Set your teen ahead of the curve financially

As your teen prepares to launch into the world, you want to give them the best start you can. Teaching a teenager to manage money responsibly is one of the most important things a parent can do. Lessons in money management can last a lifetime. But
Topics:
Basic Finances

IRA vs. 401(k) – What’s the difference?

The world is changing and so are retirement plans. How do you figure out which option is right for you? Here’s what you need to know about 401(k)s and individual retirement accounts (IRAs) to find out what’s the best selection for you and your money
Topics:
Retirement Planning

Families helping families: How one HELOC touched many lives

Kindergarten teacher Sarah M. sees a lot of kids. Some can’t afford school supplies. Some are hungry. Some end up sitting in the school office for hours, wondering if they’ll get picked up. When Sarah spotted one of her former students waiting to be
Topics:
Owning a Home

How many accounts do you really need?

Sophia Bera used to have a savings account for each of her financial goals. Like a squirrel, she stashed a little bit of money into lots of different accounts. It was a lot to keep track of. When the finance columnist started consolidating her
Topics:
Basic Finances

Six habits for keeping your data safe on campus

Surviving college is all about developing the right habits. Good study habits help you get good grades. Good spending habits help you stretch your financial aid checks. Good hygiene habits help you get along with your roommate. But what about your
Topics:
Privacy & Security

Four things you need before heading off to college

There are certain must-haves when you’re heading off to college. Most checklists for college students include things like dorm room necessities, study aids, books and similar supplies. But what about your finances? Going to college opens up a whole
Topics:
Basic Finances

Your No. 1 tool to avoid holiday overspending

The holidays have a way of sneaking up on a lot of us. In all the back-to-school flurry, it’s easy to forget that they’re right around the corner. Between the shopping, the decorating and more last-minute shopping, getting caught unprepared can lead
Topics:
Budgeting & Saving

Three reasons to choose a credit union mortgage

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you’ve probably already made a list of must-haves. Maybe you’ve even zeroed in on your preferred neighborhood. But have you thought about who your lender should be? These days, it’s smart to start working with
Topics:
Owning a Home

What’s the difference between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA?

A traditional individual retirement account (IRA) and a Roth IRA are two defined-contribution plans with significant — but quite different — tax advantages that can help you save for retirement. Depending on factors like where you are in your career
Topics:
Retirement Planning

OCCU is looking for members passionate about making a difference

The Board of Directors at OCCU serves as the voice of the membership and works with Management to set the strategic direction for the credit union. The Board is responsible for supervising the CEO, monitoring financial performance and ensuring
Topics:
Community