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Financial Education
Rent vs Buy: How to Make the Right Choice for You
Homeownership is as American as apple pie, baseball, and unreasonable food portions. The value placed on private property helped define our nation’s identity since its founding and continues to serve
FAFSA Applications Opened Early! Here’s What You Need to Know About Student Loans Before You Begin
Starting October 1, current and prospective students can complete their online FAFSA form. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, determines students’ eligibility for student loans and other
Here Comes the Savings: 6 Ways to Stretch that Wedding Budget
Everyone wants the wedding of their dreams but a limited budget can make planning your nuptials feel like more stress than joy. Luckily that doesn’t have to be the case.
Financial First Aid: Repairing Your Credit Score
Do you have to take a deep breath whenever anybody mentions the dreaded credit score? Many of us have run into unexpected challenges when trying to maintain good credit. It
Auto Insurance 101: What You Need to Know
Shopping for your own auto insurance policy for the first time? The list of words and numbers can be overwhelming – and even more so when all those companies want
Credit Freeze: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Put That Credit On Ice
Since the announcement of the Equifax breach, you might have noticed friends and social media posts urging you to order a credit freeze. When hacks occur, the internet world can
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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
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
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 with Andrew Downin: The Credit Union Advantage
If you were to ask people what they think the difference is between a bank and a credit union, you would likely hear answers like, “It’s like a bank, only
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
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
Financial Wellness Month: Tools for a Prosperous Financial Future
Did you know that 77% of Americans feel anxious about their financial situation1? So, if you often find yourself stressing about money, you are not alone. January is Financial Wellness