Youth Financial Literacy

July 20, 2023 • By Lisa

A Guide to Understanding Financial Terms

When reading about credit cards, mortgages, or other financial products, you may encounter financial terminology and acronyms that you aren’t familiar with. Please note, these descriptions are a guide only and are not legal definitions.

A

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a mortgage that offers the borrower a fixed interest rate for a set amount of time. After that time expires, the interest rate on the remaining balance varies though out the life of the loan. Depending on the terms of the mortgage, the interest rate resets each month or year. This type of mortgage is also called a variable rate mortgage.

Annual Percentage Rate

The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is the yearly cost of borrowing money. APR includes the interest and fees charged over a one-year period. Many types of debt include an APR such as credit cards, auto loans, mortgages and personal loans. The APR helps borrowers choose credit card offers, mortgages, loans, etc.

B

Balance

When referring to debt, a balance is the amount of money remaining to be repaid on a loan, credit card or mortgage. When the term "balance" refers to a checking or savings bank account, the balance is the amount of money present in the account.

Balance Transfer

A balance transfer refers to moving a balance from one account to another account, which is often an account at another financial institution. It most commonly describes transferring outstanding debt owed on a credit card to an account held at another credit card company.

Balloon Payment

A balloon payment is the money owed on a loan when the loan term expires (usually after 5-7 years). When the term is over, the borrower must pay a balloon payment for the total amount remaining on the loan, or the borrower can choose to refinance the loan for new terms and rates. Balloon loans sometimes allow the borrower to transfer the remaining amount automatically into a long-term mortgage.

Bankruptcy

When an individual or a company has debt that cannot be repaid, declaring bankruptcy gives the individual or company legal protection from the debts. Bankruptcy is a legal process that can offer relief from some or all debts, depending on the type of bankruptcy.

Budget

A budget is written plan that tracks monthly expenses and income. It is used to help manage finances, keep current with expenses and save money.

C

Card Holder

A card holder is the person who is issued a credit card, along with any authorized users. The primary card holder is responsible for credit card payments. Credit card holders are protected by the federal lending laws which protect consumer rights.

Cash Advance

A cash advance is a loan issued from a creditor. The most common cash advances are issued by a credit card or through a loan taken in advance of a paycheck. These types of cash advance loans charge special interest rates and fees on the amount of the advance.

Cash Advance Fee

A cash advance fee is a charge made by the bank or financial institution that the borrower owes after taking a cash advance loan. This fee could be either a one-time, flat fee that is owed at the time of the transaction or a fee charged as an annual percentage of the amount of the cash advance. Did you know SafeAmerica waves cash advance fees on our Visa Credit Cards? Click here to learn more.

Collateral

Collateral is an asset that a lender accepts as a security for a loan. If a borrower defaults on their loan payments, the lender has the right to seize the collateral and sell it to recoup any losses.

Collections

Collections occur when a creditor, or a business, like a utility company, sells past-due debt to an agency to recover the amount owed. The delinquent debt could be past due credit card debts, utility charges, medical bills, cell phone bills or other payments that are over 6 months past due. Collection agencies attempt to recover past due debts by contacting the borrower via phone and mail.

Conventional Mortgage or Loan

A conventional mortgage or conventional loan is available through a private lender or two government-sponsored enterprises-Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Conventional loans are considered risky because they are not guaranteed by the government. These mortgages can have strict requirements and higher interest rates and fees.

Credit

Credit refers to the money that is borrowed that the borrower will need to repay.

Credit Card Charge-Offs

Occurs when a borrower does not pay the full minimum payment on a debt for several months. At that time, the creditor writes it off as bad debt. Note that a credit card charge-off does not absolve a borrower of responsibility for the debt. Interest is still owed on the balance. even after a credit card charge-off, the lender could turn over the account to a collections agency.

Credit History

A person's credit history develops as they borrow, repay and manage their loan payments, expenses and other transactions. Future loans depend on a solid credit history, because lenders check this information.

Credit Report

A credit report is a statement that has information about a person's credit history, including loan paying history and the status of credit accounts. Lenders use credit reports to help them decide if they will loan money and what interest rates they will charge.

Credit Score

A credit score is a number based on a formula using the information in a person's credit report. The result is an accurate forecast of how likely that person is to pay bills or repay loans. Lenders use credit scores to determine what interest rate they will offer on credit cards, mortgages, car loans and other loans.

Creditor

A creditor is a person or institution that extends credit by lending a borrower money. The borrower agrees to repay the funds under the agreed upon terms.

D

Debt

Debt is money owed to a lender, such as debt from credit cards, student loans, or a mortgage.

Debt Consolidation

Debt Consolidation means that a person's debts, whether credit card bills or loan payments, are rolled into a new loan with one monthly payment, A debt consolidation loan does not erase debt. Borrowers might pay more by consolidating debt into another type of loan.

Debt Management plan

A debt management plan is when an organization works with creditors to reduce a borrower's monthly payment and interest rates. People working through a debt management typically take 3-to-5 years to pay off debt.

Debt Counseling

Borrowers receive debt counseling (also called credit counseling) when a trained credit counselor reviews their personal finances, debt and credit history to help manage financial challenges.

Debt Settlement

Debt Settlement is a process of negotiating with creditors to accept a percentage of the full amount of debt that is charged off or severely delinquent. For-profit debt settlement companies operate to deliver profits to their organization. As part of the for-profit business model, debt settlement employees are often paid on a commission basis, based on the fees they collect from consumers.

Default

A default on a loan occurs when a loan payment is not made by the borrower according to the payment terms of an agreement.

Deferment

A loan deferment is when a lender agrees that a borrower can pause making monthly payments for a set amount of time. Loans that are deferred are not forgiven. The borrower still owes the money and must repay the debt. Deferments are often available with student loans to provide the borrower with a set amount of time before making any payments.

Delinquent

When a borrower is late or overdue on making a payment, such as on payments to credit cards, a mortgage, an automobile loan or other debt, it is called delinquent. People who are delinquent, or late, with making payments may be charged a late fee.

F

Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act is a set of laws that protect consumer rights during the debt collection process.

Fannie Mae

Fannie Mae, the informal name of the Federal National Mortgage Association, is a U.S. Government-sponsored enterprised that buys mortgages from lenders, bundles them intp investments and sells them on the secondary mortgage market. typically, Fannie Mae purchases home mortgages loans from commercial banks or big banks.

Finance Charge

A finance charge is the cost of borrowing money. The cost to a borrower includes interest and other fees. Lenders typically set finance charges as a percentage of the amount borrowed. Some lenders might set a flat fee finance charge.

Fixed Rate

A fixed rate is an interest rate that stays the same for the life of the loan, or for a portion of the loan term, depending on the loan agreement.

Forbearance

Forbearance is a process when a lender agrees to a lower payment or no payment for a temporary period of time. Forbearance is not loan forgiveness. After that time expires, the borrower may face higher payments, accrued interest or an extended loan term.

Foreclosure

Foreclosure is a legal proceeding that happens when a borrower does not make payments on a secured debt. The lender may start legal foreclosure proceedings to seize the property associated with the debt. As an example, default on a mortgage could result in foreclosure and auction of the property.

Freddie Mac

Freddie Mac, the informal name of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, is a U.S. government-sponsored enterprise that buys mortgages, combines them with other forms of loans, and sells the debt on the secondary mortgage market. Typically, Freddie Mac purchases home mortgage loans form smaller banks and lenders.

G

Grace Period

A grace period is a set period of time in which borrowers do not have to pay finance charges or interest if they pay balances in full. Revolving credit card lending provides a borrower with a grace period.

I

Interest

Interest refers to the cost of borrowing funds, paid to the lender by the borrower. Interest also means the profit that accrues to those who deposit funds in a savings account or investment.

Interest Rate

An interest rate is the fee lenders charge a borrower, calculated as a percentage of the loan amount. The percentage charged when borrowing money is known as the interest rate.

L

Loan

A loan is sum of money that is advanced to a borrower. The borrower agrees to specified terms such as finance charges, interest and repayment date. Some examples include auto and recreational vehicles loans, home loans, home equity loans, personal loans as well as student loans.

Loan Forgiveness

Loan forgiveness means a borrower is no longer obligated to make loan payments. With student debt loan forgiveness, the borrower must meet criteria such as actively serving in the military, performing volunteer work, teach or practice medicine in certain types of communities, or must meet other criteria specified by the forgiveness program.

Loss Mitigation

Loss mitigation is the process when mortgage servicers work with borrowers to avoid foreclosure.

Loan Modification

Loan modification is when a lender makes a permanent change to loan terms. The modifications could inlcude changing the interest rate, type of mortgage or extending the time to pay the mortgage balance.

M

Minimum Payment

The minimum payment is a payment made on a loan or credit card that is specified by the lenders as the smallest payment amount due. Borrowers can pay more than the minimum payment.

Mortgage

A mortgage is the loan a borrower takes in from a lender to purchase real estate.

P

Past Due

Past due is when a payment has not been made by its due date. Borrowers who are past due will usually face penalties and are subject to late fees.

Private Mortgage Insurance

Private mortgage insurance is a type of mortgage insurance that might be required for borrowers to pay for with a conventional loan. Private mortgage insurance protects the lender in the event a borrower stops making payments on the loan.

R

Reinstatement

Reinstatement refers to a lump sum payment that makes an account current when the borrower pays everything that is owed. This payment would include any missed payments and fees.

Refinance

Refinancing applies to all types of loans, this simply means you are replacing any existing debt and terms with a new set of debt and terms, most often with a lower interest rate than the original loan rate.

Repayment Plan

A repayment plan is a written agreement for borrowers who are past due on loan payments. This option allows the borrower to pay the late amount as a smaller addition to the regular monthly payment, spread out over several months.

Revolving Credit

Revolving credit is when a creditor increases the credit limit to an agreed level as a borrower pays off a debt, such as a credit card. Revolving credit may take the form of credit cards or lines of credit with other lenders.

S

Secured Debt

A secured debt is a loan that allows the lender to seize the asset or collateral used to acquire the debt to repay the funds advanced to the borrower in the event of default. Examples of secured debt are mortgages and auto loans.

Short Sale

A short sale is when a homeowner in financial distress sells property for less than the amount due on the mortgage.

U

Unsecured Debt/Unsecured Loan

Unsecured debt or an unsecured loan is a loan that is not backed by an asset or collateral. It is riskier than secured debt. The interest rate for unsecured debt is normally higher than secured debt.

V

Variable Rate Mortgages

A variable rate mortgage is a mortgage in which the initial interest rate is fixed for a period of time. After that period expires, the interest rate on the outstanding balances varies throughout the life of the loan. Depending on the terms of the mortgage, the interest rate resets each month or year. This type of mortgage is also referred to as an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM).

As a valued member, we provide you with access to certified experts through our partners GreenPath Financial Wellness who will empower you to eliminate financial stress, get out of debt, increase savings, and achieve your financial goals.

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Sources:

https://www.greenpath.com/

https://www.debt.org/

https://www.investopedia.com/

https://www.consumerfinance.gov/practitioner-resources/youth-financial-education/

January 13, 2023 • By Lisa

4 Financial Resolutions You Can Accomplish Now

New Year’s resolutions are a mixed bag for many of us. On the one hand: personal betterment! On the other hand: methodical auditing of our refrigerator, checking account, and various vices. On the cusp of a fresh calendar year, we feel compelled to immediately transform our lives, but—as is the case with most good things—change takes time. This is especially true when it comes to financial goals. And in the aftermath of steep holiday spending, our goalposts can feel...far away.

If you want a few financial resolutions that you can achieve early into the new year (because who doesn’t love an easy to-do list??) here are some suggestions.

Automate Your Savings.

Life is expensive! Especially when you have your sights set on a vacation, home renovation, or even the creation of an Emergency Fund (which 26% of Americans report not having at all). Setting aside savings is a crucial step towards your financial health. There are multiple pathways to save, from automating contributions to an investment portfolio to downloading an app that bundles spare change on each transaction you make. If you want to avoid market fluctuations and go the straightforward route, set up an automatic direct deposit that funnels a percentage of your paycheck into a designated savings account. Then try not to touch it. You can automate transfers from any account to your SafeAmerica Credit Union savings account by setting up recurring transfers within Online Banking.

Enroll In A 401(k).

Speaking of savings...if your employer does not automatically enroll you in a 401(k) plan, you can sign up yourself. Unlike some company benefits (like flexible spending accounts or insurance enrollments that have deadlines), you can enroll in a 401(k) plan anytime during the year. So why not now? The sooner you can begin growing your retirement savings, the better. What you contribute is up to you, and many employers will match your contributions up to a certain percentage. If you earn income but don’t receive employer benefits, you can open a Traditional or Roth IRA as an alternative.

Trim Subscriptions

The average American underestimates their monthly subscriptions costs by $133 according to a 2022 survey conducted by C+R Research. People estimated they spent about $86 per month when in fact, they were spending about $219 per month. The start of a new year is a good time to take inventory of your streaming networks, music subscriptions, smartphone apps, wine club memberships, or any other miscellaneous expenses that might be drawing away from your overall savings goals.

Check Your Credit Report.

You can get a free report once a year from each of the three major consumer reporting companies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.) This allows you to resolve errors or instances of identity theft—red flags you do not want creditors looking at when they are evaluating your application for loans and credit cards. With the exception of Experian, you will have to pay a fee if you want to see your credit score. There is often a way around this, as more than 170 financial institutions and 10 of the top credit card issuers provide free access to your FICO score (the most commonly used type of credit score).

This article is shared by our partners at GreenPath Financial Wellness, a trusted national non-profit.

How to Get Your Free Credit Report.

The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (FACT Act) entitles you to receive a free copy of your credit report once a year from each of the reporting companies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. The three companies have set up one central website, toll-free telephone number, and mailing address. You can request your free report either online, by phone or even mail by visiting www.AnnualCreditReport.com or calling 1-877-322-8228.

April 11, 2022 • By Lisa

Financial Terms To Teach Your Kids

It’s never too early to start teaching your kids about finances. After all, it is a topic they will use for the rest of their life. Breaking down some the key financial terms will help them have an understanding of a few fundamental concepts.

Here are some terms you can teach your child and why it’s important for them to know.

Budget

What is a budget?

A budget is a plan that helps you keep track of your money and where it goes. One way parents like to teach kids how to budget is to categorize money into three “buckets”: give, save, and spend.

Why is a budget Important?

A budget allows you to plan out your finances for the future and ensures you’ll have enough money to pay for all your “needs” and, if you have money left-over, to pay for all your “wants”. It provides structure towards reaching a financial goal, such as saving for a video game system, a vacation or even a college education.

Checking Account

What is a Checking Account?

A checking account is a contractual relationship between you and your financial institution where you can make day to day transactions. The financial institution holds your money in a safe place and helps to facilitate your purchases. You are responsible for handling your account wisely by not overspending the money you have in your account.

Why is a Checking Account Important?

A checking account makes your money accessible and serves as a way to keep track of your spending. It also keeps your money safe, meaning it can’t be lost, stolen or damaged. Institutions must be insured in order to operate, so there’s no risk and much safer than carrying cash.

Credit and Credit History

What is Credit?

Credit is a way to borrow money (such as a credit card or loan) with the agreement of paying it back in full, plus interest. Paying back the borrowed amount on time is reflected on your credit report/history. One important concept to remember is that credit isn’t free and should only be used if you’re able to pay it back right away.

Why is Credit History Important?

Developing good credit history allows lenders see how responsible you are when it comes to paying that money back. The more on-time payments you make, the better your credit becomes, making it easier to borrow money in the future, rent an apartment, or even get a job.

Credit Score

What Is a Credit Score (also known as FICO Score)?

A credit score is a number that lenders use to measure your credit worthiness. Your credit score is influenced by a number of things such as the amount of open credit accounts, overall amount of debt you have and your repayment history (making payments on-time). Credit scores range from 300 to 850 and lenders use these scores to determine how much risk they will take on when lending to you. The higher your credit score, the lower your interest rate will be (less risk) and vice-versa; the lower your credit score, the higher your interest rate will be (more risk).

Why is a Credit Score Important?

The better the credit score, the easier it will be to reach life’s milestones. A good credit score can help you get a lower interest rate on a loan (like a car loan or mortgage), thus you pay less over the lifetime of the loan. A good credit score can even help you get an apartment or job. Overall, it pays to have a good credit score! Literally.

Loan

What is a Loan?

A loan is a sum of money that you borrow with an agreement to be paid back with interest. One way to help your child understand loans, is to explain why people take out loans in the first place. A great example is a car or mortgage loan. These items usually cost a lot of money, so it becomes necessary to borrow the money. Having that good credit score (as explained above) will help you get a lower interest rate on that loan, making it more affordable. Agreeing to the terms of a loan means you’re obligated to pay it back with the agreed upon interest. Failure to do so can be detrimental to your good credit.

Why Is Having a Loan Important?

Having a loan allows you to enjoy the item you borrowed money for right away. Rather than saving up $20,000 for a car, you can take out an auto loan to immediately have access to the vehicle and repay on a monthly basis until the loan has been paid off. Paying off loans strengthens your credit score and allows you to become prepared for any future or bigger purchases.

Debt

What is Debt?

Debt is money borrowed (a loan) which has not been paid off. Types of debt range from credit cards and student loans to major purchases such as vehicles and mortgages.

Why is Debt Good?

Borrowing money and having debt is typically the only manner in which some people will be able to purchase important high cost items such as a home or higher education. Debt is okay if it’s going to help you make money in the future, whereas taking on debt on items such as cars or clothes is not recommended based on the depreciating factor associated with these items.

Interest

What is Interest?

Interest has two sides; it is either something you pay (an interest rate on a loan) or something you earn (an interest rate on a savings account). Show your children the interest you pay on a loan, like a vehicle loan, each month. And then also show them that when you deposit money into a savings account (your “save bucket” from earlier) that the bank pays you for the deposits you place there.

Why is Interest important?

Whether you’re paying interest or earning interest, the amount of interest is important to understand. When obtaining a loan, you want to look for an institution that offers the best rate (lowest rate or APR). That combined with your good credit score will help you get the best deal. The same goes for deposits. When saving your money, you want to look for the highest yield (or APY). This will get you most amount of interest earned.

Taxes

What are Taxes?

Taxes serve as payment to the government and are used to pay for things like improving public schools and fixing the roads. Taxes are taken from your paycheck and the amount you pay depends on how much money you make. A great way to explain it is to relate it to their allowance. Take a small amount from their allowance and put it away to be used toward a household expense, like an improvement!

Why are Taxes Important?

Taxes are the main source of revenue for the government. Without taxes, funding for many of the public benefits we take advantage of every day would be impacted severely.

Save small. Dream big.

We're celebrating Youth Month all April long! Be sure to check out our blog each week or follow is on social media for a new youth financial literacy topic.

You can also check out our Youth Program to help get your child started on the path to smart money management.

youth program

March 1, 2022 • By Lisa

Free Webinar March 9 — Starting From Scratch: How To Build Credit

This free, one hour webinar is presented by GreenPath Financial Wellness

What do renting an apartment, getting a job offer, and car insurance rates all have in common? Your credit history could impact every one of these things (and more)! Credit is important for more than just getting a loan, although it impacts that too. If you know you need to build credit and aren’t sure how to do so without going into debt, this webinar will provide guidance and tools to start you down the path to building positive credit history. Whether you have never had any credit history or are looking to rebuild credit after an extended period without, this webinar will cover why it is important to build positive credit history and how to do so responsibly.

Click through each tab below to learn more.

Who Should Attend

Anyone with no credit history
Anyone with no credit history for 5+ years
Parents of teenagers who want to help their children start building good credit

What You Will Learn

Why credit is important
Tools to start building positive credit history
Healthy credit habits for using credit responsibly

Details

Date: Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Time: 10:00 am PST

This webinar will be recorded and a link will be sent out to all registrants after the webinar.

Click the red button below to register.

February 23, 2022 • By Lisa

America Saves Week – Save to Retire

Retirement is one of those endeavors that fall into the “someday” category. When living your day-to-day life as a person in their 20s, 30s, and even your 40s and those everyday expenses pop up, it’s more difficult to save for something that is seemingly so far away. But as we all know — life comes at you fast. A 2020 survey by Charles Schwab of currently employed 401(k) plan participants found that saving enough for retirement continues to be a leading source of significant financial stress for all generations.

While studies show that 71 percent of Americans are adequately prepared for retirement, much of that includes receiving Social Security benefits under the current law. With Social Security payouts only scheduled to be paid at the full benefit amount through 2035, Millennials and Gen Z have to approach retirement from a different perspective — one that is diverse and doesn’t rely on Social Security benefits, if you can help it. The good news is that starting early allows you to reach your retirement goals more easily.

In today’s economy, we can’t overlook the fact that there are some people who are not making a fair living wage, making it difficult to save. But for those of us with the ability to save it’s important to understand that it’s never too late to start saving for retirement. Your future self will thank you!

1. Get In The "Retirement Ready" Mindset

The first step is getting in the right mindset, meaning-making your new savings goal a priority. We encourage you to “Start Small, Think Big” and take advantage of retirement solutions available to you like your employer's 401K or 403 B plan or IRA options you can open on your own.

If you’re starting your retirement savings journey early, you have time on your side! However, if you’re closer to retirement age, then prepare to be a bit more aggressive in order to achieve your retirement goal. Research how to make catch-up contributions to your retirement savings, ultimately jump-starting a stalled plan.

The good news is this: it’s never too late! It is important to remember that saving anything is better than saving nothing. Even increasing your retirement savings by one percent can make a huge difference in the long run.

2. Define What Retirement Will Look Like For You

Your retirement years will be as individual as you are! Have you visualized how you’d like your retirement to look and feel? Think about where you want to settle down. Will you stay put and have sweet tea and lemonade on the front porch most days or do you intend to travel far and wide? Most importantly, how much “annual income” will you need to achieve this envisioned lifestyle? Asking yourself these questions will help determine a rough estimate of how much to start saving now.

Someone who plans to travel and or have an active lifestyle when they retire may need to save more than someone who has a home that is paid off with no grand plans of world travel.

You will also need to consider exactly when you want to retire. This will help determine how much you should be saving annually. In the modern age, people pre-retire, half-retire or even never leave the workforce at all.

3. Calculate How Much You'll need To Save

Once you have an idea of what type of retirement you want to have, estimate the annual retirement income needed. You want to ensure you are saving for the future you want. Most Americans are not putting enough money into their retirement fund every year in order to afford the life they want for themselves in the future.

What each person needs will vary widely based on a number of factors, including your current age, the age at which you plan to retire, if your partner or spouse has an income, your spending habits, and different sources of retirement income. There are also circumstances beyond your control, like how long you can expect to live based on family history.

While there is no hard and fast rule to determine how much to save by a specific age, many personal finance experts recommend having saved an amount equal to your annual salary by age 30, three times by age 40, and five times by age 50. While this can be overwhelming if you haven’t hit those milestones in your retirement savings yet, one small step you can take is to increase your contribution rate with each pay raise. Remember, building a savings habit and taking control of your finances, like you’re doing now, is worth celebrating.

4. Take The America Saves Pledge

Now that you have a better idea of what exactly you’re saving for and how much, it’s time to consider how you’ll achieve your dream retirement. The America Saves Pledge is a tool that helps you make a simple plan to meet your savings goal while offering you long-term accountability and support along the way. Take the America Saves Pledge and visit AmericaSaves.org for tips, resources, and support on your journey towards retirement. Remember: savers who make a plan are twice as likely to save successfully!

5. Do Your Homework

Consider what type of accounts to deposit your retirement savings into. Your employer may offer a retirement plan such as a 401K, 403B, or SEP-IRA and match your contributions up to a certain percentage. The most important consideration here is to take advantage of any employer benefits such as matching your contributions up to a certain percentage. Find out if your employer offers a match and contribute at least enough to maximize that benefit.

Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs) are also an option, and you can open one anytime through financial institutions or financial services providers. There are several different IRAs including the most common: Roth and Traditional. Roth IRAs can be withdrawn at anytime without penalty and are tax-free. Traditional IRAs may be tax-deductible and your earnings grow tax-deferred until you start making withdrawals. You’ll need to determine which is best for you — or maybe a combination of both. The IRS has put together a great comparison tool to understand the differences between the two accounts and decide which may be better for you.

6. Prioritize Making Your Contributions Automatically

Now that you can visualize the type of retirement you want, have determined approximately how much you’re saving for, and have a plan and support in place, the best thing you can do is to set it and forget it! Set up automatic payments and contributions either through your employer or from a financial institution to stay on track.

The point of retirement savings is to keep it invested for the long term. This means avoiding dipping into your retirement fund for emergencies. Instead, create an emergency savings fund that you are also contributing to consistently.

Research by the Employee Benefit Research Institute shows that it typically takes 13 years or more of contributions to an account before you begin to reach a level of savings that is enough to fund a number of years of retirement as a supplement to Social Security. So don’t become discouraged if you feel you do not have enough savings in your retirement fund just yet.

Whatever path you choose to take toward retirement, the biggest step to take is being consistent. Retirement savings is a long-term commitment, but today’s work will pay off in the long run, literally. Take the America Saves Pledge and let us help you reach your goals, no matter what they are. Your future self will thank you!

February 22, 2022 • By Lisa

America Saves Week – Save for the Unexpected

The Coronavirus pandemic has made saving a priority for most Americans, especially those most vulnerable with low to moderate earnings. In fact, a recent study by Edelman Financial Engines, in conjunction with America Saves and the Bipartisan Policy Center, found that:

40% of working Americans report they had difficulty paying for a personal expense in 2020.
1 in 3 working Americans say they would run out of savings on hand in 1 month or less if their income suddenly stopped.
Nearly 1 in 2 working Americans (45%) would have difficulty paying for a $400 emergency expense, meaning they say they would not cover it with savings or put it on their credit card and pay it off at the next statement; 11% say they would be unable to come up with the money.

While saving provides us with a much-needed financial cushion, it also helps ease the emotional burden of worrying about what’s around the corner.

Save for Opportunities

Day Two of America Saves Week encourages us to save for the unexpected. While saving for emergencies is always a much discussed topic in personal finances, here’s something that’s not as widely discussed: saving for opportunities.

If you are in the position to save, you’re not only saving for an unexpected car repair, medical bill, or appliance breaking down — you’re also saving for the last minute dinner invite with friends and family, the concert for your favorite artist, or the ability to grab a birthday gift for your child’s classmate.

Today we want you to consider reframing saving for the “dreaded emergency,” and recognize that you’re also saving for fun and positive opportunities! Doesn’t it feel better to contribute to an OPPORTUNITY FUND vs. an EMERGENCY FUND?

If you haven’t, we encourage you to take the America Saves Pledge. After making your new savings plan, you’ll receive support, reminders, and tips from America Saves that will help keep you on track towards achieving your goal.

February 18, 2022 • By Lisa

America Saves Week – Building Financial Resilience – February 21 – 25, 2022

Join us for America Saves Week from February 21^st to the 25^th as we share tools and resources that inspire members and their families to save successfully and achieve better financial stability. Each day during America Saves Week focuses on a new theme regarding Building Financial Resilience and provides you with tips and tools to help you accomplish your financial goals. Be sure to follow us on social media to view new tips each day.

America Saves Week Daily Themes:

Monday, February 21, 2022 | Save Automatically
Tuesday, February 22, 2022 | Save For The Unexpected
Wednesday, February 23, 2022 | Save To Retire
Thursday, February 24, 2022 | Save By Reducing Debt
Friday, February 24, 2022 | Save As A Family

Why You Should Participate in America Saves Week

By participating in America Saves Week, we can help you navigate through different areas of your finances that better position you for success. By the end of the week, you’ll learn about short term and long term savings goals (such as emergency funds and retirement), the best strategies for saving successfully (making a plan and saving automatically), and how to have healthy conversations and instill positive financial behaviors with your family.

About America Saves

America Saves is a non-profit organization that uses principles of behavioral economics and social marketing to motivate, encourage and support everyday Americans to save money, reduce debt, build wealth and create better financial habits. America Saves is an initiative of the Consumer Federation of America (CFA), a non-profit, pro-consumer organization of over 270 consumer education, advocacy, and cooperative members dedicated to advancing consumer interest.

America Saves encourages individuals and families to take the America Saves pledge, a tool that empowers you to commit to save successfully with a plan. Thousands of non-profit, government, and corporate organizations partner with America Saves through local, regional, statewide, and national campaigns both year-round and during America Saves Week. Learn more about America Saves Week.

Take The Pledge

Those with a savings plan are twice as likely to save successfully. Taking the America Saves Pledge is a pledge to yourself to start a savings journey and America Saves is here to encourage you along the way. Take the first step toward creating a better financial future. Make a plan, set a goal, and pledge to yourself to start saving, today. Complete the Pledge and America Saves will send you short email and text reminders, resources and tips to keep you on track towards your savings goal. Become part of an entire community of savers. Get started now!

Learn about our savings accounts

February 11, 2022 • By Lisa

Here’s How An Auto Refinance Can Save You Money On Your Monthly Payment!

Did you know an Auto Refinance can provide instant savings on your monthly car payment? Maybe you already knew that? Either way, read through to see if there is something more you can add to your own financial strategy!

Here's an example of what an auto refinance is:

You pay off your auto loan balance from one lender and transfer the balance to another lender with a better rate and/or term. For example, you have an auto loan with an APR of 7% and refinance with another lender to a new lower rate of 3%. The 4% drop in interest will provide you with a new lower monthly payment.

When it's best to refinance:

There are multiple opportunities in which it makes sense to refinance your auto loan. They are:

Pay less in interest - If you find a lower rate than what you’re currently paying, you could save in the amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.
Lower payment - If you’re looking for a lower payment, a reduced rate and/or term extension could help.
Shortened term - If you’re looking to pay off your loan earlier and can afford the payments, a refinance can help direct that money toward principle while paying less in interest.

The cons to refinancing:

When making any financial decision, it’s always best to weigh the pros and cons of each situation. When refinancing your auto loan, the option to extend your repayment period will allow for a lower monthly payment but it also extends the amount of interest owed. In general, you will pay more in interest over the life of the loan, even if your payments are smaller. You can also risk owing more than the car is worth if you extend your term too long. Use a financial calculator to compare your options.

Try Our Calculators

When deciding if a refinance is right for you, have a clear goal in mind. Are you looking to reduce your payment, pay your loan off sooner, or maybe both! You have options. Do your research to find what other financial institutions have to offer; lower rates, no fees, and term options that work for you. Run the numbers and take advantage of the tools that are available to you as a member of SafeAmerica Credit Union.

Refinance with us

As a member of SafeAmerica Credit Union, you can refinance your auto loan from another financial institution and take advantage of exclusive member-only savings.

Great rates
Flexible terms
No fees

Learn more about our Auto Loans