Articles

Life

5 Types of Insurance to Consider

Be sure you’re protecting what matters most with these types of insurance.

Life

On- or Off-Base? Weigh Your Housing Decision

When it comes to choosing whether to live on- or off-base, both personal and financial considerations come into play.

Security

Debit and Credit Card Security Features

Get to know the security features that protect your debit and credit cards from fraudulent spending.

Life

PPM Moves: Your Ticket to Saving Money

Personally Procured Moves (PPM) are a great option if you're looking for more control and ways to save during a PCS move.

Credit & Debt

Everything You Need to Know About Credit Scores

Your credit score has a massive influence on your ability to borrow. Find out why it’s so important and how it works.

Personal Finance

Investing Mistakes New Investors Should Avoid

Successful investing is about making money—and keeping it. Even if you’re a newbie, knowing what mistakes to avoid can give you more confidence.

Life

5 Tips for Smart Back-to-School Shopping

Purchase with purpose and save money on back-to-school shopping.

Personal Finance

8 Financial Tips for Recent College Grads

Starting off on the right foot with your finances will serve you well throughout your life.

Personal Finance

Find a Quicker Way to Pay

Mobile wallets offer convenience and security.

Credit & Debt

Don’t Fall for These 9 Credit Card Myths

Get the facts on credit cards and avoid myths that can drag down your credit.

Auto

Car Buying: Are You Getting a Great Deal?

Use this checklist to ensure you secure a great price when you buy your next vehicle.

Personal Finance

Ways You Can Earn While You Serve

Serving your country not only comes with honor; it also has some financial benefits.

Security

Avoid Phone Scams and Vishing (Voice Phishing)

Telephone scams are more likely to reach your cell phone than you think, but you can avoid falling victim to fraud.

Security

Tips to Protect Your Identity on Vacation

You could be more vulnerable to identity theft and fraud when you travel. Protect yourself with this handy checklist.

Life

Last-Minute Vacation Ideas for Military Families

You can plan a great family vacation, even if you’re short on time or budget.

Home

5 Home Improvements that Pay You Back

Affordable home improvements can help increase your home’s resale value.

Auto

Ready for a New Car? Here is How to Find the Best Fit

It pays to do your homework and compare all your options when you’re shopping for a car.

Personal Finance

It’s a Win! 7 Easy Ways to Reach Your Savings Goals

These savings tips can save you big in the long run.

Life

Federal vs. Private Student Loans: What's the Difference?

Learn more about your college financing options.

Auto

Do I Need a Specific Credit Score to Buy a Car?

Factors like your credit score influence your auto loan’s interest rate and total cost. Learn how you can lower the rate for your next car.

Personal Finance

Cool Down Summer Spending: 6 Ways to Save

Slash seasonal costs with these savings strategies.

Personal Finance

How Much Could You Earn With a Rewards Credit Card?

Using smart spending strategies can help you maximize your rewards.

Life

6 Tips for Preparing to Move Overseas

You’ve just gotten your orders to move overseas. You can make the transition smoother with these tips from Navy Federal Credit Union.

Personal Finance

6 Vacation Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

Give these fun and frugal ideas a try for your next vacation.

Life

Military Benefits You Don't Want to Miss

There's more to the military than honor and skill building. Learn about benefits that can help you get ahead.

Personal Finance

Tempted by a Payday Loan? First, Take a Closer Look

Know the facts about payday loans and how to avoid them.

Life

7 Ways to Prepare Your Finances for a Deployment

Worried important financial matters will slip through the cracks as you prepare for deployment? Use this checklist to help you plan

Life

Debunking 5 Student Loan Refinancing Myths

Learn the facts about student loans, including refinancing and consolidating, to make smart decisions.

Personal Finance

Your Military Pay, Dissected

Get a better understanding of your military paycheck with this guide.

Security

Steer Clear of These Online Scams

Making online transactions is easier than ever, but it's important to take precautions to protect your identity and accounts from cybercriminals.

Personal Finance

Give Your Finances a Spring Cleaning

Clean up your spending habits and make the most of the money you have.

Life

Understanding College Financial Aid Offers

Receiving a financial aid offer is exciting, but it can also be complex. Here are some tips to help you make sense of it.

Life

On the Move: Helping Children When Relocating

Preparing your child ahead of time when your family moves to a new home can make the transition easier.

Home

6 Tips For Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent who understands your needs can help you make a confident decision when buying or selling a home.

Life

Life Insurance: How Much Is Enough?

Buying life insurance doesn’t have to be confusing. Figure out how much you need by considering a few key factors.

Personal Finance

Real Tips for Real Life

Navy Federal Credit Union Member Service Reps share top tips for saving, budgeting, managing money and meeting financial goals.

Personal Finance

Saving on Big Spring Expenses

Big spring projects and events can put quite the strain on your wallet. Lessen the load!

Life

12 Money-Saving Tips for Families

Family-friendly ideas to save money and prepare a household budget.

Credit & Debt

Does Closing a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score?

Canceling a credit card is more than discarding some plastic, it could also affect your credit score.

Auto

Thinking About Refinancing Your Car?

Do you know the 5 common eligibility factors that lenders consider for auto loan refinancing?

Home

Navigating the VA Loan Process

No down payment? No problem when you apply for a VA home loan.

Home

How Much Home Can You Afford?

Review these affordability factors before buying a home.

Personal Finance

10 Ways to Save at the Supermarket

Small changes in shopping habits can turn into big savings when grocery shopping.

Personal Finance

Use Your Tax Refund to Kick-start Savings

Set aside that tax refund to contribute to retirement, save for college or make a larger splurge down the line.

Security

9 Signs of Identity Theft

Every 2 seconds, an American becomes a victim of identity fraud. Watch for warning signs to make sure you don't fall prey.

Auto

Should You Refinance Your Car Loan?

By refinancing your auto loan to a lower rate, you can allocate funds to other parts of your life.

Personal Finance

Filing Taxes While Overseas: What You Need to Know

Military members: Learn more about the special considerations provided to you when filing taxes from abroad.

Personal Finance

Dream Big: Develop a Strategy to Save for All Your Goals

Follow these 6 steps to create a savings strategy to help you reach multiple goals.

Personal Finance

New to Investing? How to Get Started

Use these tips to start investing.

Personal Finance

What Should You Do With Your Tax Refund?

Take this quiz before making any big moves with your tax refund.

Auto

How to Refinance a Car Loan

If your auto loan payments seem too high for your budget, consider refinancing. You could lower your monthly payments.

Life

Clear Up These Retirement Planning Myths

Don't let misconceptions keep you from successful retirement planning.

Home

Home Buying Roadmap: Follow Your Path Home

Look forward to these simple steps along the journey to your new home.

Life

How Military Service Strengthens Your Financial Fitness

Serving in the military teaches discipline and instills a strong work ethic, both skills that can be applied to money management.

Auto

Car Buying: How a Pre-approval Can Put You in the Fast Lane

Take the hassle and uncertainty out of financing a new vehicle by getting pre-approved for your auto loan.

Security

Things You Should Know About Financial Apps

Financial apps help us manage our money and make life easier. Learn how to boost your security.

Retirement

10 Questions to Ask When Considering an IRA

If you're ready to start saving for retirement, you may have some questions about individual retirement accounts. Here are the facts.

Personal Finance

Secrets to Keeping Your Financial Resolutions

Learn tips that will help keep your financial goals on track.

Credit & Debt

Demolish Debt - 5 Payment Strategies That Really Work

Pay down your debt with 5 strategies that really work.

Life

5 Ways to Recover From Holiday Spending

Get your finances back on track after the holidays with these simple tips.

Personal Finance

Saving Money on Mindless Subscriptions

How much money do you spend on online subscriptions? Learn how to reduce spending without unsubscribing from it all.

Life

Ways to Pay It Forward Throughout the Holiday Season

Make the holiday season brighter by volunteering for a favorite charity or paying it forward with a kind gesture.

Personal Finance

10 Questions to Ask When Considering a Balance Transfer Offer

Knowing the answers to these questions may help lower your credit card debt.

Personal Finance

Shop Smart With Your Credit Card

Learn the benefits of shopping with a credit card this holiday season.

Credit & Debt

Borrow Wisely With Your Savings

Shares Secured loans provide an opportunity to borrow wisely and build credit.

Personal Finance

Stick to a Budget With Your Debit Card

Your debit card can be a surprisingly effective budgeting tool.

Life

Take Advantage of Military Discounts This Holiday Season

Learn about special holiday savings opportunities for servicemembers.

Life

Outside-the-Box Care Package Ideas

Get ideas and tips for sending a creative gift or care package to someone who's deployed.

Life

Quiz: What Holiday Song Are You?

Find out what holiday song is in tune with your personality with this fun quiz.

Life

What's the Military's New Blended Retirement System?

Learn about the military's new Blended Retirement System and how it affects military members.

Life

Why Gift Cards Make Great Holiday Gifts

Gift cards are rising in popularity because of the convenient benefits for givers and receivers.

Life

Holiday Entertaining on a Dime

If you're on a budget and it's your year to host the holiday party, we have 4 tips for celebrations that won't break the bank.

Auto

Why the End of the Year Can Be a Great Time to Buy a New Car

Buying a car at the end of the year could mean savings hundreds, perhaps thousands, of dollars on the price of a new vehicle.

Life

7 Tips to De-Stress Your Holidays

Make your holidays merry again with these stress-reducing tips.

Personal Finance

5 Biggest Myths About Debit Cards

You probably have a debit card that came with your checking account. But how much do you really know about debit cards?

Personal Finance

Save for Your Next Adventure With Certificates

Learn how you can use certificates to maximize your savings.

Life

Shopping Tips for Military Families

Servicemembers can shop smarter thanks to available military resources and discounts.

Personal Finance

Find Your Perfect Credit Card

Learn which Navy Federal Credit Card is the best fit for you.

Home

Make House Hunting Easier With the Power of Pre-Approval

It pays to get pre-approved before home shopping begins. Take the right steps on the journey to your new home.

Security

6 Tips to Avoid ATM Skimming

Learn how to spot and avoid the latest ATM scamming techniques.

Personal Finance

5 Things to Know About Adding an Authorized User

Learn about the benefits of adding an authorized user to your card.

Security

8 Social Media Scams to Avoid

From Instagram imposters to Facebook phishing, here are 8 scams to avoid when connecting on social media.

Security

Tips for Staying Secure in the Digital World

Is online banking a blind spot for you when it comes to security against fraud?

Auto

Car Buying: Are You Getting the Best Deal?

Use this checklist to ensure you secure a great price when you buy your next vehicle.

Auto

What Is GAP, and What Can It Do for You?

Guaranteed Asset Protection could help cover the costs that your car insurance can't.

Security

Phishing: Don't Get Caught in the Net

Keep your personal information safe with these 7 ways to protect against phishing.

Personal Finance

4 Steps to Financial Success

Have you ever heard the saying, 'Put your money to work for you'?

Personal Finance

How to Start Saving on an Entry-Level Salary

Even if you don't earn much, you can find ways to cut spending and start saving.

Life

Your Membership Is a Big Deal

Navy Federal Credit Union members earn and save an average of $250 more per year by banking with us. See how you can take advantage of all your membership perks.

Life

7 Questions to Ask Before Refinancing Student Loans

Questions to ask yourself and a potential lender before you consolidate or refinance.

Personal Finance

Be Prepared: 5 Steps to Build Your Emergency Fund

Don't let unexpected costs endanger your livelihood. Here's how to create an emergency fund to protect your finances.

Life

Quiz: Are You Making a Dent in Your Student Loan Debt?

Test your knowledge and see if you're on track to pay off your student loans.

Security

Turn Your Dream Into a Reality With a SaveFirst Account

Pick your goal, set your term and start watching your money grow!

Personal Finance

What's a Credit Utilization Ratio, and Why Is It Important?

Your credit utilization ratio may influence your credit score. Find out what it is and how to improve yours.

Life

College Students: Guard Against Identity Theft

Protect yourself or your child from the threat of stolen personal and financial information.

Security

How to Protect Your Accounts With Strong Passwords

Learn techniques to protect your information from data breaches and scammers.

Life

4 Ways to Teach Your Student Smart Spending Habits

Help your student prepare for independent money management with four simple steps.

Life

PCS Relocation: 7 Ways to Make the Move Easier

Relocating can be stressful, but getting organized can help you and your family keep moving in stride.

Personal Finance

Financial Check-Up: Are You On Track to Meet Your Goals?

Check in on your finances and make sure you meet your financial goals.

Auto

Quiz: What's Your Road Trip Destination?

Take a quiz to see which road trip destination could be in your future.

Personal Finance

Personal Loans 101: When Do They Make Sense?

By following some simple do's and don'ts, you can make personal loans more effective for your finances, and your life.

Security

How To Avoid Identity Theft When Traveling

Use these tips to prevent criminals from acquiring sensitive personal information while you're on the go.

Life

Smart Moves to Prepare Your Child for College

Help your teen get ready for college with these five tips to help them put their best foot forward in high school.

Auto

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Car?

When you buy a car can influence how much you'll pay for it. Learn what factors to consider when timing your auto purchase.

Home

Remodel Your Home or Sell It?

Explore the emotional and financial factors that drive the love-it-or-list-it decision.

Home

Infographic: What Is Home Equity?

Learn the basics of home equity and how it can be used.

Credit & Debt

Five Factors That You Didn't Know Affect Your Credit Score

Maintaining a good credit score can help pave the road to financial success.

Personal Finance

Splitting the Costs of a Group Vacation

Vacationing with a group isn't just fun; it may also make the trip less expensive. Learn how to split group expenses.

Personal Finance

How Many Credit Cards Should You Have?

Learn the pros and cons of having multiple credit cards and determine how many are right for you.

Personal Finance

How to Get on Track After a Disaster

Resources and tips to help you recover and rebuild following a disaster.

Home

Homebuying: Closing Time Tips

You've found the perfect home. Now what?

Personal Finance

Understanding Foreign Transaction Fees

Find out how to avoid foreign transaction fees on credit cards.

Personal Finance

Living on Your Own: Seven Tips for a Smooth Financial Transition

Independence comes with a price: the need to manage your own finances.

Auto

Late-Model Used Cars Hit the Sweet Spot

Buying a late-model used car may be the best value if you want newer features without the new car sticker price.

Life

Paying for College: A Look at Your Options

Learn how to finance your college education.

Life

What to Do If You Need to Evacuate

Learn how you can plan ahead for a natural disaster evacuation and help protect important documents and finances.

Credit & Debt

Everything You Need to Know About Credit Scores

Your credit score has a massive influence on your ability to borrow. Find out why it's so important and how it works.

Life

Take Command of Your Money During PCS Moves

Make the most of your PCS entitlements and benefits.

Personal Finance

Saving Is Easy with These Brain Tricks

The easiest way to start saving could be never to think about it.

Security

How to Protect Your Smartphones and Tablets

Your smart device stores a lot of personal information about you. We've got the tips to help safeguard your information.

Life

Make Your Child a Financial Superstar

Start kids on the path to money mastery with these age-appropriate tips.

Home

7 Signs It's Time to Move

Recognize the signals when it's time to find a new home.

Life

Quiz: What Kind of Retiree Will You Be?

Take this quick quiz to find out your retirement personality.

Auto

Car Shopping? Look for These Safety Features

Learn which active safety features may help you avoid an accident and earn you a lower rate on auto insurance.

Home

A Good Real Estate Agent Can Give You an Edge

When it comes to a decision this big, consider hiring a professional.

Personal Finance

Save to Make Your Dream Vacation a Reality

Easy tips to help save for your dream vacation.

Home

The Real Cost of Your Home: Numbers You Need to Know

Get a handle on all the fees and costs that come with buying a home.

Personal Finance

Smart Tips for Tax Preparation

Use these smart tips to prepare your taxes. Know what to look for when choosing software or a tax preparer.

Personal Finance

Quiz: Can You Detect a Tax Scam?

Test your knowledge so you're ready to spot a scam this tax season.

Life

7 Financial Questions to Ask Before You Say 'I Do'.

Get real about finances with your partner before tying the knot.

Personal Finance

Denied for a Credit Card? What to Do.

Learn what steps to take when you are denied for a credit card.

Personal Finance

How Does a Secured Credit Card Work?

If you have credit problems or no credit, a secured credit card from Navy Federal Credit Union can help. Here's how.

Personal Finance

Debt vs. Savings: The Showdown

Find the right balance between paying off debt and saving for the future.

Personal Finance

7 Balance Transfer Myths Debunked

Get the facts on balance transfers so you can handle credit card balances with confidence.

Personal Finance

Quiz: What Should Your Financial Resolution Be?

Look back at last year so you can make savvy financial resolutions for the new year.

Personal Finance

8 Ways to Earn Money During Winter Break

Take advantage of the break from school to earn some cash with these great last-minute ideas.

Personal Finance

The Ins and Outs of Co-signing a Loan

Whether you're a borrower or a co-signer, understand your responsibilities before you sign on the dotted line.

Security

How Strong Are Your Security Questions?

The answers to your account's security questions may be as important as your password. Learn how to make your answers secure.

Life

Quiz: What Kind of Holiday Shopper Are You?

Identify your personal shopping style and make it work for you this holiday season.

Home

You Don't Have to Pay Private Mortgage Insurance

Understand what PMI is and how you can choose a mortgage that doesn't require it.

Life

Quiz: Which Holiday Dish Are You?

You are what you eat, or so they say! See which classic holiday dish you're most like with this festive personality quiz.

Security

Skip the Holiday Scams

How to protect yourself from fraud this holiday season

Life

Smart Strategies for Holiday Spending

Ease the financial stress of the holidays by having a plan and being strategic with your holiday spending.

Life

Leaving the Military? Find Your Purpose and Thrive.

Unsure of what to do in your post-military life? See how you can find your purpose and keep achieving your life goals at home.

Retirement

6 Best Reasons to Open a Roth IRA

Enjoy the unique benefits offered by a Roth IRA. Get on the path to a comfortable retirement today.

Personal Finance

Creating a Budget

Getting your financial situation in order doesn't have to be difficult. A bit of patience and careful planning goes a long way. Dollar discipline is about smart budgeting. The better you budget, the better off you'll be.

Personal Finance

Credit Cards and Loans

Credit cards and loans can help you establish and improve your credit score while helping with unexpected purchases. But if not handled responsibly, you can get into a lot of debt.

Credit & Debt

Credit and Debt Management

Whatever kind of credit you're after, you need a good credit history and score. Scores are assigned based on your credit record maintained by the three major credit reporting bureaus.

Personal Finance

Managing Monthly Payments

Looking for a convenient way to ensure your bills are paid on time each month? Learn how to save time and better manage your cash flow.

Personal Finance

Start Saving

Got your eye on a new car? What about that must-have computer or a big TV for the upcoming game? No doubt, you've got your heart set on something special, but how are you going to pay for it?

Personal Finance

End-of-Year Financial Survival Guide

Make smart financial moves to end the year on a high note and start the new year with confidence.

Security

What's the Difference Between a Fraud Alert and a Credit Freeze?

If you're considering placing a fraud alert or a credit freeze on your credit report, it's important to know how they're different.

Credit & Debt

What to Do if You Want to Freeze Your Credit

If you're concerned about data breaches and want to place a credit freeze, you'll need to know how.

Auto

New Car Features: Are They Worth It?

It's easy to be blown away by the 'wow' factor of many new car features. But are they worth the cost? Learn how to decide.

Life

Reducing Teens' Top Expenses

Surveys show that teens tend to spend most of their money on clothing and food.

Home

Get a Better Deal on Your New Home

Fall is a great time to buy a home. Ask a few key questions to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Personal Finance

How Much Could You Earn With a Rewards Credit Card?

Using smart spending strategies can help you maximize your rewards.

Personal Finance

Quiz: Do You Think Like a Millionaire?

Find out whether your financial habits are shared by millionaires with this quick and fun quiz.

Credit & Debt

Average Credit Card Debt: Where Do You Fall?

Compare your credit card debt to the rest of America and learn what you can do to reduce it.

Life

Save on These 4 College Essentials

Tuition, food and housing aren't the only college essentials. Learn how to save on textbooks, computers and more.

Auto

The Ultimate Used Car Buying Guide

With a little planning and research, you can get a great deal on a used car. Our Used Car Buying Guide can help.

Life

8 Money Lessons to Learn by Age 30

Do you have the financial skills you should by 30? Here are eight skills you need for your financial future.

Life

Decoding Grocery Store Dates

Food expiration dates might not mean what you think. Read on to see if you're throwing out perfectly good food.

Life

Quiz: What's Your Ideal Vacation?

This fast and fun quiz measures your preferences and saving style to determine your perfect vacay.

Personal Finance

When and Why You Sign for Credit Card Purchases

Get the scoop on when your John Hancock is required for credit card purchases.

Life

Is Converting a Traditional IRA to a Roth Worth It?

Learn what factors to consider when deciding if a conversion makes financial sense for you.

Security

Ensure Those Tickets to Your Favorite Events Are Legit

How you can protect yourself and your finances from dishonest ticket-selling practices.

Personal Finance

Congrats, Your Debt Is Paid Off! Now What?

What to do when you finally reach a financial goal.

Home

5 Facts to Know About a Cash-Out Refinance

If you're considering refinancing and taking out cash from your mortgage, it's important that you learn the facts.

Auto

Quiz: What Type of Car Are You?

Your car says a lot about you. See what car is right for you with this personality quiz.

Personal Finance

Cool Down Summer Spending: 6 Ways to Save

Slash seasonal costs with these savings strategies.

Personal Finance

Is There Really a Best Time to Buy Airline Tickets?

Your timing may matter more than you think when it comes to booking a flight.

Auto

Get Your Car in Tiptop Shape for Summer Driving

Just as you change from a winter to summer wardrobe, your car needs to be properly outfitted for hot weather.

Auto

Buying a Boat? Answer These 5 Questions First

Before you take the plunge and buy a boat, ask yourself a few key questions to be sure it's the right choice for your lifestyle.

Home

Six Rock-Solid Benefits of VA Loans

Learn about the features of VA mortgage loans that make them a cut above the rest.

Personal Finance

How to Open a Savings Account

Learn the benefits of a savings account, the qualities to look for and what you need to open an account.

Auto

Should You Repair or Replace Your Car?

Determine if your aging vehicle is worth keeping or if it's time to invest in a new set of wheels.

Life

Alternatives to Borrowing from Your Retirement Plan

Learn about ways you can borrow money without harming your retirement future.

Life

College Savings Options: Coverdell ESA's and 529 Plans

Take a closer look at your education savings options to decide which is right for you.

Home

Planning Home Improvements? Consider These

Find out which home improvement projects offer more bang for your buck than others.

Life

Are Veterans' Benefits Taxable?

Find out if you need to report the veterans' benefits you receive as income on your tax return.

Life

Save for Your Wedding and Honeymoon

Affording both your dream wedding and honeymoon is possible with these tips for saving.

Life

Social Security: What Role Will it Play?

Learn what millennials can expect when it comes to Social Security retirement benefits.

Personal Finance

Are You Tax Scam Savvy?

Test your knowledge of common tax scam tactics to find out.

Home

After Closing: A Top 10 New Homeowner Checklist

The papers are signed, and the keys are in hand. Do you know what to do next?

Auto

The Real Cost of Your Car: Numbers You Need to Know

Sales tax, loan terms, insurance rates: there's more to buying a car than just purchase price.

Life

Can Student Loan Consolidation Lower Your Monthly Payments?

Combining your private student loans into one consolidated loan may give you smaller, streamlined payments.

Life

6 Tax Advantages Military Members Need to Know

Learn how you can save on your taxes as a servicemember.

Life

Are You Eligible to Join Navy Federal? Let's Find Out!

Are You Eligible to Join Navy Federal? Let's Find Out!

Life

3 Things Young Adults Should Know About Money

Don't fear your financial future. See how by saving early, you can be on the right path to a financially secure retirement.

Home

5 Home-Buying Tools to Make Your Life Easier

Take advantage of these online tools that will simplify your homebuying process.

Life

Why You Need Life Insurance When Buying a Home

Buying a home with your partner? Life insurance helps ensure they can stay there in the event of your death.

Life

7 Ways to Protect Your Child From Credit Theft

These simple tips can help prevent identity thieves from wrecking your child's credit.

Life

Couples Should Talk the Money Talk

Are you and your partner on the same financial page? Here are some money points you should discuss before your next big step.

Auto

Is an Electric Car Right for You?

The electric vehicle's popularity is on the rise. Read up on the pros and cons to help you decide if it's right for you.

Life

Retiring Next Year? Four Things to Consider Before the Big Day

It's that exciting, sometimes nerve-wracking, year before retirement. Are you ready?

Security

Safer Surfing: 3 Reasons to Update Your Browser and How to Do It

Stay safe while surfing the internet with these helpful tips.

Personal Finance

5 Easy Steps to Stop Mindless Spending

Control your spending to stay on track for retirement.

Auto

Want the Right Car at the Right Price? Prepare!

Learn about your financing options and what features to look for before you visit the car dealer.

Personal Finance

Balance Transfers: Reduce Your Credit Card Interest

A great way to ease credit card debts is to roll them up into one lower interest card.

Personal Finance

New Doesn't Mean Better: 8 Items You Should Buy Used

Consider buying these items secondhand to get the most value out of your purchases.

Personal Finance

Should You Save More Money?

Understand how (and when) to maximize your financial potential for the future.

Personal Finance

Credit Card Balance Transfers 101

Your guide to the ins and outs of credit card balance transfers.

Credit & Debt

The Keys to Being Debt Free

Resisting the urge to splurge is an important step to eliminating debt.

Personal Finance

Making the Most of Your Charitable Giving

A helpful guide on giving more, while spending less.

Personal Finance

3 Tips for Credit Card Spending

Get the most from credit card rewards and introductory interest rates with a solid spending strategy.

Life

Score a Deal: The Best Time for Holiday Shopping

Discover when the biggest seasonal deals hit the market.

Auto

Car Title Loans: What You Need to Know

Those who have come of age in the online era have a surprising blind spot when it comes to privacy.

Life

3 Reasons Why You Should Supplement Your Life Insurance Plan

Employer-sponsored life insurance may not provide enough coverage for your family. Supplemental life insurance can.

Life

6 Military Benefits You May Not Know About

The military offers many great benefits, make sure you know about these six.

Life

It's Time to Review Your Student's Budget

Check in with your student's finances before the end of the semester.

Life

Tips for Smart Holiday Shopping

Hitting the stores this holiday season? Here is what you need to know to avoid busting your budget.

Auto

How to Find a Trustworthy Auto Lender

Learn how to find a trustworthy auto lender when shopping for a car loan.

Home

Understanding VA Home Loan Requirements

If you're looking to buy, refinance or remodel your home, then be sure to review VA home loan requirements to see if you qualify.

Personal Finance

Surviving a Zombie Apocalypse: How High Can You Score?

Make sure your finances are healthy enough to survive an emergency, even one as inconvenient as a zombie apocalypse.

Life

How Can I Be Sure I'm Saving Enough for Retirement?

Saving for retirement is great, but are you on track to achieve your goals? Here are some answers.

Life

Infographic: Is Student Loan Consolidation Right For You?

Combining your student loans into one consolidated loan can lower your payments.

Personal Finance

Financial Wisdom of the Ages: Does It Hold Up Today?

Through the years, people have relied on folksy sayings to guide their financial decisions. See whether they remain relevant.

Home

The Best Time to Sell a House

Thinking about selling your home? Check out these helpful tips about when to put your house on the market:

Life

Student Loan Consolidation: Understanding the Terms

Consolidating student loans can be a savvy way to pay debt, but it's important to understand how the terms can impact your balance.

Personal Finance

Understanding Order Types Can Save Time and Money

When you place an order to buy or sell securities, you may get more or less than you expect. In some cases, a price quote may not exactly match what you pay for securities. Quotes may be delayed. Trades take time to execute. In highly volatile markets, millions of shares can trade in microseconds, causing price swings.

Personal Finance

Are You Making These 7 Rewards Card Mistakes?

It's a great feeling to earn cash back or travel with your credit card. Avoid these mistakes to make the most of your card.

Home

How Do Mortgage Points Work?

Wondering how mortgage points work? Learn how buying points can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.

Credit & Debt

5 Types of Purchases That Go On Your Credit Report

Knowing how different types of purchases affect your credit report can make it easier to improve and manage your score.

Personal Finance

Is Your Credit Card Working for You?

Find out if the plastic in your pocket is helping or hurting your financial situation.

Personal Finance

How Do Savings Bonds Work?

Understand how savings bonds behave and what can affect your investment in them.

Credit & Debt

Five Important Investment Questions Answered

Navy Federal Financial Group financial advisors answer five commonly asked investment questions.

Home

5 Tech Products to Make Your Home Smarter

Give your home a 'smart' upgrade to gain security and energy efficiency.

Credit & Debt

What to Do When Your Spouse Has Bad Credit

You may know your credit score, but what about your spouse's? Understand how your spouse's credit could affect your future finances.

Life

Understanding College Financial Aid Offers

Receiving a financial aid offer is exciting, but it can also be complex. Here are some tips to help you make sense of it.

Personal Finance

10 Under $10: Summer Fun That Won't Bust the Budget

It's summertime, and the living is easy'especially if you plan and make the most of your dollars with these tips.

Personal Finance

Understanding Your IRA Options

In investing, as in life, risk and reward travel hand in hand. When investing, you don't want to avoid risk; instead, you need to manage it. Choosing the right asset allocation can help you balance risk and reward in your investments.

Credit & Debt

The Cost of Credit Score Dings

To understand how credit scores are determined, it helps to understand the impact that negative actions can have on your credit score.

Life

Three Tools to Help You Reach Your Retirement Savings Goals

Saving money for retirement isn't always easy, but with a little knowledge, planning and the right tools, it's possible.

Credit & Debt

Do-It-Yourself Credit Repair

It's never too late to rebuild your credit after financial mistakes or misfortune.

Home

18 Questions to Ask Before Signing a Rental Lease

Knowing all the pertinent details before you rent your first place can help keep the experience positive.

Personal Finance

17 Simple Ways to Cut Expenses

Saving money doesn't have to be hard. Here are 17 ways you can jumpstart your savings.

Home

Renovate or Sell Your Home? How to Decide

The lure of a new home may be strong, but sometimes it makes more sense to fix it up and stay put.

Home

Buying When You're Selling a Home: The Pros and Cons

Before selling your current home and buying a new home simultaneously, weigh the pros and cons.

Personal Finance

6 Benefits of Using a Credit Card

Gain a better understanding of how credit cards work in your favor and begin reaping their benefits today.

Personal Finance

Five Things You Didn't Know About the Stock Market

Investing in the stock market may seem like your ticket to Easy Street, but it's more complicated than just buying a few shares of Facebook.

Life

From Serving to Studying: Veterans' Education Benefits

Get tips on how to make the most of education benefits for veterans.

Personal Finance

Get S.M.A.R.T. About Certificate Savings

Save more when you open a Navy Federal Credit Union certificate and get smart about saving for retirement or a rainy day.

Auto

Should You Buy Your Leased Car?

Consider the financial implications when your car lease is up.

Life

Are You Prepared for a Natural Disaster?

Steps to take now so you'll be ready to protect your family and your finances in the event of a natural disaster.

Home

The Credit Score You Need to Buy a House

Learn why your credit score matters and what lenders look for in your credit history when you apply for a home loan.

Home

Is Home Price or Interest Rate More Important?

Which situation is better for homebuyers: rising prices and low interest rates, or vice versa?

Auto

How to Prepare for Your First Motorcycle

From gear to training, there is more to buying a first motorcycle than signing on the dotted line.

Life

Our Top Five Reasons to #JointheFamily

We love having a big family. Here are a few good reasons for you to love the Navy Federal family, too.

Personal Finance

6 Vacation Ideas That Won't Break the Bank

Plan a family vacation without overspending.

Security

Protect Yourself From Suspicious Text Messages

Text message phishing, or SMiShing, is a text message scam that can compromise your finances and your identity. Understand what it is and how you can protect yourself.

Auto

10+ Ways to Save on Auto Insurance

Tired of talking geckos, quirky spokeswomen and mayhem-spreading men hawking auto insurance? Here are simple ways to save.

Life

Making Allowances: Start Wise Spending Habits Early

Want to teach your kids the value of a dollar? Learn how to use your kids'_ allowance to foster smart money habits.

Life

8 Traits to Look For in a Co-signer for a Student Loan

Before asking someone to co-sign, consider the traits you want in someone who will share responsibility for your loan.

Life

From Student to Master: Cutting College Costs

A college degree can be the key to a great future. Avoid getting mired in debt by the time you graduate.

Life

You Got the Job! Should You Take It?

There is more to a job than just the salary. Before you decide to accept the position, take a hard look at the total offer.

Auto

New Car? Your Owner's Checklist

If you've purchased a new or new-to-you vehicle, be sure you understand your next steps.

Personal Finance

5 Credit Card Mistakes to Avoid

Here are credit card habits that create financial problems.

Credit & Debt

Are Credit Pulls Dragging Down Your Credit?

Credit bureaus note every time there is a request for your credit report, and the type of request may impact your report differently.

Auto

Should You Trade in Your Old Car or Sell It?

What you need to know to make the best decision for you

Personal Finance

Entering the Workforce: Four Essential Money Matters?

Be prepared to make the most of your first job with these financial basics.

Security

Tips for Traveling or Living Abroad

Whether you're traveling or living abroad, you need to prepare your finances. Read these tips before traveling!

Personal Finance

10 Painless Ways to Ramp Up Your Savings

These savings tips can save you big in the long run.

Personal Finance

Should You Get a Store Credit Card?

Here are five reasons to think twice about signing up.

Personal Finance

A Guide to Tax-Efficient Investing

Potentially maximize returns and reduce tax liability with tax-efficient options.

Personal Finance

11 Ways to Protect Your Credit Card

Fraud affects millions of Americans each year. Here are some ways you can protect yourself from credit card fraud.

Auto

10 Ways to Buy a Better Used Car

Don't let life give you a lemon. Ask these questions to make sure you're buying the best possible used car.

Credit & Debt

Avoid Rookie Credit Mistakes

Don't let your first few experiences with credit cost you big.

Personal Finance

Wealth-Building Secrets of the Millionaires Next Door

A few smart financial moves and commitment to saving may be all it takes to build substantial wealth.

Auto

Don't Let Dealer Financing Steer You in the Wrong Direction

How to balance affordable auto loan monthly payments with long-term value

Auto

Is an Extended Warranty Right for You?

There can be a lot of pressure to buy an extended warranty on your new vehicle, but is it worth the extra cost?

Personal Finance

Be a Savvy Swiper: When to Use Debit and Credit

Choosing debit or credit isn't always clear cut. Here are the pros and cons of each.

Personal Finance

Maximizing Your Credit Card Rewards

A rewards credit card is great. Understanding how to make the most of those rewards is even better.

Personal Finance

Understanding Credit Card Cash Advances

Here is some knowledge that could keep you from making a costly mistake with a credit card cash advance.

Personal Finance

Underwriting: How Lenders Choose Borrowers

Completing an application is just the first step in getting approved for a loan.

Life

Teach Teens How to Handle Credit

Help your child avoid costly credit mistakes.

Home

Real Estate Investing for Young Adults

Investing in real estate when you're young may be a smart move for your financial future.

Home

The Basics of Basis Points

A basis point is a small number that can have a big impact on the cost of financing a home.

Home

Avoid Common First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes

Start homeownership on the right financial foot by avoiding these hazards.

Home

10 Questions about Refinancing Your Mortgage

Get the answers you need to make an informed decision.

Life

The FAFSA Facts: Don't Miss Out on Financial Aid

Think you know financial aid? Some our FAFSA facts might surprise you. Learn more and make sure you get all of the financial aid you're eligible for.

Security

Send Card Cracking Packing

Don't hand over your info! Learn the warning signs of a scam known as card cracking and when you're most at risk.

Personal Finance

Maximize Your Savings with a Solid Strategy

Saving money is a lot like dieting—there are many strategies for reaching your goal, but only a few are truly effective.

Personal Finance

Key Questions to Ask When Choosing a Credit Card

Selecting the right card is easy with these 10 questions.

Life

Hello, Reality. Tips for Student Loan Repayment

It's time to repay your debt. Where do you even begin? These tips can help.

Personal Finance

Tax Scams You Can Avoid

Recognizing the warning signs of a scam can help protect your finances.

Personal Finance

Financial Resolutions Worth Keeping

Learn more about financial resolutions that pay off and how you can make them more achievable.

Personal Finance

Tips to Make You a Savvy Shopper

With a little know-how, it's possible to avoid sales tactics used by retailers and spot truly good deals.

Life

2015 Holiday Shopping Trends and Statistics

Curious how people are shopping this holiday season? We've covered the biggest trends on how and when people are spending their money for the holidays.

Personal Finance

Paper or Plastic: How Are You Paying Your Bills

How you can make bill payments work in your favor by using the credit or debit cards in your wallet.

Security

Protect Your Identity This Holiday Season

Make sure your holiday season is merry and safe with these important reminders for protecting your identity and financial info.

Life

Care for Your Heirs: 7 Estate Planning Steps to Take Now

No matter the size of your estate, these steps can help ensure your wishes are documented.

Personal Finance

Promoted? Boost Your Savings with Your Rank

When you receive a bump in pay, you can avoid financial pitfalls by spending carefully and saving wisely.

Personal Finance

The Fall Financial Crunch—And How To Prevent It

Money-saving tips on how you can spend less and avoid a variety of costs associated with the autumn season.

Personal Finance

Three Ways to Save Time with Automated Banking

Want some of your time back? Learn three easy tips on how automating your finances can help.

Personal Finance

Choosing a Financial Institution

There are a few things to consider when deciding on a financial institution. Here's what our research says are the must-haves when making your decision.

Auto

Buy a Car Without Breaking a Sweat

Want to drive away with a great deal on your next car? Put yourself in the driver's seat with four smart tips.

Credit & Debt

Identifying Common Credit Errors

Are there credit errors on your credit report? Here's why they appear and what you can do about them.

Life

How to Retire a Millionaire

Retiring with $1 million may be doable if you put your mind to saving.

Home

Evaluating Home Equity

Utilizing your home's equity can be a great way to finance big home projects or help pay for life's other expenses.

Life

Back-to-School Budgeting Tips

Getting the kids ready for school doesn't have to mean breaking the bank.

Security

Cyber Security: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe Online

Don't fall prey to online scams; follow these tips to protect yourself.

Life

Changing Jobs: Are You Rollover Ready?

Making the right retirement distribution decision can make a big impact on your financial future.

Life

Marriage and Money: Merging Your Finances

Combining finances goes deeper than names on the checkbook. Explore ways to make it work for the two of you.

Life

A Closer Look at Student Loans

The student loan process can be confusing. Find out how to navigate the path to financing your educational goals.

Credit & Debt

4 Ways to Shield Your Credit from Missed Payments

Use these options to protect your credit from the potential storm caused by missed payments.

Auto

Are You Ready for Your Dream Boat, RV or Motorcycle?

Heading out on a great adventure? Consider these factors before purchasing a boat, RV or motorcycle.

Life

Be Financially Fit to Transition from Military Life

A little financial planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth transition from servicemember to civilian.

Auto

In the Market for Wheels? Buying vs. Leasing

According to Edmunds.com, about three-quarters of new cars sold are bought rather than leased. There are good reasons why.

Life

Just Enlisted? Financial Tips for New Recruits

Be smart with your money when you join the military; learn how here:

Personal Finance

Say "I Do" to Wedding Day Budget Bliss

Live happily ever after by uniting your wedding day dreams and budget.

Auto

10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Car

Nothing ruins the thrill of buying a new car quicker than learning you got a raw deal. Get the answer to these 10 questions before you buy.

Life

Embracing Military Retirement (and Your Future!)

Transition successfully to a post-service lifestyle-and budget-with these tips

Personal Finance

Credit Unions: Where Membership Pays Off Infographic

Examine customer ratings, fees and rates for both credit unions and banks, and see for yourself how credit unions come out on top.

Personal Finance

Take a Tax Break with an IRA

Want to enjoy the benefits of a bigger tax refund next year? Find out how IRAs can help you at tax time.

Personal Finance

Understanding Investment Risk

Almost everything we do involves a measure of risk, whether it's piloting a jet, changing careers or tackling your first do-it-yourself home remodeling project.

Home

10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home

Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you know the answers to these questions.

Personal Finance

Infographic: The Habits and Preferences of Credit Card Users

What are you looking for in a credit card? Find out how your credit card spending habits stack up against consumer averages.

Home

When to Use Your Home Equity (and When Not To!)

Leveraging the equity in your home can be a smart choice for some borrowers. Is it right for you?

Life

Mapping Out Your Retirement Savings Plan

No matter where you are on the road to retirement, take a step back to make sure you're on track to reach your savings goals.

Life

What You Need to Know About Your IRA

A little-known tax code could mean having to pay penalties on your IRA. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.

Personal Finance

Tax Time: Prepare Smart, File Fast

Every year, many Americans find themselves scrambling to beat the deadline on Tax Day. With these tips, you won't be one of them.

Life

Moving Your Money: IRA Transfers & Rollovers

Consolidating your IRAs can simplify your retirement savings and provide tax benefits!

Personal Finance

The Strategy of Certificate Laddering

Climb toward your retirement savings goals using certificate laddering to manage risk and reward.

Personal Finance

Cures to Beat the Holiday Overspending Blues

Use these tips to get your finances in shape this year!

Life

To Age Fifty and Beyond!

Managing the milestones of retirement savings from age 50 onward.

Life

The Importance of Beneficiaries

Understanding your options for designating a beneficiary for your IRA and the rules that govern payouts.

Life

Social Security

Get the basics behind your benefits.

Security

Avoid Getting Scammed this Holiday Season

Tips to help you bypass the aggressive and creative schemes that scammers use to steal money and personal information.

Retirement

IRA Contribution Limits and Deadlines

Understand the guidelines and limits for your contributions.

Personal Finance

8 Holiday Savings Tips

With some careful planning and creative gift giving, you can enjoy some holiday cheer without the financial fear.

Life

Moving Your Money: IRA Conversions & Recharacterization

The simple magic behind changing your traditional IRA into a Roth IRA...and back again!

Life

Certificate Maturing? Know Your Options

When your funds are done growing, will you cash out, roll over or both? Make the best decision to reach your dreams.

Life

Modern Banking is Mobile Banking

Take advantage of today's digital tools to make managing your finances easier than ever.

Credit & Debt

Improving Your Credit Score

If your credit score drops significantly, you'll likely be charged higher loan and credit card interest rates and offered lower credit limits—or perhaps be disqualified altogether.

Security

Protecting Your Privacy

Just how safe is your private information? With over 800 million records exposed last year, you may want to protect your privacy against theft of your personal data.

Personal Finance

Credit Cards 101: Selecting and Managing Your First Credit Card

What you need to know to choose and manage your first credit card successfully.

Life

The Freshman Financial Fifteen

Send your student off to college with the knowledge they need to build a solid financial future.

Life

Don't Let Back to School Break the Bank

Turn back-to-school shopping into unexpected savings with a bit of thrift and some careful budgeting.

Security

Vacation Security

Don't let credit card fraud or theft spoil your vacation plans this summer—protect yourself!

Life

Think Twice Before Tapping Retirement Plans

Why you should avoid borrowing from your retirement account to cover a financial hardship.

Personal Finance

Garage Sales: Clean Up and Cash In

There is more to a good garage sale than meets the eye. Here's how to make the most of it.

Personal Finance

Should You Hire a Tax Preparer?

It's not surprising that millions of Americans hire professional tax preparers to complete their returns.

Personal Finance

Flexible Spending Accounts Slash Your Taxes

A flexible spending account can help you save money come tax time. And we've got some tips to show you how.

Personal Finance

How to Diversify Your Investments

One of the secrets to investing well is assessing risk. Here are a few ideas to get you in the right mindset.

Credit & Debt

Understanding Credit Scores

With a few key ideas, you too can maintain a good credit score, which is important over the course of a lifetime.

Personal Finance

15 Simple Financial Resolutions to Make Now

What better time to make changes that will lead to a brighter financial picture than at the start of the new year?

Credit & Debt

Credit Score Damage Control

A bad credit score can affect your ability to qualify for a loan or a credit card. Here's what you need to know.

Life

Boosting Your Retirement Plan Contributions

With recent changes in how much you can contribute to your savings plans, you might be able to boost your retirement savings.

Life

Getting the Most Out of Your Gift Cards

There's more to gift cards than meets the eye. Here's what you need to know to get the most out of them.

Life

Choosing Your Charities Carefully

How do you pick a charity to donate to? Learn the ins and outs, and what to watch out for.

Personal Finance

How to Reduce Your Taxable Income

Learn ways to help reduce your taxable income now, to help you save big come tax time.

Personal Finance

Budget Now for Holiday Spending

Look for small year-round spending cuts that, when added together, can result in big savings.

Personal Finance

10 Ways to Save on Winter Utilities

Here are 10 simple ways to not just save hundreds of dollars a year, but to also help protect the environment.

Life

8 Tips for Buying New Technology

Whether you're tech-savvy or tech-challenged, you'll find some tips you can use here.

Home

When Does Home Remodeling Make Financial Sense?

Here are a few considerations to weigh before you decide to remodel...

Home

Tips for First-time Homebuyers

With interest rates poised to rise, combined with stringent lending requirements, many potential homebuyers are left unsure on how to proceed.

Auto

Purchasing Power is Key When Buying a Vehicle

Purchasing power is crucial when it comes to buying a vehicle. Here are tips to ensure you're spending within your financial means.

Personal Finance

Leveraging Credit Cards to Strengthen Your Credit Score

A strong credit score can be an integral part of staying financially secure. Find out how being smart with credit cards influences your score.

Personal Finance

With Budgeting, Slow and Steady Wins the Race

A budget can help you reach your financial goals. The most important part is getting started. Our tips and resources can help.

Life

Tips for Frugal Parenting

In today's culture, it's easy to believe that the more we spend on our children, the more we show our love.

Personal Finance

Seven Ways to Save on Healthy Living

It turns out that being fit can even save you on health insurance, as many companies factor in weight when determining rates.