Summer Money Check-In
Summer Money Check-In: Smart Ways to Refresh Your Finances This June
June is the perfect time for a financial reset. As summer begins, many members are planning vacations, home projects, or simply looking for ways to stay on track with their goals. A quick mid-year check-in can make a big difference — and Universal 1 Credit Union (U1) has tools to help you every step of the way.
Chip Card Scam
Physical Card Fraud: Understanding the Chip Card Scam
At Universal 1 Credit Union (U1), your security is always our priority. The FBI recently issued an alert about a new type of physical card fraud that is becoming more common. We want to help you understand how this scam works so you can stay protected.
Mobile Banking Tips
Mobile Banking Tips Every U1 Member Should Know
Mobile banking has become the everyday financial hub for many Universal 1 Credit Union members. It’s fast, convenient, and secure, especially when you know how to get the most out of it. Whether you’re checking balances on the go or depositing a check from your couch, these tips will help you use the U1 Mobile App with confidence.
Retirement Planning by Age and Life Stage
The Key Decisions That Shape Your Retirement Years
Saving for retirement plays a key role in long-term financial independence and peace of mind. While retirement may feel far away—especially early in your career—starting to plan in your 20s can make a meaningful difference over time. As life changes, your retirement strategy should evolve with it.
You should aim to save multiples of your annual salary for retirement, with general benchmarks being 1x your salary by 30, 3x by 40, 6x by 50, 8x by 60, and 10x by 67, though these are guidelines and can vary based on lifestyle and goals, with saving 10-15% of your income annually often recommended
This decade-by-decade guide offers general savings benchmarks and practical tips to help you stay on track, no matter where you are in your financial journey.
Don’t Overlook Property Taxes When Buying a Home
Don’t Overlook Property Taxes When Buying a Home.
From saving for a down payment to planning for closing costs, there’s a lot to budget for when buying a home. But one big expense is often overlooked: property taxes.
We know — kitchen upgrades and paint colors are much more exciting to think about. But property taxes play a major role in the true cost of homeownership. Depending on where you live, they can add thousands of dollars to your annual budget. Let’s walk through the basics so you feel prepared.
Turn Your Home's Equity Into Opportunity
Use Your Home’s Equity to Strengthen Your Finances
Owning a home is more than just putting down roots—it’s an opportunity to build equity and improve your long-term financial health. At Universal 1 Credit Union (U1), we believe that understanding how equity works—and how to use it strategically—can open the door to new possibilities.
Let’s explore how paying off your mortgage faster, using a home equity line of credit or loan, and refinancing at the right time can help you make the most of your investment.
Understanding Closing Costs
What You Need to Know
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it comes with more than just your down payment. When you “close” on your home, you’ll also need to pay closing costs—a collection of fees and expenses that make your mortgage official.