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Financial Education
How to Get a Used Car Loan
There’s no denying that buying a car is an expensive process. These days, even buying a used car can break the bank. Luckily, with the right financing, you can secure a used car loan that eases the financial burden and helps build your credit, paving the way for a stable financial future. If you’re wondering […]
cmurray5245
Jan 29, 202410 min read
What is a High-Yield CD?
When putting your money into savings, the goal is always to earn as much as you can while preserving the initial deposit value. One potential way to do this is through a high-yield certificate of deposit (CD), offered through banks, or a Share Certificate, offered through credit unions. Island Federal Credit Union can provide you […]
cmurray5245
Jan 16, 20248 min read
Holiday Loans: Everything You Need to Know
The holidays are here again! For most, this is a joyous and festive time of year. Quality time is spent with loved ones, food and drink are prepared for celebration, and gifts are given to express thanks and appreciation. For some people, however, the holidays bring about a financial stress that overshadows the jubilation that […]
cmurray5245
Nov 27, 20237 min read
How Much Auto Loan Can I Afford?
Driving a new car can be an exciting opportunity to test out new technology, reduce your gas costs, and maybe even add some nice luxury features to your life. The investment in a new car can be a long-term benefit if you make a wise financial decision with it. One of the key ways to […]
cmurray5245
Oct 25, 20236 min read
How Does a Lease Buyout Work?
A lease buyout could be one of the best ways for you to get out of a car dealership lease and affordably purchase the vehicle before the contract ends. How does a car lease buyout work? A lease buyout allows consumers to purchase the vehicle prior to or at the conclusion of the end of […]
cmurray5245
Oct 2, 20236 min read
Understanding Certified Checks
Certified Checks: How They Work and When to Use Them What is a certified check? Sometimes called an ‘Official Check’ or ‘Cashier’s Check.’ Could it help you to manage financial transactions with ease? Today, it’s easy enough to move money from one person to the next using electronic means, but there are still numerous benefits […]
cmurray5245
Sep 13, 20236 min read
How to Transfer Money to Another Bank
Are you interested in learning how to transfer money from one bank or credit union to another? Having the flexibility of transferring money from one account to the next quickly and easily is vital to many people. It could be a part of your budgeting strategy, saving plan, or need to pay someone else. It’s […]
cmurray5245
Jul 25, 20238 min read


How to Write a Check
Though many people might argue the practice is obsolete, knowing how to write a check is still essential to managing your funds and having a checking account. Even in our digital era, there will still be times when checks are necessary…and sometimes even preferred. Use our step-by-step guide on how to write a check correctly […]
cmurray5245
May 31, 20234 min read
Share Certificates vs CDs: Understanding the Differences
Understanding the differences between share certificates and CDs is easier than you might think. As you begin to learn about the distinctions between these two popular investment tools, you’ll be better-able to select the one that’s best for your financial objectives. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of each, the rates of interest, liquidity, […]
cmurray5245
May 24, 20235 min read
How to Open a Kids Bank Account
Opening a kids bank accounts is essential in teaching financial responsibility and setting them up for success. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the types of minor banking accounts available and the features they provide, so you can ensure your child has access to all the tools they need to learn […]
cmurray5245
Apr 18, 20235 min read
Best 12 Ways to Invest Tax Refund Money
Do you have a tax refund coming your way? If so, now’s the time to start thinking of ways to invest the money. You could use it for short-term goals – like paying off or down debt or building an emergency fund – or you can start working on long-term investments like retirement savings. If […]
cmurray5245
Mar 5, 20234 min read
The 50/30/20 Budget Rule
The 50/30/20 budget rule is a great way to manage your money responsibly. It’s based on the idea that you should spend no more than 50 percent of your income on needs, 30 percent on wants, and 20 percent on savings. This simple yet effective approach can help you stay within your means while still […]
cmurray5245
Feb 27, 20235 min read
How to Make a Monthly Budget
Understanding how to budget money is an important part of being smart and achieving financial success. Creating a monthly budget can help you track (and modify) spending habits, keep tabs on your income, plan to save for future purchases, and ultimately, meet your financial goals. It takes time to figure out how much money you […]
cmurray5245
Feb 21, 20235 min read
Changing Coins into Cash
Looking for an easy way to turn your coins to cash? Whether you’re a bank customer, investor, or just someone with a lot of change, there are several ways to convert coins for cash. From taking coins to your local bank or credit union to using Coinstar, to making donations with your spare change, we’re […]
cmurray5245
Feb 5, 20234 min read
Common Online Bank Scams
Online banking scams are becoming increasingly common, so it’s critical to know the different types of fraud that can occur. Recognizing common online bank scams can help protect you and your loved ones from potentially devastating financial loss. Read on to learn more about each of the most common scams, and to see how to […]
cmurray5245
Jan 30, 20237 min read
How to Protect Your Money from Inflation
As the cost of living continues to rise, it’s important to learn how to protect money from inflation. Inflation can erode your purchasing power and make it challenging to maintain your standard of living. Knowing the strategies discussed here, though, can help protect money you earned from inflation. Learn the best ways to protect yourself […]
cmurray5245
Jan 24, 20233 min read
Rising Interest Rates by the Fed
The Federal Reserve has been raising interest rates since the first part of 2022 – in fact, they’ve raised them a whopping six times – and most experts believe the trend will continue. Rising interest rates can have both positive and negative impacts on individuals, businesses, and the economy as a whole. Thus, understanding how […]
cmurray5245
Jan 16, 20234 min read
Are Wire Transfers a Safe Way to Send Money?
Wire transfers are a secure and reliable way to send money. They offer the convenience of transferring funds quickly, securely, and with minimal fees. With wire transfers, you can move large amounts of money from one bank account to another. Keep reading to learn more about how to transfer money and about wire transfer scams […]
cmurray5245
Jan 9, 20236 min read
What is an IRA & How Do They Work?
An IRA, or Individual Retirement Account, is a tax-advantaged account that allows you to save for retirement. IRAs are a great way to build your financial future. They offer tax benefits, flexible contribution options, and the potential for long-term growth. It’s important to understand how IRAs work so you can make the most of […]
cmurray5245
Jan 3, 20234 min read
5 Steps To Get Ready To Buy Your First Home
Preparing to buy a new house can be one of the most exciting times in your life. It can also be stressful, especially if it’s your first time and you’re unfamiliar with the process. Knowing as much as possible can help alleviate anxiety as you navigate the ins and outs of learning how to get […]
cmurray5245
Nov 30, 20223 min read
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