ATFCU blog

News, Events, Resources, Tools & Advice

bewildered woman holding shopping bags outside under Christmas lights

Tracking Holiday Spending Keeps Seasonal Stress Down

With the price of just about everything going up and uncertainty all around, it is more important than ever to have a plan for the holidays and stick to it. We've got plenty of ways for you to enjoy the season while staying on a budget. Continue reading
crumpled notes about investing

12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 11: Start Investing

Got your financial house pretty much in order and ready to start investing? Great! There are some big decisions to make, and we can help! Continue reading
Senior Woman looking at laptop

12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 10: Plan for Retirement

Once you’ve got your financial present taken care of, it’s time to plan for your financial future, namely retirement. There are multiple ways to save for your golden years, with a 401(k) through your employer or a conventional or Roth IRA. They each have different rules, so pick the one that fits your needs the best! Continue reading
sticky note and calculator

12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 9: Build and Maintain an Excellent Credit Score

One of the big keys to financial wellness is building your credit score and keeping it high. This score affects a dizzying amount of your adult life, so pay attention to it! Continue reading
Yorkie in robe and eye mask

12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 8: Know When and How to Indulge

Believe it or not, you should make room in your monthly budget for indulgences! Without a little fun every month, you’ll be tempted to go off the rails in a big way at some point and really blow your plans. Just be sure to work it into your budget like any other expense and be sure you get a bang for your buck. Continue reading
man putting hundred dollar bills in breast pocket

12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 7: How to Pay Yourself First

One of the truest secrets to financial wellness is paying yourself first. This means setting aside money for emergency funds and short- and long-term savings goals. Keep an eye on your spending, and trim where you can to make faster progress. As you go along, check in periodically to make sure you’re making the progress you want. Continue reading
two hands clasped together

12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 6: Pay it Forward

When you’re getting your own financial house in order, don’t forget to pay it forward, too! Helping those in your community who are in financial, medical or emotional distress helps the whole community, and everyone benefits. Plus, it just flat makes you feel good! Continue reading
dad with two sons and fathers day card

Fun Gifts for Dad that Won’t Break the Bank

Every dad is different, and when Father's Day rolls around, you want to make sure that your gift for the old man is right on the money. Speaking of money, he taught you to be smart with yours, so don't blow your budget on the present! We've got an array of gift ideas for your dad. Continue reading
man and woman relaxing on couch

12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 5: Practice Mindful Spending

Do you indulge in retail therapy? If so, it's time to look into mindful spending. Instead of making buying an automatic action, actually stop and think every time you spend. Hold each purchase up to the light of good financial sense and you'll find yourself spending less! Continue reading