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The Cost of College Life

One of the many mysteries of college, especially freshman year, is what being there is actually going to cost. Sure, you know there’s tuition. But how much will you need to make it through the first semester? The first year? Here’s what to plan for first: the start-up costs of being a college student. Starting […]

Storm clouds

How to Weather an Economic Storm

Ease concerns about how your finances and retirement will hold up during an economic storm. This Coach will help you prepare for the possibility of losing your income, rapidly rising prices, and how an uncertain market can impact your retirement fund. To start this Coach session, click “Start Here.” A feed will appear; follow along […]

Lake McDonald

What is Inflation?

Inflation measures how much prices rise over time. When prices rise, the value of a dollar falls and your purchasing power goes down. The price of goods and services—stuff you buy—isn’t constant; prices change over time. When prices go up, that’s inflation. During moments of inflation, it takes more money to buy products or services. […]

Cyber Security

Recognizing and Avoiding Scams

Con artists cheat Americans out of billions of dollars every year. Recognizing red flags for potential scams can help protect you, your loved ones, and your hard earned cash. Phishing Phishing is when scammers pretend to be someone that they aren’t to gather sensitive information or access to a person’s funds through a credit card or […]

Stock Broker

Stock Market Basics

Investing remains one of the four cornerstones of a strong financial foundation. And, learning how to do it can be both achievable and rewarding. From the list of technical jargon to the overwhelming number of online teaching resources, investing is complicated. What’s a stock? How do I buy one? What’s a trade? What does it […]

What Auto Loan Can I Afford?

You need a car, but how how much can you actually afford? This interactive Coach starts by walking you through a reasonable monthly payment, based on your income and expenses, then shows you a purchase price range that fits your budget. You’ll learn more about auto loans and leases, including interest rates and terms, down […]

Mortgage Application Checklist

One of the most tedious parts of home buying is gathering the right documentation, but prepping beforehand makes it that much easier. The documents required for a mortgage application can be categorized by type: Proof of Income/Employment, Proof of Assets, Credit History, and Residential History. These give potential lenders a glimpse into your situation so […]

Tax Return photo

Your Tax Return Pre-Game

Filing taxes can be intimidating—but not when you have a game plan. In this Coach session, learn the basics of filing your taxes, and how key factors like filing status, deductions, and credits influence what you owe (or get back!). To begin, click here. Follow the prompts, answer the questions, and provide information when asked. […]

Refinancing Loans

Making payments on a loan with suboptimal terms can make you feel trapped. Luckily, refinancing can help you find more suitable terms for the loan.Essentially, refinancing replaces an old loan with a new one with terms that are better for your situation. But it’s not all fanfare and applause—there are tradeoffs associated with refinancing. What Can Be […]

Financial Freedom

Financial Wellness Assessment

Our unique financial wellness assessment lets you take a step back, analyze your spending, budgeting, and saving habits so you can reflect on how you’re currently managing personal finances. This assessment addresses your individual financial decisions and goals before giving you recommendations on where you can improve and how to get started. It also provides […]