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Financial Education
Behind the Scenes of “Where Does Your Money Go?”
It’s a clear, sunny, typical Saturday in Tucson, Arizona, as vendors set up their tents along 4th Avenue. The Street Fair doesn’t begin for another hour, so the crowds haven’t...
5 Local Black Leaders Who Are Shaping the Future of Arizona: Kim Covington
Welcome back to our salute to some of Arizona’s black leaders who are creating positive change in the state and beyond. If you missed it, check out our last post...
Investing In A Rising-Rate Environment
The Federal Reserve raised the federal funds interest rate three times in 2017 from 1.00% to 1.50%, signaling an environment where some believe rates will continue to rise. This is...
Tips for Managing Your Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
An IRA can be a very effective retirement planning tool. Here are tips to help you effectively manage it and make it work for you. Max it out Every year,...
What’s This Bitcoin Thing All About? An Introduction to the What, How, and Why of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum became the craze of 2017. The value of Bitcoin grew by more than 1,200% last year, while lesser-known cryptocurrencies like Ripple jumped by 35,000%...
So You Want to Be a Snowbird? The Real Costs of Buying a Second Home in Arizona (or Anywhere Else)
In Arizona, snowbirds are as common as cacti and gorgeous sunsets. But becoming a snowbird is more complicated than just buying a second home and spending your winters sunbathing by...
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credit unions
Information, resources, and tools to help you succeed.
What is Community Banking and Why Does It Matter to Southern Arizona?
Community Banking Month is the perfect time to explore why choosing a local financial institution, like a credit union, feels less like a transaction and more like people helping people....
One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Car Loan Tax Benefit
Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) of 2025, interest paid on loans for American-made vehicles may be eligible for a federal tax deduction. Members can view 2025 interest...
Why Your Bank Should Know Your Name
What does banking local mean? When your bank knows your name, it means they know your story—not just your balance. It means they understand what you’re working toward, and they...
Are You A Vantage West Pro? 6 Member Benefits You May Not Know About
If you are a Vantage West Credit Union member, you probably already know about some of our benefits, as you chose to bank with us! Keeping your money in the...
Q&A Financial Wellness: With Luis Soto, Vice President of Marketing and Financial Inclusion
We often hear about the term “wellness” when discussing physical health, mental health, and nutrition. But what does wellness mean regarding our personal finances? Luis Soto, Vice President of Marketing...
Who Can Join a Credit Union (And Why They Should)
When we ask people what they think the difference is between a bank and a credit union, we often hear answers like, “It’s like a bank, only smaller,” or, “Credit unions only accept...
Financial Coaches
Information, resources, and tools to help you succeed.
Our Financial Coaches React to the Internet’s Financial Advice and Questions
We know there’s a lot of financial advice out there—some of it helpful, some of it… not so much. So, where do you turn for trusted guidance? In our Financial...
Goals & Life Events
Information, resources, and tools to help you succeed.
One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Car Loan Tax Benefit
Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) of 2025, interest paid on loans for American-made vehicles may be eligible for a federal tax deduction. Members can view 2025 interest...
What Happens if I Die Without a Will?
Most people put off estate planning because it feels complicated, far-off, or uncomfortable. But if something unexpected happens and you die without a will, your loved ones may be left...
10 Tips for Buying a Car That Will Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills and Get You the Best Price
Driving off the lot in a new car can be an exhilarating adventure. Unfortunately, for many, the process can be a dreaded experience. But it doesn’t have to be. Because...
Saving for Retirement: Key Differences Between a Traditional or Roth IRA
Having a healthy nest egg is essential to keep you in control of your finances in an insecure future. An Individual Retirement Account, or IRA, has become an invaluable tool...
Investing During a Bear Market
When you hear the term “bear market,” what do you think of? For many investors, bear markets can be a source of fear and anxiety. But unlike a real bear,...
Inflation and Your Finances
Inflation seems to be the topic on everyone’s minds right now. But what is it exactly, and how does it impact your finances? By staying informed on what causes inflation...