Youth & Student Finances

For many people, a side hustle is more than just extra cash – it’s a way to explore passions, gain financial freedom, and build skills that can grow into long-term opportunities. Whether you’re saving for a big goal or simply want more breathing room in your budget, having the right side hustle can make all…

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are one of the most underutilized tools for building both short-term healthcare security and long-term wealth. Understanding how HSAs work—and how they differ from other accounts—can help you maximize their unique advantages. Let’s look at one of the best benefits available for today’s workforce (and what to do if your employer…

September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder to consider how ready we are to face the unexpected. Most people don’t like “planning for a rainy day,” but being well-prepared for one can keep a challenging time from becoming a disaster. At Lafayette Federal, we know financial preparedness is just as important as having bottled water,…

Learning how to make small, consistent money moves part of your regular financial routine while you are still in school can become a big advantage after graduation. To help you develop and keep this routine, we have created this guide to build practical habits around budgeting, credit, savings, and borrowing—and how to set up student-friendly…

Money can either strengthen or strain relationships. Financial stress is one of the most common sources of conflict between couples—but it doesn’t have to be. When you learn how to have open, constructive conversations about money, you can turn potential tension into an opportunity to build trust, connection, and create a shared vision for the…

The last week of July means we’ve reached the midway point of the dog days of summer. For many of us, turning the calendar page to August signifies summer’s end is coming soon. For parents and students, August’s arrival can also bring a familiar sense of anticipation — or maybe dread: OMG. It’s almost back-to-school.…

When it comes to managing your credit, misinformation is everywhere and sometimes it can lead to costly mistakes. In this article, we’ll debunk common credit myths, break down what really influences your score, and offer practical tips to build healthy credit habits—plus highlight how Lafayette Federal Credit Union’s tools can help you take control of…

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or planning your very first international getaway, protecting your finances while traveling is essential. From card security to smart currency exchanges, financial missteps abroad can turn a dream trip into a logistical and emotional nightmare. Planning, being prepared before you leave home, and maintaining awareness of your financial activity while…