Category Archives: Guest Blog

The Do’s & Don’ts of Financial Planning for Couples

When it comes to combining finances in a relationship, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Planning involves more than just balancing budgets and paying bills—it’s about aligning values, setting goals, and finding a system that works for both of you. CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Nichole Coyle, has worked with many couples navigating these decisions. Here’s her breakdown… (read more)

Get Ready to File and Save on Taxes

Getting organized early to file your 2024 tax return can reduce stress and improve your likelihood of filing on time. Start planning now to ensure your return is in order and you maximize credits and deductions that can lower your tax bill. Equipped with advice from our friends at Ohio Credit Union League, you can… (read more)

State of the Scam 2025: Be Ready for the Latest Scams

New digital technologies make managing money and buying the things you need easier. But the ubiquity of apps, digital wallets, and online shopping also is a thief’s paradise. Consumers lose billions to fraud each year. Scammers and spoofers are becoming smarter at hacking into company systems, stealing sensitive data, and using it to defraud innocent… (read more)

Financial Planning for the Family: Expanding the Nest

Bringing a new family member into your home—whether it’s a baby, an adopted child, or even a parent moving in—is one of life’s most rewarding journeys. But, let’s face it, growing your family also brings a hefty dose of financial reality. From diapers to college savings, and everything in between, financial planning for the family… (read more)

Cut the Holiday Spending and Make Memories

If holiday gift giving is part of your culture and traditions, there are many ways to show your fondness for friends and loved ones without major holiday spending. With a little planning, you can reduce the added pressure that comes with holiday gifting, and make sure you start 2025 without more debt. NerdWallet’s 2024 Holiday… (read more)

Charitable Strategy: Charitable Tax Deduction and Beyond

With holidays around the corner, what better time than now to consider giving to charity. It’s a popular way to do some good and maybe benefit from a charitable tax deduction. Charitable giving is not only an opportunity to make a difference in the world—it can be a savvy financial move when integrated into a… (read more)

Saving For Your Child’s Future

Saving for your child’s future is a crucial priority for families, and one we work hard to support. From Sparky’s Kids Club to our Club Ignite program for teens, FFCCU offers many of the tools to suit your family savings needs. Guest blogger, Nichole Coyle, CFP® CSLP®, details 8 key steps in preparing your child for financial… (read more)

American Credit Unions: 90 Years of “People Helping People”

American credit unions are celebrating International Credit Union Day (October 17, 2024). When it comes to managing your hard-earned money, it’s important to choose a financial services provider that makes your needs their top priority. Credit unions are uniquely focused on helping people reach their financial goals, whether that is saving for the future, buying… (read more)

Small Business IRAs: Why Small Biz Owners Need to Think About Retirement Now

With an abundance of challenges to juggle—managing employees, satisfying customers, keeping the lights on—small business IRAs might have slipped your mind! Amid this chaos, it’s easy to push retirement planning to the back burner. However, helping secure your financial future is not just a good idea; it’s essential. Some IRAs are available to individuals, and… (read more)

Pain-Free Car Buying Tips

Many consumers have waited to buy a car in recent years as prices and interest rates have soared. Interest rates remain high, but car prices are starting to come down in 2024. On average, new cars are being sold at 97 percent of list price compared to 102 percent in 2022, according to Kiplinger.com. If… (read more)