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October 28, 2026

Cash-Out Refinancing for Debt Consolidation: Benefits, Costs, and Considerations

Explore how a cash-out refinance, home equity loan, or HELOC can help consolidate high-interest debt and potentially lower monthly payments. Compare the benefits, costs, and risks of using home equity for debt consolidation to find the right option for your financial goals.

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Recent Posts

Financial Coaching

 July 24, 2026

Choosing the Right Cash Back Card for You

By Matt Ward

Discover how cack credit cards work, compare the most popular rewards structures, and see why the HAPO Cash Back Visa® is a smart everyday choice.

Read More5 minutes
Financial Coaching

 June 26, 2026

Is It Time to Go Digital with Your Payments?

By Matt Ward

Mobile wallets offer users a safer, faster, and more convenient way to pay, and the drawbacks are few and far between.

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More Posts

Financial Coaching

How MX Money Compares to Popular Financial Management Apps

By Matt Ward

This blog compares several popular money management platforms, including MX Money, Rocket Money, Monarch, and YNAB, highlighting their features, pricing, and overall user experience.

 May 12, 2026
Financial Coaching

Last-Minute Tips for Filing Your Federal Taxes

By Matt Ward

Still need to file your federal tax return? Don't worry, theres still time. Get last-minute tips to help you file your federal taxes on time, including what documents to gather, how to use filing tools, and how to handle payments or request an extension.

 April 8, 2026
Financial Coaching

5 Ways to Improve Your Financial Wellness in the New Year

By Matt Ward

We explore five simple, practical habits that can help improve financial wellness in the new year, from monthly money check-ins to automating savings and payments. By focusing on consistency rather than perfection, these small steps can reduce stress, strengthen financial confidence, and build momentum toward long-term financial goals.

 January 28, 20265 minutes
Financial Coaching

Know Before You Grow: Investing Essentials for Starters

By Matt Ward

Before you jump into the market, it helps to understand the essentials. Learn the simple strategies and timeless principles that can set you up for long-term success.

 September 18, 20254 minutes
Financial Coaching

Raising Financially Smart Kids

By Sebrina Wizner

Raising financially smart kids doesn’t happen by accident—it takes intention, everyday conversations, and a few creative approaches.

 May 19, 20254 mins
Financial Coaching

Give Your Child a Head Start on Money Confidence

By Marcelo Quintana

We believe that building strong communities starts with something simple: helping people understand their money. It’s why we’re here, and it’s especially important when it comes to the next generation.

 April 10, 20254 mins
Financial Coaching

The Impact of Modern Spending Habits on Consumer Behavior

By Annie Jacobs

In today’s fast-paced digital world, convenience is king. With just a few taps on your smartphone or clicks on your computer, you can have almost anything delivered to your doorstep. From "Buy Now, Pay Later" schemes to the allure of one-click shopping and subscription services, the ease of spending can sometimes lead to financial pitfalls.

 December 2, 20245 mins
Financial Coaching

How to Consume Less, Budget More, and Be More Financially Responsible

By Annie Jacobs

From ads on social media to enticing sales, the pressure to spend is everywhere. However, adopting a more financially responsible lifestyle is both possible and essential for long-term stability. Here’s a practical guide on how to consume less, budget more, and take charge of your financial future.

 September 9, 20244 mins
Financial Coaching

Middle Ground: The Shrinking American Middle Class and What It Means for the Future

By Annie Jacobs

The American middle class, once the backbone of the nation's economy, has been shrinking over the past 50 years. In 1971, 61% of U.S. adults were in the middle class, but by 2021, that number dropped to 50%. Meanwhile, more people have either moved into the upper-income or fallen into the lower-income tiers.

 September 9, 20244 mins
Financial Coaching

Navigating Finances After the Loss of a Spouse

By Mylene Leasure

We recognize losing a spouse is an incredibly challenging and extremely emotional experience. Amidst the grief, it's essential for the surviving spouse to take control of their finances. Here's an overview along with a downloadable guide to help you through this difficult process.

 February 6, 2024
Financial Coaching

Transforming the Member Experience through AI

By Jeremy O'Niel

In the world of modern banking, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought about a transformative change in the customer experience. In this post, we're going to explore how AI supports the member experience, making banking smarter and more convenient for our members.

 November 9, 20232 mins
Financial Coaching

Building Stronger Communities

By Crystal Contreras

Credit unions are not just financial institutions; they are member-owned cooperatives that have a vested interest in the success and well-being of their communities. One aspect of credit unions' mission is advocacy.

 June 9, 20233 mins
Financial Coaching

Financial Growth Is Not Always Linear

By Adrianna Hammitt

The journey of a person’s financial growth from failure to success is not always linear. It took one of my members a few years to realize the relationship between failures and success, and she has grown to be resilient in the process.

 July 6, 20212 Mins
Financial Coaching

Real Stories of Financial Transformation

By Annie Jacobs

Here is a story about someone eager to get back on their feet, create a budget, build their credit and find a job, told by one of our financial coaches. The names of the individuals have been changed to protect their privacy.

 April 16, 20212 Mins
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