How are we already halfway through the year? If you blinked and missed it, we’ve been busy sharing the latest credit union news and PACU updates on Headlines and Fine Print.

Haven’t tuned in lately? Don’t worry. Here’s your catch-up guide to some of the biggest credit union topics of the year, plus a few ways to stay financially grounded, no matter where you are in your financial journey.

How Are Your Resolutions Holding Up?

Let’s be honest, when making financial goals for a new year, what starts as high hopes can quickly come crashing down the first time something doesn’t go according to plan.

But like when riding a bike, if you fall off, get back on and pedal again.

Whether your goals were the same as they were six months ago or shifted with life’s ups and downs, today is a great day to start fresh.

Think “day one,” not “one day,” for making changes or taking action to get you to your destination – whether buying a home, creating a budget or paying off debts.

You can do this! And PACU is here to help you every step of the way.

Club Accounts Year-Round

Have you already been on this year’s summer vacation? Perfect. Let’s start saving for the next one.

PACU’s Vacation and Christmas Club accounts make it easy to stash money for what matters, without having to rely on high-interest credit cards or stressful last-minute purchases. Even better, your savings are automatically deposited into your Regular Share Savings account. No clicks. No calendar reminders. No need to lift a finger.

Finding the Right First Credit Card (Without the Headache)

Speaking of avoiding credit card debt, it’s important to find the right credit card for you, whether you’re ready to start building your credit history or your kids are heading off to college in just a few weeks and you want them to be prepared to be bombarded with credit card offers.

Your credit history follows you throughout your adult life, so it’s essential to find the right card for you, and when you have one, ensure you pay bills on time and avoid carrying balances.

Also, remember that bells and whistles aren’t everything. While it’s nice to earn rewards or cashback, pay close attention to any fees associated with these benefits.

Getting a credit card is a significant milestone, so do your research and read the fine print to form lifelong habits that benefit you in the long run.

Car Loan Add-Ons

Buying a new car can be exciting, with the new car smell and shiny leather interior, but your new car’s value drops immediately when you drive off the lot.

Coverages like GAP (Guaranteed Asset Protection) are worth considering to protect you from unexpected events. GAP covers the difference between what is owed on a car and its value if your car is totaled or stolen. Bottom line, know your options.

Research and compare premiums to find the coverage that best fits your budget and gives you assurances when you’re behind the wheel.

A Win for Credit Unions: Legislative Updates

The recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill” posed a potential threat to credit unions by threatening to remove their tax exemption.

The only tax credit unions are exempt from paying is the federal corporate income tax. Removing this exemption was proposed to fund “tax cuts” in other areas.

With the #DontTaxMyCreditUnion Movement, many credit union supporters came together, made their voices heard, and highlighted all the benefits credit unions bring to their communities.

Why does this matter? As not-for-profit organizations, credit unions return our “profits” to our member-owners through competitive rates, lower fees and investments in quality service and service delivery options.

Thanks to an outpouring of support from members and the momentum behind the #DontTaxMyCreditUnion Movement, the exemption was preserved. Your voice made a difference. Thank you for being a part of this movement.

Closing Thoughts: We’re Not Slowing Down

Life moves pretty fast, and the world of credit unions is no exception. Whether it’s a reminder not to lose sight of your financial New Year’s resolution or updates on legislation that could affect your credit union, Headlines and Fine Print is here to help you make sense of the financial ups and downs that affect your daily life.

You can catch past episodes on YouTube and Spotify. If you have any questions or an idea for a future episode, email Dion at dion.williams@pacu.com.

Let’s keep the conversation going.