Be MoneyWise
Being MoneyWise is more than balancing a checkbook and finding the lowest loan rates. Here you’ll find a variety of practical tips and information to help you become a smarter money manager.
As part of our commitment to the Southern California educational community, we are proud sponsors of KLCS TV, owned and operated by the Los Angeles Unified School District. We have created a series of MoneyWise spots that provide KLCS viewers with tips that both entertain and improve financial literacy. You can link to some of these spots below.
If you’re not already a member of Schools Federal Credit Union, the first tip is to join. As a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative, we provide a full line of financial services at lower costs than banks. Check to see if you're eligible for membership, then join today.
The $100,000 Latte
It’s expensive, but it tastes great, and you really need it to get your day started. Yes, your morning cup of latte is worth every penny of the $100,000 it costs you. More>>
The $100,000 Latte Narrated by:
Henry Jones
The $100,000 Latte Narrated by:
Jaki Pervine
Are You Getting The Credit You Deserve?
Poor credit can affect you negatively when applying for a loan. If you’re not turned down outright, you’ll probably pay a substantially higher rate than someone with good credit. Bad credit may also hurt you when attempting to rent an apartment or even apply for a job. More>>
Better Credit 101 Narrated by:
Carlos Garrido
How Much Does Your Cash Cost You?
Paid a fee to use a bank ATM recently? You’re not alone. This year, Americans will shell out $4.2 billion to use banks’ “foreign” ATMs. More>>
ATM Fees Narrated by:
Barbara Abraham
Who Would Pay 500% Interest On A Loan?
As ridiculous as it seems, 500% APR is actually on the low end of payday lenders’ rates. And even with these outrageous rates, people flock to them. More>>
Shark Bait Narrated by:
Malcolm Hall
Bank Credit Cards — License To Steal?
Smart consumers already know that banks and other credit card issuers hide traps such as excessive late and over-limit fees in the fine print. But did you know that two major banks can raise your rate to as much as 32.24% APR — without telling you? More>>
Credit Cards Narrated by:
Stan Lampert
Tips For Safer Surfing
Internet thieves are becoming more sophisticated. Learn how to protect yourself at OnGuard Online‡, a federal government web site with:
Understanding Your Credit Score
Your FICO score can determine your chances of being approved for a loan, renting an apartment or even being hired for a job. Learn exactly what a FICO score is, how it’s determined, and how you can improve yours.
Better Business Bureau Of The Southland
It pays to be cautious. At the Better Business Bureau’s‡ site, you can check out a company before you do business with it, or file a complaint if you think you’ve been treated unfairly.
Don't Get Caught In A "Phishing" Or "Pharming" Scheme
You can be a victim of identity theft if a thief gets hold of personal information such as your Social Security or credit card numbers. The thief can open accounts in your name, run up bills and ruin your credit record. Correcting the problem could take years. Protect yourself with a few common sense precautions.
Increase Fuel Efficiency
If you can’t cut down your driving, you can at least adjust your driving habits — which may be enough to help you reduce your gas costs.
Dealer Financing — When You Score A Zero, You Lose
Sounds good. Zero percent financing. But is there a catch? Yes there is, and we’ll be glad to explain it.
