Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/477028
7 TAKING CONTROL OF your finances o en starts with cleaning up your files. If you need to make space in your personal finance files, consider shredding tax returns that are seven years or older and reconciled account statements for minor purchases. While you're looking at statements, take time to check your credit card balances and interest rates. If high-interest rates are bogging down your budget and leave little room for repayment progress, a consolidation loan may help you roll that credit card debt into one payment with a lower interest rate. North Alabama Educators Credit Union (NAECU) offer interest rates as low as 8.99% APR on consolidation loans, so if your credit card rates are higher, such a loan could help you pay down debts faster. PLAN FOR A RAINY DAY For many people, a financial spring cleaning also includes a review of income and a commitment to a monthly savings goal. Socking away savings in an emergency fund offsets the need to turn to higher-interest loans and credit cards when faced with unexpected expenditures, such as a leaky roof or worn- out siding. Another option? Explore the possibility of a home improvement loan. NAECU is offering a home improvement loan special during April. For qualifying members, no appraisal is needed to secure financing, and closing costs will be waived if the loan amount exceeds $10,000. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LOAN RATES AND OTHER NAECU SERVICES, VISIT NAECU.ORG. Spring Clean Your NOTHING SAYS "SPRING" LIKE GETTING RID OF CLUTTER. WHY NOT MAKE IT YOUR TIME TO MAXIMIZE YOUR FINANCIAL WELL-BEING? FINANCES KEEPING YOU SECURE No financial review is complete without safeguarding your online identity. North Alabama Educators Credit Union's Member Security Center provides peace of mind through credit and identity monitoring. Base security packages start as low as $1.95 per month. Visit naecu.org to learn more. NAECU.ORG « NOT FOR PROFIT, NOT FOR CHARITY, BUT FOR SERVICE » M a rk Y o u r Ca len d a r s ! FREE SHRED-IT DAY Friday, May 8, 1–5 p.m. At the Main Office