Borrower Advice

Your loan and credit questions, answered.

Borrowing is a key building block to financial health. With every auto loan or HELOC or credit card, you build your borrowing power. As your credit union, we’re committed to your financial wellbeing – and to helping you make your best borrowing decisions. We created this resource center to share the latest tips, tools and lending trends. First-time home buyer? Super saver? Check your math with our handy mortgage loan and savings account interest calculators.

 

Smart Student Loan Repayment Tips for 2024

Navigating student loan repayment can be challenging, but 2024 brings new opportunities to ensure you're on the right track towards financial freedom!

Celebrating the Holidays with Student Debt

The holidays are a time of joy and giving, but for many of us managing student loan repayments, it can also be a season of financial stress. But with a bit of planning, creativity, and focus on what truly matters to you this season, it’s possible to find holiday cheer without breaking the bank.

Repaying Student Loans: Budget Your Way to Freedom

Managing student loan debt can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. But the truth is, a smart budget, personalized to your income and other expenses, can be your greatest asset in paying off your student loans while maintaining your quality of life. In this guide, we walk you through the steps to create your own budget that works for you and your goals.

How to Pick a Good Student Loan Co-Borrower

When delving into the world of private student loans, you may discover that many lenders mention a “co-borrower.” A co-borrower is someone who applies for the loan with you and is equally responsible for ensuring it is repaid. A private student loan will be held in your name as the primary borrower, but the co-borrower’s name and credit will be tied to the loan as well.

Student Loan Forgiveness Was Blocked by the Supreme Court. What’s Next?

On June 30, the Supreme Court struck down Biden's one-time student loan debt forgiveness plan, which was set to forgive up to $20,000 for 26 million borrowers. So, what's next? Read this blog post to review the latest updates.

Federal Student Loan Payments Resume Soon – What You Need to Know

Most federal student loan payments and interest have been suspended since March 2020. After numerous extensions, student loan interest will resume on September 1, 2023, and payments will resume starting in October.

The Top 4 Best Ways to Pay for College

Let’s face it – no one is accepted to college and thinks, “I can’t wait to pay my tuition bill!” College is a big investment, which is why it’s important to know your options, plan ahead, and choose wisely when paying for it. Remember: filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to securing any financial aid! Follow the “free, cheap, gap” method to responsibly pay for college, and set yourself for a strong financial future down the road.

Understanding Financial Aid Award Letters

You’ve received your college acceptance letters – congratulations! If you’ve been accepted to multiple schools, one of the biggest determining factors for your final choice may be the out of pocket cost for each option. Along with your acceptance letters, you should receive an award letter outlining the financial aid for which you are eligible at each college. Here are some important definitions you should know.

Consolidation vs. Refinancing Student Loans

Student loan consolidation and refinancing are two options available to borrowers looking to manage their student loan debt. We break down the differences between loan consolidation and refinancing, discuss the eligibility requirements, and help you determine which option is best for your financial situation. 

Student Loan eBook

Some college students graduate with honors. But a lot more graduate with debts. In this ebook we cover the lingo surrounding student loans, explain the importance of choosing the right lender, and how important it is to seek federal aid and scholarships first!

Student Loan Refinance Guide

Don’t let student debt hold you back from the finer things in life. In this ebook we cover the pitfalls of student debt, explore if refinancing is right for you, show you how much you can potentially save, and more!

Why Should You Refinance Student Loans with a Credit Union?

Student loans may have helped you get the education needed for your future career, but making student loan payments can also be a pain point in your monthly expenses. Refinancing one or more of your loans could save you money and simplify your repayment. Before you determine where you should refinance your student loans, you should consider if it’s a smart decision for you.

Tax Benefits for College Students and Parents

Did you know you can take advantage of special tax breaks just for college students and their parents? These benefits come in the form of tax credits and deductions when you file your income tax return. What’s the difference? A credit reduces the amount of income tax you have to pay. A deduction reduces the amount of your income that is taxed, which also typically lessens your tax bill. In other words, you could get a bigger tax refund.

Home Mortgage Loans

Shop and borrow smart.

Starter home or “forever home” – whatever you call it, chances are you’ll need a mortgage before you can call it home. Learn what you need to know to close the deal with success.

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Learn More about Home Loans

Home Equity Lines of Credit

Leverage your home equity.

Home equity can be a powerful borrowing tool. How can you use it? How do HELOCs work? Find answers to these questions and more right under your thumbs.

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Learn More  about Home Equity

Personal Loans

Boost your borrowing knowledge.

Financial peace of mind costs less than you think. USC Credit Union offers affordable personal loans and lines of credit you can use for any purpose. Learn what you need to know to boost your borrowing power.

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Learn More  about Personal Loans

Managing Loan Debt

Your best financial future starts today.

The financial decisions you make today can put you on the right path for years to come. As your financial partner, we’re here for you every step of the way. Use our borrow resources to boost your financial literacy.

Learn More  about Managing Loan Debt

USC Credit Union has been a reliable source of financial support for me for 36 years! I’ve never had a better experience.

-Carol

  • Personal Loans

    Pay for the unexpected, consolidate debt, pay for home improvements, or make a major purchase with one of our affordable Personal Loan options.

  • Home Loans

    Starter home, second home or your “forever home” – whatever you call it, we can help you call it home with affordable fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages.

  • Auto Loans

    Why finance with us? Simple: We’re a credit union with no shareholder interests to cater to. The upshot: Bank-beating auto loan rates on cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, and more.

Let’s chat.

Need help deciding on a product or service? Talk to a member associate. We’re always here to lend an ear and all the guidance you need.