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The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed by Congress in March 2020 in order to help struggling Americans during the pandemic. Included in the plan were assistance programs for workers, families, businesses, state and local governments, and more. While many are familiar with the $2 trillion stimulus package distributed earlier this year, the CARES Act has another benefit: the federal student loan payment pause.

Now that we’ve created the Financial Wellness Dictionary for young adults to educate themselves on the most relevant terms to begin their financial wellness journey, the next step is to establish yourself at a financial institution. In today’s blog, we look at a handful of starter accounts, products, and services young adults should have or start familiarizing themselves with to continue towards financial independence.

National Back-to-School Prep Day occurs annually on August 15, as the summer winds down and fall is just around the corner. While the hallmark of the back-to-school season is shopping for notebooks, backpacks, and supplies, there are plenty of lifestyle changes you shouldn’t forget. Whether your children are back in the classroom or on a hybrid model, here are seven smart tips for a smooth back to school transition this year.

If you did a double-take the last time you checked out at the store or paid at the pump, you’re not alone. Right now, inflation is in overdrive, and people are feeling the pinch in their wallets. Inflation may be out of your control, but you can act to take the sting out of rising prices.

The Federal Reserve raised interest rates again, but what does that mean for the average American and their finances? By knowing what United States Federal Reserve is and what power it has over our country’s economy, you can make more informed financial decisions that directly affect your future.

Debit cards have evolved quite a bit over the years. Here at American Heritage, our Independence Debit Card just keeps getting better – with new features and perks to help you save time and get more for your money. Let’s take a closer look.

Vacations are the perfect opportunity for some well-deserved relaxation and making new memories. Get the most out of your getaway by planning your trip in advance. This way, you can spend your vacation time stress-free! The last thing you should worry about on vacation is money. In this article, we offer tips or mindful spending and planning for travel.

You’re not a kid anymore, and you’ve got some exciting things to look forward to. If you aren’t heading to college, you may be starting at a trade school or joining the workforce. No matter what your next step is after high school, making smart financial decisions will help you start strong. Learning how to successfully manage your money now is an essential skill that will pay off for decades — literally!

More and more Americans are imagining new ways to earn extra income and achieve financial freedom. According to a recent survey, nearly half of all full-time workers in the U.S. are currently pursuing some type of employment or entrepreneurial venture in addition to their regular day jobs. And while many are happy to keep their side hustles on the side, others are dreaming bigger. Are you curious about growing your part-time passion project into a full-fledged business? Read on for seven valuable tips.

For most young adults at the beginning of their financial wellness journey, the phrase “start right now” can be intimidating and can leave you wondering, “Where do I start?” Before you jump into a world of potentially unfamiliar financial products and plans, let’s look at the most relevant terms you’ll need to know before you kickstart your financial independence.

Credit card interest is often talked about, but not always understood. Despite the number of people who keep a credit card (or several) in their wallet, not everyone can explain the math that goes on behind the scenes. Understanding how your monetary tools work is an important part of financial literacy, which is why in this article, we’ll break down credit card interest into basic dollars and cents.

Along with buying a house, getting an education, and starting a family, choosing a vehicle is one of the biggest financial and lifestyle decisions you’ll make. And whether you’re a new driver or you have millions of miles behind you, you might be wondering if it’s better to buy or lease your next ride.

As the temperature outside starts to rise, so does the cost of keeping your home cool. Typically, electricity rates are higher during the summer due to increased demand, leading to higher summer electric bills. If you want to secure a lower electric bill (without feeling like you’re living in a sauna), check out these 26 energy-saving tips for summer. We’ve got ideas from A to Z!

The Friday before Memorial Day is National Road Trip Day, and what better way to spend the long weekend than out on the road? Whether you’re traveling near or far, having the right protection for your vehicle can help ensure everything goes smoothly.

Many young adults are moving back in with parents after graduating. This is mostly for economic reasons; low entry-level salaries and high student loans can make moving back home a necessity while recent graduates gain their financial footing. And thanks to the pandemic and shortage of affordable housing, there are more fledgling adults living with parents than ever.

It’s time to upgrade your vehicle to something that better suits your lifestyle and needs, but what’s the best way to get rid of your old car? If it is in good condition, many owners choose to sell their car to put money towards the cost of the next one. Selling a car is not as simple as selling other belongings and requires additional effort and paperwork. In this blog, we break down the process for car owners to pass on the keys.

A hot real estate market can pose a real challenge for hopeful buyers – especially for those looking to buy their first home. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a place you love and get your offer accepted. It just takes a combination of patience and fortitude, plus a little homebuying know-how.

Your home is likely your biggest investment – and it’s where you and your family should feel safe, comfortable, and connected. So, whether it’s your forever home or you’re planning to make a move in the near future, you might want to consider some home improvement projects that can deliver value, efficiency, and style.

As a parent, you’re responsible for teaching your kids important life lessons. You help them learn their ABCs, how to tie their shoes, and to look both ways before crossing the street. But do you teach them about saving money? Learning how to budget and save responsibly are key skills they’ll need to succeed later in life. In honor of Financial Literacy Month and National Credit Union Youth Month, here are six ways to cultivate smart savings habits as your child grows up.

Getting approved for a mortgage when you have college debt can be complicated – but having student loans does not mean an automatic denial. Nearly 46 million Americans have student loan debt as of 2022, and many of those holding loans are looking to be homeowners soon.