Nov 03, 2017
Shop Smart & Cut Your Grocery Bill

Shop Smart & Cut Your Grocery Bill

Everyone knows you'll save money by making lunch & dinner instead of eating out. However, it's still important to shop smart when you go to the grocery store. Here are some ways to spend less. Save By Planning You can definitely save money with proper preparation. Creating a weekly meal plan, for example, will focus your efforts and prevent impulse buying. You can even check online for coupons or in your mailbox for supermarket circulars and use sale prices to set your menu. Get on a schedule, too, so you don't find yourself grocery shopping every day. Once you decide…
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Nov 01, 2017

Security Update: Safety for the Season

Protecting yourself online is important to maintain financial health, no matter where we are on the calendar. But as we look toward the holidays, it’s a good idea to be aware of & avoid these pitfalls. Malicious messages: Emails from family and friends invite recipients to click on cards, videos, and animations. While some are harmless, cybercriminals can imbed viruses and spyware—open all attachments and URLs with care. Phishing with friends: Many on social media will use the upcoming downtime to network. Unfortunately, these sites are often where phishing attacks take place. Think twice about adding those you don’t really know and…
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Nov 01, 2017

Save Some Cash & Do Some Good

Everyone knows it’s better to give than receive, but as a member of America First, you can do both! Apply to skip a loan payment* for only $25 and, when you take advantage of this option during the holidays, we’ll contribute $5 to the America First Charitable Foundation, assisting the less-fortunate. Then you’ll be free to go shopping, get caught up on your bills—anything you see fit. Plus, you'll be helping someone in need. To see if you qualify, log in here, then click the Other Services tab. *Terms and conditions apply. Not all loans are eligible. The America First…
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Nov 01, 2017

Assistance in Achieving Financial Health

America First Financial Solutions, provided through CUSO Financial Services, LP (CFS*), makes available a variety of products that complement those offered by the credit union. Dedicated CFS advisors work with you to develop an economic roadmap that includes: 401k and thrift savings rollovers Life insurance & long-term care Higher education planning Retirement planning Call 1-800-999-3961 for a no-cost, no-obligation appointment or send your request to affsolutions@cusonet.com. *Non-deposit investment products and services are offered through CUSO Financial Services, L.P. (CFS), a registered broker-dealer (Member FINRA/SIPC) and SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Products offered through CFS are not NCUA/NCUSIF or otherwise federally insured,…
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Oct 31, 2017

5 tips to help you stick to a budget

America First recently concluded its 13th Annual Community Food Drive. The food drive, held at all branch locations throughout Utah and southern Nevada, collected 18,400 pounds of food. This equates to over 15,000 meals for those in need. Nicole Cypers from America First Credit Union talks more about it: Our employees loaded all food donations into trucks which were then distributed to local food pantries and food banks. Thanks to all the America First Credit Union employees that participated. The holidays are upon us and as Utah’s largest credit union, they know the importance of giving back to others. They’ve recently launched…
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Oct 27, 2017
Last-Minute Halloween Costumes on a Budget

Last-Minute Halloween Costumes on a Budget

Believe it or not, there are some people who have their Halloween costume picked out before the Fourth of July. For others, finding something spooky to wear is a last-minute scramble on the afternoon of October 31. If you're reading this, it's probably because you're one of the latter and you need some quick inspiration. Here are some ideas for easy DIY costumes you can make on a budget. Swamp Creature Buy some inexpensive green and black plastic tablecloths from your local dollar store. Slice them into strips to wear on your head, shoulders & waist to become a mossy…
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Oct 24, 2017

October Give Back Winner 10/24/17

It's not always easy doing the right thing, but it does have its rewards. The community has gotten stronger after recent events and there's one group that works nonstop to help. Meet this month's 'Give Back Winner' from the Las Vegas Metro Police Department. This segment is sponsored by America First Credit Union. Source
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Oct 20, 2017
Credit Union History Steeped in Cooperation

Credit Union History Steeped in Cooperation

Credit unions began forming in Germany during the mid-19th century. Due to famine and crop failure, Herman Schulze-Delitzsch organized a cooperatively owned bakery & mill so local citizens could buy bread at discounted prices. The operation was so successful that, in 1850, he applied the same idea to the financial sector and created what he called the people's bank. Another German named Friedrich Raiffeisen established the Heddesdorf Credit Union in 1864 to give nearby farmers livestock and farming equipment purchasing opportunities. Raiffeisen based the group on philosophies of self-governance, stating that once you defeat dependency, you can fight poverty. Expansion…
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Oct 13, 2017
Stay Warm & Save on Heating Costs

Stay Warm & Save on Heating Costs

As the weather turns colder, heaters are kicking on and many folks find themselves paying higher energy bills. However, keeping your home at a comfortable temperature doesn't have to cost a lot. Here are some tips on how to stay warm and still save money on heating costs. Dress Appropriately Don't rely just on the furnace to keep toasty in the winter—dress in warm clothes. Wear socks or a comfy jacket and you won't have to turn the temperature up as high. Use cushy blankets while watching TV on the couch and put thick comforters & sheets on your bed.…
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