News & Financial Education

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Fall Budgeting Tips for Portland College Students

Summary: Living and studying in Portland can get expensive, but with smart planning, you can keep your finances balanced while enjoying all the city has to offer. Track your spending, use local student discounts, rely on public transportation, and tap into Trailhead Credit Union’s tools and community resources to make your money go further this semester.   Whether you’re new … Read On »

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Unexpected Ways Portland Homeowners Can Use a Home Equity Loan

Summary: A home equity loan isn’t just for home upgrades. Portland homeowners can also use it to consolidate high-interest debt, fund education, build an ADU, start a business, or invest in sustainability upgrades. With fixed rates and flexible terms, Trailhead Credit Union makes it easy to tap into your home’s value to reach new goals.   If you’re a homeowner … Read On »

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Portland Renters: How to Save for a Home While Paying High Rent

Living in Portland means access to lush parks, a thriving food scene, and walkable neighborhoods, but it also means navigating some of the highest rents in the Pacific Northwest. For many renters, saving for a house while renting can feel like an impossible dream. The good news? It’s possible to start building a down payment, even while renting. With the … Read On »

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Mastering the Art of Budgeting for Portland Foodies

Portland is a foodie’s paradise. The city’s dining scene is vibrant and diverse, showcasing a mix of innovative new restaurants and beloved local favorites. Portland continues to be recognized as a top food destination, with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and unique culinary experiences. But can you find affordable dining in Portland? In other words, is it possible … Read On »

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Take Control of Your Finances with Insights Money Manager

Unlock Financial Clarity: Insights is Now Available Take control of your financial future with Insights, our free money management tool now available within Trailhead’s digital banking. Effortlessly monitor your cash flow, set personalized financial goals, plan your monthly budget, and track your net worth—all in one place. The power of Insights extends beyond your Trailhead accounts. Seamlessly integrate external accounts, … Read On »

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The Portlander’s Guide to Using Your Credit Union for Small Business Banking

If you reside in Multnomah County, Ore., chances are you’re a customer, employee, or owner of a small business. The Portland Metro Chamber defines small businesses as firms with one to 50 employees. According to the Chamber’s “2023 State of Small Business” report, 94% of business establishments in Multnomah County are small businesses. Forty-one percent of small businesses in Portland … Read On »

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How Portland’s Gig Economy Workers Can Manage Their Finances

The gig economy offers flexibility and freedom, but it often comes with financial uncertainties. Managing irregular income while ensuring long-term financial health requires thoughtful planning. According to neilsberg.com, Multnomah County has consistently been the leading contributor to Oregon’s gig economy, growing by 23 percent from 2012 to 2019. While 2024 data specifically for Portland is limited, estimates suggest continued growth … Read On »

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Top Tips to Avoid Holiday Scams

The holiday season is a time of joy, cheer, and unfortunately, increased opportunities for scammers. As online shopping and digital payments become more prevalent, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and protect your hard-earned money. Here are some top tips to help you avoid holiday scams and safeguard your finances: 1. Be Wary of Phishing Emails, Texts, and Phone Calls Don’t … Read On »

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Top 3 Certificate Saving Strategies: Which One is Right for You?

What is a Certificate Account? A certificate account, also known as a certificate of deposit (CD) in banking, is a type of savings account that holds a fixed amount of money for a set period (the “term”) and, in return, pays interest on a specified rate. During the term, the account holder agrees not to withdraw the money without facing … Read On »

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10 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a New Car

 In the market for a new or used vehicle? With more to be mindful of besides the initial cost, a vehicle is one of the most expensive purchases many of us will make. So before heading out to the car lot, check out this list of 10 common mistakes to avoid when buying a new car: 1.   Failing to Set … Read On »