SeaComm Federal Credit Union OFFICIAL BLOG

Tag Archives: pay


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Smart Uses For Your Tax Refund

It’s tax refund season! How are you going to be spending the pile of cash Uncle Sam’s giving back?

Of course, you can use some of your tax refund to indulge responsibly. If you’ve been wanting to buy yourself a new something special for a while, or to spend on an experience you generally cannot afford, by all means, allow yourself to use some of your tax refund for your chosen treat. Indulging occasionally and mindfully can prevent feelings of deprivation and can actually help you manage your money better.

However, before you go out and blow your full refund on a sinfully expensive weekend, take a step back and try to determine the most financially responsible approach you can take with this money. Instead of spending all the funds on short-term indulgences, consider using some of them to improve your overall financial wellness. To help you get started, we’ve compiled this list of eight financially responsible ways to use your tax refund this year.

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Time Well Spent: 5 Resources for Building Financial Capability

We’re joining forces with our partner, trusted national nonprofit GreenPath Financial Wellness, to spotlight free resources designed to help you deepen your financial capability. “Financial Capability” has been defined by the U.S. Treasury as “the capacity, based on knowledge, skills, and access, to manage financial resources effectively.”  

Building and maintaining financial capability is a distinct journey for each of us; a cycle of learning (and sometimes relearning what you thought you already knew) and a willingness to evaluate your money habits. It’s also about making informed decisions, being proactive with money management, and acknowledging your own progress along the way.  

In that spirit, here are five articles, worksheets, tools, and online courses that can serve as a starting point for building your financial capability. While these resources are only available in English at this time, GreenPath provides free, one-on-one personalized financial counseling in hundreds of languages. If you have questions about any of these topics, reach out to speak with someone in the language you are most comfortable with. 

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How to Brace for Rising Home Costs: A Guide for Homeowners and Renters

Have you noticed your insurance bills skyrocketing lately? If so, you’re in good company. According to Policygenius, the average home insurance premium increased by 21% between May 2022 and May 2023. Combine this with rising housing costs, property taxes, and high interest rate debt, and it’s no wonder why so many Americans are struggling in today’s market.

Knowing how to mitigate the financial impact on your budget can help you navigate rising costs more effectively, whether you rent or own.

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Buy Now, Pay Later: The Cost of Convenience

“Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) services have become increasingly popular, offering a tempting alternative to credit cards. A 2022 report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau found that from 2019 to 2021, the number of BNPL loans originated in the U.S. by the five lenders it surveyed grew from 16.8 million to 180 million, highlighting how appealing these services are to consumers.

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Four Ways to Lower Homeowners Insurance Rate

If one of your financial goals is to own a home, you need to include insurance in your calculations. Having homeowners insurance is required if you’re getting a mortgage, and it might look expensive. However, you can use these tips to potentially lower your insurance rate.

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Credit Card Mistakes to Avoid

A credit card can be a great financial tool if used properly. Use your credit card improperly and you could find yourself in financial trouble. Avoid these mistakes when using your credit card.

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Three Tricks to Lower Financial Stress

Nearly everyone lists finances as a stressor. Worrying about money is very common, so here are a few tricks to ease your mind when it comes to your finances.

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Tips to Avoid Car Buying Scams

The online marketplace is full of items for sale, including cars. Many people will just go to a dealership to buy or sell a vehicle, but some will go directly to a private buyer, either online, or through an ad. Here are a few tips to avoid scams, whether you’re the buyer, or seller.

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Three Financial Goals for Everyone

Today is National Refresh Your Goals Day. This day is a reminder to focus on the objectives we’ve set for ourselves. Here are a few financial goals that will boost your wellness and peace of mind.

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Fast Ways to Lower Debt

Paying off debt can be an intimidating process, especially if you feel you have a lot of it. Here are a few ways to pay off you debt faster and make those numbers less daunting.

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