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Choosing a Credit Card that’s Right for You

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January 2008

Pre-approved credit card offers continue arriving daily in the mail in spite of the recent credit crunch. Many present temptingly low introductory or balance transfer rates. Others dangle “rewards” or “cash back” programs. Their goal: to entice you to apply for their card. If you need a credit card, what factors should you look at to make the best decision for you and your wallet?

This report helps you get past the sales hype so you can truly compare what is the best offer for you. Many members find that CCU will ultimately provide the best value for their situation — competitive rates, fewer or lower fees, and caring member service.

 

Read more: Choosing a Credit Card that’s Right for You

Options for Managing Your Student Loans

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December 2007

An earlier Remar's Report looked at ways to finance higher education and focused on student loans. According to FinAid.org, the average student loan debt for a new graduate is almost $20,000. Whether you're just starting to repay your loans, you've been paying off your student loans for a while, or you're a parent paying off student loans, my report this month looks at the options you have for managing repayment of your loans.

Your repayment options can vary depending upon the types of the loans you have—Federal or Private—the amount you owe, and your financial situation. Consolidation of your loans isn't your only option.

Read more: Options for Managing Your Student Loans

   

Save Dollars and Go Greener at Home

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November 2007

Energy costs have been rising for your home. None of us like to open our utility bills each month. There are various ways to reduce your utility bills including many that have little or no cost. Lowering your utility bills may also make a positive impact on the environment. My review this month offers tips that can help you save money and go greener at home.

No Cost/Low Cost Tips

There are many ways in which you can begin to save money without spending a lot of money.

  • Raise your thermostat in the summer, lower your thermostat in the winter. For each degree you raise or lower your thermostat, you can save anywhere from 1% to 5% on your cooling or heating bill depending on where you live. Use a programmable thermostat to automatically raise or lower the temperature at night and when you are away from home.
  • Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120 degrees. Insulate exposed hot water pipes. Older hot-water storage tanks may benefit from an insulation blanket designed for hot water heaters. 
   

Using Social Networking Sites Wisely—It’s a Matter of Safety and Privacy for You and Your Children

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October 2007

With the phenomenal success of sites such as MySpace.com and Facebook.com, the numbers and variety of social networking websites are exploding on the Internet. Some, such as MySpace and Facebook, attract millions of varied users and others may be targeted at fewer individuals with very specific interests. All share the objective of allowing “members” to communicate, or “network,” with other members, and all require that users share some information about themselves. Social networking sites can be a great place to meet other people with your interests. They can be a fun place to meet and interact with friends. The many positives of these sites, however, come with some real dangers—if you don’t use them wisely. This report provides tips for safely using social networking sites.

What are Social Networking Sites?

Social networking sites are online communities where people from all over the world can meet and share common interests. There are hundreds of these sites, some more well known or larger than others. Joining a site is usually free; and after you join, you typically set up a personalized profile or provide other information (such as a personal blog) that other members can see. Members then communicate using tools provided by the site — instant messaging, chat rooms, blogs, and email. On many sites members can post pictures and videos. Some sites allow other members to post comments on your profile or blog.

Read more: Using Social Networking Sites Wisely—It’s a Matter of Safety and Privacy for You and Your Children

   

Check, Credit Card or Debit Card? Choosing a Payment Method for Security and Convenience

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September 2007

How do you pay for everyday purchases or bills? Cash? Check? Credit Card? Debit Card? If you are like most people, you use a combination of these methods—and more. The advent and growth of electronic banking has encouraged many people to move more and more from paper (cash, checks) to plastic (credit cards, debit cards). All these payment methods have roles to play in personal financial management today.

All have their advantages and drawbacks. All can be used securely with proper precautions. All have consumer protections should fraud or theft occur, but those protections may vary depending on what the issuing institution offers you. This report offers a brief overview of the facts you need to make wise choices for your circumstances.

Read more: Check, Credit Card or Debit Card? Choosing a Payment Method for Security and Convenience

   

Why Not Buy a Car on eBay or Another Online Auction Site?

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August 2007

eBay has become the gorilla of vehicle sales virtually overnight—they’ve facilitated over two million vehicle sales since starting their program. What’s not to like about that?

A lot of things. Before you even head to the eBay site to simply poke around, think about this:

  • When you buy on eBay, you’re typically buying “sight-unseen.”
  • You usually don’t get to drive the vehicle.
  • You’re typically buying from total strangers, and they are usually far away.

Read more: Why Not Buy a Car on eBay or Another Online Auction Site?

   

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Web Links

January 2009

Did you recently get a new computer or other electronics and you don't know what to do with the old stuff. Then check out these sites:

Where Can I Donate or Recycle My Old Computer and Other Electronic Products? — This page from the Environmental Protection Agency can help you find a local program, manufacturer and retailer programs, and government-supported donation and recycling programs.

Electronics Reuse and Recycling Center from GreenerChoices.org — This site from Consumer Reports provides various information about what you can do with your old electronics including donating and recycling.

Federal Reserve Consumer Help
This site is loaded with information from the Federal Reserve Board. Learn more about checking accounts, credit reports, deposit insurance, electronic banking and more. Other sections include file a complaint, find an answer, and other resources.

Tax Tips for 2009
Beginning January 5th, the IRS will issue more than 70 tax tips through the April filing deadline. These easy-to-understand tips cover a wide range of topics.

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