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Freedom First Credit Union How to Combat Inflation & Rising Credit Card Rates


It’s pretty safe to say that everyone has felt the effects of inflation at this point. While some inflation is good for the economy, such a dramatic rise in a short period continues to send prices soaring. To stop the climb, the Federal Reserve continues to raise the federal funds rate – a move that further hits consumers’ wallets.

Many people are turning to credit cards to help manage rising prices and make ends meet. Unfortunately, moves by the Federal Reserve are causing credit card rates to spike – giving people a double punch right in the wallet. Rising prices plus rising interest rates can create a costly debt spiral that’s difficult to escape.


Freedom First Credit Union Spending Wisely with Credit Cards


Let’s face it…while credit cards are a great way to build your credit, they can get you into trouble if you’re not careful.  With so many people taking advantage of the ease of online shopping these days, overspending can happen fast, and before you know it, you’re up to your ears in debt.

Taking control of your spending is essential to maintaining a good credit score. And, when used appropriately, credit cards can actually help your financial situation.


Freedom First Credit Union Strategies to Pay Off Credit Card Debt


These days it’s easier than ever to make purchases. With most items only requiring a click, tap, or swipe of a credit card, you’re able to quickly purchase an item without ever thinking twice about it.

The problem lies in that most people don’t keep track of how many times they’re using their cards in a month. Then, when their statement comes, they realize just how fast all those little charges can add up. As a result, anxiety quickly sets in when trying to figure out exactly how to pay the outstanding balance.

Before you jump right into trying to pay down debt or hiding your statements hoping the debt will go away, it’s essential to have a strategy in place that will help you pay off your credit card debt.


Freedom First Credit Union Why You Should Keep Your Credit Cards Active

When you work diligently to pay off a credit card, nothing is more satisfying than seeing the balance hit $0. It’s a eureka moment – filled with accomplishment and freedom. And your next desire may be to shred the credit card and close the account. But is that the right move?


Freedom First Credit Union Is it Time to Look for a New Credit Card?

 

If you’re like most people, you probably have one or more credit cards in your wallet. Credit cards are one of the easiest and most convenient forms of payment, making them so popular today. Plus, with the ability to purchase just about anything and pay for it over time, many people tend to turn to them first.


Freedom First Credit Union How to Finance Your Home Improvement Projects

Your home is more than just a house. It’s where you create memories with friends and family. It’s a reflection of you and your personality. It’s a financial investment. And, since the pandemic started, it’s a place where you spend a lot of time!

Customizing your living space to fit your needs and building an environment where you feel comfortable is a common goal among homeowners. However, deciding the right way to finance these projects can be quite confusing.

From upgrading furniture to remodeling a kitchen or even putting in a pool, there are a variety of financing options available. To find the solution that will work best for your project, review the following alternatives below.


Freedom First Credit Union Dos & Don'ts of Getting Your First Credit Card

Dos & Don’ts of Getting Your First Credit Card

Opening your first credit card can be both an exciting and daunting experience. On the one hand, a credit card offers more financial freedom and flexibility. On the other hand, you likely heard horror stories of people falling into a debt cycle that’s hard to escape.

The truth is that you should start working to build your credit score as soon as you’re able. Even if you have no plans to purchase a car or rent an apartment anytime soon, building credit takes time. And while it may seem backward, one of the best times to build credit is when you’re a young adult with limited financial obligations.


Freedom First Credit Union Double Check Your Loans Before the End of the Year

With the holidays quickly approaching, your mind is probably focused on gift lists, decorations, travel plans, and family events. But the end of the year is also the perfect time to review your loans.

While loans typically make up members’ largest monthly expenses — from mortgages and car loans to student loans and credit cards — they also provide some of the most significant saving opportunities. Taking time to review your existing loans and looking for opportunities to save could put you in a much better financial position as a new year rolls around.


Freedom First Credit Union 6 Ways to Boost Your Credit Score

An excellent credit score is the ultimate goal of the financially responsible consumer. Those three magic digits tell a story of accountability, good financial sense, and the ability to spend mindfully. A great credit score also unlocks doors for large, affordable loans; employment opportunities, and more.

Its significance notwithstanding, achieving and maintaining an excellent credit score is easier said than done. There is no quick and easy way to dramatically boost your score over a short amount of time, but you can take steps to increase your credit score gradually. Below, we’ve listed six ways you can start amping up your credit score today.


Freedom First Credit Union How a Credit Card Balance Transfer Works

Credit card debt is one of those things that can easily sneak up on you. This can especially be the case when you have high-interest credit cards in your wallet. Luckily, there’s a strategy you can use to get your credit card debt back under control and save money at the same time called a balance transfer.


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