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.

Key difference between credit unions and banks

Read Time
5 minutes
At first glance, banks and credit unions can seem so similar that people may not recognize the differences between them. After all, both offer checking and savings accounts, loans, mortgages, and wealth management, among other services and products. But when you take a closer look, you’ll notice a distinctive difference between credit unions and banks when it comes to rates and dividends. Her... Continue Reading »

Saving money in your 30s – act like it’s college

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5 minutes
With college expenses, potentially low-paying first jobs, and trying to get a firm financial foothold, your 20s can be a challenge when it comes to money management. But as you ease into your 30s and find yourself with more financial security,there are some struggles worth keeping in mind – even better, turn them into strategies for long-term financial health. Here are some tips on saving mon... Continue Reading »

Get smart about spending: Using a credit card wisely

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5 minutes
Are your credit cards collecting dust or racking up frequent “swiper” miles? Whether your cards are dormant or constantly in use, you may be guilty of common credit card blunders that are costing you precious time and money. But learning how to use a credit card wisely can help ensure you’re taking full advantage of its benefits. We’ll show you how. Reap this benefit: Convenience Like... Continue Reading »

Boomerang Kids – Adjusting Your Budget for Their Return

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5 minutes
Just when you think your nest is empty, it fills right back up! Adults returning to live with their parents are affectionately referred to as boomerang kids, and while many parents don’t mind the temporary return of their offspring, it can certainly result in extra expenses around the house. Luckily, some small adjustments can keep your once-again-full house from breaking the bank. First of a... Continue Reading »

Save Money by Reading the Fine Print

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5 minutes
It’s a recurring theme for financial success: know what you’re getting yourself into. Whether you’re opening a checking or savings account or applying for a loan, reading the fine print is one of the best ways to ensure you fully understand the financial product. Below, learn how to save money by paying close attention to the terms and conditions. Know your loan terms While applying fo... Continue Reading »

Estate planning – it’s not just for retirees

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5 minutes
When many adults hear the words “estate planning,” they immediately assume it’s something their parents should be thinking about. But it’s worth considering at a young age, says Beverly Hobbs, AAMS®, an LPL Financial Advisor with Cobalt CU Wealth Management, especially if you’re a parent or guardian. “We think of estate planning as planning for retirement, but it’s really not s... Continue Reading »

Planning a vacation on a budget

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5 minutes
Whether you’re a college student considering what to do over spring break, a busy parent pondering family trip options, or a working professional who needs a recharge-and-refresh kind of breather, a vacation is likely just what you need. Fortunately, you don’t need to drain your savings account just to embark on some travel. When you plan a vacation within a reasonable budget, you can se... Continue Reading »

Tips to avoid identity theft

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5 minutes
With reports of retail data breaches popping up all too often, identity theft protection is a real concern. No one wants to learn that their personal data has been compromised. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to help prevent ID theft. At Cobalt CU, we’re advocates of being proactive about safeguarding your financial information and identity. That’s why we’ve posted several blogs ... Continue Reading »

Money Management Tips to Help Your Resolutions Stick

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5 minutes
Every January, we lay out our resolutions for the year to help us stay focused. Just putting them out there is a great first step: Research shows that people who openly make goals are 10 times more likely to reach them than those who don’t – and that applies to financial goals, too. But what’s the next step? How can you make it even more likely that you’ll keep those resolutions? Whet... Continue Reading »

Tips On Money Management For Couples

Read Time
3minutes
When you are single, your financial success depends on your own actions. Your credit history, savings plan, and ability to repay debt rest solely on your shoulders. When you are part of a couple, though, a new factor that is often difficult to master comes into play: communication.  Talking openly about finances can be difficult and different: Your best money management tips may not always be ... Continue Reading »