With the right tools and information, building a budget can be easy. Here’s some quick tips to create a simple and practical budget.
Is it important for me to stay informed on the stock market or are headlines just a distraction?
An excellent credit score is the ultimate goal of the financially responsible consumer.
Everyone dreams of becoming an investor, but taking that first step into the market can feel overwhelming. Where should you begin?
Everyone dreams of becoming an investor, but taking that first step into the market can feel overwhelming. Where should you begin?
Why should I choose to bank with a credit union instead of a big bank? We dive into all the considerations in our latest blog.
As summer starts winding down, it’s a great time to reflect on your financial goals and boost your savings.
I’m looking for a long-term savings option and I’m considering a Certificate of Deposit. What do I need to know about CDs before I decide to open one?
Child identity theft isn’t something we often think about. However, it occurs more often than you might expect.
Financial setbacks are an unfortunate reality that almost everyone faces at some point in life. The good news is, you can recover and bounce back stronger.
Yes, you can enjoy a day out without breaking the bank! Read our tips below to find out how you can maximize your savings while enjoying your PTO.
Sometimes, the best things in life truly are free. If you’re itching to get away this summer, but your budget missed the memo, we can help!
Carrying ongoing debt can bring many challenges. The person is often stuck paying high interest rates.
Q: How are EMVs and contactless cards different and which is the better choice for me?
Mutual Security Credit Union is proud to announce that it has officially been awarded the Juntos Avanzamos (“Together We Advance”) designation, a national recognition for credit unions that demonstrate a strong commitment to serving and empowering Hispanic and immigrant communities through inclusive, affordable, and ...
Q: I feel like half of my budget goes to pay for groceries. Is there any way to save on food costs?
What is a Data Breach? A data breach happens when unauthorized parties gain access to confidential personal information stored by an organization.
If you love Target’s wide aisles and red shopping carts, you need to read this! We’ve got tips and hacks to help you save more on the thousands of items available at Target.
Buying your first home is exciting and challenging. We’ve put together a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the home-buying process.
Celebrating major milestones creates a lifetime of memories. Unfortunately, big celebrations can easily drain your wallet – but they don’t have to!
If you’re looking to tap into your home’s equity, you have two great choices in a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) and a Home Equity Loan (HEL).
Let’s take a look at this phenomenon, why it happens and how you can avoid it to maintain a life of financial fitness.
With a bit of planning and self-restraint, you can have the summer of a lifetime and your budget, too.
It’s always a good time for a vacation. Continue reading for times of year when you can vacation for less, and a method to the madness of travel planning.
Buying a home is a big milestone, but there are many hidden costs that can quickly add up, catching many first-time homebuyers by surprise.
It’s hard not to love the endless selection and incredible service on Amazon, the world’s largest online marketplace. Here’s how to save even more on Amazon!
It’s hard not to love the endless selection and incredible service on Amazon, the world’s largest online marketplace. Here’s how to save even more on Amazon!
Everyone knows it’s important to create and stick to a budget, but many people neglect to plan for the unexpected.
Gardening is a fulfilling hobby, but it can be expensive. The good news is, a flourishing garden doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
If there’s one financial concept that has the power to change lives, but is underappreciated, it’s compound interest.
Home improvement doesn’t have to upend your budget. With a little creativity, you can revamp your living space for free!
MSCU joined other credit unions from across Connecticut at the University of Bridgeport for the Financial Reality Fair.
Time to get started on some spring cleaning! Remember to include your finances as part of your decluttering and tidying up.
Memorial Day is so much more than the start of beach season. It’s the time to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the country and to spend quality time with loved ones.
Sometimes, the most basic scam can also be the most devastating. Let’s take a look at credit card skimming scams and how to protect yourself from falling victim to these schemes.
Whether you’re a seasoned Costco member or a first-time shopper, these hacks will help you make the most out of everyone’s favorite bulk-buy store.
Spending quality time with your kids doesn’t have to cost a dime. Some of the most meaningful and enjoyable activities are free! Here are some no-cost, fun, and engaging ways to spend time with your kids without spending any money.
P2P platforms are super convenient. But P2P scams are rampant and varied. Plus, once P2P transfers money, it’s usually gone forever.
Identity theft continues to be more than just a costly headache. Fraud scams and identity theft reports continued to top the list of scams reported to the FTC in 2024.
Credit Card Smarts. When it comes to life skills, managing credit cards is one of the most important lessons.
If you want to save money, it helps to have goals. Learn how the SMART system can help you learn how to save now, putting you ahead of the game!
If you’re looking at a mountain of #debt, ignoring it most certainly won’t make it go away. It’s going to take discipline, hard work and a plan. We can help with the last one!
Does it sometimes feel like there’s a school of sharks after your #credit? Now you can keep those threats away with a credit freeze! Find out what it does and how to get it!
There’s been a #disaster, and now the scammers appear to make the situation even worse. Learn how to spot and avoid them whether you’re donating or needing help!
If you think paper #checks are artifacts of ‘90s life, you’re wrong! They’re still here, and so are the scams that prey on their users. Read our guide for staying safe!
Yes, you can have a romantic Valentine’s Day and still save #money. You just have to be smart, a little creative and watch out for marketing pitfalls. We’ve got plenty of intel to help!
If you’ve hung out your own shingle and decided to work #freelance for a living, you’ll have a whole new set of tax laws to deal with. Fortunately, we’ve got a guide!
You love your NFL team, but seeing a #football game at the stadium can get expensive fast, especially with tickets averaging $150. We’ve got plenty of ways to save money!
As we celebrate Black History Month, we pause to reflect on the profound impact Black individuals and communities have had on shaping history, culture, and society. It’s a time to honor the contributions of Black leaders, artists, activists, and everyday heroes whose resilience and vision have paved the way for ...
Are you worried about #identity theft? You should be! Identity thieves get more crafty every day, and even if they don’t get you it’s likely they’ll get someone you know. Get the facts!
A new #president coming in brings the potential for many changes to the economy and your personal finances. Learn what to watch for and the potential impacts!
Nothing stomps out the last of the holiday cheer like getting ready to file your #taxes. Lucky for you, we’ve got a roadmap to follow to help!
Can Walmart get any cheaper than it already is? It absolutely can if you use the shopping #hacks we’ve got for you!
Kick off the New Year by protecting yourself from tax identity theft. Secure your personal data, use strong passwords, and monitor your credit to prevent fraud. Stay vigilant to start the year with confidence, follow our tips!
Connecticut residents, be on the lookout for a new scam targeting E-ZPass users. Scammers are sending text messages claiming you have unpaid tolls and urging you to click a link to pay. This is a phishing attempt designed to steal your personal and financial information. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the signs ...
Today marks a momentous day in U.S. history as the nation pauses to observe a National Day of Mourning for Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States. A beloved figure whose impact stretched far beyond the confines of the Oval Office, Carter's legacy resonates deeply in various spheres—political, ...
Buying a new home is really exciting, but don’t forget the hidden #costs that come with the adventure! We’ve got a list to keep you covered in case you forget anything. If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Forrest Ridley (fridley@mscu.net), our very own Mortgage Innovations Officer!
We all go through it: Things are going great, and then you hit a financial #setback that rocks your budget, your bank and your peace of mind. Fortunately, we’ve got a guide to getting out!
Everyone gets tempted to pay the minimum on #credit card bills for a variety of reasons, but avoid that trap as much as you can. Your credit rating and your bank account will thank you!
Order confirmation phishing scams are a growing threat in the digital age. These scams prey on the ubiquity of online shopping, aiming to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or installing malicious software. Here’s what you need to know to spot and avoid them.
Credit or debit? Find out which one is the smartest swipe!
Member Appreciation Month was a huge success! We’re thrilled to celebrate our amazing members, and we’d like to congratulate our winners for their support and loyalty. Thank you for being part of our community!
It’s time for #holiday shopping, and working out how to handle the expense may have you wanting to guzzle a gallon of eggnog and sleep until January. Fortunately, we’ve got a guide!
Did you always think a wallet full of #credit cards was a sign of success? Not necessarily! Let us help you figure out the right number of credit cards for you.
Whether you're shopping online or in-store, remember to stay mindful of safety precautions. Let's keep ourselves and our communities safe while making the most of the holiday season.
MSCU made a proud charitable donation of $1,000 to support the Apostolic Worship Center to host their annual Thanksgiving Food Drive.
On November 20th and 21st, MSCU hosted the Gobble & Give Fundraiser, a two-day event filled with generosity, community spirit, and holiday cheer. In collaboration with Smile Dental Center, the event raised vital support for Spooner House and the Valley Food Bank Network, reinforcing MSCU's commitment to serving ...
Our recent Financial Reality Fair was a huge success, giving students a hands-on opportunity to learn about budgeting, financial planning, and making real-world money decisions. It was a day full of learning, fun, and important life lessons on managing money!
The #holiday season is great, except for the part where the bills start to mount up and the credit cards start to come out. Manage your holiday expenses with our handy guide!
You think your small #business is thriving, but the bottom line doesn’t agree. What’s the problem? We’ve got a simple list of things to check to get you back on track!
This holiday season, double-check URLs before shopping online. Stick to trusted retailers and look out for suspicious discounts. Stay safe and don’t get scammed! By following these guidelines, you can shop confidently and safely.
Want to get the most out of your Black Friday #deals? It takes more than just making a shopping list and checking the ads. We’ve got tips to help you save even more!
Buying a new car? That means a new car #payment to factor into your budget. What goes into figuring out the payment, and what other expenses will you have? We’ve got all the info!
If you’re looking for #debt consolidation, you’re wading into one of the most scam-filled swamps there is. We’ll help you steer clear of the hazards!
Mutual Security Credit Union’s Alex Holderman Awarded Outstanding Credit Union Young Professional Award 2024 by Credit Union League of Connecticut
When your money doesn’t last until #payday, it’s easy to fall victim to payday loan scams. They come in many shapes, but we can help you avoid them!
MSCU Announcement: Jeffrey Tracey has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer/Senior Vice President
Mutual Security Credit Union (MSCU) is pleased to announce Jeffrey Tracey's promotion to Chief Operating Officer/Senior Vice President. Jeff, a valued team member for over 17 years, strongly advocates collaboration and teamwork!
Learn more about the International Credit Union Day and ways how you can be a part of the celebration! Be sure to check with your credit union to see if there is a way you can participate in what it has planned.
Imposter scams involving credit unions have become increasingly common, with fraudsters posing as bank representatives to steal personal and financial information. These scams may occur through phone calls, emails, or even text messages, often mimicking the credit union’s branding to appear legitimate. Stay vigilant ...
Imposter scams involving credit unions have become increasingly common, with fraudsters posing as bank representatives to steal personal and financial information. These scams may occur through phone calls, emails, or even text messages, often mimicking the credit union’s branding to appear legitimate. Stay vigilant ...
Sure, #overdraft protection sounds like a great idea, but with banks and even some credit unions, the fees can be huge. We’ve got ways you can stay out of trouble and avoid paying fees!
Your #credit report affects a dizzying array of things that go on in your life, so you really need to know what it is and what affects it. We’ve got the total breakdown!
Finding the right time to #purchase your new car can save you big money, and we’ve got the lowdown on all the best times to get yourself a snazzy new set of wheels!
Thanks to inflation, even #Halloween is getting scary expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save on everything from costumes to candy to the all-important decorations. We can help!
Saving for your kid’s #college is serious business, but there are lots of options. We’ve got the details on all the different accounts to help you decide what works best for you!
When you’re getting a #mortgage, you’re going to come across a lot of unfamiliar terms, and a lot of alphabet soup like FHA, DTI, PMI and LTV. Fortunately, we’ve got it all spelled out!
Creating and working toward a savings goal can help you build an emergency fund for unexpected expenses or future expenses that might not be covered by a monthly budget. A solid emergency fund can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you have taken the extra step to plan for whatever the future might hold.
Creating and working toward a savings goal can help you build an emergency fund for unexpected expenses or future expenses that might not be covered by a monthly budget. A solid emergency fund can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you have taken the extra step to plan for whatever the future might hold.
Our money moves mostly via ACH and wire #transfers, but there are some major differences between them, especially when it comes to speed and security. We’ve got it all explained!
Whether it’s a hot #investment tip or a new romance that needs a loan, beware of handing out money upfront for anything. It’s likely a scam, and your money will disappear. We’ll help you stay safe!
It seems like the next financial #crisis is always one bad government report away, so where can you keep your money the safest? Find out why a credit union is your best choice!
Back-to-school #shopping doesn’t have to break the bank! If you go at it with a budget and use the other handy hacks we’ve got listed, you’ll survive the season without too much pain.
In light of the recent wave of data breaches, including AT&T and the Rock You 2024 Data Breach, now is an opportune moment to reinforce the importance of robust cybersecurity practices.
MSCU is proud to award $8,000 in scholarships to those who have given selflessly of themselves to improve their community.
Mutual Security Credit Union (MSCU) is proud to announce that it has been selected by the National Credit Union Foundation (the Foundation) to receive a grant aimed at deepening the credit union’s understanding of its employees' and members' financial health.
Are you having the usual #summer battle between having a cool house and keeping your energy costs down? We’ve got some hacks that will save you big bucks!
It’s time for summer #vacation, but you don’t want to lose sight of your budget completely. What do you do? Fortunately, we’ve got plenty of tips to help!
A one-time #password is a great way to have secure access to an account … until someone scams you into revealing it. Find out about this new scam and how to avoid it!
When you’re planning for #retirement, keep a spousal IRA on your radar. This lets an unemployed or underemployed spouse help with the savings. We’ve got the details!
Father’s Day is almost here, but you know Dad won’t want you spending a ton of #money on him, so we’ve got some great ideas for Father’s Day fun on a budget!
While you’re doing #spring cleaning around the house, spend some time doing the same with your savings. We’ve got a pack of ideas that will let your accounts sparkle!
Are you paying attention to your mental #health at work? There are a host of negative consequences if you don’t. Check our list of things you can do to make your workplace better.
Your credit is a valuable asset. Protecting it is a crucial step in overall financial wellness and identity theft protection. We want to remind you the importance of understanding credit scores, and provide some tips on helping you improve and maintain a healthy credit score.
Did you get some #exercise today? How about working out with your money habits? You need to get yourself financially fit just as much as physically, and we can help!
You want to remodel your place, but what projects will net you the most #value when it comes time to sell? Pick the right projects and you might really boost your sales price and appeal!
You want to get the perfect #gift for Mom for Mother’s Day, but that solid gold charm bracelet isn’t in the budget. What to do? We’ve got plenty of budget-friendly ideas!
If you’re looking to buy a new #home, it helps to know the best time of the year to do so. Each season brings its own advantages and disadvantages, and we’ll lay them out for you!.
Class of 2024 Gets a Head Start on Financial Reality at Staples High School!
Does a #checking account sound like one of those old-school things your parents had that you don’t need in these days of online financial wizardry? Find out why you need to rethink that!
Springtime means home #improvement time, but there are scammers out there looking to do a job … on your wallet! We’ll tell you what to look for.
MSCU understands that prosperity extends beyond financial stability; it also encompasses physical well-being. We're dedicated to safeguarding your financial health and promoting your overall wellness.
It’s tax time, and of course that means it’s also tax #scam time. The scammers are everywhere, and you need to be careful. We’ve got tips to help you stay safe!
Everybody loses their #happy every now and again, and we’ve got ways to get yours back that don’t involve prescriptions or long hours of therapy. Check it out!
You need to use your #credit to keep your credit rating up and drive it higher, but what are the smartest ways to use it? We’ve got a great list of tips!
When you start planning for #retirement, a traditional IRA is likely going to be one of the items at the top of your list. Find out the advantages and potential pitfalls of this route!
As we celebrate our 70th Anniversary, it is fantastic to see from where we started, how far we have come, and where we are going in the future…
The Black community has long found a financial home with the credit #union community, and we look forward to many more decades of success! Learn our history.
International Data Privacy Day, on Jan. 28, is a worldwide initiative to promote awareness of the importance of privacy online as well as protecting personal information.
All You Need to Know About Managing Your Student Loan.
When the temperature outside drops, save on heating costs.
January is the Financial Wellness Month and being financial ly fit is very important for your overall wellness.
Tax time is coming soon, so how can you prepare to #file without too much stress?
As the year draws to a close, many people are thinking about the new year, debts they are trying to manage, and the upcoming chore of filing their income tax return. Find out how you can keep safe from Tax Frauds!
Tips to reduce financial stress this holiday season!
To reach your financial goal, find a supportive financial advisor!
How to teach your kids the value of kindness and giving?
How to teach your kids the value of kindness and giving?
MSCU Donates $1,000 to Apostolic Worship Center!
It’s a great time to reflect on your financial goals and boost your savings.
Why choose Credit Unions over traditional Banking? How Credit unions make a difference in building communities?
Take control of your student loan repayment! Refinance and consolidate your private and federal student loans (including PLUS loans) into one manageable loan, setting up one convenient payment.
Learn how good credit card habits can help you achieve your goals!
Protect yourself from Identity Theft!
October is Domestic Violence Month
Watertown Shred Day and Food Drive was a big success!
Watertown Shred Day and Food Drive was a big success!
MSCU member appreciation month was September!
MSCU was awarded First Place in Leadership in Adult Financial Education category by CUNA and also bagged 2023 Marketing Excellence Award (Website Redesign) presented by CULCT.
In honor of 2023's Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from Friday, September 15 to October 15, 2023, Mutual Security Credit Union is proud to announce our donation to the Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders.
As the payment pause ends, are you realizing you have no earthly idea what’s going on with your student loan? We’ve got all the information you need!
Now, more than ever, it’s important to safeguard sensitive card information to prevent an interruption in your ability to make important purchases.
The economy is facing tough times right now, and you’re probably feeling the pinch. So how do you build financial resilience? We’ve got some ideas.
One of the best ways to practice affordable sustainability is energy efficiency in your new home. We’ve got some easy steps you can use to get on the way!
Announcing the credit union winners of MSCU's 3rd Annual Photo Calendar Contest! This year’s theme allows us to journey through Architecture and Landscape.
Summer’s winding down, and it’s time to give your finances a checkup. Check out our tips to make sure you're headed in the right direction!
With the avalanche of mail that hits your mailbox, sometimes your bank statements can get misplaced. Switch to eStatements, and that’ll never happen again!
Have you made the switch to mobile banking? It’s the ultimate convenience and portability, making handling your money easier. But it’s also got hazards!
Life is good, so why must you worry about an emergency fund? Well, life can go from good to disastrous pretty quickly, and you need to be prepared!
Everyone makes mistakes, but money mistakes can really wreck your life. Let us help you steer clear of the three most common money mistakes!
Is there any way to get through the back-to-school season without spending a small fortune? Save these tips for your shopping this year!
It’s time for back-to-school shopping, but inflation is taking a big bite out of everyone’s budget this year. Use our tips to navigate the season!
College life brings a sense of independence that extends to personal finances. If the thought of managing money is stressing you out, we're here to help!
Getting around on vacation doesn’t have to be a drain on your budget if you do it smartly! We’ve got tips to help you save for important stuff: food!
Vacations are the stuff that dreams are made of, but scammers want to turn those dreams into your worst nightmare. Let’s take a look at some common vacation scams and how to avoid them.
Does trying to keep up with the current financial news give you a headache? Let us help you make sense of it!
With all the turmoil in the economy lately, it’s a great time to invest in a share certificate.
You might have been affected by a data breach or received a notification from a retailer that your personal information could have been compromised.
Being a first-time homebuyer involves hard work, but it's worth it! We’ll walk you through the steps from getting your finances ready to getting the keys.
Hotel stays can take a big bite out of your vacation budget, but there are ways to cut back! Here are nine ways to save on hotel stays.
MSCU is proud to award $8,000 in scholarships to those who have given selflessly of themselves to improve their community.
Do you sometimes feel buried by all the free money advice? Just remember, free advice is often worth what you pay for. Let's do a little myth busting!
Do summer weekends seem to always blow a hole in your budget? They don’t have to! We’ve got a guide to a spend-free weekend that will make you a believer.
Private documents, which contain sensitive information, should be destroyed once you no longer need them. Here are four ways to properly destroy documents.
Are you thinking of starting a family? There are big costs involved for everything from child care to college, and you’ll need to be prepared.
When you’re looking for a house, you know all the things you want. We’ve got a list of the things that should make you walk away.
When it comes to convenience, nothing beats Amazon. Unfortunately, though, scammers leverage Amazon’s reputation in many unique ways.
June is Pride Month! Here are 5 ways to celebrate this month.
It’s summertime! Here are 50 budget-friendly activities to try this summer.
It’s great to get away from the daily grind, but budgets never go on vacation. But, good news! A vacation budget will actually make your trip more relaxing.
Despite its bad rap, not all debt is bad debt. Some are actually beneficial for the debtor and considered good debt.
In 1992, the month of May was officially designated as Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.
With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, this is the perfect time to take a look at the connection between money and mental health.
While you’re tending to everything on your list, be careful not to let your guard down. A recent uptick in mortgage fraud means house-hunters need to be extra vigilant.
Do you suspect your computer’s picked up a virus? If it’s running slowly or doing odd things, it’s quite possible.
Is a vacation overdue but still need to watch your budget? We’ve got great ideas to help you get that dream vacation!
Have you ever heard of upcycling? Chances are, you have most of what you need to jump into this trend sitting around your house.
Did you have a savings account when you were a kid? Whether or not you did, it’s important for your kids to have one!
When it’s time to pick a mortgage, you’ve really got two to choose from: an adjustable-rate mortgage or a fixed-rate mortgage. Let's help you decide!
It's tax season and also scammer season. The IRS will never call or email you with threats. Know the warning signs of tax scams. Click here to learn more.
Deciding whether to remodel or move can be a tough choice. We’ve got a breakdown of the options and whichever one you choose, our credit union can help!
Did you know April is Financial Literacy Month? We’ve got a ton of ideas to make the month great and enriching both for you and your kids!
World Backup Day is on March 31. Let's take a look at potential threats to your data, the importance of backup strategies and best practices.
The homebuying market has finally come to its senses from the pandemic and mortgage rates seem to be stabilizing.
Are you happy because you’re getting a big tax refund this year? Sorry to rain on your parade, but that refund is an interest-free loan you gave Uncle Sam this year.
It's everyone’s favorite time of the year: time to file your income taxes! And this year, it’s made extra fun by the myriad of changes to the tax code.
Did you know hackers are after your cell just like they used to go after your computer? We’ve got tips to keep your data safe and keep your phone secure!
Members have received phone calls from Mutual Security Credit Union impersonators, notifying them of fraudulent attempts to use their debit card.
Mutual Security Credit Union (MSCU) attends the 2023 Credit Union National Association's (CUNA) Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, DC.
5 Tips to Improve Your Credit Score for National Credit Education Month.
On National Slam the Scam Day, we give you tools to recognize Social Security scams and stop scammers from stealing your money and personal information.
National Credit Education Month is observed throughout March and is a reminder of the importance of understanding the ins and outs of your credit score.
Mutual Security Credit Union celebrates women in finance and business to celebrate Women’s History Month!
You probably use a P2P service like Zelle or Venmo to send and receive money or handle small business transactions, but watch out for scams!
It's tax time! Here are five tips to support you in 2023's tax season.
We’ve outlined what you need to know about credit and debit card fraud, how to protect yourself and what to do when you’re targeted.
Mutual Security Credit Union (MSCU) officially accepted the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) First Place 2022 Louise Herring Philosophy in Action Member Service Award on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023.
Mutual Security Credit Union’s new Financial Independence Tool (FIT) is here to support your journey to financial freedom.
You know that February is Black History Month, but do you know where the whole celebration started and why it takes place in February?
In this day of online financial wizardry, the humble checking account doesn’t get the credit it deserves. You can use it to pay all your bills, and some of them even earn interest.
Mutual Security Credit Union’s new Financial Independence Tool (FIT), is coming soon to support your journey to a healthy financial life!