GHCU would like to remind all members to be on the lookout for announcements from GHCU regarding Overdraft Protection (Courtesy Pay). New regulations require that financial institutions who offer overdraft protection give members an opportunity to opt in to such programs. We will soon be providing our members with the opportunity to opt in, if [...]
Spring and summer are popular times to make changes around the house: now that the winter rains are tapering off, perhaps it’s time to work on the roof? Or is that bright sunlight showing off the faded paint and worn-out furniture in the living room? Spring is a great time for fresh starts, so what [...]
Despite all the chaos in the housing market, a home is still a very smart investment, when done carefully. Unlike rent, mortgage payments actually help you build equity—equity which you can tap into when you need cash at a low interest rate (in the form of a home equity loan or line of credit) or [...]
As Americans continue to struggle with economic difficulties, more and more folks find themselves in real danger of losing their home. It’s natural that people in such a situation would look for information and assistance wherever they can find it. Unfortunately, scammers realize this and are finding new ways to prey on vulnerable homeowners.
According to [...]
No question, getting your denied debit card back from an apologetic cashier can be embarrassing. And in an emergency situation—you’re stranded and need a taxi or a tow, for example—having the funds you need may even help you stay safe. Overdraft protection can ensure you have the money you need when you need it, even [...]
With rates for mortgages still dipping into historically low territory, many homeowners are wondering if the time is right for a refinance. Refinancing to a lower rate could potentially save thousands of dollars in interest, shorten the time left on a loan or both. How do you know when a refinance is worth the work?
If [...]
There’s never a bad time to begin or boost your retirement savings, but tax season is a particularly good time to consider your IRA options.
What are the choices?
A traditional IRA allows you to make contributions for immediate tax savings. The earnings of the IRA grow tax-deferred until you begin making withdrawals in retirement. The [...]
If you thought you’d missed out on the tax credit for homebuyers, you’re in luck. On November 6, 2009, President Obama signed into law an extension and expansion of the Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009. The extension of the credit, along with GHCU’s highly competitive rates, local servicing and low fees and the [...]
A high credit score is always a good goal, but in this difficult economy, credit is increasingly difficult—and expensive—to come by. However, those with the highest credit scores get the best rates on loans and credit cards. Here are some tips for improving any credit score:
Get current on your bills and stay there. Late payments [...]
In a troubled economy, it’s more important than ever to keep an eye on your identity. Instances of ID fraud, according to the Javelin Strategy & Research Center, rose 22% from 2007 to 2008. According to their study, stolen personal information (obtained from a stolen wallet or purse) accounted for 43% of all ID theft; [...]
