As summer hits its stride, the idea of financially preparing for the holidays might feel like overkill. Consider this: money is the most cited source of stress during the holidays, with 58% of US adults worrying about overspending or not having enough money.
'Tis the Season for a Mid-Year Money Checklist
Credit unions are renowned for offering an array of benefits over traditional banks, one of the most notable being lower fees. Unlike banks, credit unions operate as not-for-profit entities, owned by their members. This fundamental difference in structure means that credit unions prioritize serving their members' interests rather than maximizing profits. This translates to lower fees for services and potentially higher earnings on deposits for members. In contrast, banks often have higher fee structures designed to generate revenue. Understanding this distinction illuminates why credit unions are often preferred over banks.
A Wolf in Pup’s Clothing
I had been searching for a Chow Chow puppy for months when I finally came across what seemed like the perfect opportunity on a popular online marketplace. A breeder needed to find homes for the last few pups from a recent litter. The post featured adorable photos of Chow Chow puppies. The price was surprisingly affordable, which should have been the first red flag.
A Text Message Could Have Turned My Life Upside Down
Last Saturday, my phone pinged with a text message that could have turned my life upside down. I figured it was my friend Julia reaching out for our usual weekend plans. But instead of her name, the screen displayed “Logix Federal Credit Union” - where I’ve been a member for years.
Strange...I Didn’t Remember Applying for a Loan
How did I feel? At the time, it felt like I had the wind knocked out of me. It was an ordinary Tuesday evening, and I was clicking through a ton of unread emails when I saw it – the one from my credit union.
The subject line read "URGENT: Finish Your Loan Paperwork!". It made me sit upright on my couch.