Economic booms happen, and recessions happen. It’s part of the ebb and flow of market conditions. So, how do you prepare for the unknown while continuing to grow your financial future? Opening a savings account with credit union protections and benefits can help you do that.  ..read more

What Are Closing Costs? For many people, buying a home is one of the most significant purchases they will ever make. Whenever transactions on that scale occur, it's often more complex than the buyer handing money to the seller in exchange for an item. In almost every real estate transaction, a handful of parties are involved, such as the realtor, inspector, lender, etc. Each of these vendors charges fees for their service, adding additional expenses to the cost of the property. These additional real estate-related fees are called closing costs ..read more

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the weight of credit card debt, especially in the aftermath of the holiday season, it's essential to know that effective strategies are available to help you tackle it without the burden of high-interest charges. One method that can provide significant relief is to transfer your existing debt to a balance transfer card that offers a 0% annual percentage rate (APR) for a specific period. This transition can save you substantial money and accelerate your journey toward becoming debt-free ..read more

Do you ever find yourself thinking, "I work so hard, but I'm still struggling with money!" If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. According to a recent report by LendingClub, the majority of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. But don't worry; Vermont Federal Credit Union is here to help. We have some valuable tips on building an emergency fund and other strategies to make your money work for you so you can finally break free from the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck ..read more

So, you've decided to buy a house—that's an exciting endeavor! Home buying is a complex process during which you will make several informed decisions that can have significant impacts. One of the largest decisions you will make is choosing the type of mortgage that is right for you. Before meeting with a lender, understanding the different types of mortgages and the difference between fixed- vs. adjustable-rate mortgages can help you immensely. Read on to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of these options and how to choose the best mortgage for you ..read more

With the holidays fast approaching, it's time to start thinking about finding the perfect gifts for our loved ones. This year let's consciously support local businesses and boost our community's economy. Shopping locally not only allows us to discover unique and special gifts but also makes a significant impact on our community. Small businesses are the backbone of Vermont's economy, relying on the support of their local customers to thrive and grow ..read more

Are you hoping to be smarter with your money, save more, and spend less? Don't stress; we have a helpful step-by-step guide to better money management. Creating a budget—and sticking to it—is an admirable goal that will make a difference in your financial health. Read on to learn about starting a healthy personal budget and how choosing the correct bank account can help you with your goals.  ..read more

Spending money is an inevitable part of life, so why not put the money you spend to work for you? From necessities such as food and housing to recreation and entertainment, you can earn perks on daily transactions with a reward checking account. The best part? You don’t have to change your habits, only your checking account ..read more

As a recent college graduate, you may feel overwhelmed by the weight of your student loan debt. It's no secret that student loans can be a significant financial burden, impacting your ability to save for the future and achieve financial stability. The past few years have been filled with uncertainty and changing policies regarding federal student loans. The pause on payments and interest since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic provided temporary relief for borrowers; however, with the recent expiration of the extension, it's time to reassess your student loan situation. Whether it's explorin ..read more

Mortgage loans come in all shapes and sizes. That’s a good thing for potential homebuyers. It allows you to get into the house of your dreams using flexible terms. In some cases, private mortgage insurance can help make your dream home possible ..read more