On March 27, 2020, Congress passed the CARES Act, the largest economic stimulus bill in the history of the United States, in response to the coronavirus pandemic.1 Included in the legislation are new rules for student loan relief that supersede the rules that were announced only a week earlier by the Department of Education. For more information on both sets of rules, visit the federal student aid website.
Starting a new chapter in your life as an independent adult? One of the most important lessons you can learn is about financial wellness. Give your future self the gift of security by hitting these five financial health goals in your 20’s:
For the 2019-2020 college year, the average annual cost of attendance (known as the COA) at a four-year public college for in-state students was $26,590, the average cost at a four-year college for out-of-state students was $42,970, and the average cost at a four-year private college was $53,980. The COA figure includes tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Many private colleges cost substantially more. (Source: The College Board’s 2019 Trends in College Pricing Report),
Yes, there are steps you can take now that may help your child obtain more financial aid later. All federally funded financial aid programs use a formula known as the federal methodology to determine how much money a family must contribute towards a child’s educational costs before becoming eligible for financial aid. This figure is known as the expected family contribution (EFC). The difference between your EFC and the cost of your child’s college equals your child’s financial need and the less aid your child will be eligible for.
Hand-me-downs are great for starting out on your own, but eventually it’s nice to outfit your home with something that’s truly yours. Every time you use your HomeFREE Checking debit card or Visa® Signature Rewards card, you earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards, appliances, and home decor.
What’s a credit score and why is it so important? A credit score, also known as a FICO Score, is a calculation based on your activity in a few categories that assess the likelihood that you will repay any debt you owe. The higher the score, the more likely it is that you can handle your debt.
Expanding your family with a new furry, feathery, or scaly friend? Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or very experienced, don’t forget to consider the financial impact of a new pet and adjust your budget accordingly.
We’re partnering with News Channel 12 to honor nonprofit volunteers who make our community thrive. Each month, we’re choosing a different nonprofit and asking them to select a valuable volunteer to receive the SESLOC Cares for Community Award. We’re thrilled to introduce Michael Camacho-Craft, from the Good Samaritan Shelter
We’re partnering with News Channel 12 to honor nonprofit volunteers who make our community thrive. Each month, we’re choosing a different nonprofit and asking them to select a valuable volunteer to receive the SESLOC Cares for Community Award. We’re thrilled to introduce Margot Olivarria, from Shoes for Students
Thank you for voting for us in the Santa Maria Times “Best Of 2024” contest. We are humbled! Here are our favorite Local Rewards¹ hot spots in the area, where you’ll earn bonus SESLOC Rewards points¹ on eligible debit and credit card purchases.
Everything you need to know about using contactless cards.
We’re partnering with News Channel 12 to honor nonprofit volunteers who make our community thrive. Each month, we’re choosing a different nonprofit and asking them to select a valuable volunteer to receive the SESLOC Cares for Community Award. We’re thrilled to introduce Candice Monge, from CALM.
