MoneyWise Tips to Deepen Your Financial Knowledge

What You Need to Know About Credit Scores

If you’re planning on buying a house, a new car or anything else that requires a loan or line of credit, your credit score (also known as your FICO score) matters. It could even mean the difference between a higher or lower interest rate or, if it’s too low, could prevent you from being approved at all. But not to worry, you can improve your score with the right money moves. Read on for the five things that make up your credit score, plus more MoneyWise tips on building a healthy financial future.
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Knowledge is power. Expanding your knowledge about managing your money can improve your financial stability, empower you to reach your financial goals and protect you from becoming a victim of fraud. We’re here to help you improve your financial wellness one decision at a time by providing guidance and tips from our experts. Browse the blogs below for more helpful topics, give our calculators a spin or search our entire library of topics here.

Managing Credit

How to Pay for College
Whether you’re financing your child’s college education or your own, explore these ways to pay.
Strategies for Paying Off Debt

Debt can be daunting, which is why you need a smart strategy for taming it down to a zero balance.

4 Steps to a Better Credit Score
A good credit score helps you get approved for credit when you need it. Here’s how to boost yours.

Budgeting and Money Management

Have Money Goals? You Need a Budget
Reaching your financial goals starts with making a budget. Here’s how to create one that works for you.
You Need an Emergency Fund
The question isn’t if you’ll need it, it’s when. Be prepared for anything by building an emergency fund.
How to Handle a Financial Setback
Financial setbacks happen, but with some smart planning, you can get yourself back on track in no time.

Saving and Investing

7 Ways to Save for Retirement
Your future self wants you to start saving for retirement now—dive in with these seven tips.
Understanding CD Laddering
A certificate of deposit (CD) is a great tool for your savings mix. Learn how to make the most of them.
Teach Your Child How to Save
Children may not be taught basic financial skills in school. Explore tips to help them start a savings habit.

Path to Homeownership

How to Navigate the Housing Market
There’s rarely a perfect time to buy a house, but our tips for navigating the market can help you prepare.
Adding Value to Your House
Before you dive into renovations, consider which ones will make the most of your investment.
How Home Loans Work
The fun part? Finding a home you love. Here’s what to expect during the loan approval process.

Preventing Fraud

10 Tips to Protect Your Identity
Protecting your identity is more important than ever. Here are 10 simple steps you can take.
Can You Spot a Phishing Scam?

Don't get caught on a phisher's line. Protect yourself by knowing how to spot telltale red flags.

Prevent Elder Financial Abuse
Scams and financial crimes often target people 65. Know how to keep yourself and loves ones safe.

Helping you protect your money is always a top priority for us.

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