man giving credit card to grocery cashier

Using Credit

Using CreditBorrowing money makes it possible to afford things that you couldn’t otherwise, but take time to understand what you’re signing up for in order to stay on top of payments as well any benefits your credit offers. Paying it Back Let’s be clear right from the beginning: when you pay for something with credit, you’re still on the hook …

family volunteering at soup kitchen

For Holidays, Less is More

Spending Less This Holiday SeasonThis holiday season, during a pandemic and product shortages, could less be more? Another holiday season is upon us, and for the second year in a row, the impacts of COVID will likely color the celebrations. While the season is an opportunity to focus on the things that matter most in life, exchanging gifts is a long-standing tradition and a way to share joy …

two hundred dollar bills formed to shape a paper house on a table

Making a Down Payment On a House

Making a Down Payment on a HouseA lot goes into buying a home, but one of the biggest hurdles for many is saving enough for a down payment. What is a Down Payment? A down payment is a percentage of the home’s purchase price that you pay upfront. In other words, the down payment is the part of what you …

couple looking at bank statement at kitchen table

Tracking Your Joint Expenses

Tracking Your Joint ExpensesIt’s hard enough keeping track of your own expenses. So you shouldn’t be surprised that managing money as a team effort can test your patience, especially if your partner has a different method of keeping financial records—or worse, no method at all.In some ways, it’s easier for you today than it was for your parents or grandparents, …

middle-aged woman sitting in front of laptop with cup of coffee, smiling

Earning Extra Income

Earning Extra IncomeThinking about having a side hustle to earn extra spending money or help with your monthly expenses? When it comes to earning extra income, you’ve got options—and those options have options! In this Coach session, walk through the ins and outs of extra income, including expenses and tax implications.  To begin the Coach session, select Get Started. Next, …

couple looking at mortgage application checklist in new house

Mortgage Application Checklist

Mortgage Application ChecklistOne 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 they see whether you’re …

row of new cars at dealership

Getting a Car

Getting a CarWhen looking for a new car, you have three main options: buy used, buy new, or lease. There are pros and cons to each method. Your choice will be based on various financial considerations, driving habits, and personal preference. Buying Used Buying a used car is appealing to many people. Used cars are less expensive up-front, and they …

father giving coin change to his son at home

Back to School: How to Talk to Kids About Money

Back to School: How to Talk to Kids About MoneyIt’s an excellent time to teach your kids about the basics of money and spendingWhen we think of back to school, we think of what our kids will learn to set themselves up for success as adults. Among these is understanding finances and managing money. Parents may question the best time …

Shirley Raines with Rachel Ray on The Rachel Ray show, holding a giant check for $10,000 donation to her organization, Beauty 2 The Streets, from LA Financial Credit Union

Helping to bring Beauty 2 The Streetz

Giving Back To Our CommunitiesWe help Beauty 2 The Streetz Founder bring self-care To LA’s homeless with a surprise donation!  We made a surprise donation to the non-profit organization Beauty 2 the Streetz on The Rachael Ray Show today! Rachel Ray surprised Beauty 2 the Streetz founder Shirley Raines with a check for $10,000, courtesy of LA Financial Credit Union, during …