Bank Note Blog

There are so many milestones in life that you’ll want to enjoy, and a lot of them require financial planning to become a reality. For example, many people want to know how to budget for a wedding or how to budget for the vacation of their dreams, but they just aren’t sure how to get started. If you don’t think you have enough money to do the things you want to do in life, then you definitely need to start budgeting. It helps you prioritize your spending in a way that ensures you will have the money you need for the things you want, and it will keep you out of debt — or assist you in moving out of debt — if you have already accumulated some.

Read More

In a landscape where economic stability is a cornerstone of a well-rounded life, the foresight to plan for retirement emerges as an indispensable facet of responsible financial management. As individuals navigate the complexities of personal finance, securing a stable future becomes paramount, and this quest invariably centers on shrewd retirement planning. Amidst a myriad of investment avenues that promise financial growth, the prominence of Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) shines through, presenting themselves as not just an option but a linchpin in the pursuit of wealth accumulation and ensuring a secure post-work life.

Read More

In our modern society, where connections are digital and distances seem to shrink, the value of a close- knit and thriving community cannot be underestimated. As members of Howard, Tipton, and Clinton counties, Encompass Credit Union feels strongly about community support, offering actionable ways to make a tangible difference. From the exciting Tipton County Fair to the heartwarming ’Tis the Season event, and everything in between, Encompass empowers their employees—and you—to play an active and meaningful role in nurturing and enriching our community for the good of all.

Read More

There is a lot of buzz about credit scores these days. In fact, in 2021, the average credit score increased to an all-time high of 716, moving up 27 points since 2010, indicating that more Americans than ever have good credit.

A credit score is a numerical expression based on an individual's credit history that is used to determine their creditworthiness and ability to access loans and other financial services. It is a three-digit number ranging from 300 to 850, with higher scores indicating better creditworthiness. A person's credit score is calculated by considering their payment history, current debt levels, types of accounts owned, length of credit history, and more. Credit scores are used by lenders to determine the risk associated with lending money or providing other financial services to an individual.

A good credit score is important for a variety of reasons. It can help you get approved for loans and mortgages, secure better interest rates, and even get approved for certain jobs. It is also an indication of your financial responsibility and trustworthiness. Having a good credit score can open doors to many opportunities that may not be available to those with bad credit scores. Additionally, it can save you money in the long run by allowing you access to lower interest rates on loans and other financial products. For this reason, it is important to check your credit score often to ensure you are in good shape.

Read More

In today's digital age, the convenience and accessibility of the internet have revolutionized the way we  live, work, and communicate. However, along with these advancements come new challenges, one of  the most significant being the rise of online fraud and scams. These malicious activities can impact  anyone, regardless of age or technological proficiency. For example, ecommerce fraud has cost  consumers more than $200 billion in 2023 alone. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore various  types of online fraud and scams, how to spot them, and most importantly, how to prevent falling victim  to them. 

Read More

For most people, buying a home is arguably one of the biggest financial decisions they'll make in their lifetime. It’s a decision that involves planning, saving, and a lot of paperwork. The process can be exciting, full of hope and anticipation. It can also be nerve-wracking, full of uncertainty and confusion. One of the critical parts of this journey is applying for a mortgage loan.

At Encompass Credit Union, we understand that the mortgage process can seem overwhelming, especially for first-time homebuyers. That's why we're here with a step-by-step guide to walk you through how to apply for a mortgage loan with us.

Read More