Simple steps toward stronger finances

At OCCU, we're passionate about your financial success. Whether you're just starting out or getting ready for retirement, we can help you reach your financial goals. This simple plan will get you going.

1. Start with a budget
   Need to trim down monthly expenses? Start with a budget. Saving up for vacation? Start with a budget. Living paycheck to paycheck? Start with a budget. It’s the map you'll use to reach your financial destination. A thorough budget helps you save for something special while giving you a clear view of how much you have to spend at any given time. Check out our budget planning tips.
2. Save toward an emergency fund
   From a broken axle to a broken ankle, we all face unplanned expenses from time to time. That’s why it's important to have an emergency fund. By setting aside money for your emergency fund each month, you can help ease the financial pain of an unexpected bill. A good goal would be to save enough to cover about three to six months of your essential monthly expenses. If that seems daunting, start by trying to save $1,000. Then raise the bar to $2,000. Remind yourself what a comfort this will be when you really need it. 
3. Plan for the future
   "How did it get so late so soon?" asks Dr. Seuss. That’s why it’s so important to start saving right now for things like your retirement, your growing family, your child’s college fund and more. Our Investment Services team* would be happy to help you plan for the future. Give them at call at 541.681.6231.
4. Work toward great credit
   When you need to borrow funds, a quality credit score makes a big difference. Lenders use your credit score to determine if you qualify for a loan or credit card, and a good score may help you secure a lower interest rate. Start building your credit by paying all of your credit card and utility bills on time, avoiding debt when possible and applying only for credit cards you know you’ll be able to pay off.
5. Decide whether you should rent or buy
   Lots of factors play into the decision to buy a home or remain a renter. It's both a personal and a financial choice. Building equity and ownership is balanced against the freedom and mobility of renting. To help you decide whether you should rent or buy a home, calculate total costs with our Rent vs. Own calculator.

Feeling stuck? We're here to help. If you have any questions or just want to run something by us, stop by your local OCCU branch or give us a call at 800.365.1111.

* Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Oregon Community Credit Union and Oregon Community Investment Services are not registered broker/dealers and are not affiliated with LPL Financial.
The investment products sold through LPL Financial are not insured Oregon Community Credit Union deposits and are not NCUA insured. These products are not obligations of Oregon Community Credit Union and are not endorsed, recommended or guaranteed by Oregon. Community Credit Union or any government agency. The value of the investment may fluctuate, the return on the investment is not guaranteed, and loss of principal is possible.
Check the background of this firm on FINRA’s BrokerCheck.