One of the most important steps in buying a home is to get approved for the purchase. What type of loan products will you use, how much can you afford, or, in most cases, what are you comfortable in paying each month? Getting approval is very simple. You can either
Short answer: Yes. And the sooner, the better! More than one million children in the U.S. own children’s savings accounts (CSAs), according to a 2021 Prosperity Now study. These accounts offer long-term savings and investment programs for kids and teens, helping them grow their seed deposits and plan for postsecondary
Roughly 15 million people a year are victims of identity theft, and while we have many systems in place to help prevent and resolve instances of identity theft, consumers should still take the steps necessary to protect their personal information. Here are six, easy-to-follow tips that can help you protect yourself and
Curious about buying a home? Here’s a basic rundown of mortgage loans and how they work. What is a Mortgage Loan? Most people, even those who are more financially stable than others, usually don’t have enough money on hand to buy a home outright. That’s why mortgages exist. A mortgage
Whether you’re heading to the beach for a quick summer getaway, heading to the mountains for a winter ski trip, or just exploring a different part of the country, money management should be a top priority. Here are some tips on saving and spending when you’re on the road. Save
Credit cards can be powerful financial tools when used responsibly. Besides convenient cashless payments, these cards are an opportunity to build credit, earn rewards, and track your spending habits for effective budget management. However, first-time users should know their way around credit cards to avoid bad debt, boost credit scores,
Paycheck Protection Program Forgiveness Guidelines
SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) On 5/15/2020, the SBA published the following information regarding PPP loan forgiveness. We will be glad to answer or seek clarification and…
What’s a comfortable monthly mortgage payment?
So, you’re ready to buy your first home? This is one of the biggest and most exciting purchases you will make in your lifetime! But before you get caught up in all of the excitement of…
4 Ways to Cut Unnecessary Expenses
If you’re looking for real, actionable ways to cut costs at home, try using these easy money saving tips. Cut the Cable Cord According to findings from the FCC, the average cost of cable is $64.41 per month. That’s over $700 a year! And if you have a bundle package
Should You Be Saving or Investing
When it comes to longer term financial goals, such as retirement, most people are faced with two options: save or invest. Ideally, it’s a good idea to do both when money, time, and resources allow, as each option has its own…
What To Do If Your Identity Is Stolen
Identity theft is one of the leading forms of cybercrime today. If you ever suspect your identity has been stolen, here are the steps you need to take.
Tips for Paying off Debt
Feeling overwhelmed by your debt? Here are 5 tips to get you on the right track. Stop Spending Money Just about every financial blog on the Internet will tell you the same thing. Stop acquiring new debt. Stop using your credit card.
6 Simple Ways To Keep Your Personal Information Secure
Roughly 15 million people a year are victims of identity theft, and while we have many systems in place to help prevent and resolve instances…
Saving for College: Tips for Parents
Everyone knows the cost of college has skyrocketed over the past few years, and it appears this rising trend will continue. We all also have read about, or know of, students graduating with a literal mountain…
Family Friendly Getaways in Alabama for Your Summer
It’s summertime in Alabama, so why not make the most of it? From day trips to full-blown vacations, here is a list of fun getaways for you and your family!
Developing A Household Budget
Developing a household budget is one of the most effective ways to get a handle on your finances and avoid money troubles, but putting one together can take a little time. Here’s a simple, step-by-step process for creating a budget that works for your family. Determine the Amount of Total