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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 »

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Your Ultimate Guide to Deposit Accounts

What is a deposit account? A deposit account is simply an account where you can safely store money. In this deposit account guide, we’ll look at various forms of deposit accounts, how to use them, and how they can help you reach your financial goals. First, here’s a glossary of terms associated with deposit accounts: Annual Percentage Yield (APY): The … Read On »

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His Future Starts Now

Grow Your Child’s Future with Trailhead’s Easy Saver Certificate. As parents, ensuring a bright future for our children is our top priority. One crucial aspect of preparing them for success is teaching them financial responsibility from a young age. At Trailhead Credit Union, we understand the importance of starting early when it comes to financial education and planning. The Easy … Read On »

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Save for Your Child’s Education

Open a Coverdell Education Savings Account. College can be expensive, and planning for your child’s education early is a smart financial move. Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) are a great way to save for future education costs while enjoying tax benefits. Here at Trailhead Credit Union, we understand the importance of education savings, and we’re happy to offer Coverdell ESAs … Read On »

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How to Pivot Your Finances During Inflation

Is the skyrocketing cost of everything from food to fuel making you stress? Don’t panic – pivot! Inflation erodes the value of money over time, which means your purchasing power is reduced. You see the effects of inflation when you buy groceries for your family, gas up your car, or buy a big-box item like a new washer and dryer. … Read On »

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4 Strategies for Building an Emergency Fund

Life happens. Pipes burst, cars get rear-ended, or unexpected medical bills appear. An emergency fund can help keep you on track financially, even when life takes an unexpected turn. In practice, saving money—no matter what you’re saving for—can be challenging. A recent NerdWallet survey found that although 9 in 10 Americans have a regular saving habit, 45% of Americans could … Read On »