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Finance Blog

Welcome to our community finance blog.
Some articles courtesy of our partners at at Kasasa® 
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10 Tips to Navigating Financial Independence
Entering college or moving out on your own for the first time is an exciting phase of life, but it also comes with newfound financial responsibilities. To help you navigate this unknown terrain, our experts share their favorite financial tips to set you on the path to a secure financial future.
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Finance Forum - Tips: Shopping for an Auto Loan

Getting a car loan can be a great way to finance the purchase of a new or used car, but it's important to do your research and make sure you're getting the best deal possible. We have a few tips to keep in mind when considering an auto loan.

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Understanding IRAs: Your Path to a Secure Retirement
An Individual Retirement Account, or IRA, is a tax-advantaged savings vehicle designed to help individuals save for retirement. It is recommended that individuals consult with financial professionals for personalized guidance to determine if an IRA fits into your overall retirement plan.
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Home Equity Line of Credit VS. Home Equity Loan

Two options for leveraging home equity are a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) and a Home Equity Loan. While both options tap into the equity built in a property, they differ significantly in structure, repayment terms, and potential benefits for borrowers.

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Understanding / Preventing Commercial Check Fraud

Check fraud can lead to substantial financial losses and damage a business's reputation. As a responsible business owner, it is crucial to understand the risks of check fraud and implement effective measures to protect your company.

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Financial Resolutions for the New Year

The start of a new year is the perfect time to set goals to improve your financial situation. Whether you want to pay down debt, build savings, or invest wisely, adopting well-defined financial resolutions can help you stay on track.

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Safeguarding Your Finances: Navigating Tax Refund Fraud
While the prospect of a tax refund brings excitement, it also opens doors for potential fraudsters to exploit vulnerabilities in the system. Understanding the potential threats of tax refund fraud is crucial to protecting your assets.
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Get Your Finances In Shape In Only One Afternoon 
Getting your finances in shape may seem intimidating, but it really doesn’t have to be. A few helpful budgeting basics can go a long way. So you can start to develop smarter money management and spending habits.
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Safeguarding Against Financial Elder Abuse
As we age, our financial well-being becomes increasingly important. Unfortunately, there are individuals seeking to exploit senior citizens. Recognize the red flags that may indicate financial elder abuse. 
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Expert Tips for First-Time Homebuyers
Buying a home can be an exciting but daunting experience, especially for first-time buyers who are unfamiliar with the process. Union State Bank (USB), and their team of experienced mortgage lenders, has been helping customers navigate the path to home ownership for over a century.
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Know the Score: Credit Scores Explained

Credit scores are calculated based on data in a person's credit report, and they play a key role in determining loan approvals, interest rates, and more. Understanding the factors that influence a credit score and how it can increase or decrease is essential for maintaining financial health.

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The Vanishing Credit Score: Downside of Debt Pay Off

Paying off debt is one of the most common financial goals. The advantages of becoming debt free are clear. However, experts advise caution when paying off debt or closing credit cards, as it may impact your ability to obtain future credit.