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Smart Ways to Use a Year-End Bonus or Extra Income

Whether it’s an end-of-year bonus, a tax refund or some other form of unexpected money—the arrival of extra income feels great. However, don’t be tempted to run out and spend that money immediately. When used smartly, extra income can be the difference between financial health and financial hurt. Here’s a guide on how to smartly […]

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Setting Financial Goals for 2025: A Roadmap to Success

As we approach the end of 2024, it’s the perfect time to start planning for a financially successful 2025. Harvard Federal Credit Union is here to help you kickstart your financial journey with some practical tips and strategies. 

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Family Financial Check-In This Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, we look forward to spending quality time with family, reflecting on what we’re grateful for, and enjoying delicious meals together. While the holiday season is often associated with joy and togetherness, it’s also an ideal time to take a moment to check in on the financial health of your family. Financial conversations […]

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How to Dispute a Credit Report Error

A recent survey from Consumer Reports reveals that 44% of Americans have found at least one error on their credit report. These mistakes can seriously affect your credit score, making it harder to get approved for loans or credit cards, or even causing higher interest rates.

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Financial Impact Of The Holidays On Your Credit Score

The winter holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year—but they can also be the most expensive. With gift buying, holiday travel and festive gatherings galore, the holiday season may have an outsize impact on your bank account and your credit score.  

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Financial Support for Veterans: Key Resources to Know

Veterans Day is an important opportunity to acknowledge the service of those who have served in the military. It’s also a time to consider the financial challenges many veterans face after returning to civilian life. Adjusting to life outside the military can be difficult, especially when it comes to managing finances, navigating complex benefit systems, […]

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Rainy Day Funds: Why You Need One and How to Build It

Life is full of surprises—some wonderful (like a surprise birthday party) and others not so much, like an unexpected car repair or medical bill. While you can’t always predict when these surprises will happen, you can prepare for them financially. That’s where a rainy day fund comes in—a dedicated stash of cash to handle the […]

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What Is Compound Interest?

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Let your money work for you,” but have you ever wondered how it works? The answer lies in the power of compound interest—one of the most important concepts in personal finance. Understanding how compound interest works can make a huge difference in your savings, investments, and overall financial success. So, […]

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Strategies for Managing a High Debt-to-Income Ratio

The number crunchers over at the Federal Reserve monitor how much of the nation’s disposable income goes toward household debt payments. As it turns out, the average American is spending almost 10% of their monthly income on debt payments. (Surprised? Neither are we.) Dealing with a high debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is stressful. Especially for those who are […]

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529 Plans Explained: Tax-Advantaged Savings for Education

Between daily responsibilities like paying bills and keeping up with life’s demands, saving for your child’s education might seem like another overwhelming task on your to-do list. But if you’re considering a 529 plan, you’re already taking a smart step towards securing your child’s future. So, What Exactly is a 529 Plan?

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Home Safety for Aging Adults

Even a small accident can have a major impact on an older adult’s quality of life—and many such accidents occur in the home. You can help prevent home injuries for yourself or aging family members by taking a few simple steps, outlined below. These precautionary measures are easy to implement yet might make a huge […]

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Don’t Be Haunted By Financial Mistakes

Tis the season for ghosts and ghouls, but the real October threat isn’t coming from the graveyard—it’s coming from our checking account! Just in time for Halloween, here are eight spooky financial pitfalls to steer clear of, so you won’t be haunted by past financial mistakes.  

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Membership

Banking that's all about you. At Harvard FCU, we believe a brighter world is possible, and that together, we can all help create it. That’s…
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Introducing Business Banking

At Harvard FCU, we have always been inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of our members. That’s why we are thrilled to announce that Harvard FCU has launched business banking services, carefully designed to help your small business thrive. Our business banking offerings are built for the unique challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship. These will include […]

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When to Open a Business Banking Account

If you’re starting a small business or working as a sole proprietor, experts recommend that you open a business banking account. A business bank account can streamline your financial management and in some cases it’s even required by the law. Read on for a closer look at ten moments when you should consider opening a […]

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Business Savings Accounts

Savings that grow with your business. Unlock the potential of your business’s savings with our tailored banking solutions! Our business savings accounts, including certificates of…
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Almost Autumn: Checking In On Your Personal Finances

The turning of the seasons is usually a good time to check in on your personal finances. Are you on track to meet your financial goals? What’s the status of your accounts, your debts and your credit? Reassess your personal finances this autumn with our checklist of six to-do items:

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Welcome, Freshman: A College Guide to Credit Success

Sending your child off to college is a monumental milestone, and while you’re probably focusing on packing lists, course schedules, and student loans, there’s another essential topic that deserves attention: credit utilization. Learning how to manage credit is a crucial skill that can set your freshman up for long-term financial success.

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Business Banking Documents

Select your business type below to confirm the documentation that the Credit Union will need to collect from you.Select your business type:Documentation Required: Business Certificate…
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Beyond Banking: How Building a Relationship with Your Financial Institution Benefits You

For most of us, the relationship we have with our financial institution feels purely transactional—depositing paychecks, withdrawing cash, and managing bills online in the space of a few clicks. However, forming a deeper relationship with your bank or credit union can unlock benefits that go beyond simple transactions. When you take the time to establish […]

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Finance Olympics – Do You Have What It Takes To Bring Home A Medal?

As remarkable athletes compete on the world stage, it’s time for a smart-money competition a little closer to home. Welcome to the Personal Finance Olympics! Check off the personal finance benchmarks below to see if you can bring home any medals.

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National Parents’ Day: Preparing for a Newborn

National Parents’ Day recognizes the important role parents play for their families and communities. This year, in honor of National Parents’ Day on July 28, we’re taking a closer look at the financial considerations of being a new parent. From baby budgeting to insurance coverage to guardianship and more, here’s some financial food for thought […]

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Refinancing: What Is It And Why?

The more financial terminology you know, the better prepared you will be to secure the best financial products and manage your debt. Today, we’re taking a look at refinancing. What is refinancing, why does it matter and what more do you need to know? Keep reading for the full scoop on refinancing.

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3 Personal Finance Tips for College Graduates

You’ve graduated from college. Congrats! Leaving school entails plenty of excitement ahead—but what about your finances? Read on for three tips to get your post-grad finances in great shape.

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Credit Unions 101: State vs. Federal Charter

Smart financial management starts with understanding the institution that looks after your financial needs. Why might people choose a credit union to manage their financial needs, as opposed to a traditional bank, and what exactly is a credit union charter? Read on to learn more!

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FAFSA Deadline: June 30th, 2024

Are you or your child considering applying for financial aid for college? Understanding the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is essential. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know. What is FAFSA and Why is it Important? FAFSA is a crucial form for students seeking financial assistance for higher education. It […]

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Brand

We look forward to growing with you. HUECU will now be Harvard Federal Credit Union. Since our founding in 1939, we have always grown and…
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Finances of Startups

An estimated 10% of startups fail within the first year, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; but that’s no reason to give up on your dream of starting a small business! If you’re looking to get your startup off the ground, here are five tips on keeping startup finances strong.

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Top 10 Financial Lessons of 2023

As we make our way through the beginning of the year, it’s time to reflect on the financial lessons that 2023 has brought us. The past year was marked by various economic shifts, uncertainties, and opportunities that have left us with valuable insights for managing our finances better. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or […]

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Working Around Bad Credit

Missing credit card or loan payments, declaring bankruptcy or holding onto debt can all lower your credit score. Bad credit is typically defined as having a credit score of 600 or less, but any score under 670 will likely impact your ability to get the best rates on financial products and meet immediate credit needs. […]

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Investing in Real Estate

This blog post was written by SAC member Jawahir Mohamed

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Celebrating National Energy Conservation Day

This blog post was written by SAC member David Gonzalez

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Graduation Cash Back Benefit

Thank you for choosing Harvard FCU for your education financing needs, and congratulations on graduating! Please review the qualifying criteria below prior to requesting this…
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Short-Term Investments: The Basics

When it comes to investing, it’s a smart idea to consider both long-term and short-term investments. Long-term investments cover retirement accounts and stock market portfolios designed to earn steady returns over time. However, it’s also possible to make short-term investments—particularly when interest rates are high, as they are in 2023. From bonds to CDs to […]

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FAFSA Changes to Family Aid

Upcoming changes to the FAFSA are likely to affect family finances, in a few different ways. If you have a family member who is in college or heading to university soon, read on to understand more about the revised FAFSA.

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Managing Household Finances During a Strike

When there is a worker’s strike, households can face some unique challenges. Whether you’re directly involved or indirectly affected, keeping a few things in mind can help ease the situation. Here’s some advice from our partners at GreenPath Financial Wellness! First, communication is key. Make sure everyone in the household understands what’s happening and why. […]

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Finances of Going Green

What does it cost to go green? Living a more sustainable lifestyle can be costly, but if you’re prepared for expenses and spending smartly, it can also save you money. Read on for a quick rundown on the various finances of going green.

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What to Do if Your Emergency Fund Runs Out

The experts say it’s a good idea to keep three to six months of living expenses in an emergency savings account. But what happens if your emergency fund runs out? Read on for a few tips on how to move forward smartly and, eventually, rebuild your emergency savings.

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Managing Medical Bills

The research shows that around four in ten adults in the US are living with debt from medical or dental bills, with nearly half owing at least $2,500 and one in eight owing $10,000 or more.

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Working Through the Financial Impact of Natural Disasters

It’s a sobering fact that many of us experience the unfortunate impact of natural disasters. A recent survey showed that four-in-ten Americans say their local community has experienced severe weather like floods, storms, extreme temperatures, wildfires, and other disasters. During weather threats, many families act to ensure their safety and wellbeing, recover treasured possessions and survive […]