6 Tips for Saving this Holiday Season

Does it feel like you’re spending more than you’re comfortable with this month, between gifts, parties, and holiday activities? You may have missed our Holiday Loans that were available during November, but there are still great ways to save money during the holidays, no matter how many gifts are on your shopping list.

1. Set a Budget

You’ve heard it a thousand times, but there’s a reason for that. Whether you set your total budget for all expenses, or you decide the maximum you want to spend gift-by-gift, it’s smartest to go in with a plan. The key to sticking to a budget? Keep track of your spending throughout the month so you know when you’re overdoing it.

2. Trim the List with Gift Exchanges

If you were to make a list of all of the people you give gifts to, are there people on the outskirts who probably don’t need a box of chocolates or another ornament? If you like to give gifts to all of your extended family, every person in the entire office, or all the 24 nieces and nephews, consider a gift exchange, where each giver pulls the name of another so you only need to buy (and thereby only receive) one gift.

3. Coupons

The Black Friday deals trickled into Cyber Monday, which bled into Cyber Week, which is now becoming an entire month of savings to various degrees. Get on newsletter email lists for all your favorite stores, especially the ones you’re keeping an eye on, and you will get daily sales and promo codes sent to your inbox. Watch carefully, and remember your budget, and you will save on gifts across the board.

4. Homemade Gifts

Taking the time to make your gifts and putting your own personal touch and love into it can mean the world to someone. Create personalized gifts for others based on your favorite creative hobby, whether it’s woodworking, baking, jam-making, knitting, or even writing poetry. Take this tip from livingonthecheap.com: “Wrap your gift in a gift. A homemade loaf of bread wrapped in foil and tied up with a fresh new dishtowel and ribbon is the perfect gift. The wrapping is part of the gift.” Looking for ideas? Create a Pinterest account and find countless brilliant gift ideas that you can “pin” or save for later.

5. Focus on Gratitude and Togetherness

It seems like just yesterday we were going around the Thanksgiving table sharing what we were most thankful for. Did anyone over the age of 5 name something that gets put under the tree? Most people are thankful for family, spending time together, and experiencing new things. Focus on quality time and experiences instead of expensive gifts this year! The memories will stick with you, and your budget will remain intact.

6. Curb Kids’ Expectations

Wanting to create a magical Christmas for your kids can cause your spending—and their expectations to quickly get out of control. When it comes to a wish list for kids, have them choose 5-6 gifts instead of scrolls of 20+ have-to-have-it gifts. Ask them to choose their very top wishes, and remind them (again and again) that Christmas is not about what you receive under the tree.


For budgeting and saving advice, contact First Choice Credit Union and have a Happy Holiday season!

3 Tips for a Smart Holiday Budget

Holiday spending can get steep if you’re not careful.

The average American plans to spend nearly $1,000 this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. Between decor, food, and gifts, the costs add up fast.

Budgeting doesn't have to take the fun out of the Holidays. Keep these tips in mind for a jolly and wallet-friendly holiday.

1. Grab a Pen and Paper

Don’t assume you’ll remember your holiday shopping list by heart. Write down everything you need to buy. That means everything; your grocery list, gifts, decorations, new clothes for a holiday party, gas or airline tickets, gift wrap, and even holiday greeting cards. Keep a running budget with the list. It may be helpful to mark out how much you plan to spend on each gift.

Then, take to the holiday ads and scope for deals. Check each store’s price match policy. Being prepared helps you cut out expensive last-minute gifts or impulse buys.

2. Shop Early, but Not All at Once

If you feel like every shopping outing turns into an all-out shopping spree, you’re not alone. It’s not your self-control that’s at fault. Buying one thing can psychologically trigger you to buy more things – something researchers call The Shopping Momentum Effect.

It’s because of this that shopping boundaries are important. Take advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, but stick to your list. Shopping online could help ease this by getting you out of the mall atmosphere, but watch out for shipping costs, which can climb quickly.

3. Get Strategic About Big Purchases

Huge store sales like Black Friday can be a great time to buy electronics, appliances and exercise equipment because of the steep markdowns. You might want to think about buying last year’s model rather than the latest releases, which can save you a significant chunk of change.

If you’re planning to make a really big purchase this holiday season, a loan can help make your holiday dreams come true. First Choice Credit Union’s Fair Rate Lending Program gives members the best payback rate possible based on their credit score. You’ll save money because the loans are calculated based on simple interest, and there is never a prepayment penalty.

It’s possible to celebrate the Holidays and stay on a budget – even if you’re planning a Clark Griswold-esque celebration. Enlist the help of First Choice Credit Union - we’ll help you reach your yuletide goals without demolishing your budget.

Do Not Be a Victim! How to Protect Yourself From Scams

There are many scammers in the world, and just as many ways to be scammed. Recently, our credit union members have called us and reported receiving a letter in the mail with a check in it. This is just one example of many ways you can fall victim to a scam. If you received this letter, DO NOT CASH THE CHECK and throw it away. At First Choice Credit Union, we want you and your personal information to stay safe. Here are 3 ways to protect yourself from scams.

Learn About The Different Types of Scams

Scams often try to glean information from you that can be later used against you. This can result in identity theft, private information release, and financial hacking. Read about common types of scams and how to identify them here. It is unbelievable the ways people prey on the vulnerable; do not let yourself be one of them! The old adage really applies here: if it is too good to be true, it isn't.

Keep Personal Information Safe – Even from Family

One of the most exploited groups of people are actually the elderly. Sadly, over 90% of elderly abuse is committed by a family member. It is so important to keep your personal information safe from even relatives. Do not give your social security number, credit card number, checking account number, or any other financially identifying information freely.

No Transactions With a Person or Business You Do Not Trust

A good rule of thumb to protect yourself from scams is never involve yourself in a transaction involving a business you have never heard of. If a salesman solicits at your doorstep, do not open the door. If a pop-up advertises on your computer browser, do not click the ad. If you get a phone call asking for personal information, do not divulge anything. If you did not seek out and initiate the transaction, be skeptical of what you are doing.

These three tips will go a long way in protecting yourself, but there's still more you can do. Learn as much as you can about scams and then protect your loved ones by educating them, too. Click here to learn about what to do if you are involved in a scam as a credit union member.

Be Safe and Prepared During Hurricane Irma

With the threat of Hurricane Irma approaching, we encourage our Members to prepare early and to be safe before, during and after the storm.

• Make sure your home is hurricane ready. Document and photograph all your valuables in your home. Repair and reinforce anything that isn’t fully attached or could blow away or cause damage. Protect windows against flying debris or shattering with plywood and duct tape.
• Know where to go. If you are ordered to evacuate, know your evacuation zone and listen to state officials if an evacuation is ordered for your area. Have a plan for how your family will communicate and a plan for where you can stay.
• Put together a “go” bag including a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, pet supplies, medications, copies of important information and cash. You can still stay in contact with your First Choice account with Home Banking and Mobile.
• Make a plan for your four-legged friends. Make sure all pets are wearing their ID tags with up-to-date contact information. If necessary, choose a designated caregiver outside evacuation zones. Have food and water on hand for three days.
• Have a family communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy, plan for adequate supplies and water for several days, and save emergency numbers.

Important numbers

• The State of Florida Emergency Hotline has been activated 24/7. For up-to-date information regarding Hurricane Irma, call 1-800-3412-3557.
• To find a hurricane shelter close to you, you can text the word “shelter” and your zip code to the number 4-F-E-M-A or 4-3-3-6-2. Always check with your local emergency management agency to make sure it’s not full.*
• Emergency referral line: 211
• FEMA Registration: 800-621-3362 | 800-462-7585
• Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services: 800-435-7352
• Elder Affairs: 800-963-5337
• Florida Insurance Claim Hotline: 800-277-8676
• Unemployment Claims Emergency Hotline: 800-204-2418

Insurance Hotlines

• State Farm: 800-732-5246
• Allstate: 800-547-8676
• Citizens: 866-411-2742
• Nationwide: 800-421-3535
• USAA (Military): 800-531-8222

Important websites

• Visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov (Spanish) for tips on how to prepare for and stay safe during hurricanes and flooding.
• Visit Hurricanes.gov for the latest on the storm.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App to receive alerts from the National Weather Service, get safety and survival tips, customize your emergency checklist, find your local shelter, and upload your disaster photos to help first responders
• Florida Disaster  |  Florida Get a Plan
• http://www.wptv.com/weather/hurricaneplus
• https://www.fema.gov/hurricane-irma

* Texting FEMA is not a substitute for calling 911.

First Choice Credit Union Auto Loan and Car Buying Tips

Purchasing a vehicle is an exciting moment, but can also be confusing and daunting. First Choice Credit Union is here to advise you on the car-buying steps and help you make a purchase decision that is both financially smart and gets you the vehicle you want.

1. Determine Your Budget

A good rule of thumb is that you should only take on new debt when your monthly spending is less than your monthly income. A new loan shouldn’t take away from your plans to save or from your existing commitments. If you have the room in your budget for a monthly car payment, that will inform your overall car-buying budget. Not sure what your monthly finances will allow? Our member services staff can assist you.

When calculating your overall budget, keep in mind that your monthly payment will be determined by a) vehicle price, including any added warranties, b) down payment, c) term of the loan, and d) APR (annual percentage rate). The larger the down payment, the smaller the loan, which will give you more flexibility and a more comfortable monthly payment.

2. Check your Credit Report

The terms of your loan will be influenced by your credit score, so it may be a good idea to check your credit report for any discrepancies you might need to dispute.

3. Direct Lending vs. Dealership Financing

Buyers have several choices when it comes to securing an auto loan. Dealership financing makes use of the dealership’s relationships with financial institutions, and won’t necessarily be the best deal. Direct lending involves getting your loan directly from your bank or credit union, and First Choice is proud to specialize in low-cost auto loans. We pride ourselves on having the lowest car loans in Palm Beach County, with our Fair Lending Program in place to determine your best rate based on your personal history.

4. Meet with an Auto Advisor

One of the newer services that First Choice offers our members is the Auto Advisor program—we’re the friend you wish you had with you as you enter the dealership. Your assigned advisor will help you simplify the car-buying process and be your expert advice, from determining fair market value for your trade-in to helping you complete your final purchase.

5. Get Pre-Approved

Getting pre-approved from First Choice Credit Union will help you feel more confident when you’re shopping and beginning to negotiate price. We can issue a sight draft which you can bring on the lot with you. Visit our low-cost Auto Loan Resource Center for more information.

6. Shop Around

Use the many car finding sites and apps to give you a good understanding of fair prices for the vehicle you’re looking for. Visit a few dealerships to see their inventory, test drive, and compare certain features. It’s a good idea to bring along a shopping companion to help you weigh your options and talk through your decision.

7. Consider Warranties and Maintenance Plans

Extended warranties and maintenance plans add to the total cost of the vehicle but can save you a bit of money in the long run (which is also money you’d be paying out of pocket unexpectedly for repairs and maintenance, versus having it rolled into your loan in most cases). Talk to the dealership staff and our Auto Advisors to know what to expect.

8. Read the Fine Print

You’re almost there! Read all parts of the auto contract carefully. If you have questions about wording, ask them, and make sure all of the coverage you’re opting into is listed out. If you see something you didn’t agree to or don’t understand, ask. For a quick road map to the parts of an auto insurance contract, follow along with this guide.



We’re happy to help our members through the car-buying experience. Contact us to get started!

A Variety of Personal Loans From First Choice Credit Union

Personal loans are loans between $500 and $10,000 that can be taken out for a variety of reasons and are not restricted to a particular purchase. Like other loans with First Choice Credit Union, the terms of your loan are based on the amount borrowed, and the rate you pay is based on your credit history. Our members know they can rely on us to offer the fairest and best rate possible, and it is a pleasure for us to help our members realize their dreams.

Personal loans are appealing not only because they can help you reach your goals, but because they are flexible, have lower rates than credit cards in most cases, and, if paid in full each month, they can actually improve your credit score.

Americans use personal loans for everything from debt consolidation to wedding receptions. Let’s look at some of the common (and not so common) ways to use a personal loan.

1. Debt Consolidation

Consolidate credit cards or other loans into one single personal loan, and get a fixed rate, fixed monthly payment, and often, cases lower interest rate.

2. Home Improvements and Remodeling

Americans spend billions of dollars on home remodeling projects each year, and these costs can be covered (and paid over time) with personal loans.

3. Weddings or Quinceñeras

Celebrate your big day just how you want! It may mean big price tags that add up, so many families use a personal loan to make their celebration perfect.

4. Medical Bills or Adoption

Paying for surgeries and treatments or worrying about preparing for an adoption can be alleviated with personal loans.

5. Funeral Expenses

These often unexpected costs can run over $10,000.

6. Trips of a Lifetime

Be careful of using a personal loan for travel expenses, but if there is a once-in-a-lifetime trip that you are carefully planning to finance, like a honeymoon or destination wedding, this could be a good option.


Interested in your own personal loan? Members can apply for a personal loan in person at any of our branch locations, or online.

How to Save Money on Your Daughter's Quinceañera

Your daughter's coming of age birthday party might seem like it is going to cost you a pretty penny as you begin to plan and prepare. Some people can go overboard and spend a small fortune on their daughter's quinceañera, but with these money-saving tips, you can afford to throw your girl the birthday party of her dreams!

Skip the Salon

Your daughter and her friends want to look perfect for the big day, but a lot of hair, makeup, and nail treatments can be done less expensively than at a salon. One idea is to go to a local cosmetology school to get discounted services. Otherwise, enlist a particularly talented friend or relative to help with hair or makeup for getting ready, saving you hundreds in salon costs.

DIY Decorations

Instead of flowers, choose balloons or photographs to decorate the party. The dollar store offers many creative and inexpensive decorations and you can search on Pinterest.com for easy DIY crafts to make with them. Enlist relatives to help create custom quinceañera decorations and even put together favors for your guests.

Frugal Food

Make handmade food choices instead of catering. Traditional dishes will go over better with your guests, anyway! You can also choose to have multiple smaller cakes or cupcakes instead of just one big one to save a little money. Another popular choice is to serve multiple appetizers instead of a sit-down dinner. Plated meals will oftentimes blow the budget so simpler food choices can reduce the cost of your daughter's quinceañera dramatically.


As your daughter celebrates her very special fifteenth birthday, it can be tempting to spend a lot to have her every wish granted. To save money on her quinceañera, heed these tips to save tons of money.

First Choice Credit Union is here to help you make smart financial decisions in all aspects of your life. We offer a special quinceañera loan just for your little girl. Stop in today and ask about how we can help make her birthday the best yet!

How to Spend Your Tax Return Wisely

When your tax return comes in, you are undoubtedly tempted to spend it on some big ticket item on your wish list. Perhaps you have been waiting to buy a new sofa or you would like to take a vacation. The average taxpayer receives a refund around $3,000 and that is a good chunk of change. The wisest ways to utilize that money are listed below.

Pay Off Debt

The number one thing you should do with your tax return is pay off high interest debt. Any loan or debt you owe incurring more than 5% interest should be paid down as quickly as you can. Credit card debt is especially detrimental, as it can make it very difficult to get ahead and bringing down your credit score. Not only will paying off that debt feel like a relief, but you will be grateful every month when your overdue bill does not come in the mail.

Make Home Improvements

The home improvements you should spend your tax return on are the ones which will give you the highest return on investment. These are not improvements like heated tile floors or new kitchen cabinets, they are the kind that will increase your home's efficiency and decrease your ownership costs for months – or even years – to come. Adding insulation to your home's attic if necessary, replacing old appliances with energy efficient ones, or installing new windows are some of the wisest home improvements. In the long run, the money you spent on these improvements will find its way back in your pocket.

Save it For a Rainy Day

The majority of Americans do not have enough money in savings to protect themselves against sudden setbacks. An emergency fund should always hold 3-6 months of your expenses in the event you lose your job, incur medical bills, have a large car repair, or have to pay for something unexpected. First Choice Credit Union has great savings account options and can meet with you to determine how large of an emergency fund you should have.


It can be hard to refrain from purchasing a wish list item with your tax refund! However, if you choose to spend your tax return wisely through one of these three avenues, you future self will thank you.

4 Reasons To Open a Youth Checking Account for Your Child

As more and more young people drown themselves in debt and develop an unhealthy relationship with money, it is evident to First Choice Credit Union that something has to be done. We believe good money management skills start young and that is why we created a brand new account option for our members ages 10 to 18.

Our new Youth Checking account offers features like 4 free ATM withdrawals at Publix, a free debit card, reward program, and even free mobile banking and deposits.  There is no minimum balance required and no monthly fees. Need more reasons to open a checking account with your child? Read on.

Practice Makes Perfect

Your child needs practice spending money and learning what happens when they overspend before they enter the real world. Our Youth Checking account gives them a debit card so they can experience how easy it is to swipe plastic, but learn to avoid spending more than their account holds. Your child can learn financial responsibility now while they have a little so they are better equipped when they someday have a lot.

Financial Education

The youth checking account opens the doors to your child's financial education. Before he or she leaves the house, you want them to be able to handle their own money and spend wisely. Having a checking account will teach them to keep a positive checking balance, encourage earning money to put into the account, and empower your child to learn more about finances.

Debit Card

The major perk of opening a Youth Checking account is that your child will receive a debit card for free. They have probably watched you use cards closely. Now it is their turn to have that responsibility. Explaining to your child that using a debit card is just like using cash is a good way to ensure your child understands the card does not have an endless spending limit.

Direct & Mobile Deposit

After a Youth Checking account has been open for 90 days, First Choice offers free mobile deposit to its young members. This gives your child another way to enjoy their phone and makes it easy for them to deposit monetary gifts from Christmas and birthdays. As your teen gets older and starts earning at a job, their employer may be able to directly deposit paychecks into their personal checking account.

Kids ages 10 to 18 would benefit from a Youth Checking Account from First Choice Credit Union. In order to apply, a parent or guardian must be a joint owner on the account and qualify themselves for a regular FCCU checking account. That's it! Come in today and open a Youth Checking account and help your child learn about financial literacy.

How Far Will a Free Checking Account Take You?

Budgeting for the important things in life is essential to enjoying the small things that keep you sane. It’s never fun to worry about spending – especially when those worries prevent you from ever having any fun. Create a budget for yourself to make sure your expenses get paid and remember to set aside a small fund for fun!

Free checking accounts are rare. The money you save from taking advantage of a free checking account can add up to a “fun fund” for yourself. We’ve gathered a list of the top things you can do with the money you’ll save from opening a free checking account with First Choice Federal Credit Union:

1. Save for a New Car

There’s more than just one benefit of getting a car. Not only will you look great driving around a fresh car, but getting a used or new vehicle loan will help build your credit score. You’ll be able to create a payment plan with the money you save with us to find a car you’ll love!

2. Pay Back Debts

If you have a credit balance that is getting too high, pay a larger amount towards your bill this month. It will also help raise your credit and get you one step closer to paying off that debt.

3. Stock Up on Groceries

Going out to dinner can add up quickly. An easy thing you can do with the extra money you’ll have is head to the grocery store. Stock up on meals and you’ll be forced to eat at home and save even more money! Meal planning can be fun to do with friends, too!

4. Invest

The main benefit of investing is the idea of time. The sooner you start investing, the bigger your potential return will be. Young investors have an advantage because compound interest builds greater with time. Remember that with investment comes risk, so always do your research to fully understand your investment before you commit.

5. Enjoy a Night on the Town

No matter how hectic or stressful your day may get, it’s always important to remember to treat yourself. Let’s face it; you work hard! Get some friends together for a night at the movies or dinner and drinks. It isn’t financially smart to make a habit of going out, but treating yourself is a great way to celebrate financial goals. Just don’t go too overboard!


Although it’s important to put money away for the necessities in life, it’s equally important to indulge yourself every once in a while. Everyone deserves to be spoiled here and there! Having a free checking account will put you on the right track to make sure you’re saving for the things you need, but still have enough to spoil yourself!


Contact First Choice Credit Union to get started.

Tax Return or Taxes Due – How to Be Smart at Tax Time

Whether this time of year means a tax bill or a nice tax return in your pocket, it’s a time to be thoughtful about these sums of money. Many people spend their tax return too quickly or fret over where to find the money to pay their taxes. We have tips for both situations.

If You’re Receiving a Return...

1)     Pay Your Tax-related Expenses

Even filing your taxes costs money. Use your tax return to pay your accountant or replace the cost of your tax software. If you’re getting a federal return but owe in state taxes, or vice versa, turn around and pay one with the other.

2)     Add it to Savings

It is recommended to have 2-3 months’ worth of income stashed away in a Savings account. This is highly recommended so that emergency situations—like car repairs, medical bills, or family members in need—can be addressed without affecting your week-to-week cash flow. So if your savings isn’t quite healthy enough, or you need to open a Savings account, use your return to do so. First Choice Credit Union has savings account options to fit your specific needs, so contact us to get started.

3)     Pay off Credit Card Balances

Which of your outstanding balances have the highest interest rate? Interest paid is money out the door which doesn’t pay down the principle balance you owe. Get serious about paying down the debt with the highest rate, and buy yourself some breathing room by putting your tax return toward outstanding balances.

4)     Put it in Retirement or Education Savings Accounts

These are the Savings accounts we often overlook because they’re useful so far in the future. We are creatures of the present, and saving for a moment 10, 15, or 20 years down the road is not exciting, even if it is a huge ticket item. Between college tuition and retirement, the average couple will need well over $1 million. Sound daunting? Speak with one of our representatives about our Education or Retirement Savings options to make a plan for your future.

If You Owe Taxes...

If you’re one of the 20% of taxpayers who won’t get a refund, but an “amount due,” don’t panic. Depending on the amount you owe and your available monies, you’ll find a way. But by all means, do not put it off or ignore it for a few months. IRS charges failure-to-file and failure-to-pay penalties if you are beyond the deadline, and these accrue month over month. So how do you approach this new bill in a smart way?

1)     Save From Now until April 15th

If you’ve discovered your tax bill in February, you still have two months to save up that amount before the April due date. Whether you stay in, eat in, skip Valentine’s gifts, or put off paying for something else, see if you can use this time to prepare for your tax payment.

2)     Pull from Emergency Funds

Remember #2 above? This is one of those situations that could pull from a robust savings fund without affecting your day-to-day. Here’s to savings!

3)     Enter into an Installment Agreement with the IRS

If you owe less than $50,000 and haven’t set up an installment agreement in 5 years, you could fill out a monthly payment request online. You can request a specific monthly payment, which is preferable to putting your tax payment on a credit card with a high interest rate.

4)     Ask for Extended Time

If extraordinary circumstances keep you from being able to pay your taxes on time, you may be able to prove you need an extension. Using the same payment agreement application, you may be able to buy yourself some time.

First Choice Credit Union can help you with any financial services, whether you’re celebrating a refund or glaring at a tax bill. Good Luck this tax season!