What Is an FEIN?

by Mike Kappel @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Feb 26 05:10:00 PST 2018

When you run a business, you must meet many IRS requirements. You might need an FEIN to identify your business on documents like payroll tax forms. What does FEIN mean? What is an FEIN? FEIN is an acronym for Federal Employer Identification Number, also known as an EIN. This unique, nine-digit number is used by […]

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SCU to offer assistance for those affected by a government shutdown

by Lori Holmes @ Service Credit Union

Sat Jan 20 05:00:06 PST 2018

Service Credit Union is committed to helping its members who are affected during the government shutdown. For those with direct deposit, Service Credit Union will post credits to members based on the postings nearest to January 1, 2018. The credit of that amount will take place on or before February 1, 2018. This will apply […]

Service Credit Union to offer assistance for those affected by a Government Shutdown

by Lori Holmes @ Service Credit Union

Wed Dec 06 08:39:27 PST 2017

Service Credit Union is committed to helping its members in the event of a government shutdown by covering the December mid-month payroll and offering a 0% loan. If the shutdown occurs and the Defense Finances and Accounting Services (DFAS) does not pay mid-month payrolls, Service Credit Union will post credits to members based on the […]

Service Credit Union donates to the N.H. Food Bank

by Lori Holmes @ Service Credit Union

Fri Dec 22 08:49:58 PST 2017

Service Credit Union donated $10,000 and 1,326 pounds of food to the New Hampshire Food Bank, a program of Catholic Charites NH, in order to help the citizens of New Hampshire. Service Credit Union President/CEO David Van Rossum recently presented the check to New Hampshire Food Bank Executive Director Eileen Groll Liponis to help keep […]

The 10 Most Significant Obstacles Preventing Debt Elimination

by Due.com @ Chime Banking

Tue Mar 06 14:42:00 PST 2018

Debt continues to be a problem among Americans of all ages and walks of life. In 2017, the total consumer debt among Americans rose 8.8 percent, to $3.827 trillion, setting a new record. The average household has a credit card balance of $15,654, and with total debts (including mortgages) of $131,431. With numbers consistently growing year over […]

The post The 10 Most Significant Obstacles Preventing Debt Elimination appeared first on Chime Banking.

Do You Know About the 2017 Tax Filing Extension?

by Liz Oliver @ LRRCU

Thu Mar 15 02:14:14 PDT 2018

The date April 15 is probably as quickly recognizable to most Americans as July 4 or December 25. Traditionally recognized as Tax Day, it’s the deadline for filing your previous year’s tax return.  With one month to go, you may be feeling the pressure and scrambling to get the task completed in the remaining days.  But […]

The post Do You Know About the 2017 Tax Filing Extension? appeared first on LRRCU.

Fluid Film Review & Auto Undercoating Comparison (Krown, NH Oil)

by Bryan Cockfield @ First Quarter Finance

Sun Mar 25 16:00:23 PDT 2018

Automotive undercoating is important to help prevent rust and corrosion, especially in colder climates. Oil-based products like Krown Rust Control, NH Oil Undercoating, and Fluid Film are three popular and effective undercoating brands. “Traditional” undercoating offered by dealerships on new cars isn’t necessarily the same thing and does not prevent rust in the long term. […]

The post Fluid Film Review & Auto Undercoating Comparison (Krown, NH Oil) appeared first on First Quarter Finance.

Don’t Miss These Major Tax Changes for 2018

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Wed Feb 07 12:40:07 PST 2018

This year brings the most significant changes to federal tax law in more than 30 years.

The post Don’t Miss These Major Tax Changes for 2018 appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

Getting Out of Debt: You Can Do It and Here’s How to Get Started

by Liz Oliver @ LRRCU

Thu Jan 18 03:41:02 PST 2018

Most goals or resolutions that people set for themselves are neglected within a few weeks. It’s likely that this happens because people set far-reaching goals for themselves and then lose momentum when they don’t see results right away. A perfect example of this is the financial goal that many people set for themselves: getting out […]

The post Getting Out of Debt: You Can Do It and Here’s How to Get Started appeared first on LRRCU.

Should You Offer a Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan?

by Mike Kappel @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Mar 26 05:10:00 PDT 2018

You know employees like employer-sponsored benefits. As an employer, offering benefits is advantageous for your business, too. A nonqualified deferred compensation plan is one type of benefit that both you and your employees can enjoy. Find out what a nonqualified deferred compensation plan is, why you might consider offering it, and how to set it […]

The post Should You Offer a Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan? appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

5 Facts About Women and Money for International Women’s Day

by Chelsea Brennan @ Chime Banking

Thu Mar 08 14:46:51 PST 2018

Did you know that only 22% of U.S. women can answer three fundamental finance-related questions correctly? It’s sad but true. While women have made significant strides to close the gender gaps in education, employment, and even wealth, the gap in financial literacy is still glaring. But, in order to even begin bridging this gap, it’s important to understand that […]

The post 5 Facts About Women and Money for International Women’s Day appeared first on Chime Banking.

A Look at Federal, State, and Local Minimum Wages

by Mike Kappel @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Mar 21 05:30:00 PDT 2018

You can’t just pay your employees any amount you want. You must follow federal, state, and local laws that set minimum wages. What is minimum wage? Minimum wage is the lowest amount you can pay an employee per hour of work. You can pay more than the minimum wage, but you should never pay less […]

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Successfully Plan for Holiday Shopping on a Budget [Downloadable Budget Sheet]

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Wed Nov 15 04:02:02 PST 2017

‘Tis the season to be jolly! ‘Tis the season for the gifts, decorations, family, friends, and children on their best behavior. ‘Tis the season for overloaded shopping bags, impulse buying, and credit card bills. Wait! That doesn’t sound as cheery. In 2016, according to a survey conducted by The American Research Group Inc., Americans spent […]

The post Successfully Plan for Holiday Shopping on a Budget [Downloadable Budget Sheet] appeared first on LRRCU.

Trailer Financing for Bad Credit (or No Credit) Borrowers

by Katie Spence @ First Quarter Finance

Mon Mar 26 16:00:15 PDT 2018

Do you need a trailer but have bad credit and no cash? Here are six lenders who can help, regardless of your credit history: Capital Solutions, RockSolid Funding, RV Financing USA, Trailer Solutions Financial, BecksTrailerStore.com, and Worldwide Equipment Sales. Be sure to ask about associated fees and consider trailer insurance if you will be using […]

The post Trailer Financing for Bad Credit (or No Credit) Borrowers appeared first on First Quarter Finance.

Service Credit Union offers free access to FICO® Scores

by Lori Holmes @ Service Credit Union

Mon Feb 05 13:55:02 PST 2018

In its continuing efforts to enhance member experience and provide innovative banking tools, Service Credit Union is now providing its members free access to their FICO® Scores. This includes key factors affecting their scores and general information on credit scores. . The scores, which will be updated quarterly, are available through Service Credit Union’s secure […]

The Equifax Hack Was Worse Than Expected. What to Do Next

by Jeanine Skowronski @ Chime Banking

Thu Mar 15 15:59:14 PDT 2018

Looks like that worst-ever Equifax data breach was … actually worse. In late 2017, the credit reporting agency divulged a systems breach exposed the personal information of 145.5 millions Americans, including names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, addresses, dispute documents, as well as some credit card account and driver’s license numbers. But the hackers also obtained […]

The post The Equifax Hack Was Worse Than Expected. What to Do Next appeared first on Chime Banking.

Correcting Employment Taxes: What to Do If You Withhold the Wrong Amount

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Feb 28 05:10:52 PST 2018

It’s easy to make mistakes, especially when you have a million and one things on your plate. One error you could make is deducting the wrong amount from employee wages. Correcting employment taxes is necessary if you withhold too much or too little from your employees’ paychecks. This article provides an overview of employment taxes […]

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What Should You Do With Your Tax Refund?

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Thu Mar 01 09:41:43 PST 2018

Will you be receiving a tax refund this year? If so, you might want to think about the destiny of that money. Here are a few options to consider.

The post What Should You Do With Your Tax Refund? appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

You and Your Investment Representative: A Relationship of Trust

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Wed Feb 07 12:35:59 PST 2018

Perhaps your doctor, lawyer, and accountant are trusted advisors. Through years of working with them, they have come to know your family and your particular needs. How about your investment representative?

The post You and Your Investment Representative: A Relationship of Trust appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

Hotels with Sleep Number Beds & Other Adjustable Beds: 5 Hotels

by Kait Scirri @ First Quarter Finance

Sun Mar 18 16:00:32 PDT 2018

Some hotels offer Sleep Number beds, including some Radisson hotels. A Sleep Number bed allows the firmness of each side of the bed to be adjusted; so if you like a softer bed but your partner prefers a firmer bed, you can each adjust your side to your level of comfort.  In this article, we will […]

The post Hotels with Sleep Number Beds & Other Adjustable Beds: 5 Hotels appeared first on First Quarter Finance.

5 Creative Habits That Will Keep Your Finances On Track

by Ben Luthi @ Chime Banking

Tue Mar 27 13:29:00 PDT 2018

Improving your financial situation may seem as easy as saving more money and decreasing your expenses. But here’s the thing: if you want to see long-term improvements, you’ve got to first establish some good financial habits. This will help you both get on the right track and achieve your money goals. Financial habits are really […]

The post 5 Creative Habits That Will Keep Your Finances On Track appeared first on Chime Banking.

Recreational Boating Safety

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Thu Mar 01 09:43:14 PST 2018

March is a good time to strike a deal on a boat purchase. Be sure you, your family, and your friends follow safe boating practices to help promote an incident-free return from each voyage.

The post Recreational Boating Safety appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

Good Retirement Savings Habits

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Thu Mar 01 09:42:20 PST 2018

What can you start doing today to make that effort more productive, to improve your chances of ending up with more retirement money, rather than less?

The post Good Retirement Savings Habits appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

EBates, UPromise and More Cash-Back Shopping Portals

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Thu Mar 01 09:43:43 PST 2018

There are a million ways to spend your money, and now hundreds of ways to actually SAVE some bucks in the process.

The post EBates, UPromise and More Cash-Back Shopping Portals appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

Lacoste vs Polo Ralph Lauren: Products, Prices, Quality, etc, Compared

by Ashley Derrington @ First Quarter Finance

Sat Mar 24 16:00:34 PDT 2018

Lacoste vs. Polo Ralph Lauren has been an ongoing debate in fashion, especially when it comes to polo shirts. The “better” brand will depend largely on personal preference. Lacoste polos may be more expensive and elusive than Polo Ralph Lauren polos, but both brands come from higher-end clothing collections that offer a wide range of […]

The post Lacoste vs Polo Ralph Lauren: Products, Prices, Quality, etc, Compared appeared first on First Quarter Finance.

What You Need to Know About a Qualifying Life Event

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Mar 12 05:10:40 PDT 2018

Employees have a window of time each year to sign up for certain types of employer-sponsored insurance. Although this open enrollment period takes place at the end of each year for all employees, an employee can add or remove coverage at any time of the year if they have a qualifying life event. What is […]

The post What You Need to Know About a Qualifying Life Event appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Answers to 18 Payroll Questions You Are Dying to Ask

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Mar 05 05:10:18 PST 2018

For some business owners, running payroll might be like learning a foreign language. You are a master of your business idea, not the administrative responsibilities that come with it. Because you might not be familiar with these responsibilities, you might have some payroll questions. Payroll questions and answers When you become an employer, you need […]

The post Answers to 18 Payroll Questions You Are Dying to Ask appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Here’s How to Improve Your Credit Score Faster

by Paul Sisolak @ Chime Banking

Thu Mar 08 14:44:08 PST 2018

Good things may come to those who wait, but time isn’t on your side if you’re struggling to raise your credit score quickly. More than 30 percent of Americans have poor credit, and if you’re one of them it can be hard to improve it. Many people aim for a credit-building secured credit card, but it could […]

The post Here’s How to Improve Your Credit Score Faster appeared first on Chime Banking.

Consult This Employee Termination Checklist to Keep Things Running Smoothly

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Mar 07 05:10:00 PST 2018

Employees leave companies every day to pursue growth opportunities, accommodate personal lives, or experience change. As an employer, you hope employees won’t leave your business, but you know this is wishful thinking. When an employee resigns, you need to know what to do. The average annual overall turnover rate is 19%, according to SHRM. If […]

The post Consult This Employee Termination Checklist to Keep Things Running Smoothly appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Holiday Shopping Tips for Your Spending Personality

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Mon Nov 20 10:19:45 PST 2017

Although 41% of consumers report starting their holiday shopping in October or even earlier (Wow! Good for you!), an estimated 69% of Americans will shop over the Thanksgiving weekend. Early research from the National Retail Federation shows that the 2017 season will be a big deal, with holiday spending forecasted to be near $680 billion, up almost 4% […]

The post Holiday Shopping Tips for Your Spending Personality appeared first on LRRCU.

Store Credit Cards, Balance Transfers & More: Make the Smart Money Decision

by Liz Oliver @ LRRCU

Fri Oct 13 08:55:31 PDT 2017

Every day we’re faced with making decisions about our money. What feels like a smart money choice in the moment may have repercussions in the future. You might be tempted to save money on a purchase now only to have your credit score suffer.  You might choose to delay payments on a big ticket item […]

The post Store Credit Cards, Balance Transfers & More: Make the Smart Money Decision appeared first on LRRCU.

Service Credit Union Names VP of Marketing

by Lori Holmes @ Service Credit Union

Tue Jan 30 09:28:20 PST 2018

Service Credit Union is pleased to announce today the appointment of Wendy Bryant-Beswick to Vice President of Marketing. A seasoned executive with more than 20 years of marketing management experience, Beswick will oversee the planning and execution of Service Credit Union’s marketing initiatives including positioning, brand oversight, acquisition, communications, public relations, and business development. She […]

Safe Online Banking: For You & Your Money

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Mon Mar 26 13:44:22 PDT 2018

From 24/7 account access to quick and easy bill paying, online banking offers members a convenient way to handle their finances. However, the rise of technology also brings an increase in potential hackers, scams, and fraud cases. Whether you’re looking to shield your small business or family’s finances, there are many strategies to stay vigilant […]

The post Safe Online Banking: For You & Your Money appeared first on LRRCU.

How To Be Financially Smart At Any Age

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Thu Aug 31 08:18:27 PDT 2017

  As you go through the stages of life what it means to be “financially smart” will change. A smart financial move when you’re approaching your 40s is not the same as a smart financial move for a 19-year-old in college. At 40, there are more things to consider when making decisions about your money, […]

The post How To Be Financially Smart At Any Age appeared first on LRRCU.

Will the Courts Accept a Jury Duty Excuse Letter If You’re in a Pinch?

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Mar 19 05:10:23 PDT 2018

Sometimes, you or your employees’ personal responsibilities conflict with your business. For many small businesses, if you miss work or lose an employee for an extended period of time, there can be harmful effects on productivity in the workplace. But if you or an employee are called in for jury duty, you might not have […]

The post Will the Courts Accept a Jury Duty Excuse Letter If You’re in a Pinch? appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Loans for Veterans with Bad Credit: Personal, Guaranteed, & More

by Katie Spence @ First Quarter Finance

Thu Mar 22 16:00:00 PDT 2018

If you’re currently in the military or previously served and have bad or no credit, there are still a number of lenders that will work with you. We have the list of lenders, including Navy Federal Credit Union, Omni Financial, Military-Loans.com, VA Home Loan Centers, Pioneer Services, and Kabbage, that will help you build or rebuild your […]

The post Loans for Veterans with Bad Credit: Personal, Guaranteed, & More appeared first on First Quarter Finance.

How to Save Money on Your Utility Bills

by Melanie Lockert @ Chime Banking

Mon Mar 26 11:21:00 PDT 2018

Do you cringe each month when you get your utility bills? When you see a super high bill, do you wonder what happened? We’ve all been there, and high bills for gas, electricity and cable can certainly put a dent in your bank account. But all is not lost. If you want to keep your […]

The post How to Save Money on Your Utility Bills appeared first on Chime Banking.

Pottery Barn Furniture Quality: Where It’s Made, Who Makes It, & More

by Kathrina Bognot @ First Quarter Finance

Tue Mar 20 16:00:49 PDT 2018

Pottery Barn produces high-quality furniture, which is all made in the U.S. by experienced professionals. Pottery Barn is a wholly owned subsidy of Williams Sonoma, a company known for quality (and pricey) kitchen appliances. Williams Sonoma has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and has been in business for over 60 years. When you’re […]

The post Pottery Barn Furniture Quality: Where It’s Made, Who Makes It, & More appeared first on First Quarter Finance.

Five Things to Do Before Meeting With an Advisor

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Wed Feb 07 12:41:24 PST 2018

Americans' financial lives are increasingly complex. It's not unusual to have checking and savings accounts, a 401(k), IRAs, and other personal investments. Keeping track of all your savings and investments has prompted many individuals to seek guidance.

The post Five Things to Do Before Meeting With an Advisor appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

4 Financial Resolutions To Start Any Day of the Year [Downloadable Family Budget Worksheet]

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Thu Dec 28 00:09:30 PST 2017

Who says resolutions have to start on New Year’s Day?  Get yourself started whatever day you feel inspired.  Here are few important financial goals that you can begin whether it’s January 1, August 1 or a random Tuesday in November. #1: Look at the Financial Big Picture – Use Our Family Budget Worksheet You feel […]

The post 4 Financial Resolutions To Start Any Day of the Year [Downloadable Family Budget Worksheet] appeared first on LRRCU.

To Shred or Not to Shred? What Docs to Keep & For How Long

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Thu Mar 01 09:42:50 PST 2018

While you may not think twice about that old bill you just threw in the trash, or the pre-approved credit card offer sitting in your recycling bin, you should.

The post To Shred or Not to Shred? What Docs to Keep & For How Long appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

Collateral Loans & Hard Money Loans for Bad Credit: List of Providers

by Ellen Seltz @ First Quarter Finance

Wed Mar 21 16:00:54 PDT 2018

Finding a hard money lender for an investment property or home takes care. Included in this article is a safe borrowing checklist to help you think through the process and vet potential lenders. We also have the list of nationwide hard money lenders that will work with poor credit, including Allrise Financial Group, Do Hard […]

The post Collateral Loans & Hard Money Loans for Bad Credit: List of Providers appeared first on First Quarter Finance.

Financing A New Home: Answering Homebuyer Questions

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Mon Mar 12 07:40:38 PDT 2018

Finding the perfect new home can be hard work, but now you also have to navigate the mortgage financing process. There are many questions that arise when it comes to financing a new home. Below we’re answering four questions about financing a new home that homebuyers commonly ask. 1. Should I Be Pre-Qualified or Pre-Approved? […]

The post Financing A New Home: Answering Homebuyer Questions appeared first on LRRCU.

When to Pay Employees for FLSA Hours Worked

by Kaylee Riley @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Mar 28 05:15:18 PDT 2018

When nonexempt employees are doing their primary job duties, it’s easy to tell that they are working. Their working time should be compensated. But, when nonexempt employees are not doing their main job duties, it can be more difficult to tell if they are working and if they should be compensated. The Fair Labor Standards […]

The post When to Pay Employees for FLSA Hours Worked appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Tell Your Beneficiaries About Your Accounts and Policies

by Brandon @ Tower Federal Credit Union

Thu Mar 15 13:06:19 PDT 2018

The post Tell Your Beneficiaries About Your Accounts and Policies appeared first on Tower Federal Credit Union.

Are You Ready for Retirement?: Essential Information on IRAs and 401(k)s

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Tue Aug 22 03:05:44 PDT 2017

While you’re young, you may not be thinking about saving for retirement. You’re probably more focused on paying off student loan debt, searching for a job, or buying a house. But, starting to save for your financial future early will only benefit you in the long run. Start your retirement planning as early as you can. Think […]

The post Are You Ready for Retirement?: Essential Information on IRAs and 401(k)s appeared first on LRRCU.

Ways to prevent identity theft so you can enjoy the holiday season

by Dave Dwyer @ Service Credit Union

Fri Nov 10 09:21:46 PST 2017

As the holiday season gears up with a mad rush of excitement, fraudsters are also gearing up with excitement to steal your identity. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself whether you are shopping online or at a brick and mortar store. Enjoy the holidays as they are meant to be, with peace, joy, and […]

7 Habits That Will Help You Lead a More Successful and Productive Life

by Due.com @ Chime Banking

Tue Mar 13 15:54:24 PDT 2018

Regardless what path in life you’re on, your habits will dictate your success. They can empower you to achieve your goals just as easily as they can derail you. That said it’s just as important to focus on maintaining good habits as it is to rid yourself of the bad ones. In this article we’ll cover […]

The post 7 Habits That Will Help You Lead a More Successful and Productive Life appeared first on Chime Banking.

How to Prepare for an Interview When You’re Self-Employed

by Due.com @ Chime Banking

Tue Mar 27 13:03:23 PDT 2018

There are many myths about self-employment that people may start to mistake for fact. Working for yourself can be a great thing, but it doesn’t always mean you’ll be 100% in control of your career and the day-to-day operations. Often times, you’ll still have to work with others and may even have to please clients if you’re […]

The post How to Prepare for an Interview When You’re Self-Employed appeared first on Chime Banking.

Service Credit Union named top CU Direct auto lender

by Lori Holmes @ Service Credit Union

Fri Feb 23 08:19:49 PST 2018

Service Credit Union (SCU) was named the top auto lender in the New England/New York region and 10th nationally for 2017 by CU Direct. CU Direct works with auto dealers and credit unions throughout the U.S. to streamline the auto buying process. Last year, the credit union funded more than 21,000 auto loans at approximately […]