10 Strategies to Maximize Your College Budget

Heading off to college is an exciting time. You’ll meet new people, explore new places, and experience new things. But it’s no secret that college isn’t cheap. That’s why it’s crucial that you have a budget that’s both realistic and flexible.   To help enhance your college experience, we’ve put together ten tips to help take your money further while limiting how much you need to borrow in student loans.  Creating an Ideal Budget  Before we jump right into the money-saving tips, you must start with a reasonable budget. College life is always on the go and forever changing, so you…

September 14, 2023Future Planning No Comments
10 Strategies to Maximize Your College Budget

Heading off to college is an exciting time. You’ll meet new people, explore new places, and experience new things. But it’s no secret that college isn’t cheap. That’s why it’s crucial that you have a budget that’s both realistic and flexible.   To help enhance your college experience, we’ve put together ten tips to help take your money further while limiting how much you need to borrow in student loans.  Creating an Ideal Budget  Before we jump right into the money-saving tips, you must start with a reasonable budget. College life is always on the go and forever changing, so you…

Celebrate International Credit Union Day

On Oct. 19, 2023, credit union members around the world will celebrate International Credit Union Day®, an annual event to commemorate the credit union movement’s impact and achievements. This year marks the 75th anniversary.  Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives that provide an effective and viable alternative to for-profit financial institutions for more than 393 million members in 118 countries worldwide. More than 87,000 credit unions exist globally, providing a plethora of financial services for their members, recognized as a force for positive economic and social change. PEFCU has provided financial services for Publix Associates and their family members since…

September 14, 2023We Are PEFCU 1 Comment
Celebrate International Credit Union Day

On Oct. 19, 2023, credit union members around the world will celebrate International Credit Union Day®, an annual event to commemorate the credit union movement’s impact and achievements. This year marks the 75th anniversary.  Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives that provide an effective and viable alternative to for-profit financial institutions for more than 393 million members in 118 countries worldwide. More than 87,000 credit unions exist globally, providing a plethora of financial services for their members, recognized as a force for positive economic and social change. PEFCU has provided financial services for Publix Associates and their family members since…

How to Access Cash Quickly Without Payday Loans

Sometimes you need quick access to money. The car engine light came on. The refrigerator is on its last legs. You’re facing a reduction in hours at work. Unplanned expenses and financial hiccups pop up regularly. All these scenarios have one thing in common – they can throw off your budget instantly and put you in a financial pickle.   While payday loans might seem like a quick fix in a pinch, other, more affordable alternatives are available. Knowing your options ahead of time can prevent costly headaches down the road.  What Not to Do in a Financial Pinch:  Facing large,…

September 14, 2023Wallet Wins No Comments
How to Access Cash Quickly Without Payday Loans

Sometimes you need quick access to money. The car engine light came on. The refrigerator is on its last legs. You’re facing a reduction in hours at work. Unplanned expenses and financial hiccups pop up regularly. All these scenarios have one thing in common – they can throw off your budget instantly and put you in a financial pickle.   While payday loans might seem like a quick fix in a pinch, other, more affordable alternatives are available. Knowing your options ahead of time can prevent costly headaches down the road.  What Not to Do in a Financial Pinch:  Facing large,…

How Credit Unions Differ from Banks

From the outside, credit unions appear very similar to banks. They both offer similar financial products and services, from savings and checking accounts to loans and credit cards. However, it’s essential to recognize the significant distinctions between these two entities because they can greatly influence your day-to-day financial well-being.  For example, credit unions are not-for-profit, and their loan rates are generally lower than competing banks. This variance alone can save you a significant amount of money. Keep reading to learn about all the perks that accompany credit union membership.  What is a Credit Union?  Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives…

September 14, 2023PEFCU Perks No Comments
How Credit Unions Differ from Banks

From the outside, credit unions appear very similar to banks. They both offer similar financial products and services, from savings and checking accounts to loans and credit cards. However, it’s essential to recognize the significant distinctions between these two entities because they can greatly influence your day-to-day financial well-being.  For example, credit unions are not-for-profit, and their loan rates are generally lower than competing banks. This variance alone can save you a significant amount of money. Keep reading to learn about all the perks that accompany credit union membership.  What is a Credit Union?  Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives…

Gen Z: It’s Time to Kickstart Your Credit Journey

Whether you are college bound or heading into the workforce, there is something all young adults need to know about: your credit score. Think of this three-number score as your financial GPA. It holds the keys to your dreams of owning a car, renting your first place, or even landing that dream job.   The best part? Laying the foundation for a great score requires minimum effort. The trick is to get started early. The following guide will highlight strategies to build your credit score and tips to keep your score favorable. It’s easier than you think and can tremendously impact…

September 14, 2023Future Planning No Comments
Gen Z: It’s Time to Kickstart Your Credit Journey

Whether you are college bound or heading into the workforce, there is something all young adults need to know about: your credit score. Think of this three-number score as your financial GPA. It holds the keys to your dreams of owning a car, renting your first place, or even landing that dream job.   The best part? Laying the foundation for a great score requires minimum effort. The trick is to get started early. The following guide will highlight strategies to build your credit score and tips to keep your score favorable. It’s easier than you think and can tremendously impact…

Estate Planning: Peace of Mind for You & Your Family

Amidst the countless shared experiences with friends and family, it’s easy to focus on the here and now. But there’s a chapter of life that we all must consider – one where we’re not present to guide and support our loved ones.  No one wants to picture a world without them; however, planning for this scenario is one of the most generous tasks you can undertake for those you love. It provides peace of mind, direction, and comfort, knowing your intentions will echo through the years – offering guidance when others need it most.   What is Estate Planning?  People commonly…

September 14, 2023Future Planning No Comments
Estate Planning: Peace of Mind for You & Your Family

Amidst the countless shared experiences with friends and family, it’s easy to focus on the here and now. But there’s a chapter of life that we all must consider – one where we’re not present to guide and support our loved ones.  No one wants to picture a world without them; however, planning for this scenario is one of the most generous tasks you can undertake for those you love. It provides peace of mind, direction, and comfort, knowing your intentions will echo through the years – offering guidance when others need it most.   What is Estate Planning?  People commonly…

Tips to Achieve an 800+ Credit Score

An excellent credit score will unlock plenty of financial perks. Loan approvals are much easier, and you’ll qualify for the best rates – potentially saving you thousands of dollars. However, if your goal is to push your credit score over the 800-line, you likely already know quite a bit about this subject.   Going from a “very good” to an “exceptional” credit score is like losing those last five pounds after shedding a significant amount of weight. It can be challenging, but it’s so worth it once you get there. In this article, we’ll share some tips to help you reach…

September 1, 2023Wallet Wins 3 Comments
Tips to Achieve an 800+ Credit Score

An excellent credit score will unlock plenty of financial perks. Loan approvals are much easier, and you’ll qualify for the best rates – potentially saving you thousands of dollars. However, if your goal is to push your credit score over the 800-line, you likely already know quite a bit about this subject.   Going from a “very good” to an “exceptional” credit score is like losing those last five pounds after shedding a significant amount of weight. It can be challenging, but it’s so worth it once you get there. In this article, we’ll share some tips to help you reach…

When Does a Home Equity Loan Make Financial Sense?

As a homeowner, you possess a unique financial advantage – the ability to build and utilize the equity in your property. Home equity loans offer an affordable means to finance a wide range of expenses, including home renovations, weddings, and higher education.   Nevertheless, some homeowners are hesitant to access their home’s equity. Often, people are unsure how these loans work and their potential benefits. Others aren’t positive whether a home equity loan is the best solution for their financial needs.   Before highlighting the best ways to use home equity loans, it’s helpful to begin with the basics.  What is a…

September 1, 2023Borrowing Basics No Comments
When Does a Home Equity Loan Make Financial Sense?

As a homeowner, you possess a unique financial advantage – the ability to build and utilize the equity in your property. Home equity loans offer an affordable means to finance a wide range of expenses, including home renovations, weddings, and higher education.   Nevertheless, some homeowners are hesitant to access their home’s equity. Often, people are unsure how these loans work and their potential benefits. Others aren’t positive whether a home equity loan is the best solution for their financial needs.   Before highlighting the best ways to use home equity loans, it’s helpful to begin with the basics.  What is a…

8 Financial Moves for Empty Nesters

It’s a bittersweet feeling when your children spread their wings and leave the nest. As they venture into the world to pursue their dreams, it’s time for you to take stock of your financial situation and make some strategic moves. With retirement likely right around the corner, the upcoming years are crucial to ensure you enjoy your golden years.   The following guide highlights eight essential financial steps empty nesters should consider as they embark on this next phase of their lives.  Revisit Your Budget With your children out of the house, your everyday expenses will change. From your grocery and…

September 1, 2023Future Planning No Comments
8 Financial Moves for Empty Nesters

It’s a bittersweet feeling when your children spread their wings and leave the nest. As they venture into the world to pursue their dreams, it’s time for you to take stock of your financial situation and make some strategic moves. With retirement likely right around the corner, the upcoming years are crucial to ensure you enjoy your golden years.   The following guide highlights eight essential financial steps empty nesters should consider as they embark on this next phase of their lives.  Revisit Your Budget With your children out of the house, your everyday expenses will change. From your grocery and…

7 Common Money Myths You Should Ignore

Everyone holds their own perspective when it comes to handling finances. While friends and family may offer well-intentioned guidance, not everything you hear is necessarily accurate or beneficial. Much of it can be misleading or misguided – causing you to overlook opportunities or make poor financial decisions.   We put together a list of common money myths to help right the ship on managing your money and steer clear of financial pitfalls. You’ll learn why this guidance is mistaken and the steps you can take to strengthen your financial position.  Myth #1 – You must carry a balance on your credit…

August 1, 2023Wallet Wins 1 Comment
7 Common Money Myths You Should Ignore

Everyone holds their own perspective when it comes to handling finances. While friends and family may offer well-intentioned guidance, not everything you hear is necessarily accurate or beneficial. Much of it can be misleading or misguided – causing you to overlook opportunities or make poor financial decisions.   We put together a list of common money myths to help right the ship on managing your money and steer clear of financial pitfalls. You’ll learn why this guidance is mistaken and the steps you can take to strengthen your financial position.  Myth #1 – You must carry a balance on your credit…