Sarah Whitman

Online banking makes managing your money simple—access your account at any time from anywhere around the world without ever needing to visit a physical branch! However, it is crucial that you take steps to protect both your money and personal information from hackers. This means using strong passwords, avoiding public Wi-Fi networks, and regularly checking … Read more

However, many people focus so intently on the accumulation phase—earning promotions, investing in the market, saving for retirement—that they neglect the defensive side of the equation. Accumulating assets is only half the battle; keeping them safe is equally important. Financial risks come in many forms. They can appear as sudden market downturns, unexpected lawsuits, severe … Read more

Budgeting is your go-to financial ally when it comes to saving for retirement, paying down debt, or simply getting ahead financially. Here are some helpful tips from 1st CCU that can get your budgeting muscles in shape! Clarity: Analyzing where your money goes without bias can reveal areas for improvement, like cutting unnecessary spending on … Read more

For many, retirement represents the ultimate reward after decades of hard work. It is the time to finally travel, pursue hobbies, or simply spend leisurely days with family. However, this dream can quickly turn into a source of anxiety if your finances aren’t in order. The shift from receiving a steady paycheck to relying on … Read more

Debt is a great tool to achieve major goals in life, like buying a house or funding an education. When debt is not managed properly, it can be a major financial burden, which threatens stability and future security. Maintaining a healthy financial situation requires that you learn how to manage borrowing and repayment. Understanding the risks and using … Read more

The unexpected constantly happens. Unexpected medical bills, sudden car repairs, and job losses can all quickly throw your finances into chaos. These events can cause significant stress and debt if you don’t have a safety net. An emergency fund is a savings account that’s designed to cover unexpected expenses without derailing your financial goals. A foundational step towards financial … Read more

The dramatic fluctuations of the stock market, with huge gains and frightening losses, are often closely linked to wealth accumulation. However, not all financial goals require aggressive investment strategies. For many, saving and achieving returns that exceed inflation are the priority. Whether you’re saving for a down payment, an emergency fund, or for sound financial … Read more