Blog

Money talks.

 

Our blog is written by experts — who also happen to be real people who have experienced the same financial concerns you have. Read on for real talk about real finances.

5 Tips on How to Manage Money as a Freelancer

Read Time
3minutes
Transitioning from a corporate job to self-employment can feel exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time. You might be giving up a steady paycheck (and all those break room snacks), but you’re gaining the thrill of being your own boss.  Get started off right by creating a financial tracking system that will help you keep your budget in line, pay your taxes correctly, and manage expenses... Continue Reading »

11 Budgeting Tips for College Students

Read Time
5minutes
Ah, sweet freedom. If you are about to head to college for the first time, then you are likely getting excited about the idea of being out on your own. You have so much to look forward to, but your new adventure comes with greater responsibilities, too – especially where money is concerned. Budgeting is not easy, but it is worth the effort. Creating a budget now can help keep you from racking up... Continue Reading »

The SAC Foundation: Giving Back to Service Members

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3minutes
SAC Foundation is the charitable arm of Cobalt Credit Union and was established as a 501(c)(3) charity in 2016. The Foundation is led by a volunteer board of directors made up of dedicated Cobalt employees who provide oversight for the Foundation. It is primarily funded through donations from Cobalt employees as well as the general public. In addition, Cobalt supports SAC Foundation through in-kin... Continue Reading »

Which is best for you? The difference between home equity loans and HELOCs

Read Time
5minutes
Understanding the differences between home equity loan options can be tough. How do you know which one is the best one for you? Both home equity loans and HELOCs use your home as collateral, so they usually have much better interest terms than personal loans, credit cards, and other unsecured debt. This makes both options extremely attractive but knowing the difference between home equity loans an... Continue Reading »

6 Military Moving Tips

Read Time
4minutes
In military life, regular relocations are as common as standardized clothing and acronyms. Every household move (or PCS—permanent change of station) carries its share of uncertainty and stress, but you can make your change a more positive experience with these six military moving tips.  Learn from others  Organize your important paperwork  Start an essentials box  Eliminate clutt... Continue Reading »

6 Tips on How to Budget Your First Paycheck

Read Time
5minutes
Ah, there is nothing like the thrill of getting that first paycheck from your first “real” job after college. You have probably spent it a million different ways in your head already, but before you start spending, we have some helpful ideas on how to budget your first paycheck. Get started on the right foot by allocating funds to savings, retirement, and more. And do not worry: You can leave ... Continue Reading »

Travel Safety Tips! Protect Yourself and Your ID While Traveling

Read Time
4minutes
Travel can be a wonderful adventure – but traveling can present risks too. Tourists are often targets for identity thieves who might use information from credit cards, IDs, and passports to wreak financial havoc. Even more challenging, victims might not realize they have been struck until they get back from the trip, potentially making the damage even worse. Limit your vulnerability with these s... Continue Reading »

Financial Literacy Month Resources

Read Time
2minutes
April is Financial Literacy Month! This important topic can seem overwhelming, but Cobalt Credit Union has a variety of free resources to help you throughout your financial journey.  Financial Resource Center  Our online Financial Resource Center is free and available to everyone. There you will find a continually updated collection of financial literacy articles on a multitude of topics, ... Continue Reading »

Smart Ways to Use your Tax Refund

Read Time
3minutes
Your tax refund is here, and suddenly you are envisioning all the items that you can buy. Although small luxuries are a healthy part of any financial plan, when it comes to additional funds like tax returns, holiday bonuses, or unexpected windfalls, saving at least some of that money is important. And when you do, make the most out of those funds by thinking about your financial goals.  Here a... Continue Reading »

Easy Last-Minute Ways to Save for Vacation

Read Time
4minutes
The winter temperatures mean you have been stuck inside lately. Cabin fever has set in, and you are antsy for a getaway. But your bank account is as low as the wind chill readings. Here are some quick tips to help you save for a much-needed vacation and travel expenses.  Build your vacation fund  Sell the clutter  It is never too early to start your spring -cleaning. Take inventory of ... Continue Reading »