The Modern Wallet Blog
USF CU Wins 2025 Sterling Sustained Excellence Award
USF Credit Union has received Florida’s 2025 Governor’s Sterling Sustained Excellence Award, honoring our long-term commitment to performance, service, and member-focused innovation.
USF CU CEO Rick Skaggs Receives Distinguished Citizen Award
USF Credit Union CEO Rick Skaggs was honored with the prestigious Distinguished Citizen Award at the University of South Florida’s Spring 2025 Commencement.
Storm Season Financial Prep: 25 Must-Have Tips & Resources
Hurricane season is here. Get financially prepared with 25 essential tips, emergency resources and smart money moves from USF Credit Union. From accessing cash to avoiding scams, we’ve got you covered.
‘Best’ Debit Card for Kids, Greenlight, Now Available
USF Credit Union now offers Greenlight®—the debit card and money app for kids and teens. Help your child learn smart spending, saving, and investing with parental controls and fun financial lessons.
Stay Sharp: What You Need to Know About Bank Jugging
Bank jugging is on the rise. Learn how to protect yourself from this growing crime with tips from USF Credit Union.
Lower Your Mortgage Rate with RateRefresh!
USF Credit Union has launched RateRefresh—a smarter way to lower your mortgage rate without the cost and hassle of a traditional refinance.
7 Ways to Tame Money Stress
Money stress can take a toll on your mental health. Here are some simple steps to help you feel more in control and at peace.
FlexPay: A Smarter Way to Buy Now, Pay Later
FlexPay gives USF CU members two easy ways to pay over time — no credit check, no loan application, just flexible financing for travel, events and more.
This One Upgrade Means Your Money’s Safer Than Ever
USF CU members enjoy up to $500,000 in deposit insurance with automatic NCUA and ESI coverage.
4 Easy Ways to Go Green
Discover four easy, eco-friendly ways to bank greener, save money, and simplify your life—from mobile banking to eStatements.
11 Unique Money-Saving Tips Our Employees Swear By
We asked the USF Credit Union team to share their go-to money-saving strategies—and they delivered.
USF Credit Union Named Top Workplace – Again!
Another win! USF Credit Union has been named one of the Top 100 Workplaces in Tampa Bay by the Tampa Bay Times.
Game On: Beat Debt Like a Pro
Learn smart strategies to tackle debt, use loans wisely, and set yourself up for a winning financial future.
New, Free Credit Score Tool is Live!
Today, we’re officially rolling out our new Credit Score tool – our latest perk built right into your USF Credit Union banking app.
USF Credit Union Honored as Top Workplace by USA Today
We’ve got some exciting news - USF Credit Union has been recognized as a 2025 USA TODAY Top Workplace!
Spring Into Savings with Our New Budgeting Tool
Refresh your finances this spring with USF Credit Union’s new budgeting tool! Track spending, cut expenses, and level up your financial game with expert tips.
Swipe Right on Rewards This Valentine’s Day!
Make this Valentine’s Day even sweeter with USF Credit Union! Love your rewards and stress less about finances.
New Financial Wellness Series: 'Game to Get Fit?'
Each month, we’ll tackle key money topics to help you budget smarter, save more and reduce financial stress.
How to ‘Own’ Homeownership
Discover how USF Credit Union makes homeownership easy with personalized support, tailored mortgage programs and expert guidance.
Close a Credit Card Without Hurting Your Credit Score
Learn how closing a credit card affects your credit score. Explore factors like credit utilization and account age, and discover steps to minimize negative impacts.
25 Ooh-Worthy Perks for 2025!
We’ve corralled 25 top reasons why banking is just better at USF CU!
Protect Yourself from AI Scams
Learn about common AI scams, how to recognize them and how to protect yourself from fraud.
5 Scams To Watch For After The Holidays
The mad holiday rush may be over, but scammers aren’t slowing down.
USF CU’s New ‘Plan Your Purchase' Offers Better, Smarter Way to Holiday!
Explore how USF CU’s “Plan Your Purchase” can make your holiday shopping smarter and easier.
Avoid These 7 Sneaky Holiday Scams in 2024, Warns CU Security Expert
Stay safe this holiday season by learning how to spot and avoid 7 common scams targeting shoppers in 2024.
Here’s How USF CU can Turbocharge Your 2024 Holiday Shopping
Get the most out of holiday shopping with smart budgeting, cash-back tips and fraud prevention advice from USF CU. Make 2024 a stress-free and rewarding holiday season!
5 Tips for Sticking to Your Holiday Budget
It’s all about planning ahead.
6 Hassle-Free Ways We Have Your Back After The Recent Storms
Discover how we can help with emergency loans, skip-a-payment options, mortgage deferment and more as our community faces ongoing challenges from Hurricane Helene and Milton.
Beware of Post-Disaster Scams
Learn how to spot bogus charities, FEMA imposters, shady contractors and flood-damaged cars after a natural disaster.
Key Mortgage Terms Every Homebuyer Needs to Know
Navigate the mortgage process confidently with our guide to essential mortgage terms.
Advance Payment Scams
Before you pay up, take a step back and look at the transaction from every possible angle.
USF CU Wins 2024 Top Workplaces Award
This prestigious accolade demonstrates USF CU's commitment to fostering a people-first workplace culture.
Plan for a Budget-Friendly Summer
Summer may be the most chill time of year for many, but it can also get super-expensive.
What's a Ponzi Scheme?
They offer “guaranteed” huge returns, when in fact they’re only enriching those at the top of the pyramid scheme.
Tech Support Scams
Here’s what you need to know about technical support scams and how to prevent yourself from falling victim.
What to Know Before Buying a Used Car
Our guide will keep you from getting lost along the way!
Secure Your Mobile Wallet
To keep your financial data safe, keep these security tips in mind.
10 Scams Targeting Seniors
The annual loss by victims is estimated to be at least $36.5 billion.
Review Your Financial Situation Regularly
What should you be looking at specifically?
Should You Invest if You're in Debt?
Here are the various factors to consider.
Don’t Get Caught in a Credit Repair Scam
Look out for these red flags.
Amazon Shopping Scams
Check out these tips for protecting yourself.
Figuring Out Tax Withholding
If you're getting money back, ask yourself these questions.
Beware of Fraudulent Websites
A spoofed website can be hard to spot and difficult to identify.
12 Sneaky Holiday Scams
Watch out for schemes trying to swipe cash or steal personal information.
Building Financial Resilience
Living a financially fit life is very doable.
Three Common Money Mistakes
Find out how to fix them.
How to Buy Your First Home
Make it less stressful with good planning.
Don’t Get Caught in a P2P Scam
P2P platforms are convenient, but scams are rampant.
Learn About Money Market Accounts
Money market accounts offer many convenient features of checking accounts, with an attractive rate of return to help your money grow.
Your Funds Are Safe With Us
Learn how your funds are protected and secured.
Car Buyers' Worst Mistakes
Put your money to work rather than throwing it away.
Outsmart Phishing Scams
Protect yourself and keep your personal information safe.
How Much Home Can I Afford?
There are 3 things to consider before you sign anything.
Fix Bad Money Habits
The peace of mind a healthy financial status brings is priceless.
Holiday Season Scams
Keep your money safe by practicing caution.
How to Create Strong Passwords
When it feels like there’s another big security breach every week, you want to be sure your passwords are strong and safe.
Basic Steps To Financial Fitness
Gain control of your finances with these 5 steps.
Mobile Check Deposit Scams
Never give your banking information to anyone you don’t know or trust
Financial Advice You Should Never Follow
Make sure your sources are trustworthy.
Store Cards Are Rarely The Better Deal
Rates on retail cards are usually higher than credit union cards.
Teach Kids Money Management
If they have shown financial responsibility, a debit card/checking account can be a great next step.
The Financial Facts of Life
It’s never too late to begin learning.
Don't Lose Sleep Over Money
Americans' top 3 worries are debt, lack of savings and not having enough for retirement.
Ways to Save in College
The first step is finding out what you don’t need to buy.
Budgeting for Infrequent Expenses
Many people live in a state of denial about the cost of infrequent expenses.
Buying a Used Car
If you’re in the market for a deal on used wheels, follow these steps for a smoother ride!
How To Talk Money With Your Partner
What happens when you and your partner have different approaches toward money?
Saving on Home Renovations
With some careful planning, you can shave thousands of dollars off the price tag.
Saving Money When There's Not Much to Save
How do you save when there is not much wiggle room in your budget?
IRS Imposters Among the "Dirty Dozen" Tax Scams
If you received unexpected good news in an e-mail from the IRS, it's probably bogus.
Payday Loans Aren't Worth the Cost
It’s a trap that will cost you many times more than you borrow.
5 Reasons We Overspend
Let’s take a look at five common reasons and how we can overcome them.
How To Pay Off A Loan Early
If you’re like most Americans, you owe money on a large loan.
The Benefits of Using Mobile Payments
Why fumble for your wallet when checking out when you can pay using your phone?
6 Times a Bargain is Not a Bargain
Here’s when that steal of a deal is not such a bargain after all.
Debt-Collection Scams
A caller claiming to represent a debt-collection agency demands immediate payment for an alleged outstanding debt.
Political Fundraising Scams
Report any election scams to a local FBI field office as soon as possible.
The Pending Package Scam
Scammers are using bogus packages to trick victims into sharing personal information.
The Importance of Being Financially Fit
Being financially fit is crucial for a well-balanced, stress-free life.
What's the Best Way to Use a Home Equity Loan?
A home equity loan can be an ideal way to source extra funds during a falling-rates environment.
Should You Pay a Bill with a Credit Card?
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons.
Using Your Credit Cards Responsibly
Boost your credit score and financial wellbeing.
What's the Best Way to Tackle Debt?
Snowball Method vs. Avalanche Method
Preparing for an Interview
Present yourself as polished, professional and capable to any potential employer.
Beware of Relay Theft
This user-friendly feature is also a favorite for car thieves.
Getting Ahead on Your Student Loan Before You Graduate
Be sure to look at the larger picture before you accept a position.
Tips to Help You Protect Yourself from Fraud
Here at our credit union, we take the security of your account extremely seriously.
All You Need to Know About Going Cashless
As our world grows increasingly digitized, many consumers are banishing cash from their wallets and choosing other ways to pay.
How to Create a Budget in 6 Easy Steps
A budget will help you gain financial awareness, which will help facilitate more responsible decisions.
All You Need to Know About Data Breaches
What should you do if your info is taken?
How To Dispute An Error On Your Credit Report
As a financially responsible individual, you should be checking your credit on a regular basis.
Take Caution Before Borrowing A Charging Cable
Be aware of this threat and practice caution when traveling.
All You Need To Know About Home Loans
If you’re in the market for a new home, you’ll likely need to take out a home loan or mortgage.
Can I Buy A House When I’m Paying Off A Student Loan?
There are several factors to consider.
Understanding The Credit Card Trap
Why do most Americans carry so much credit card debt and find themselves stuck in the debt trap?
Do My Monthly Bill Payments Affect My Credit Score?
Read on for three steps that can help your on-time monthly payments boost your credit score.
How Much Money Should I Keep In My Checking Account?
Let's find out.
The Ultimate Smart Shoppers Cheat Sheet
Did you know you should be timing your shopping throughout the week?
Vacation Scams To Watch For
Before heading on your dream vacation, read our list of four common vacation scams and learn how to avoid them.
7 Money Myths You Need To Stop Believing
There are lots of money management tips that are false.
9 Steps To Buying Your First Car
The process can be daunting, but we'll walk you through it.
Don't Get Caught in a Pyramid Scheme
Let’s look at what constitutes a pyramid scheme and how to avoid falling for one.
7 Signs You're Living Beyond Your Means
Here are steps you can take to get back on track.
Student Loan Scams
Here’s what you need to know about three popular student loan scams.
7 Reasons Not To Skip a Home Inspection
A professional home inspection can save you a ton of aggravation and thousands of dollars in the long run.
10 Restaurant Hacks
Dining out with family and friends is a wonderful experience, but it can take a huge bite out of your budget.
Beware of Blackmailing Scams!
Blackmail and extortion are some of the oldest tricks in the book — because they work.
How Many Credit Cards Should I Own?
Are too many cards a liability to your score?
Don't Get Caught in a Free Trial Scam!
You know what they say: “If it’s too good to be true, it probably isn’t.”
What Can I Do About Robocalls?
Read on for the inside scoop on robocalls and what you can do about them.
Questions To Ask Before Making a Large Purchase
Before you say “yes”, ask yourself these 7 questions.
Smishing Scams
Here’s what you need to know about an SMS message-based scam.
Debit Card Safety
Your random card of choice might not be the safest way to pay.
Don't Drink Your Wallet Dry!
Bottled water may be costing you a fortune.
Turn Your Dream Vacation Into a Reality
Six ways to make that dream vacation come true.
Beware of Social Media Scams!
There are several types you need to know about.
How to Fund an Emergency
Do you have a secure plan in place for emergencies?
The Money Envelope System
Keep your spending in check.
Phone Cloning and Digital Self Defense
The only thing a hacker needs is your phone number.
The Dos And Don'ts Of Credit Repair
Our handy guide will help you get on the road to improving your score.