It’s almost the new year —a time for resolutions and fresh starts. So, why not refresh your finances? The new year is a great opportunity to look back on your financial year, find ways to improve and set new financial goals. That’s where a financial checklist can...
Switching Banks or Credit Unions: How to Make the Transition Easier
Switching banks or credit unions can be hard. Altering something we’ve grown accustomed to requires coordination and effort, but there are steps you can follow to make the process of changing financial institutions smoother. Research & Find a New Credit Union or...
Financial Literacy for Kids: How to Teach Kids About Money
Finances play a big role in our everyday lives. Habits like paying for groceries, adding a new subscription, going out for dinner, or even buying a morning coffee can impact our finances. Since money plays a major role in our lives, it’s a smart idea to start...
How to Prepare for Paying Back Student Loans
In March 2020, federal student loan payments were put on pause due to COVID-19. After more than two years, the extensions will be ending on December 31, 2022, so student loan repayment will restart in January 2023. To help guide you through paying back student loans...
Council Bluff’s Teacher and Centris Member See’s the Need to Focus on Financial Education
An important lesson that we can take advantage of, and one that can last a lifetime, is a focus on financial education. Sasha Rindone, a Special Education teacher at Thomas Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs, IA has a passion for teaching her students how to be...
12 Tips to Help You Save Money
Here are some quick tips to help you start saving money so you can fulfill some — or all — of your financial dreams. Track your expenses and purchases to review your spending habits. If you want to be able to identify opportunities for how you can save more money,...
Knowing the Difference Between a Home Equity Line of Credit and a Home Equity Loan
We’ve all heard the saying, “Home is where the heart is.” But in the case of your home, not only is your heart invested in it but so is a lot of your money. That investment, or in other words, the payments made over a period of time, has likely helped you build...
Tax Filing Tips to Help You Prepare, File and Plan for the Future
Now that the New Year is well underway, it’s time to start thinking about and preparing for tax filing season. As you gather your documents, here are just a few things you can do before, during and after filing that may make the overall process easier. Gather all...
Five Financial Wellness Tips for a New Year, New You!
With a New Year, many people often set goals for themselves that revolve around establishing new daily routines with a focus on health and wellness. A part of those goals that shouldn’t be overlooked is a focus on your financial wellness. Having a plan or taking steps...