Financial Wellness Articles

Keeping an open dialog is crucial.

With Sunward's new instant pre-qualification process, you can apply to be pre-qualified for an auto loan, personal loan, or credit card within minutes and get a personalized loan offer just for you.

At Sunward, we know the last thing you want to be worried about is how you will pay for your next semester of college.

Experiencing income loss can be very difficult and stressful. However, there are steps you can take to manage your financial situation.

Managing a deceased family member’s finances can be overwhelming. Learn what to expect if you need to handle their Sunward accounts.

It’s important to get a clear understanding of your elder loved ones' financial needs and goals as they enter their golden years.

Make sure you review your credit score first.

Before you pull out your card or tap to pay, consider the potential pros and cons of paying your bills with credit.

Starting July 15, 2021, the IRS will send advance monthly payments of half of the total yearly amount earned for the Child Tax Credit to those who qualify. Changes apply to tax year 2021 only.

College is often the first time young adults are making their own money decisions, and budgeting should be discussed well ahead of campus arrival.

If you or your student experiences a gap between your funding and the cost of college, here are a few options you can explore.

Whether they’re heading to college or just received their driver’s license, buying your teen their first vehicle can be exciting, yet overwhelming.

You can make choices now that will simplify the financial process for your loved ones after you’re gone. 

If you’re heading to college out of state, you can use  Sunward’s on-the-go resources to keep track of your finances no matter where life takes you.

Whether you’re starting or returning to college, it’s a good idea to set up a plan so you can feel confident about your responsibilities.

The only way to build a credit record is to have and use credit. Here are some ideas on how to get started.

Our 100,000^th member, Keely Dobbs, said joining the right financial institution couldn’t have been easier.

Sunward members can create savings goals in online banking. Start a savings goal to buy a home, plan a wedding, or make charitable donations.

Sunward partners with TruStage to offer members competitive rates, quality products, and helpful advice without sales pressure. 

The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires that your credit report be made available to you for free.

What to do when school grants, scholarships and government loans don’t cover the costs of attending college.  

A lack of credit history can be an issue for financially established individuals who opt to pay cash instead of getting loans or using credit cards.

A credit freeze restricts creditors from accessing your credit report, which prevents both legitimate and fraudulent loans and accounts from being opened in your name.

Good credit is the key to a solid financial foundation. It can help you secure a loan for school and a car, often at a better rate than someone with a low score would receive.

Starting a career can be an exciting time, and it’s important to think about what a steady income means for your financial goals. 

For most people, college is the first time you'll be fully responsible for your finances. During college a budget is critical.

Marriage marks a big turning point in life, and finances are often a significant consideration. Here are some topics you and your partner should discuss.