04.02.26
Savings & Budgeting
April is Financial Literacy Month and Credit Union Youth Month, a time to spotlight something that doesn't get nearly enough attention in high school: real-world money skills. Whether you're a high school senior counting down to graduation, a college student juggling classes and a part-time job, or a parent watching your teen open their first account, this stage of life is full of financial firsts: first paycheck, first debit card, first credit card offer, first apartment lease, and first taste of independence.
What Are Certificates, and How Do They Work?
03.26.26
Savings & Budgeting
You’ve most likely heard of savings accounts, but are there other tools and strategies you can use to save? Certificates are a perfect option to consider for both short-and long-term goals. Your money will be stored away and there (plus interest) when it’s needed most.
Spring Cleaning Your Finances: A Checklist for a Fresh Start
03.19.26
Savings & Budgeting
Spring is a season of fresh starts. We clean closets, clear countertops, and open windows to let in new energy. While you're decluttering your home, consider decluttering your finances too.
Tax Season Tips for American Heritage Members
03.12.26
Tax Filing
Tax season has officially arrived! As you file each year, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest policies and tips to ensure you’re filing everything you need and maximizing your tax refund.
Build Credit Confidence: Smart Habits for a Strong Financial Future
03.05.26
Credit
Building confidence with your credit is about more than knowing your credit score. It is about understanding how credit works, making informed decisions, and using it as a tool to support your long-term financial goals. When you feel informed and in control, credit becomes less stressful and more empowering. During National Credit Education Month, it is a great time to check in on your credit health and take steps that can help you feel more informed, empowered, and prepared for the future.
What Do I Need to Open a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)?
02.26.26
Home & Mortgage
Home equity is one of the most valuable resources you have as a homeowner. If you’ve decided to take advantage of your equity and open a home equity line of credit (HELOC), there are a few steps you should follow in the application process. This includes submitting documents like proof of income, employment verification, property information, and more.
What is Amortization?
02.19.26
Policy & Economy
Loans, whether it be a mortgage, auto loan, or personal loan, all follow a basic structure. But as a borrower, you may be wondering how exactly your monthly payments are calculated. If you look ahead to your payment schedules, you may ask why you're paying more than what you initially applied to borrow. The process that details this is known as amortization.
The Pros and Cons of Using a HELOC for Debt Consolidation
02.17.26
Home & Mortgage
The benefits of using home equity extend far beyond simple home improvements. You can use home equity to pay for school tuition, fund a family vacation, or start your own business. Many also use home equity funds to consolidate bills. But are there drawbacks that outweigh the benefits of consolidating debt with home equity?
Am I a Good Candidate to Refinance My Mortgage?
02.12.26
Home & Mortgage
As mortgage rates rise and fall over time, you may be wondering how you can take advantage of the market as a homeowner. You probably hear the term "mortgage refinancing" brought up often, especially when rates are lower than they typically would be. But what exactly is mortgage refinancing, and how do I know if I'm a good candidate?
Love and Money: Resolving Conflicts in Couples' Finances
02.05.26
Savings & Budgeting
Money conversations aren't exactly candlelit dinner material, but they're one of the most important discussions couples must have. Regardless of how long you've been a couple, different spending styles can create financial friction, and that's completely normal—and solvable.
Protect Your Data in a Digital World: Simple Steps for a Safer 2026
01.29.26
Security
Review simple steps you can use to stay safe online, including stronger passwords, fraud alerts, card controls, and more tools to protect personal information.
Using Home Equity? Don't Forget These Important Tax Implications
01.22.26
Home & Mortgage
When using a home equity loan or home equity line of credit for home improvements, you may be able to make the most of tax deductions that come from the interest of these funds.
What is a Home Equity Line of Credit and How Does It Work?
01.15.26
Home & Mortgage
Learn about Home Equity Lines of Credit, including what they are, if you would be a good candidate to apply for one, and the pros and cons of a HELOC.
New Year, New Money Habits: Small Tweaks for a Big Impact
01.08.26
Savings & Budgeting
Build better financial habits in the new year with these small but powerful money moves. Discover simple ways to save, automate, and spend smarter in 2026.
The Best Time of Year to Purchase a Home, Car, and More
Read about the best times of year to make certain purchases, like the best time to buy a home, car, mattress, furniture, and more.
Micro-Resolutions for a Healthier Financial Year
12.23.25
Savings & Budgeting
Big goals can be tough to keep. Try these small, achievable money habits, like automatic savings and and weekly check-ins, to build a healthier financial year in 2026.
4 Simple, DIY Crafts for the Whole Family This Holiday Season
12.18.25
Holiday
Check out 4 simple, DIY crafts you can complete this holiday season with the whole family. Supplies can be purchased at the dollar store or may be at home.
7 Simple Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress and Save Money
Discover simple, thoughtful tips to reduce stress, manage money, and create a more meaningful holiday season.
Auto Financing: What You Need to Know
12.04.25
Auto
Learn about your options for auto financing, including leasing vs. financing, paying cash, and financing with a financial institution vs. a dealership.
Your Six Tips for Being a Smart Shopper This Holiday Season
Learn tips you can follow for shopping this holiday season, like budgeting, avoiding impulse purchases, and earning rewards with the American Heritage.
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