We want to alert you to social media scams that you may not be thinking about. Being alert to potential scams is the best way to protect yourself against fraud and identity theft.
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Financial Health
Taking control of your financial health starts with education.
Cash or Card?
Which do you prefer to use at checkout, cash or card? Here are some benefits of using your debit or credit card instead:
5 Tips for Buying a Home in a Seller’s Market
It’s a seller’s market out there — between historically low interest rates and low inventory, prospective home buyers are facing stiff competition. In our local market, homes are getting dozens of offers within just a few days of listing. Our partners at GreenPath Financial Wellness recently presented a webinar with insight into buying a home in this competitive market. In case you missed it, here are 5 tips for buying in a seller’s market:
Scams: What’s Old is New Again
According to this article posted by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), “The FTC knows that people who talk about scams are much less likely to fall for them. So, when people of any age are on their own too much, they don’t have the chance to talk things out. And when scammers — who are calling, emailing, and texting — might be a person’s main source of contact, nothing good happens next.”
Get Smart About Debt: 7 Tips to Help You Get Out of Debt NOW
If you are dealing with debt, you aren’t alone. The average American household has an average balance of about $6,600 in credit card debt, and that’s not taking into account home, auto, and student loans. Paying off your debt isn’t always easy, but having a plan can go a long way in achieving your financial goals.
Federal Student Loans FAQ
What Are Federal Student Loans? Federal student loans are loans established by the federal government and provided to students for college and graduate school.
The Rise of Digital Wallets and Contactless Transactions
A digital wallet (also called a “mobile wallet”) is an electronic method of securely storing and using your credit cards – and other types of cards, tickets, and coupons – so you don’t have to carry these items physically with you. Instead, you use your iPhone, Android smartphone, or other smart device to make contactless transactions in stores, restaurants, drive-thrus, movie theatres, and more.
3 Tried & True Facts About Personal Finances
No matter your age or stage in life, it pays to know the facts about personal finances. When you understand the basics, you can set yourself up for success and build a healthy financial future.
American Families Plan Would Provide Benefits for Some, More Taxes for Others
On April 28, 2021, the White House released a fact sheet for President Biden’s American Families Plan (AFP), which proposes about $1 trillion in investments and $800 billion in tax cuts. There would also be tax increases for those making more than $400,000 per year. Major provisions proposed in the plan are summarized here, including some tax provisions.
5 Ways to Revenge Spend Wisely
There’s a new spending trend in town, and many are calling it “revenge spend.” As the COVID-19 vaccine gains momentum and restrictions ease, people are opening their wallets to make up for lost time during the lockdown.
Recent News
80 Years: March Charitable Giving Roundup
We’ve asked our incredible staff to nominate their favorite 501-(c)(3)-designated organizations. Here are the eight groups we’ve selected for March:
Local Insights: 2021 Local Shopping
In October 2021, we sent out our second Member Pulse Survey, where we asked our valued SESLOC members about their local shopping and spending habits. 853 responded, revealing four key insights into local spending:
GreenPath Debt Management Plans Reduced Member Debt by 34% in 2021
We partner with GreenPath Financial Wellness to offer unbiased, empathetic, one-on-one financial advisement to our members. GreenPath’s certified credit counselors offer free assistance with budgeting, general financial wellness, debt counseling, foreclosure prevention and support, and student loan payment. GreenPath also offers a Debt Management Program where they negotiate with creditors on behalf of members enrolled in the program to reduce interest rates and help them repay debts faster. In 2021, GreenPath’s certified counselors assisted 8 SESLOC members with a combined $161,488 in debt pay off $55,656 through the program — that’s a reduction of outstanding debt by 34% in under a year!
2021 Year in Review
As we enter the new year, we’re reminded of the many GOOD things that happened in 2021. Check it out!
Geri LaChance Awarded California 2021 Advocate of the Year by the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues
We’re thrilled to announce that our President and CEO, Geri LaChance, was selected by the California and Nevada Credit Union League as the 2021 California Advocate of the Year. Each year, the League honors credit unions, individuals and organizations that display extraordinary leadership in advocacy and political action.
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