Should You Contribute to an IRA?

Many Americans are lucky enough to have a retirement savings plan through their employers. If you don’t have that option, an Individual Retirement Account – or IRA – allows anyone with earned income to save for retirement. And if you’re self-employed, you can use an IRA to create your own retirement plan. In addition, there are special rules that may allow a stay-at-home spouse to contribute to one as well. Continue reading

Ask the Advisor: Disaster-Proof Your Insurance Coverage

Laura Holmes is a Licensed Insurance Agent with SchoolsFirst Insurance Services, specializing in personal lines policy.  With more than 10 years of experience in the insurance industry, Laura has developed an understanding of the importance of insurance and managing risk. She is dedicated  to assisting Members in understanding what is needed to properly protect themselves and their family. 

Most people don’t worry much about their insurance coverage until they need it. So if you haven’t read your policy’s fine print—believe me, you’re not alone. That’s why I recommend getting a complimentary insurance review to help you figure out if you have what you need. Continue reading

Tips to Be a Safe Mobile User

Having an actual conversation is just one small part of today’s mobile experience. Now, more than ever, people are using their phones for banking, doing things like budgeting, paying bills, transferring funds and depositing checks.

In a recent survey conducted by the Federal Reserve, 52% of smartphone owners are mobile bankers. But for those who are resistant to the idea, one reason cited was their concern about security. According to Juan Lepe, Vice President of Information Technology Planning and Risk at SchoolsFirst FCU, secure mobile banking is really a partnership between financial institutions and consumers.

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