider for a quick and seamless tax return this year. If you keep these 10 tips in mind, you will be less likely to experience a tax refund delay.<br />
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<img height="401" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9pO7ExrGTPq8ya2xPwaqZ_1WJsEHvVfRzzuqtsUgoGWLKpcARaC55iUM3MmzOsGDnFTI9MaTcpULeo-RbR5wO7qNlrw98TfDMr9a_B7gESYGNNGnc_tuBwUwDxT4RiFbazWXEVUf" width="640" /></div>
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<br />1. The First Day to File Taxes</h3>
There have been rumors about the first day to file taxes in 2018. According to some websites out there, the first day you can file taxes in 2018 will be January 21st. However, according to the<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-statement-on-2018-filing-season-start-date"> IRS</a>, an official date hasn’t yet been decided. It is likely to be the third week of January, based on past tax seasons. Be sure to always check the IRS website to see when the official date will be.<br />
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<br />2. Check If Your ITIN Will Expire</h3>
An ITIN is an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/individual-taxpayer-identification-number">Individual Taxpayer Identification Number</a>, which is a tax processing number for the IRS. On December 31st, 2017, any ITINs that haven’t been used for the last three years will expire. On top of those, according to the<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/individual-taxpayer-identification-number"> IRS</a>, they will be expiring ITINs issued before 2013 and have middle digits 70, 71, 72 or 80. If your ITIN is due to expire, send an<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w7"> application</a> to renew it before the end of the year. This will help ensure there won’t be a delay in your tax refund. <i>Note: If you use a Social Security Number for filing taxes, this does not apply to you.</i><br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2C8ZZPmfuq-8v2ZfOUsvNGtfT902kWzDoGdQoZjc0GMOGQhQ6IG5NQtjKG5G5Hvz9wc8I1QNPoOJjzp9Z9pVFkZ8eQItEtdWK4fb5W_vm0kjCjxJ3Q77NqB1V49m8ZXKzfVt0xji" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2C8ZZPmfuq-8v2ZfOUsvNGtfT902kWzDoGdQoZjc0GMOGQhQ6IG5NQtjKG5G5Hvz9wc8I1QNPoOJjzp9Z9pVFkZ8eQItEtdWK4fb5W_vm0kjCjxJ3Q77NqB1V49m8ZXKzfVt0xji" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="257" /></a></div>
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3. Start Gathering Your Documents</h3>
You’ll want to ensure you have all necessary documents for your tax return. This includes your previous tax return, W-2, 1099, and any other forms required for taxes. These typically come from your employer and banks in January. Once you receive them, double-check that all your information is correct. Use<a href="https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/tax-planning-and-checklists/tax-preparation-checklist/L7LHiDqGJ"> TurboTax’s preparation checklist</a> to help know which documents you need.<br />
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4. EITC and ACTC Refunds Will be Held</h3>
For those filing with Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, your refund will be held until late-February. This is required by law. Ensure you aware of this timing when filing these credits and making plans for your return.<br />
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5. Choose E-file and use Direct Deposit</h3>
Using these options during your tax return will help you get your refund fastest. The<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/get-ready-for-taxes-plan-ahead-for-2018-filing-season-to-avoid-refund-delays"> IRS</a> states, “Electronically filing a tax return is the most accurate way to prepare and file. Errors delay refunds and the easiest way to avoid them is to e-file.” Along with e-file, direct deposit is the quickest way to receive your refund. It also saves taxpayer money if you choose direct deposit instead of a paper check.<br />
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Now that you have the top 5 tips for tax season, start preparing by gathering your documents and applying for a new ITIN before the end of the year. This will make it much easier for you and/or your accountant when it comes time to file your tax return. <br />
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For advice on what to do with the extra funds from your return, contact the specialists at <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/">Financial One Credit Union</a>. We have partnered with <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/wealth-management/ameriprise-financial.html">Ameriprise Financial</a> and can help you invest, pay off debts, plan for retirement and manage your money for the future.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-41278812828320156492017-11-22T15:42:00.000-06:002017-11-22T15:42:29.981-06:00The Best Ways to Give Back This SeasonIt is the season of giving and there is a multitude of ways you can make the holidays a little happier for those around you. Here are the best ways you can give back and spread cheer!<br />
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Volunteer Opportunities</h3>
Great places to volunteer this time of year are<a href="http://www.houstonfoodbank.org/aboutus/media-room/blog/the-many-ways-you-can-give-back-this-holiday-season/"> food shelves</a> and homeless shelters. As the cold weather sets in, these places experience higher volumes. They also have an influx of donations around the season of giving so they need extra volunteers to sort and manage these items. <br />
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If you are looking for the right opportunity to volunteer, you can get matched with local organizations at<a href="https://www.volunteermatch.org/"> volunteermatch.org</a>. <br />
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<img height="473" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ezvHKfjArmrrbcPdZjCpjdMP95RpzN26Evz2qUms9WvorPGCLVpVziuEBdBeH298BjASOhLDIqmMXEwvTPZ-KVnEH3BHpmHxJeBMfmEDDMFFkh23LWJdSU8PgauvPc9S4wNm10DM" width="640" /></div>
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Local Love</h3>
If you feel like giving back in a more personal way, consider helping locals in your area that are struggling. If you know a family with young kids struggling financially, consider giving them toys to gift their children when they can not afford to buy them.<a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money/articles/2016-11-16/6-ways-to-give-back-this-holiday-season"> Adopt a family</a> through a charitable or religious organization to give something that specific family needs, usually clothing. Consider<a href="https://www.becomingminimalist.com/spread-cheer/"> small acts of kindness to spread joy</a> like shoveling a neighbor's driveway, making your coworkers cookies unexpectedly, or inviting someone lonely for dinner.<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/QFNfAwpbpmK_dEuCzp0eMcCtdvPLYprdA7a2GWK45cnACbEp2wUTZK8HKLEdvOwUWlRa5CcyWo0ZWOlPlJ7disoPrk2Si6XykE9vkQfd6nutpmesb2Va6p0Vj4TXv7eN_EtHPZQg" width="640" /></div>
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Bank With Financial One</h3>
To give back on a larger scale, consider banking with Financial One. We are committed to serving our community's needs, which is why we stick to our<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/social-promise.html"> Social Promise</a>. <br />
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When you choose Financial One for your home loan, we provide 1 night of housing for someone homeless. When you open a checking line-of-credit, a veteran in need receives one coat. Lastly, when you open an auto loan with Financial One, we donate 100 lbs of food to the local food shelf. This program has allowed our credit union and members to give back in a big way!<br />
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The best ways to give back during the holidays are easy to find when you know where to look. The best thing about giving back is that you aren’t limited to the holiday season. Commit to giving back to your community all year round.<br />
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How will you be celebrating the season of giving this year?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-45449526017010912212017-10-13T08:00:00.000-05:002017-10-13T08:00:08.943-05:00Keeping Your Financial Information Safe After The Equifax Breach<img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/s41xYJswf80NTEdHuAhgjR_RpZ0ptxzESDrou5_hlXIjOaAxGzOR9MmYIuOi61xYNKuhB5rM7Vtb7wEtqnICctSw9gciHVfgYDhJfyQfqbnw0xPGhKkEhj-28iF8Xa-UsNUaX2ah" /><br /><br />The news of the massive Equifax breach in September was unsettling for many as millions of Americans’ private financial information was hacked. The latest news reveals<a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2017/10/02/equifax-breach-hit-2-5-million-more-americans-than-first-believed/725100001/"> 2.5 million more consumers were impacted</a> than initially thought, bringing the total to 145.5 million. This news can make people very nervous to apply for a loan, check their credit score, or share their personal financial information with anyone - and rightly so. <br /><br />We at <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/">Financial One Credit Union</a> want to be part of the solution instead of downplaying the problem. Here are some questions you might have about protecting your financial information.<br /><br /><h3>
Do Banks Communicate via Text message?</h3>
While some banks do communicate via text, be wary of a type of financial scam called “smishing”.<a href="http://www.bankrate.com/banking/checking/5-rules-to-protect-an-online-bank-account/#slide=2"> Bankrate.com</a> explains, “Smishing occurs when you get a dubious text message from a fraudster posing as a bank representative. The message may warn you of security breaches and ask you to call a toll-free number. Then you’re asked for your account number and pin.” Don’t trust text communication as a communication method; call the customer service line at your financial institution instead.<br /><br /><h3>
Can Viruses on my Computer Hack my Financial Information?</h3>
Yes, malware is rampant and one of the most common ways hackers gain access to your private information. Malware is downloaded onto your computer by clicking an online link or opening an infected email. Be very wary of sites and senders you are unfamiliar with.<br /><br /><h3>
How Do I Know if a Website is Secure?</h3>
Look closely at the website address (URL). If it starts with http, the site is not secure.<a href="https://www.moneywise.co.uk/consumer-protection/scams-rip-offs/17-ways-to-protect-your-money-online-2017"> If you see https, the site is more secure</a>, but still not fool-proof. The added “s” in the URL means the website is secured using an SSL Certificate. <a href="https://www.digicert.com/blog/buy-site-know-website-secure/">Extra-secure sites</a> will have a lock icon, meaning the company that owns the site has an Extended Validation - the safest and most secure level. <br /><h3>
<br />How Do I Know if I Have Been Affected?</h3>
Even high-profile companies like Yahoo and LinkedIn have been hacker victims. Check 179 hacked websites at one time by entering your email address into the website<a href="https://haveibeenpwned.com/"> Haveibeenpwned.com</a>. If you are curious about the recent Equifax breach, you can<a href="https://www.equifaxsecurity2017.com/am-i-impacted/"> visit their website directly</a> to find out if your information was stolen. <br /><br /><br />To learn more about the Equifax breach specifically, visit<a href="https://krebsonsecurity.com/2017/09/the-equifax-breach-what-you-should-know/"> Krebsonsecurity.com</a>. The best thing to do moving forward is to keep a close eye on all your finances and accounts. If you spot something unusual, notify your financial institution right away so they can help you stop the unlawful charges. <br /><br />For our members impacted by the Equifax breach, Financial One will do everything possible to protect you and your financial information. <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html">Contact us</a> for more information.<br /><br />Keeping Your Financial Information Safe After The Equifax BreachAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-16363675933116143812017-09-15T08:00:00.001-05:002017-09-15T08:00:01.431-05:00September is the Best Time to Buy These 6 ThingsSometimes saving money is not about clipping coupons or shopping sales, it can be about shopping seasonally. If you can, choose September the buy end of summer items when they are drastically marked down. Do not buy when everyone else does, a little delay of gratification can go a long way toward stretching your dollars. September is the best time to buy these 6 things!<br />
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<img height="377" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Lt_f9-RFsblscr81TbQR0WvHyzccJ_1gIzto0RFkBQwngSkzXGwdKN3Y06_Pgh1na05lQcjUZvZizF2t26DTFv_QmD4oHR-_RSkpnytQEoevItFYEnc49sXmQkppqp05LM3s3eIp" width="640" /></div>
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Patio Furniture</h3>
As summer comes to a close, patio furniture takes up a lot of space in store's floor plans and they heavily discount sets to get ready for the next season. Take advantage of<a href="http://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/spending/T050-S001-best-buys-of-fall-september-october-november/index.html"> up to 90% off patio furniture</a> during September.<br />
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<img height="426" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6K3bcLYIU53jGWrDNdfBMiFSAQ_Jhe-HXMHdrUEWDK45gIr4Fk-4K0KnkDXXgOuEq0A2LrcWbM9yEVRiw-UgK3SRL4_Q9DDqDW4-wP4Tvpg477vrdZIItqQkTohmeKGE1O5ozRXn" width="640" /></div>
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Bicycles</h3>
Not many invest in a new bicycle at the end of summer when they have to wait all through the cold season to ride it often. This means huge savings for you!<a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/the-frugal-shopper/2014/09/09/5-items-you-should-buy-in-september"> Upgrade your bike in the fall</a> and reap the savings.<br />
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<img height="426" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/DLV0-DY00aWka7jTEqT2fC38ut7C1p5KDKfxjfosQxlW7KQ2Wsj3aefKQmKPWa3eD526BwEoaTtH5MQeLLgDixlLtSOfo98cw-uz0wfHNfHqKjh1-RLdj67hDgiSWt7NlGGcSfhC" width="640" /></div>
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Older iPhones</h3>
Each September, Apple releases the new iPhone and flocks of people upgrade their device. If you want to upgrade your iPhone, but do not necessarily care about getting the absolute newest version, previous-generation iPhones are heavily discounted during September. The prices will be lowest during the end of the month after Apple does the new iPhone release.<br />
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<img height="426" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/8p8nwfmjpnesMTOUSiytpEZWzA5A4W-nOT31Nyflj0nhs9r4kpI9EMwGv-HiZGMn5D-x0D5d4Sqhd7eOomiPlFoMFs4nykZD4snXfJSKQBGNAuIFTf6-1dL-Jv_DpDom_H33JFbF" width="640" /></div>
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A New Car</h3>
Fall is usually<a href="http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/6-labor-day-sales-7.aspx"> the best time to buy a new car</a> because the next year's models are hitting the lot and dealers are trying to make way by discounting the current year's cars. You can find discounts between $2000 and $5000 pretty easily, plus<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans/auto-loans.html"> great car loan options</a>.<br />
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<img height="425" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/86egibD1g91pmsMhjxkcmCSRsOgnjIFIyS-Fb7YQ90E-SoH53alpu5I9tuNFgo-DRjBXB2DM_o-nUx4GRLjZ8HmMfu2pLpgnGSMOQ6pzqBBXl-eWUgKQjVmM2BBtgyAxBFNlVynu" width="640" /></div>
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Lawnmowers</h3>
Of course, another seasonal item that makes sense to<a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/best-things-to-buy-in-september-14319/#image=10"> buy at the end of the summer</a>, not the beginning when everyone else does. Lawnmowers can be very expensive, so if it is time for an upgrade, wait for September sales.<br />
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<img height="418" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6frTFyYLTxp5SxpsCDqMW3SxrJxrJ5lkxbbrpn0olxSxYtblr1r-O76Ww1ASdRil1omm-2aXCDN8m-WCjcuGdGVA8Ovmix-Au5VlnJC2jmJR27Y0vy1bWdH2R_I4z6hr2VmdSQ3K" width="640" /></div>
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Vacations</h3>
You could save hundreds of dollars by<a href="http://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/spending/T050-S001-best-buys-of-fall-september-october-november/index.html"> booking holiday travel or last minute vacations in September</a>. Deals on hotels and especially on airfare are prevalent during this mid-season between summer and holiday travel.<br />
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Although September does not have a “Black Friday,” there are still rock bottom prices to be found on certain items if you are informed. Shop seasonally and save this September!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-28956528657569655552017-08-14T11:19:00.000-05:002017-08-14T11:19:04.216-05:00How to Find the Keys to Financial HappinessWhen it comes to financial happiness, many people think of big houses, nice cars, vacation homes, fine dining, and heaps of cash in the bank. The truth is, financial happiness is really a subjective and personal choice. Like many things in life, people will differ in their definition of financial happiness and how to obtain it. To help you start pondering what true financial happiness means to you, check out our tips below. The first two are more abstract and deal with your personal values while the last two address behaviors of so-called financially happy people.<br />
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<br />Setting and Reaching Goals</h3>
You’ve heard the age-old mantra that money can’t buy happiness, right? Well, it can, to an extent. Money certainly can buy happiness when you are spending it well. It’s not about how much you have, but <a href="http://www.nextavenue.org/secret-financial-happiness/">how you use it</a>! That’s why it’s important to know what you value most so you can create goals. Goals - big and small - help direct where you spend your dough. Writing out your short-term goals (ex. getting a pet) and long-term goals (ex. saving for retirement), along with ballpark figures needed to achieve them, will increase the likelihood that you reach them. People with clear goals are typically more financially happy people because they have focus and direction for their money.<br />
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Maintain a Positive Attitude</h3>
Your relationship with money has a lot to do with your sense of happiness. What messages did you receive growing up from the adults in your life? Were you taught to view money as a tool, as a means of exchange, or as a scarce resource to chase and hoard? Spending some time reflecting on your attitude toward money will help bring your inner dialogue to light. <a href="http://www.oprah.com/money/suze-ormans-rules-for-financial-happiness">Rewrite that inner dialogue</a> to help conquer your money fears and build self-esteem.<br />
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Stay Organized</h3>
Few people want to hear this, but most financially happy people are <a href="https://www.fool.com/knowledge-center/personal-finances-the-key-to-your-financial-happin.aspx">organized</a>. They have a handle on what’s coming in and what’s going out. While it isn’t always fun, <a href="https://www.fool.com/personal-finance/2015/01/09/painless-budgeting-tips.aspx">creating a budget</a> is a tried and true method for taking control of your personal finances. Tracking your credit score is another great way to stay in control. Improving your score could mean the difference in interest rates and thousands of dollars in interest saved over the years. It takes discipline, but it feels good to be in control of your money; one of the best ways to do that is to get organized.<br />
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<br />Make Wise Investments</h3>
This last tip will vary from person to person. Some people are fascinated by stocks and bonds and will jump in head first to <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/money/Investments/five-steps-to-financial-happiness-a6911766.html">start investing</a>. Others will feel comfortable with a less risky option of opening an IRA. Still others would rather trust an advisor or firm to handle investment decisions for them. Whatever the case you’re in – if you have a little to invest or a lot – a common thread in financially happy people involves some sort of investing. Setting aside what you can, as early as you can, might play a large role in your long-term financial happiness.<br />
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Have these suggestions sparked your internal dialogue around money? How do you define financial happiness?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-1663910870684133732017-07-14T08:00:00.000-05:002017-07-14T08:18:24.171-05:00Simple Money Saving Summer TipsIt is easy to overspend during the summer. Taking trips and entertaining the kids can make your money feel like it flows through your fingers just like the water you wade through on hot days. There are many easy ways to save money that will actually enhance your summer you might not have thought of. Try some of these tips to put some extra cash in your wallet while the warm weather is here.<br />
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Turn Up The Thermostat For The Air Conditioning</h3>
Almost every home has some kind of air conditioning to make their home more comfortable during the hot temps, but almost every home also has their thermostat set too low. It is actually more comfortable during the summer if the temperature outside is not drastically different from the temperature inside your home. Your body will adjust to the warmer temps and you will not stress your body with the severe differences in temperature. The best part about adjusting your air conditioning to run less is that<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/money-crashers-personal-finance/saving-money-summer_b_1414559.html"> every degree you turn up the thermostat saves you 3% on your utility bill</a>. The ideal temperature for most people is around 75 degrees. If your thermostat is set lower than that, turn it up<br />
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Cook Outside As Often As You Can</h3>
During summer months, it heats up your house to cook on the stove top or bake in the oven.<a href="https://www.gobankingrates.com/personal-finance/101-ways-save-money-summer/16/"> Avoid cooking inside the house as often as possible</a> to reduce the need to run the air conditioning and refrain from using kitchen appliances. Grilling outside is the epitome of summer fun, but also consider cooking in roasting pans, slow cookers, outdoor stoves, or single burners on your patio. This is especially wise when hosting parties because the extra bodies already heat up the house. Move the party outside to cook and converse and save money!<br />
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Switch To A Push Reel Mower</h3>
You might be surprised how easy and enjoyable it is to mow your lawn with an old-fashioned reel lawn mower.<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/money-crashers-personal-finance/saving-money-summer_b_1414559.html"> Switching to a push reel mower</a> is especially feasible if your yard is a quarter-acre or smaller. You will no longer need to spend money on gasoline, oil, spark plugs, or filters. Plus, it will decrease air pollution and create a quiet, calm activity out of something that used to be loud, smelly, and a nuisance. The use of push reel mowers has increased in popularity in recent years. Enjoy mowing your lawn again and save money doing it!<br />
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These tips can not only<a href="http://www.fredericksburgparent.net/read/seasonal-fun/1964-50-simple-ways-to-save-money-this-summer-without-sacrificing-family-fun"> save you money this summer</a> but also make your summer the best one you have ever had! By changing the temperature in which you live, the way you prepare your meals, and how you mow your lawn you can save more than you ever thought!<br />
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If you’re interested in other money saving options - such as consolidating your debt or taking out a line of credit, contact <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html">Financial One Credit Union</a>. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-15263299039866315972017-06-21T08:00:00.000-05:002017-06-21T08:00:27.410-05:00Our Social Promise: Financial One’s Essential Donations and SponsorshipsFinancial One Credit Union believes in the value of lending a hand in our community. We work with many nonprofit organizations to provide food, shelter, and clothing through<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/social-promise.html"> our Essentials Program</a>. In this program, we vow to do three things:<div>
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<li>Provide 1,000 pounds of food to a local food shelf for each auto loan we fund</li>
<li>Provide one night of housing for to someone in need to match each home equity loan we fund</li>
<li>Provide 1 coat to a veteran in need for every checking line of credit we open. </li>
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In 2016, Financial One gave a total of $93,806 to donations and sponsorships of local non-profits. We donated 136,892 lbs of food, 269 nights of shelter, and 184 clothing items. If you <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/social-promise.html">visit our site</a> today, you’ll see those numbers continue to grow, as we continue to keep our Social Promise. <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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Hope 4 Youth</h3>
Gov. Dayton proclaimed October 10th of last year as <a href="https://business.facebook.com/hashtag/plusitforwardday">#PlusItForwardDay</a> in Minnesota. On this day, more than half of our staff participated in cleaning Hope 4 Youth's facility, learning about the wonderful things they do and enjoying a meal together. This day was meaningful and impactful to all involved, which inspired us to call it 1 With Our Community Day.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We were also able to donate 30 nights of shelter to people in need to the </span><a href="https://www.hope4youthmn.org/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hope 4 Youth</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Organization.</span></div>
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Coat Delivery</h3>
Although homelessness has been on the decline in the last few years among veterans, <a href="https://www.mprnews.org/story/2015/11/11/mn-veterans-by-the-numbers">the statistics</a> are still far above the general population. At Financial One, we want to honor the service of these brave men and women and show our support. Thanks in part to our coat drive, the Department of Veterans Affairs of Minnesota was able to provide the <a href="https://business.facebook.com/MACVorg/">Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans</a> with needed coats for veterans facing financial hardship and transitioning to sustainable housing. We delivered 150 coats to the VA hospital to be given to veterans in need and continue to support our military members in the community. <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 4pt;">
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The North Anoka County Emergency Food Shelf (NACE)</h3>
<a href="http://www.nacefoodshelf.org/">NACE</a> is more than just a food shelf; it provides food, clothing, crisis packs, holiday meals, birthday packs, and delivers to the immobile in need in Northern Anoka County. For an organization that does so much good in our community, we were more than happy to provide 25,000 pounds of food to NACE.</div>
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Stepping Stone Emergency Housing</h3>
<a href="https://www.steppingstoneeh.org/">Stepping Stone </a>is a temporary housing organization that caters to men and women of Anoka County - some as young as 18 years old. They offer safe living space and support for at-risk and homeless people in the community. We were happy to fund 100 nights of services to Stepping Stone Emergency Housing.<br /><br /><br />At Financial One Credit Union, we are committed to living our mission: To improve the financial well-being and peace of mind of our members and others within the communities we serve. If you would like more information or would like to volunteer or make a donation, <a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/">visit our website</a> to learn more. <br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-78407665291084103152017-05-25T15:10:00.001-05:002017-05-25T15:10:33.056-05:00The Advantages and Disadvantages of Refinancing Your Mortgage<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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Homeowners refinance for a variety of reasons, some of which include opting for lower interest rates as they become available, taking advantage of built-up equity in their home by borrowing additional amounts, and moving from an adjustable mortgage to a fixed rate mortgage. There’s a variety of refinancing options, but it can be hard to know all the pros and cons of refinancing before you commit. Take a look at some advantages and disadvantages of refinancing.<br /><br /><h3>
Disadvantages</h3>
When weighing the disadvantages of refinancing your mortgage, consider what you will ultimately gain in savings from refinancing. How much will you be spending in fees, closing costs, penalties, and paying points? Will it be worth it to move forward and refinance? Will you be paying more in higher interest rates if you move from a fixed-rate mortgage to an adjustable rate mortgage?</div>
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<br />Another thing to consider is that depending on the term and length of a new loan, it may take much longer to pay off your home than it may under your current plan. Equity may make a difference in how you consider refinancing. Taking equity out of the house may mean you owe significantly more money. Taking cash out may decrease equity in your home, which can trigger a few additional maneuvers on your part—one of which could require you to carry private mortgage insurance (PMI).</div>
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Advantages</h3>
While there can be many disadvantages that may make you hesitate when it comes to refinancing, there can be many advantages that can make refinancing the best option for your financial future.<br /><br />Refinancing can help you better define the terms of your payments. It can shorten repayment time, reduce your interest rate, and lower monthly payments. Taking advantage of low rates could improve your loan period and grant you more leverage in negotiating. Greater flexibility means improving your chances of obtaining a favorable deal.</div>
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Consolidation of loans can also streamline your repayment plan, and make your repayment plan more manageable. Another advantage of refinancing your mortgage is that you could potentially avoid the risk of rising interest rates if you move from an adjustable to a fixed-rate mortgage.<br /><br />Before you decide on or against refinancing your mortgage, do your research to find the best fit for your finances. Speak to a professional financial expert to help you weigh the pros and cons of refinancing your mortgage. Contact one of our specialists at<a href="http://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans/home-mortgage-loans.html"> Financial One Credit Union</a> in order to make great strides in your financial security today. <br /><br /> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-39182887918197857022017-05-19T10:32:00.000-05:002017-05-19T10:32:19.330-05:00The Benefits of an HSA Checking AccountOne of our signature checking options is our Health Savings Account; a smart option for anyone wanting to strategically save for health-related costs. Many families experience high healthcare costs from time to time, and these costs can arrive at unexpected times. So how do you financially prepare for these? Let’s look at 5 benefits of an HSA Checking Account.<br />
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1. Peace of Mind</h3>
An HSA account is a very convenient option for paying for qualified healthcare expenses. You won’t need to pull money out of your day-to-day finances to pay for healthcare needs, allowing you to focus on caring for yourself or your loved ones. Depending on your specific situation, HSA funds could be used for things like doctor’s visits, copays, dentist visits and dental procedures, and even vision-related expenses in some cases. We will help you with the details of your situation.<br />
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2. Convenient</h3>
Access your funds easily with your free HSA debit card or easy direct check writing (which includes a free box of 50 checks). You’ll also have access to free mobile banking, free eStatements, and free online banking and bill pay.</div>
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3. Tax Advantages</h3>
HSA contributions are deductible from your gross pay (pre-tax), and funds in an HSA account are able to augment tax-free. Plus, with our HSA Checking, any funds not used by the end of the year are still yours to keep. We don’t operate a “use it or lose it” policy. According to<a href="http://funcheaporfree.com/2012/10/the-7-bank-accounts-every-family-should/"> funcheaporfree.com</a>:<br />
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“Young people in good health may benefit the most from an HSA, because they tend to have lower medical bills, and over many years the accumulated savings can be significant. Also, if you lose your job or are laid off and are collecting unemployment insurance, you can use your HSA funds to pay for routine health expenses and health insurance premiums, tax-free.”</blockquote>
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4. Easy to Get Started</h3>
These accounts have no setup fee and no monthly maintenance fees. They run independently from your insurance, so it is easy to work with our staff to create your account.<br />
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<br />5. Stays in Your Name</h3>
Your account remains in your name, no matter if you change jobs, move, or have other life changes. Since it is not linked to your employer, but to you personally, it will be more easily accessible throughout your life.<br />
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To get started with your convenient HSA Checking Account,<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/accounts/personal-checking/hsa-checking.html"> apply now</a> and we will be in touch with you shortly.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-1556738727891574822017-04-24T08:00:00.000-05:002017-04-24T08:00:20.397-05:00Update Your Home With a Financial One Home Improvement Loan<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">The springtime reinvigorates many homeowners to clean, improve, and even renovate their house. It is the time to freshen up your home and get that home improvement checklist done. Even if you don’t have a lot of cash to put towards improving your home, there might still be a simple option for you. </span></div>
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<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Federal Credit Union</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> offers home equity loans to reinvest in your house, making the improvements you need and increase your home’s overall value. Some might call it a “home improvement loan” because our members take out a home equity line of credit to use it for home maintenance almost as often as it is used for debt consolidation. We gathered a list of home improvements you would be wise to make on your home that have a great return on investment and will put your home equity to good use.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="real-estate-374190_640.jpg" height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TumxAican_V5UGDaP-zGl2WUqNvKny3oCI5fnZeDDMCyqOkREvjk_yHQIZjPmsrJZQF2PCu93fRM4yEXkKl-9tTzG599b-yc5R_4QKPlyJshMGBziDjJhHvlnoh2RuHWsBdcXqcr" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="400" /></span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A New Garage Door</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Surprisingly, </span><a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/heres-how-much-remodeling-pays-off/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">a new garage door</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is one home improvement project that has the highest return on investment. This is because it can drastically improve your home's curb appeal!</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Insulation in the Attic</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Besides keeping your attic free from pests and mold, </span><a href="https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/15-spring-home-maintenance-musts-2360/attic#.WPAsVNLyvIU" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">insulation</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> works to make your home's HVAC system run more efficiently. This update kills two home improvement birds with one stone!</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="kitchen-remodelling-mississauga-1300357_640.jpg" height="267" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/7D0rpyfrHRjv_ID2d3_khu0vxqWP6XQ9MVjntj62iCwEC5dLEK9VXwarQuWRdpXLuxoKchlN8z0Lja7Ro3KaQpewIZIg32SJ7bmMevLXAoC2O_ePzuoqMvfyNDczAK86pzuU__Ya" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="400" /></span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kitchen Upgrades</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Have you been dreaming of granite counter tops or a farmhouse sink? If you spend your money wisely, </span><a href="http://www.hgtv.com/remodel/kitchen-remodel/remodeling-a-kitchen-for-resale" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">kitchen upgrades</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> can have a very high return on investment and are one of the first things people will notice in your home. </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adding a Patio or Porch</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adding a </span><a href="http://www.inman.com/2015/07/09/outdoor-renovation-projects-with-the-highest-return-on-investment/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">porch, patio, deck</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or an outdoor living space to your home is a great way to increase the usable square footage of your property and make your home feel larger without the huge expense of an add-on. The outdoor project with the highest ROI is a well-designed fire pit area.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="modern-kitchen-1772638_640.jpg" height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zTBJlZ3aHdW2qoiDX6Hkow1yjLkUZPtbkaQhT8dzqAi7Z2g-UdBS4Dz4SB21UB40o1xH1L_S4PvWfFZcPl52E07W1OO27tqPkmWseLCMsw0pwRdl4bVLkDD86B5iiTwnMW3fF7lw" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="400" /></span></div>
<ol start="5" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Replacing Old Appliances</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you live in an older home, there are likely </span><a href="http://lifehacker.com/5873658/what-appliances-are-worth-upgrading" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">numerous appliances</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> that are running inefficiently in your home. Spending the money to install a new HVAC system or tankless water heater can really pay off in the long run.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">These are just some of the many ways you can reinvest back into your home with a home improvement loan. At Financial One, we help our members transition their hard-earned home equity into budget-friendly financing options for all your home improvement needs. Stop in and ask about a</span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans/home-equity.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">home equity loan from Financial One</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> today!</span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-27480672253132949762017-03-13T08:00:00.000-05:002017-03-13T08:00:40.057-05:00Become a Beer Connoisseur at the Fifth Annual Hops for Hunger Event<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The time has come for the fifth annual </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HopsforHungerMN/?fref=nf" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hops for Hunger event</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">! The event takes place March 25th at the Solar Arts Building in Minneapolis. Proceeds will go to the Southern Anoka Community Assistance Food Shelf and Thrift Store. </span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-3a883dd2-aa6b-a070-96bc-54e4d914ec65" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Join us from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for beer selections from 21 local brewers, delicious food from </span><a href="http://www.chowgirls.net/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chowgirls Killer Catering</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, music by </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnalogDrifters/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Analog Drifters</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> & </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Travelin-Moburys-163057137114466/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Travelin’ Mobury’s</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a silent auction, and a beer wall. For ticket information, visit </span><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hops-for-hungertm-50-tickets-29963264932" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">hopsforhunger5.eventbrite.com</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="hops_for_hunger.jpg" height="575" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IBHaX1YVEy7oiP4eJbQvNED_NLl2qi9D8yosni7TjTAVgJo8OH5F_aE7oqqL_aWlT6ZcWhKhlA5SzH9mpubCCIYh3a5JjDEX8Lo9twkT_5fPFHQgCECntjubVbtStd2nFkWE6r5Y" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="390" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At this year’s event, make it a goal to become a beer connoisseur! Use our simple guide below to learn how to taste and distinguish beers like a pro:</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Know Your Beers</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you have tried certain beers in the past and didn’t like them, take this chance to try out some new beers. Beer can come in a nearly endless variety of styles. With common domestic and foreign beers as well as hundreds of microbreweries, there’s a solid chance that the perfect pint is out there waiting for you. Take a look at </span><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/25/beer-types_n_1449806.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">this Huffington Post beer guide</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for a quick lesson on some of the more common beer types.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="beers-1283566_640.jpg" height="321" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/wJDOCVIitFg_WcWeLnM4JEm64Bako-VXAmYUlL2j85mrDhuWbTEiymU5-K_RIPDph---6b51MUsQ1L5Hc6jww5OohtvYY9E0xHRr0h-5UNKONsT3yHa6ckCjafiljribJgZeXafh" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="481" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pour it Out</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pouring your drink into a glass will help release the aromas and CO2. This will help you better experience the full flavor and body of the beer.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Check the Temperature</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Drinking beer at the correct temperature can change the way you experience a beer. While a cold one straight from the fridge can be an undeniably satisfying treat on a warm day, many lighter beers—lagers, pilsners, and blondes—actually taste better at 33-45 degrees. Dark and strong beers, like stouts and porters, are best at room temperature. And in case you need a reminder, chill your beer instead of icing it or drinking it from a frosted glass, both of which can spoil the flavor.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What Aromas do You Smell?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your sense of smell is an important factor in how you experience certain events, and with beer tasting, it’s no different. When tasting a beer, begin by swirling it around in the glass. This stimulates and releases carbonation that can help carry the aroma up to your nose. What notes can you detect? Caramel? Coffee? Does it smell like citrus, pine, or florals? These notes all tell you something different about the beer. </span></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/9sHjOiQJJKWnFig216_ST9AJ8Nvl14mQO4XACTRq1c1md7qmV2ZLa3YTWHDIkrXa6j3D5VuToS_FsKrQ3X5oIopVC15oADw9q5HpJeZinUqoeEUXYsb2oLfgAJD8QenHXlkH8c8w" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="beer-228392_640.jpg" border="0" height="357" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/9sHjOiQJJKWnFig216_ST9AJ8Nvl14mQO4XACTRq1c1md7qmV2ZLa3YTWHDIkrXa6j3D5VuToS_FsKrQ3X5oIopVC15oADw9q5HpJeZinUqoeEUXYsb2oLfgAJD8QenHXlkH8c8w" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="237" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Check Out the Appearance</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With a well-poured beer, there are certain features that can clue you in on the quality. If a beer has a good head retention, (the foam doesn’t collapse) it is an indication that it’s a well-crafted beer. If your beer leaves a “Belgian lace” pattern indicated by a lace-like pattern on the glass, this is another sign of a quality-made beer.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tasting Time</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Similar to wine tasting, there can be many complex notes in your beer. Swirl the beer in your mouth before consuming in order to take note of the flavors. Let it coat your tongue and the top of your throat before swallowing. How intense are the flavors? Is it well-balanced? What is the mouthfeel like? Mouthfeel can describe the texture and weight of a beer. Is it light or heavy? Is it too carbonated?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What’s the finish?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Take a second after you finish your sip. Is it sweet or bitter? What taste lingers in your mouth? How intense is it? Does any taste linger at all? Most importantly, was it satisfying? This will tell you a great deal about your brew.</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is a proud sponsor of the fifth Annual Hops for Hunger event. We hope to see you this year, and hopefully, we were able to give you some new tricks to taste each delicious brew!</span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-23767053737583748992017-02-24T08:00:00.000-06:002017-02-24T08:23:13.148-06:00Money-Saving March: 5 Habits That Can Save You Money<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the Month of March, you may notice a little extra spending money in your bank account. After February, the shortest month of the year, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">you get a chance to t</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">ake steps to reduce spending and save money. Why February? For many people, they will still receive two paychecks this month but will have fewer days to stretch them between. So how can you begin to use those savings in March? Try these tips not just for this month, but to see what “sticks” throughout the rest of the year.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eat In</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the first time in history, people seem to be</span><a href="http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2016/06/americans-spend-more-on-restaurants-than-groceries.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">spending more at restaurants</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> than grocery stores. But the quickest way to empty your wallet without realizing it is to dine out on a regular basis (which includes those tempting coffee shop drinks). Although it takes planning and discipline, eating meals at home and bringing a bag lunch will make a big difference to your monthly spend, not to mention your calorie count for the month!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="pexels-photo-59016.jpeg" height="277" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/0tGbOyjbdwWrcfrbxIO8N0KPNpEVJhEZRha13V60TkOL7m_yd8lHxO6lXfPVork-xA4NX1FqROl10PEdI76H92E6581EKHpClTjj79-ymfAGY8dqJ3ssDkOepHVMXnYku1znDaFw" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="408" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Plan on making extra food to use for leftovers, make good use of slow cookers and try the practice of preparing tomorrow night’s dinner tonight before bed.</span><a href="https://makeaheadbook.com/8-smart-strategies-for-dinner-tonight/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Find more fabulous tips for managing three square meals</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> in a disciplined, frugal way.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Try “No Buy” Time</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A “No Buy Month” or “No Buy Week” is a challenge to oneself to not spend any money—other than buying absolute necessities—for a set amount of time. This includes major purchases, items bought on a whim, or replacing things that you feel are wearing out. Giving yourself the chance to pause before buying something is a great discipline that will only serve you well the next time you’re facing a buying temptation.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If this feels daunting, try just one category of purchases that you like to splurge on. For example, tell yourself that this month is a No-Buy Month for clothing and accessories, a hobby or collection, concert tickets, or purchasing new music.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="IMG_3496bfree.jpg" height="284" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Mwc9phFYFdn91dl78LdSC-p433e4-1FgxA4GGDu8nW2rk2AwsITNg07hoUpBtTt_oi7wjU8WPCZrRTu5X7TEj6GiZXno6Fquxv2Q_UPIuj60bxBnwvQwVsS4Ll48yr8ExpffxmEb" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="426" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Drive Less</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If possible, try to carpool or use public transportation instead of hopping in your car. Save money on gas, save the wear and tear on your car, and do something better for the environment while you’re at it. Looking for a baby step? Consolidate your errands to one geographical area, park centrally, and walk to where you need to go.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do Your Own Services.</span><img alt="ironing-403074_640.jpg" height="160" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/20iiWIx2MiMXkWYSz3fG4kr0zl0z7Q4HJEPremPzUcLeqJhpRTzgYa4ctlclYzbIJ71XgrSCxpgKFJnOJTFWaj4s4WIO4NqAaxRjUscUZcMbAMPmrgDDgs56EYc3Jd6cTW67gHTb" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="241" /></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you pay for any services on a regular basis that you could try doing on your own? We are a nation of convenience. Could you do any of these yourself for a month? Think about</span><a href="http://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/news/a52671/wash-dress-shirts-at-home/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">cleaning and ironing shirts instead of dry cleaning</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, washing your own car, cleaning your own home, baking your own treats, walking your dog yourself, or buying groceries yourself. You may find that the inconvenience is worth the money saved, and you may be surprised what you can do on your own.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sell What You Don’t Use.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Not only could you slow down your buying this month, but you could also supplement your wallet by bringing in a few extra dollars. Take a look around your home, in your closet, and in that garage for items that you don’t use, but could be worth money to someone else. Online garage sales on Facebook or on sites like Craigslist or Ebay can</span><a href="http://www.artofmanliness.com/2015/06/03/tips-for-selling-your-stuff-online/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">get your unwanted items moved quickly</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union is happy to assist with any questions on saving or reducing spending.</span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Contact us</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> to learn more and to get started toward being more frugal any month of the year.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-40519117697567741792017-01-12T08:00:00.000-06:002017-01-12T08:00:06.300-06:0017 Tips for Saving Money in 2017<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.666666666666664px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="17 Tips.jpg" height="298" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_Dj8vhfBlJL2Waw_a0rQccmjhr7wt0SOXedk9q3tGqRvKoqkZWQ5JLuiEsWj7rsgsr52TCUcv7EKqNL-uBdeWGqVTlpNAmyg_2sSlTQ-SBbyvUI9seKwD2u4YoOzVXHIgE_1h-Y7" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="475" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial resolutions are popular in January. Right now, you might be recovering from holiday spending or looking towards building a more positive financial future in 2017. Let Financial One Credit Union help you plan for healthier finances this year. Take a look at 15 tips to help you save and make money in 2017.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be realistic</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Can you realistically pay your student debt off this year or rid yourself of all credit-card debt? Visualizing realistic goals will make them more feasible. Make them challenging, but ultimately achievable to reach your financial ambitions.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Make your goals specific</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Planning specific goals will help you envision the finish line more clearly. Think about the exact amounts of debt you want to pay off or how much you want to save each month to make your goals clear and attainable.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="money-1604921_640.jpg" height="328" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_Xdi73BL9HsvGZxomgSEewYZFWPFUG-OSqYrSGXTMggG3pZEWmUkHnh_I_z4QjVIlJZWnedjCC01voBYvj1baa3kpxke2jJH65DsrIQQaUWmq3hN-QGVmEKILPJWB4vOhE39-1F5" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="492" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Make your savings automatic</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Designating a portion of your paycheck to your savings account automatically will take away any temptation for you to spend that money. After a few withdraws, you won’t even miss the funds. Think of it as a payment to yourself. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Budget</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Setting a realistic budget will help you cut down on wasteful spending. Think of it as the outline of your financial future. Prioritize your bills and goals in order to grow your savings.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Track your progress</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Keep tabs on your personal finances. How much do you spend on average on each expense? Are you meeting your goals each month or do you need to readjust? This is crucial in maintaining good financial habits, illuminating financial mistakes, and achieving your goals.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shop smart</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. When you do take out your wallet, learn to shop savvier. Use rewards programs, buy in bulk, comparison shop, shop sales, and clip coupons. These practices add up to plenty of savings.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To subscribe or not?</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Online movie and music streaming channels, gym memberships, monthly subscription boxes, and more can rack up a large bill. Review which services you use and drop those you don’t.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Use apps to help you save money when shopping</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. The Target Cartwheel app, for example, is excellent for shaving dollars off of your grocery bills, while Mint is excellent at helping you budget and be more aware of your expenses. For more apps that can help you save, visit</span><a href="http://www.thepennyhoarder.com/10-free-apps-manage-maximize-holiday-budget/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">here</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Refinance</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Can you refinance your mortgage, student debt, and insurance rates in order to potentially save thousands of dollars a year? Research your options. Good credit and historically better rates can help.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">10.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aim for a raise or new job</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Take a look at your resume. Are you recognized fairly for your work? If not, take some time to works towards a promotion and re-negotiate with your boss. Look at these</span><a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2013/09/30/14-tips-for-getting-a-raise-when-theyre-not-handing-them-out/#27f96a01ad74" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">tips</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for negotiating a raise.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">11.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Exercise</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Get fit to help your finances. Spend less on junk food, transportation costs, and the expenses associated with poor health. This can also help you stay disciplined and motivated for all of your goals.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">12.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Invest now. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Don’t wait to pay off debt before investing especially if your employer matches your contribution. Take this big step to secure your future.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">13.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seek small financial opportunities</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Make the best of the financial opportunities that head your way. Look for opportunities in tutoring, babysitting, or selling plasma.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="dollar-1443244_640.jpg" height="223" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KnOuAC-B4RA0XQXIQue-nRColhMVYmdw5jh2cB4CG3dCxdMtQjvZPOnNCBhLekq8l2xzxVFFbUMkZxgp3yJrpLq_w58dj1u4nONBgRJxvPiwxTAbcVNyL4CltnoVM_Zq7-nGITYv" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="501" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">14.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Offer a skill</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Freelancing, teaching a skill, or offering manual labor can also help you find some additional money to pad your budget.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">15.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sell your unwanted treasures</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. In addition to taking control of your finances, uncluttering your home of unwanted possessions can help you make money. Unburden your shelves and rooms of unused electronics, clothes, movies, books, and tools for extra cash.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">16.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Go secondhand</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Visit thrift stores, search garage sales, and scour online deals for treasures and necessities that cost next to nothing.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">17.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 9.333333333333332px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Network</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Keep your resume updated and network regularly. You never know which opportunities await to build skills, connect with professionals, and offer higher opportunities.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union offers free financial counseling sessions that will help you develop a financial plan that is best suited for your lifestyle, goals, and needs. For more information on these free financial counseling courses, visit our</span><a href="http://www.financialonecu.com/resources/education/financial-education.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial Education</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and</span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Contact</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> pages. </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-57739708948749899862016-12-12T08:00:00.000-06:002016-12-12T08:00:23.613-06:00Financial Statistics That Will Shock You<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.666666666666664px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="Family Financial Resolutions (2).jpg" height="315" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/59vQYkBBxJH1nD1noCv-UapxhKs_4TprVWdRTliurx_UK5JIBp6Z1qsqb7Wx0Tg-MlB_MnVF5_WHCFjo3y0mjlX2PFBq_o29HCCUu3hETUDXttDHKISRHThYciD0clApf5Si_ZqW" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="560" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One is experienced with providing solutions for our members, especially those suffering from debt. Though our economy has shown some improvement over the last few years, many people still struggle financially. These statistics highlight the trends and troubles with the way people in our economy use their money. Some of these financial statistics should certainly shock you!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The student loan debt in the US increases at a rate of $2,853.88 per second</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">According to</span><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/a-dozen-shocking-personal-finance-statistics-2011-5" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">businessinsider.com</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, “The average student loan is $23,186. Americans collectively owe more than $875 billion on student loans – which is more than the nation’s credit card debt.” As our nation’s next group of leaders, this statistic is particularly troublesome. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Only 58% of Americans Have a Credit Score Over 700</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The national average credit score is 692. This is a problem because your credit score needs to be good enough if you want to acquire a home loan, car loan, or new credit card. Having a score over 700 is the cut-off for many industries.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can save $112,000 over a lifetime by bringing your lunch to work</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And that amount could be substantially more if you saved that money in an investment vehicle, like the stock market. Those little purchases really add up! What would you do with an extra $100k?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">61% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That is up from 49 percent last year, according to Money magazine's audience poll. But what is most alarming: more than </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">one in five</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> of those living paycheck to paycheck earn a salary of $100K or more.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">43% of those who lent money to family or friends were not paid back in full</span></div>
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<a href="http://ownthedollar.com/2009/10/top-fifteen-personal-finance-statistics-that-will-blow-your-mind/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ownthedollar.com</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> provides us with this statistic, explaining that a whopping 27% hadn’t received a dime in repayment after loaning loved one’s cash.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Everyone has made poor money decisions at some point or another in their lives. Of course, moving towards a solution is what matters most. Financial One can help! Please stop in and </span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/about-us/contact-us.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">see us today</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> to get yourself back on a comfortable financial track.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-34520723181555238332016-11-25T08:00:00.000-06:002016-11-25T08:00:12.476-06:00Be a Part of the Solution at Financial One Credit Union<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.666666666666664px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="Be Part of the Solution at Financial One.jpg" height="315" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/figVyCJ5BPw23iCUGMrOEw2Eflt_P2H84J1m_2KX0XefLBEPzt2FIz8rrdevjf_vBqf86Oo8f38o9HhAgXwZCz4ohtWUgibNF28iYNMEiRBLIwl-OL2TibrAccGFw6kqhcW58gkI" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="560" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One is your solutions credit union. We don't come forth with solutions just for our members, we want to be a part of the solution for </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">everyone</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> in our community. That is why we launched our 3 Essentials program earlier this year and continue to give back to those in need. The three essentials every person needs is food, shelter, and clothing. We have teamed up with some great organizations in our local community to make donations towards providing these three things. Here's how you can help:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your Auto Loan Equates to 100 lbs of Food</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For every new auto loan Financial One lends to a member, we donate 100 lbs of food to those in need. This is in an effort to “drive away hunger” in our local community. We donate to the organization</span><a href="http://www.sacafoodshelf.org/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">SACA Food Shelf & Thrift Store</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and</span><a href="http://www.nacefoodshelf.org/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">NACE – North Anoka County Emergency Food Shelf</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Our goal is to donate more than a million lbs of food over the next five years. You can help by choosing Financial One for your next auto loan and join us in driving away hunger!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="Untitled design.jpg" height="315" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/yFgzRMNg5uDL9f-dSAMwU4lgdM6kKG3dwx3yjlgSLJordKJ5d2IotgZT4uBIaCn8LG80oV0WrbkdT5XZ2Yh-lBpFOiTjgEllnA2rUbTr5jW11v9WTscJv1Mik3JP7XCRcU2CrrWJ" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="560" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your Home Loan Equates to 1 Night of Shelter</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is so exciting to purchase a new home, it can be easy to forget your community members who are not quite as fortunate. You can feel good about borrowing from Financial One when your mortgage pays it forward. For each home loan we give, Financial One will donate 1 night of housing to someone who is homeless. We work with</span><a href="https://www.steppingstoneeh.org/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Stepping Stone Emergency Housing</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and</span><a href="http://hope4youthmn.org/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hope for Youth</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> to give back. So far, 157 nights of shelter have been provided.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your Checking Account Equates to 1 Coat for a Veteran</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sadly, a lot of our community members in need are veterans suffering from the aftereffects of serving their country. When you choose Financial One for your checking line of credit, we donate 1 coat or article of clothing to a veteran in need. So far we have donated more than 150 items of clothing! Our goal is to donate 2,000 items of clothing over the next five years.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trust </span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> with your next auto loan, home loan, or checking line of credit and know you are making a difference. Your choice can improve the lives of others through our 3 Essentials program. Join us in being a part of the solution at Financial One!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-7163320640426198402016-09-20T10:57:00.000-05:002016-09-20T10:57:40.279-05:00Nine Reasons to Pick a Local Lender<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are looking for a lender who can offer you personalized assistance and has an outstanding reputation, look no further than </span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Local lenders can provide you with better rates and better service than national and online lenders. Take a look our top nine reasons to pick a local lender:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. Develop a Relationship</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Don’t be just another number in the system. Choosing a local lender that is a member of the community gives you the opportunity to develop a real relationship with your money-managing institution. With a local lender, you will have someone advocating for you that understands the history, members, and potential of the community.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="shutterstock_134583104.jpg" height="323" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/iYKnncFswnBIwhcmXHGRpoL4j-PcDyX4GPt3ZLEqVBL5Ng3Ngi8ZAejjMPqBuYlpF8rT5pPtQJU3yLRdQ4pGmGYOhSfE11FRwdZXc2ED2_KWgGYLlWixI56V60jauzOeAvcE7tgE" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="484" /></span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-ec39e785-24da-066e-c624-1247a0768485" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. You Can Trust Your Local Lender</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Especially with online lenders, there is a great risk of fraud, scams, and illegal business practices. Establishing a relationship built on trust and reliability will create a partnership that you would not receive from an online national lender. That trust and reliability will go a far way in ensuring a successful lending process.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Get Reliable References.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From previous lenders to community partners, your local lender will be able to obtain personal testimonials for your consideration. With trusted references, you will have a sound mind knowing that your local lender has successfully helped other members of your community, not just nameless faces.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4. They Get to Know You Personally</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are a variety of benefits that come with getting to know your lender personally. For starters, they know how to cater to your personal needs. They can also give you advice that pertains to your personal situation as well as prevent you from making financial mistakes. Local lenders can establish a personal repertoire and offer you superior customer service.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="binding-contract-948442_640.jpg" height="244" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/s3seUztRkXxgz4owyslj8ThdixJNdGha9co2NtYgYCqabaOrvpTzvUXe8mOWn9w_mahDobxOiA3QdrWWE6v_qfRHcEV8lLyCVe7cqzQu88JXCNO70lvTLjbY975lFIxUc6aq8s7o" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="366" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5. Local Lenders Know the Rules</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Local lenders in your state will know all of the regulations, rules, standards, and everything else involved in the process of procuring a mortgage. This can make the process go much more smoothly since they know what they are doing not just in reference to everyday banking, but specific to your community.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6. Local Lenders Cause Less Stress.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With the assurance of a trusted and professional local lender, you can rest easy knowing that they will take care of all your questions and concerns personally. Having a relationship with your local lender will alleviate much of the uncertainty and stress that coincides with getting a mortgage, auto loan, student loan, and a variety of other financial transactions. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7. They Can Get You A Better Deal</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In advocating on your behalf, local lenders will often shop around for a variety of different lenders and loan programs to find the best deal. This can help you save money and enjoy the most appropriate plan for your needs. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="shutterstock_313932449.jpg" height="295" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/DoI99Wg80i-JuyHY6SH0zgL8L04NpnUkXmvsDfX_bZ1YjYPPNBUNu8AeV-mg03oiXmchvG2fOF2UY0M6tpxgpN_RjuG2NlQGClL5fS8mXS0US6wj_45mTDEQXO6f5mysomHTVhVI" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="507" /></span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8. Benefit From Immediate Help</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rather than wait for email responses or be put on hold with 1-800 numbers, local lenders can provide immediate help. They will also be less likely to misinterpret your questions, and be better able to provide immediate answers to your concerns. Quick responses can also help you close deals rather than waiting and potentially losing out on special offers.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9. They Care</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When you work with a local lender, their work doesn’t stop at the application. Local lenders will personally follow-up on your process during and after to ensure you are receiving what you want. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For anyone in the process of lending, we recommend that you understand the importance of selecting the right lender. Find a knowledgeable and experienced lender that can cater to your needs. Credit unions like Financial One are not for profit, we’re for you and we’re for our community. For more information on our loan process, visit</span><a href="http://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Personal Loans</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> page at</span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-29694107843523963482016-08-18T10:00:00.000-05:002016-08-18T10:00:07.895-05:00What You Need To Know About Closing Costs<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Closing costs are something that every home buyer has to face, but many don’t completely understand what they are when they first start shopping for a home. They can be quite expensive, and in past years, have increased on average. Here’s what you need to know about closing costs:</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ASonSot-73FsGMHYvAn6BNIXP2ItiA9qcgCejkrgn7qeKSjR0lbvIhT8qIb-mMAJFeib3wG0mBoQtZ9U_7xZ-5iozH8jjnxe6Ez5CqdAMqauCCDU-ypihakZ9ET7GjHz0Kt4j87i" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="abode-987096_640.jpg" border="0" height="357" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ASonSot-73FsGMHYvAn6BNIXP2ItiA9qcgCejkrgn7qeKSjR0lbvIhT8qIb-mMAJFeib3wG0mBoQtZ9U_7xZ-5iozH8jjnxe6Ez5CqdAMqauCCDU-ypihakZ9ET7GjHz0Kt4j87i" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="290" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What are closing costs?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Closing costs are fees associated with the closing of a real estate transaction. Closing costs can be incurred by either the buyer or seller, and occurs when the title of the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What charges are included in your closing costs?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Depending on where you live and what kind of property you own, your closing costs can include a variety of factors. These factors can include an appraisal fee, a fee for running your credit report, inspection fees, insurance fees, loan fees, deposit fees, and more.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How much are closing costs?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Home buyers can expect to pay between 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price of their home in closing fees with prices varying due to taxes and location. Lenders are legally required to provide a loan estimate which will help you determine a starting point for your closing cost. Often times, closing costs can include unnecessary fees, such as mailing and administrative costs. If you encounter a large number of unnecessary charges, you can walk away from the loan and search for other lenders who can offer lower closing costs. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Can you avoid closing costs?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can’t fully avoid closing costs, but it could be possible to transfer them. You could ask the seller to pay some of the closing costs if you are short on money. The worst response you could hear is, “no.” You could potentially ask the lender to pay the closing costs as well. The caveat with this is that while lenders may agree to pay part or all of the closing costs or roll it into your mortgage amount, you can typically expect to see a higher interest rate on the loan.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How can you get the most accurate closing cost estimate?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your final closing costs shouldn’t be a surprise. Within three days of receiving your application, your lender must provide a good faith estimate—a ballpark figure—that lists your estimated costs and any anticipated factors. Prior to closing, you’ll get an </span><a href="http://homebuying.about.com/cs/titleescrow/a/hud1_settlement.htm" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HUD-1 settlement statement</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> that itemizes an updated and final closing cost. If the final statement is nowhere near the original good faith estimate, question your lender about it.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-37b732d4-7a86-c9e4-a405-5a78024dc6f9" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7181818181818183; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To learn more about closing costs and how our professional lenders can help you close on the home of your dreams, visit</span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for more information. </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6626073519601741568.post-25317838871559619432016-07-28T15:53:00.000-05:002016-07-28T15:53:11.251-05:00Home Equity Line of Credit Frequently Asked Questions<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="Home Equity Line of Credit.jpg" height="315" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/kpECgyEBwhv8lBybdIbmn7wbMBIwcr-5SgdQo0eb1K8LWYptkum4RQzIZkrTvHTqumQcKPinTDmsKdNX2AZKFq16NmmZrQV1ZMcKkFIbrxd256rl08clhtM1dS0mimKEQPmGeYoI" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="560" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Getting in control of your finances doesn’t have to be difficult, but it can be hard to navigate through the vast amount of financial jargon. Take a look below at our frequently asked questions about </span><a href="http://www.financialonecu.com/loans-credit/personal-loans/home-equity.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">home equity loans and lines of credit</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> at Financial One.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">General Information</span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> - What is a home equity loan?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A home equity loan uses the equity in your home as collateral to secure the loan. The interest rate and monthly payments are fixed which guarantees you a steady and predictable repayment schedule for the remainder of the loan repayment.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- What is a home equity line of credit?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.284; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A home equity line of credit is a line of credit secured by your home with a variable interest. It is the maximum amount that you can borrow with a mortgage lender. When you borrow, you only pay interest on the amount of money you actually borrow—not the full line amount.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-ecc2d9f6-3345-6e0b-4a19-42facc8090be" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Why should I choose a home equity loan or line of credit?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A home equity loan or line of credit with a fixed monthly payment will help your budgeting process for short-term and long-term needs much easier.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- Why should I refinance?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Refinancing loans can help you lower your monthly payment or interest rate on a current loan. You can also switch from a loan with an adjustable rate to one with a fixed rate to have a better idea of your monthly bills. Lastly, refinancing allows you to change the remaining term of a loan and refinance for a higher amount in order to pay off existing debt.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Loan Usage</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- What could my home equity line of credit possibly cover?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Financial One home equity line of credit (HELOC) is often used to cover education expenses, debt consolidation, home renovations and repairs. You can also use a HELOC to finance special life events, like weddings, a new baby, family vacations, and more.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- How can I protect my loan?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To provide the best possible coverage protection on your loan, Financial One offers a</span><a href="http://www.financialonecu.com/payment-protection.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Payment Protection</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> plan with Credit Life and Credit Disability insurance. The Payment Protection is available to safeguard your credit and collateral.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rates and Repayments</span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- What rates are available?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Loan rates vary based on the loan, your mortgage history, and other factors. Visit our website to view a </span><a href="http://www.financialonecu.com/rates.html#equity" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">chart of available rates</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- What terms and repayment options are available?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union offers flexible loan plans. Our home equity installment loans feature a fixed annual percentage rate with flexible terms, ranging from 5 to 15 years. Home equity 5-year balloon installment loans feature a fixed annual percentage rate with a 5-year term and a repayment period of up to 20 years.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With loan amounts as small as $5,000, Financial One offers member-first, professional, and helpful service throughout your entire loan seeking process. Visit</span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial One Credit Union</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for more information or </span><a href="https://www.financialonecu.com/applications/loan-application.html?page=126433&type=page&id=126433&step=k_5978497" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">apply online</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for a home equity loan or line of credit.</span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050247123307274965noreply@blogger.com0