All Blog Posts

View all articles in the BECU Blog

Browse the Blog
Browse the BlogClose

Financial Tips for Young Professionals

A family posing together in an outdoor setting, with mountain views, trees and nature all around them. The family of six is holding hands and standing in a line.

BECU's young professionals share how they manage their finances.

12 FAQs About Repaying Your Student Loans

Two young college-aged students sitting at a table inside located in front of large windows. Trees are in the background outside. The two students are looking together at the screen of a laptop that's in front of one of the students, who is typing on the laptop keyboard. The other student not in front of the laptop is holding a pen in one hand and has a book in their other hand resting on the table, open to a page.

​​We share options and information about repaying your federal student loans.​

Low-Cost Staycation Ideas

A couple at a hockey game, wearing Seattle Thunderbirds jerseys. The man, on the left, is smiling and wearing glasses. The woman, on the right, looks excited, posing with her mouth open. The two are seated in a hockey arena setting.

Discover fun and affordable staycations near home.

How a Home Equity Line of Credit Works

A man and woman engage in a flooring project. The man is kneeled over and is measuring flooring on the ground and the woman is sitting behind him on steps. There's a paint can on the steps next to the woman, She has a paint brush in her hand. Both of them are smiling.

Learn how you can use your equity for home improvement projects.

Homebuying as an Unmarried Couple

Three people standing in front of a brick house, one person is holding and showing a document to the other two. The woman holding the document has curly black hair and glasses. She's wearing a green top and beige pants. The couple, are standing next to each other, looking at the document. A man, in the middle, is wearing a beige top and brown pants. He has dark hair. The woman, to the right, is wearing a white top and light jeans. She has blonde hair. To the left are some plants.

Learn about legal agreements and title options to protect both of you.

Mortgage Glossary: Terms To Know

A man and woman pose together in front of the entryway of their home. The man is seated on a bench. On the bench are some potted flowers. The woman is standing next to him with her arm on his shoulder. They are in front of a rustic wooden background with a window behind them. To the right is the front door.

Your go-to glossary for key mortgage terms.

First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Two women sitting on the steps of a house. The woman on the right has one arm wrapped around the other. She has red long curly hair and is wearing a blue long sleeve cardigan and jeans. The woman on the left has black curly hair. She is wearing a periwinkle-colored long sleeve and black shorts. The home is blue with white trim around the windows and the steps are wooden. On the left are bushes with yellow flowers.

From credit score to the front door, navigate homebuying with these steps.

How To Control Costs of Assistive Devices

A young boy is sitting on an adaptive bike, while three individuals help to make sure the bike fits correctly. All three women are looking at the bike. Two are wearing gray shirts and one is wearing a tie dye shirt. In the background is other assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers and other equipment. They are outside under a red canopy tent. Behind the group are trees and a couple parked cars.

Learn about resources and payment options for assistive technology and devices.
Load More

9 Steps To Include Fun in Your Budget

Two people kayaking in orange boats with orange paddles on a sunny day. A woman in the foreground is smiling, looking in the direction that the man in the boat behind her is pointing. The sun is shining on the calm water.

Learn how to loosen up spending limits to avoid splurges.

How To Budget for a Vacation

A mother and daughter standing on a sandy beach, both smiling and wearing sunglasses. The ocean, white waves, blue sky and a large rock are visible in the background.

Get tips for planning and saving for your next vacation.

Juneteenth

A Black person's hand holds a Juneteenth flag with a blue sky and clouds in the background. Text: Juneteenth Freedom Day

Learn about barriers to Black Americans' financial health.

Budget-Friendly Vacations in Washington

A campsite by a lake at twilight with a vehicle and rooftop tent. Chairs and a table are set up near the vehicle, and string lights are hung between trees.

Explore Washington on a budget with these vacation ideas.

LGBTQ+ Couples Plan for the Future

Three Polaroid family photos displayed on a greenery background. The first photo shows one of dads and a daughter, the second shows both fathers and their daughter, and the third shows the other father and daughter.

Learn about financial factors for LGBTQ+ people preparing for marriage and kids.

2024 Home Improvements That Increase Value

A front shot of a house with an attached garage. The house is blue with white trim. The garage door panel is wood. The front lawn shows green grass and some landscaped hedging,

Learn which projects increase home value and which to avoid in 2024.

Mind and Money

A woman is seated on a couch as she counsels a person who is also seated in a therapy looking setting. She has both her hands raised a bit lower than shoulder length as if she's explaining something. She is wearing a black lanyard, a gray blazer and has long brownish black hair with a side pony tail. The man, who is facing away from the camera has black hair and is wearing a light blue button up. In the background are large windows showing bright light and trees.

Learn self-care steps to improve your mental and financial health.

What is a Checking Account?

Two ATMs located inside a BECU neighborhood financial center. The ATMs are placed on a red BECU branded wall. There is a BECU branded photograph on the wall as well. On the left is a window showing an outside parking setting.

Learn how checking accounts work and different types of accounts.
Load More

CDs vs. Money Market Accounts

Two women are indoors, seated in an office setting. The woman on the left has brown curly hair. She's holding up both hands, in a descriptive position. She is wearing a white long sleeve shirt and a necklace. The woman on the right has curly dark brown hair. She's wearing her hair up. She has glasses and a white dangly earring. She's wearing a white blouse with black polka dots. She has one hand on her chin, like she's listening. In the background are windows and a plant.

Compare CDs and money market accounts, pros and cons, and what they’re used for.

Credit vs. Debit Card Options for Kids

Mother holding a mobile phone sits next to her child who is holding a credit card. They are sitting at a table, smiling. A large green plant is in the background.

Learn how to help build kids’ credit and teach them about managing finances.

​​What My Family Taught Me About Money​

A black and white family photo with over 30 people posing for a group shot. The ages range from young children to older adults. The photo is captured in a living room setting. There are windows and curtains in the background. Some children are sitting crossed-legged or kneeling in the front, other family members are sitting on chairs in the middle, and many are standing in the back.

​​ANHPI employees share money lessons that reflect diverse experiences.​

Credit Union vs. Bank CDs: 5 Differences

A man and woman are sitting close together at a table having a conversation. They appear relaxed and their expressions are calm. A cup of coffee and some papers are on the table. They are sitting in front of a white wall with picture molding and a window with a green lawn outside. Sun is shining in the window. The woman is looking at the man and talking while holding a stack of papers. The top few sheets are flipped up so they can look at a page in the stack. The man is looking down at the papers, gesturing with one hand and writing on a piece of paper with the other.

Learn the differences to find the best account for your savings goals.

Equity and Access to a Clean Environment

This is an image of three younger girls running at Gas Works Park in Seattle, Washington. They are all smiling and the girl in the front has her hands in the air. She is wearing a pink sweatshirt and a yellow headband. The other two girls are wearing red and blue sweatshirts. In the background are people and children hanging out at the park. Also in the background is the gasification plant. The grass is bright green and the sky is light blue.

How pollution has a bigger effect on poor communities and communities of color.

Banking Basics: Tips To Get Started

Two women are smiling inside a living room setting facing the camera while seated and posing for a photo. The woman on the left has dark, short hair. Her hand is resting on her chin as she smiles. She is wearing a gray long sleeve shirt. The woman on the right has long red hair. She is wearing a yellow long sleeve shirt. Her arms are crossed as she smiles big. The background is blurred out, but shows some shelving in a living room setting.

Learn how common banking accounts and services can help you manage your money.

30 Tips To Get Financially Fit

Illustration of a man wearing a blue headband and blue athletic shorts holding a dumbbell. On his left is a yellow bicycle and on his right is a wall calendar and a potted plant.

Get a month's worth of daily tips to build your money-managing muscles.

How To Boost CD Savings: 3 Strategies

A smiling person starts to open the hatch back of a silver car parked in front of a building. He has a suitcase in his hand. He is wearing a black and white striped shirt. In the background is a sidewalk, green bushes and a staircase leading up to the front of a house. Another person is standing at the front of the house.

Learn three main strategies to help you invest with CDs.
Load More

What Is a CD and How Does It Work?

A BECU employee sits down with a member in an office at a neighborhood financial center. The employee is wearing a name tag and a green shirt. The member is facing away from the camera and he is wearing a blue shirt. In the background are desk cabinets, some office supplies like pens and pencils in containers at the employee's desk and a window facing trees.

Learn more about CDs, the different types and the pros and cons of CD investing.

Are CDs Worth It Right Now?

This is an image of a father and son in an airport. They are sitting down in chairs and looking out a window and pointing outside. In the photo in a red suitcase. The son is wearing a gray stripped shirt and has blonde hair. The father is wearing a gray shirt and has brown hair.

If you don’t need access to your money soon, a CD might be good for you in 2024.

How To Wipe Your Data From Computers and Phones

Illustration of a computer monitor and cell phone that show a loading symbol. A spray bottle full of liquid, labeled with the settings gear icon, sits next to the computer monitor. Text in the lower right corner says "Consumers' Checkbook."

Remove data before getting rid of unwanted digital devices.

​​11 Money Management Tips: Where To Begin​

This is an image of a woman on a bike outside. She's in front of a brick building. She's wearing a gray rain jacket, a blue scarf and a helmet. She's looking down at her phone.

​​Get started on building a solid foundation and working toward your goals.​

5 Common Tax Filing Mistakes To Avoid

Calculator paper clip and pen on a table

Be sure to avoid these mistakes during tax season.

2024 Tax Extension: Deadline, Rules, How To File

A man sits in his kitchen looking at papers he's holding in his right hand and punching buttons on a calculator with his left hand. A laptop is open on the table in front of him.

Need more time for your taxes? Learn about tax extensions.

​​15 Terms To Include in a Remodel Contract​

This is an image of three people looking at paperwork on a desk. The setting of the photo suggests a couple is getting a consultation with a home contractor. The contractor is on the left side of the image and is wearing a bright orange vest. He's wearing glasses and is pointing at paperwork on a table. In the middle is a man, who is wearing a gray shirt. Both of his hands are resting on the table, as he looks down at the paperwork. On the right-hand side is a woman. She is also wearing a gray shirt and has a ponytail. Both her hands are also resting on the table, as she looks down at the paperwork. In the background is a window and brick walls.

​​Clear contract terms can help your home remodeling project go smoothly.​

Why Did My Credit Score Drop? 11 Reasons

Illustration of a credit score gauge. A person is sweating from the effort of pulling on the indicator needle, like it's a lever, to move their credit score up.

Learn about these common credit-score setbacks and how to improve your score.
Load More

10 Women Finance Leaders in History

This image is a college of six headshots of influential women finance leaders in history. The image includes headshots of Tennessee Claflin, Rosemary McFadden, Victoria Woodhull, Janet Yellen, Maggie Lena Walker and Janet Yellen.

Celebrate finance leaders who advanced equity for women.

Joint Accounts: Pros and Cons for Couples

A couple is looking at paperwork in their kitchen. A woman is holding paperwork in her hand while her other hand is rested on her chin in a thinking posture. The man is behind her and is also looking at the paper with one of his hands on his hip. They are in a indoor kitchen setting. The woman appears to be sitting at a kitchen counter, while the man is standing. There are two mugs on the countertop and a computer is open as well.

Learn about co-managing finances with your partner using a joint account.

How To Talk to Your Partner About Finances

A couple is outdoors on a path walking their dog. The man is wearing a blue vest, a long sleeve plaid shirt and blue jeans. The woman is wearing a black coat with a red shirt underneath. She is also wearing blue jeans. The dog is white. In the background are trees and water.

Learn how to be a better financial communicator with your partner.

Emergency Funds: Your Financial Safety Net

Emergency Funds - Your Financial Bestie

Learn what an emergency fund is, why you need one and how much you should save.

How To Budget as a Couple

A couple smiling, taking a selfie. A pair of bicycles are on a car-mounted bike rack in the background.

Learn about budgeting methods, tools and common spending patterns for couples.

How Do Couples Split Bills?

Two women sit close together on couch, holding hands. Woman on the left is holding phone up to take a selfie.

Romance is great, but have you found a fair way to split shared bills?

Get the Best Blooms for Your Buck

This is an image of a man in a florist shop. He is holding a boutique of red roses. He is smiling and wearing a blue striped collared shirt. In the background are more flower arrangements. In the lower right-hand corner of the photo is the Consumers' Checkbook logo.

Learn how to get the best flowers for less money and hassle.

2023 Income Taxes: What You Need To Know

An image of a person on a computer while filing their taxes. They are looking at what appears to be a W-2 Form. The form is in their left hand. The person is using their right hand to calculate numbers on a calculator. The Consumers' Checkbook logo is in the bottom left-hand side of the image. There is a pen on a white surfaced desk top and a plant. In the image you can see the back of the person's head and she is wearing blue glasses.

Learn what to expect as you prepare to file your 2023 income taxes.
Load More

How To Use a Secured Card To Build Credit

A woman is smiling and handing her card to pay her bill at a restaurant. In front of her is a card reader and a figure's hand reaching for her card. In the background are two women talking. The background is a restaurant setting with a bar in the back.

Learn how you can use a secured credit card to help improve your credit.

What Is a Secured Credit Card?

This image is a close up of someone paying for a transaction with a BECU visa credit card. One person's hands are on their wallet, and the other persons hands are inserting the credit card into a wireless point of sale card reader. They are at what appears to be a wood countertop.

Learn how secured credit cards work and how they can help you build credit.

11 Black Finance Leaders in History

Collage of photos, some very old black-and-white photos, of the faces of Black finance leaders in history.

Learn about Black trailblazers in finance.

CD vs. Savings Accounts: Which Is Best?

Three people on a kayak in a lake. A man wearing a red life vest in the back, a boy wearing a red life vest in the middle and a boy wearing a yellow life vest in the front. They are holding paddles and smiling at the camera.

Learn which type of account might be a good financial fit for you.

Exercise Your Options Before Joining a Gym

A man is smiling and riding a stationary bike indoors. In the background is fitness equipment. He is looking at a screen while riding the bike. Both of his hands are on the handlebars and he is wearing a red crewneck sweater. The photo has a Consumers' Checkbook logo and the bottom right-hand corner.

Consider your exercise goals and learn how to save money on fitness.

How To Pay off Credit Card Debt

Two smiling men sit shoulder-to-shoulder in front of a laptop and look over a paper document together.

Get tips for paying off debt and saving for the future.

12 New Year Financial Resolutions for 2024

A woman looks down at her laptop and is smiling. One of her hands is raised happily in a clench position suggesting an achievement concept. In her other hand is a cup of coffee. She's seated in a kitchen setting. On the table are flowers in a vase. A sink, cutting board, and various kitchen appliances are in the background. She is wearing an orange blazer.

Take steps to set and meet your financial goals in 2024.

How To Maximize Your Charitable Donations

A BECU employee speaking with another person, with food donations in the background.

Get tips for making the most of your donation dollars and time.
Load More

Holiday Experiences in Washington

A couple pose in the snowy mountains for a photo. The two are standing and smiling and both people are wearing sunglasses. There are mountains and evergreen trees in the background. The sky is blue. The woman is wearing a yellow long-sleeved shirt with a scarf, and the man is wearing a long-sleeved white shirt and has a hat and backpack on.

Discover budget-friendly winter activities that spark the holiday spirit.

11 Ways To Save Money This Holiday Season

A couple are shopping and smiling as they look into a window together. The two are wearing winter clothes. Both are wearing scarves and are shopping indoors in a mall-like setting.

Enjoy a budget-friendly season with our holiday spending and savings tips.

10 Tricks Sellers Use To Get You To Spend More

Image shows a bustling crowd with sale signs in the background.

Learn the sales tricks that make you think you're getting a bargain.

7 Ways To Spend Less on Holiday Shopping

Couple standing shoulder to shoulder together outside, dressed in warm winter clothes, smiling and looking down inside of a red shopping bag, with holiday lights visible in the background. "Consumers' Checkbook" logo in the bottom right corner.

Learn how to get the best deals and avoid scams during the holidays.

2023 Holiday Shopping Scams To Avoid

A woman wearing a tan coat, carrying shopping bags walks through a mall.

Learn about the latest online holiday shopping scams so you can avoid them.

Barriers to Indigenous Wealth

Illustration of a Native American drum.

Learn how access to financial health has been limited for Native people throughout U.S. history.

Guide to 2021 Child Tax Credit: Amounts, Eligibility

A toddler squats in the grass, looking at a clover held by her smiling mother.

Find out how advance payments might affect your tax return.

Raising Awareness of Native Financial Well-Being

Kyle Schierbeck, project executive for Unkitawa, is standing on a stage in front of microphone smiling. He is wearing a red shirt that says Unkitawa and is wearing a large beaded colorful necklace. Behind him is a BECU sign that says "Day of Purpose BECU."

BECU CEO brings us together to celebrate Native Indigenous Peoples Month.
Load More

Financial Education That Fits Native Needs

Head-and-shoulders portrait of Bethany Hawkins on a gray background. She is smiling and wearing a black suit jacket and red top.

A mortgage advisor is helping to create culturally relevant financial education.

Voice Cloning AI Scams Are on the Rise

Three illustrated people are having conversations on the phone. The person on the left is holding up a cellphone and to the right it's a question marking indicating confusion. The person in the middle of the illustration is also holding up a phone and to the right of her is an exclamation point, indicating that she's surprised. Last, there is an older individual holding up a phone and to the left of him is a voice pattern, which indicates his voice being cloned.

Protect yourself from scams that sound like calls from loved ones.

Latinx-Owned Businesses See Growth

A group of nine individuals are seated inside at a table, while one person is standing and presenting in front of the group. The person presenting is holding a piece of paper and reading. To the left of the group another individual is standing and listening. The background displays a projector screen and a brick wall.

Latinx-owned businesses are growing — but owners still face barriers in funding.

​How To Spot a Text Scam

This is an illustration of three hands holding up smart phones. Each phone is displaying text message threads with potential text scams. The phone on the left appears to have an alert message. The phone in the middle has question mark icons and a red security flag. The phone on the left has several dollar sign symbols and a red security flag. Each hand has a diverse skin tone color. The background of the illustration is blue.

​​Is that text real? We identify common scams and ways to spot fake texts.​

Celebrating Latinx Communities and Contributions

A large group of BECU's Latinx Employee Resource Group (ERG) are gathered together inside at an employee event. The group is standing in front of a screen posing for a photo. There are balloons and decorations in the background.

CEO Beverly Anderson celebrates Latinx culture and community contributions.

Personal Finance Tips for New College Grads

Three college students laugh as they walk away from a building on campus together.

Learn how to navigate your financial life after college.

Back-to-School Budget-Friendly Checklist

A young boy stands next to his mother and father in the aisle of an office supplies store. The family is facing a wall full of writing utensils and other back-to-school supplies, with the father reaching to pull an item off the shelf.

Browse common school supplies to build your must-buy list.

Back-to-School Savings Tips

Young girl sporting a light blue backpack smiles as she stands in front of her smiling mother, who has placed her left hand on the young girl's shoulder, a showing of support as the young girl readies to leave through the front door of their home to go back to school.

Use these simple tips to budget for back-to-school shopping and save money.
Load More

​​Celebrating the Anniversary of the ADA​

Illustration of three people, one walking in the foreground, one using a wheelchair, and one in the background walking with a dog and wearing dark glasses.

BECU CEO highlights benefits of creating equitable opportunities.

The Cost and Benefits of Caregiving

Young girl in a wheelchair smiles as she looks back at four other members of her family, who are surrounding the young girl on all sides while posing and smiling for the photo.

Learn about financial challenges caregivers face and resources that can help.

Do You Need Travel Insurance?

A smiling woman wearing sunglasses and a green top lies in a hammock while looking at her phone. A sandy beach, blue ocean and bright blue sky are in the background. The Consumers' Checkbook logo is in the upper right corner.

Get tips to help you decide if insurance makes sense for your trip.

Why You Should Spend With Pride Year-Round

Illustration of two people walking toward each other, one carrying a Pride flag and the other carrying a scarf that says "Pride." Five icons in circles arch over them: a grocery bag, a contract, a graph with a dollar sign, a beach scene and food.

Your everyday spending can support the LGBTQIA+ community year-round.

'Our Support for Pride Runs Deep'

10 BECU employees pose for the camera, smiling and standing side by side outside of Tukwila Financial Center for a recent Pride flag raising. Some employees pictured are holding and waving small Pride flags.

​​​BECU CEO celebrates and supports Pride and LGBTQ+ communities.

​​​BECU Builds on Financial Strength in 2022​​

Smiling couple standing side by side in front of a field of red and yellow flowers.

​​BECU CEO shares highlights from the credit union's 2022 annual report.​

LGBTQ+ Money Tips

Illustration of five people holding a Pride flag. A cloud of comment bubbles of varying sizes, each containing a dollar sign, is above their heads, to symbolize that they are talking about money.

Get personal finance tips from BECU's LGBTQ+ employees.

SVP Values Diversity of Asian Experiences

Balaji Ponnuswamy with his daughters, Varsha (left), Priyanka (center right) and his wife, Gayathri (right).

Statistics hide the range of inequity and different experiences of Asian people.
Load More

Celebrating ANHPI Community and Diversity

A mom and dad swing their child between them outside during a fall day.

CEO Beverly Anderson celebrates ANHPI Heritage Month and our ANHPI communities.

Road to Financial Health 'Takes a Village'

Headshot of Pauline Hernandez, a Filipino American woman and manager of a BECU neighborhood financial center.

A BECU manager works to share her financial knowledge.

Building a Path to Financial Freedom

A smiling child stands in front of a BECU ATM machine, holding a BECU-branded earphones case.

CEO Beverly Anderson shares an early lesson about building financial access.

New Baby Budget: Costs for the First Year

Mother and father sitting on the floor in front of a baby crib holding and looking at their newborn baby, with a black- and white-colored dog as well as a brown- and grey-colored dog laying down on the floor next to them. Friendly depictions of a raccoon, bear, and forest are painted on the walls of the room. "Miranda Jade Photography" photo credit is displayed in text in bottom left hand corner of image.

Prepare for costs in the first year of your baby's life.

Things To Know About Credit Scores

Illustration of a person sitting next to a white dog, looking at a smart phone; a thought bubble shows a credit score gauge with the needle pointed at green to represent a good score.

Learn how to raise your score and improve your financial health.

5 Banking Tips for Kids and Parents

A mother and her teen daughter stand together in their kitchen facing the camera for a photo. The mom has her arm around the teen and is resting her cheek against her daughter's head.

Get tips to help kids start banking and building good financial habits.

How To Budget for Inflation

A woman sits at her kitchen table reading a receipt she is holding in one hand. She is holding an apple in the other hand. A paper bag of groceries is on the table next to her.

Get tips on how to adapt your budget when prices are high.

Path to Equity: A Woman VP's Perspective

BECU's Vice President of Servicing and ATM Operations Shawna Thompson.

How the workplace has changed for women in Shawna Thompson's 30 years with BECU.
Load More

Celebrating Women's History and a Brighter Future

BECU President and CEO Beverly Anderson, center, with women from the BECU Office of Equity and Inclusion.

BECU CEO Beverly Anderson celebrates women's history and an equitable future.

A Steeper Climb

Image of a woman's face on gray background.

How an SVP overcame challenges as a woman in the financial services industry.

Coming Together Over Black Coffee

Three women standing together in front of a green, leaf-covered wall with a neon sign that says "Coffee" on it. The woman on the left is Intentionalist CEO and founder Laura Clise, wearing a Seattle Sonics hat. The woman in the middle is Seattle Storm Center Mercedes Russell, wearing a sweatshirt that says "Seattle." The woman on the right is Black Coffee Northwest co-owner DarNesha Weary, wearing a "Black Coffee Northwest" t-shirt.

Learn how Black Coffee Northwest is leading the conversation on racial equity.

Estate Planning: Tasks and Tips To Get Started

Man and woman and sitting close together across from another woman. The man is reading a sheet of paper and the woman on the left is smiling at the woman on the right.

Get tips on wills, power of attorney, executors and more.

History and Hope: A Message From Our CEO

BECU President and CEO Beverly Anderson smiling at the camera. Her head and shoulders are visible.

BECU CEO Beverly Anderson shares what Black History Month means to her.

2022 Income Taxes: What You Need To Know

Two men sitting close together on a gray couch. The man on the left is wearing a blue shirt and glasses and is pointing at a tablet in other man's hand. Man on right is wearing a gray shirt. Consumers' Checkbook logo in upper right corner.

Learn how changes to tax laws might affect your 2022 tax return.

A Career Focused on Culture and Values

Former BECU CEO Benson Porter gestures with his hands as he talks on stage. A sign on a podium next to him says Member Summit. A large mosaic of 12 photos of people's faces with different expressions is in the background the people are a diverse mix of races and genders.

CEO Benson Porter reflects on his career as he prepares for retirement.

How Credit Debt Could Affect Your Mortgage

Image of a young, smiling couple standing in front of a brick home with one of the individuals holding house keys in their hand.

Find out if credit card debt affects whether you qualify for a home loan.
Load More

How Remote Work Changed Working With a Disability

Illustration of a person sitting at a computer, working from home. Across the room, a dog is on a couch across below a window with curtains.

Employees talk about how remote work has helped them take care of their needs.

Different, Not Less: Employment for All Abilities

Photo of a smiling man driving a forklift and wearing personal protective equipment.

Randy Lewis’s successful effort to employ thousands with disabilities.

Password Phishing: How To Avoid Scams

Computer screen with password typed in has a sticky note in the top right corner with a fishing hook going through it.

Protect your personal and financial information from online attacks.

Feeding People for Social Change

A Latinx man and woman, both smiling, stand outside at a table covered in neatly arranged packages of food. A giant toy pepper decorates the middle of the table.

Roxana Pardo Garcia created a Latinx food bank to support her community.

Time To Winterize: Fall Projects That Save Money

Homeowner double checks duct work for holes or gaps. Consumers' Checkbook logo in bottom right corner.

Improve energy efficiency and prevent the need for costly repairs.

Protect Your Child From Identity Theft

Two smiling young children, sitting side by side, looking down at a digital tablet they are holding together. Consumers' Checkbook logo in bottom right of image.

Learn the warning signs and take steps to protect your kids.

Latinx Culture Informs VP's Equity Work

Photo of Jackie Martinez-Vasquez's face. She is smiling.

Jackie Martinez-Vasquez works to achieve equity for oppressed people.

Grocery Inflation: Items That Cost More

A person pushes a grocery cart down the dairy aisle of the grocery store. The cart contains lots of fresh vegetables and other items. The person's hands and lower body are visible.

Learn which grocery prices have increased and get money-saving tips.
Load More

Buying Your Leased Car Could Save You Money Now

Couple standing inside an auto dealership reviewing materials on a digital tablet with an auto dealership employee. Consumers' Checkbook logo in the lower right of the image.

With inventory problems driving up auto prices, buying your vehicle as it comes off lease could result in a windfall.

Using Our Strength To Deliver on Our Purpose

A photo collage of seven images of smiling people of various ages, races and genders. Four images are single people, one is a family with a young baby, one is a couple in mid-life, and one images is an older couple.

BECU rose to the pandemic's challenges to support evolving member needs.

BECU SVP: Value Differences To Open Doors

Headshot of BECU SVP Bryan MacDonald on dark gray background.

Bryan Lee MacDonald says real connections pave the way to equity.

Low-Cost Tips For Reducing Energy Use at Home

Man caulking a window. Consumers' Checkbook logo in the lower right corner.

Get tips to benefit your wallet — and the planet.

‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ Pros and Cons for Travel

Parents stand smiling with their two young children on a sunny, sandy beach with bright blue water behind them. A logo says Consumers' Checkbook on the lower right.

Find out if putting off payment for your upcoming trip is right for you.

Take Control of Your Digital Clutter

Woman sitting in her kitchen rests her chin on her hand and concentrates while looking at her laptop.

Get tips to prevent your personal and financial files from getting buried.

Pandemic Pressure: A Toll on Women's Finances

This is a photo of Marybeth, BECU employee, and her three sons. They are all smiling for a group photo. Marybeth has her arms wrapped around them and is wearing a stripped sweater. They are outside and behind them is a parking lot with cars parked.

A BECU employee shares how her career took a detour because of the pandemic.

Women Leaders Share Vision for Path to Equity

Headshots of four women.

Leaders discuss what it takes to increase opportunities for women.
Load More

Credit Unions Positioned to Lead on Gender Equity

Headshots of four women.

Credit union leaders share their experiences and ideas for closing the gap.

BECU Educator Helps Brighten Financial Futures

Headshot photo of TJ Peguero, BECU Financial Educator.

A Black financial educator empowers students to achieve financial health.

Creating Opportunity for Black-Owned Business

Headshot photo of Kesha Rodgers, co-founder of the Ally League.

Kesha Rodgers is on a quest to help local Black-owned businesses flourish.

2021 Income Taxes: What You Need To Know

Stacked tax documents. Image has Puget Sound Consumers' Checkbook logo on bottom right.

Learn how changes to tax laws might affect your 2021 income tax return.

RV Supplies Increasing, but Prices Still High

A father, mother and their two boys pose for a family photo in front of their RV, which is hitched to their pickup truck.

What to expect — and what to consider — if you’re shopping for an RV.

How To Get a Fair Deal on Auto Repair

A woman happily driving a car. White text says Consumers' Checkbook in the lower right corner.

Tips for shopping for an auto mechanic.

End of Rental Eviction Ban: Where To Get Help

Rental relief written in a notebook

Find help through government and nonprofit programs.

Is DIY Home Improvement Right for You?

A woman smiles as she paints a white wall gray using a roller brush.

Save time and money and increase your home value by doing your homework.
Load More

Mortgage Scams Are Real in 2021: How To Avoid Them

A woman, man and dog sit on the front stairs outside their gray house. The bright yellow front door is ajar behind them.

Protect yourself from mortgage fraud, foreclosure scams and wire fraud.

How To Save on Moving Help and Avoid Scams

A man and woman stand in their garage doorway. The man is carrying a cardboard box labeled "BEDROOM # 2" in black marker. A woman, who is smiling at him, rests her hands on top of a stack of labeled cardboard boxes. A white text logo in the lower right says "Puget Sound Consumers' Checkbook."

Comparison shopping tips to protect your stuff and your money.

Car Shoppers Face Fewer Choices and Higher Prices

Aerial photo of a black sedan, the only car in a parking lot with eight spaces visible. Consumers' Checkbook logo in lower right.

Learn how a microchip shortage is affecting sales and get shopping tips.

Low-Cost Vacation Rental? Take a Closer Look

Smiling woman in a blue windbreaker stands in a garden in front of cabin with a low, round wooden door. Logo in the lower right reads Puget Sound Consumers' Checkbook.

Get tips for avoiding hidden fees and terms on your vacation rental.

Edgar Villanueva on Closing the Racial Wealth Gap

White text on teal background: MONEY AS MEDICINE; headshot of Edgar Villanueva

The author of “Decolonizing Wealth” works for equity and community healing.

Consider Costs Before Getting a Pet

A woman dressed in warm clothes sits on a Pacific Northwest beach with two dogs

Learn how much you’ll need to budget to care for a new furry friend.

Achieve Your Budgeting Goals During the Pandemic

Illustration of woman walking and carrying groceries with a dollar-sign callout over the grocery bag and on the phone poking out of her pocket. Car in background with a dollar-sign callout over it.

Learn budgeting tips that can help even during tough times.

No Stimulus Check Yet? Here’s What To Expect

A person holds a stimulus check with two hands, facing the camera

Find out whether a payment might be due to you and how to claim it.
Load More

10 Things To Know About 2020 Income Taxes

Bearded man sitting at a kitchen table, looking down at tax forms, a laptop open in front of him

Herb Weisbaum has answers to common questions about this unusual tax year.

Buy or Refi? Low Mortgage Rates Boost Buying Power

Standing in front of a yellow house, man cradles woman in his arms while she dangles keys from her fingers.

Read expert tips about what low rates could mean for you.

Employee Helps Others Benefit from his Experience

Black man in a suit and tie looks at the camera.

A Black BECU employee talks about overcoming adversity and helping others.

Fund Takes New Approach to Building Black Wealth

Four Black women, founders of the Black Futures Co-op Fund, stand outside together and smile for a photo.

Transforming how philanthropy builds Black wealth and health.

A Wedding During COVID-19? Learn from Two Couples

A man smiles at the camera while a woman wearing a flower wreath on her head hugs him from behind

Couples share how COVID-19 affected their big day and their budget.

Small Businesses Get Second Boost for COVID-19 Relief

Cafe worker wearing surgical mask over his nose and mouth standing in front of the counter

Learn the basics of the Paycheck Protection Program, Round 2.

How to Manage Finances Like a CFO

Portrait of BECU CFO Melba Bartels

BECU CFO says to plan ahead, lead with compassion.

How to Stay Positive When the Job Search Drags On

Woman smiling, talking on a cell phone and looking at a laptop

Motivation for when it seems like your job search has no end in sight.
Load More

Set Sights on Smaller Resolutions for 2021

Illustration of the start of a New Year's resolution list surrounded by six pictures in circles: an apple with a milk carton, a person walking outside, a person riding a bike, a book, a small picture of a piggy bank, and a small picture of a dumbbell.

After a tough 2020, it’s ok to set smaller goals for the new year.

Stimulus Round 2 — What You Need to Know

A hand holding a check labeled "relief program" from the United States government

Checks are on the way. Find out how much you’ll get and when you’ll get it.

Watch out for COVID-19 Scams

Image of the word security on a computer screen

Fraudsters see opportunities in a crisis. Take steps to protect yourself.

BECU CEO Finds Hope in the Challenges of 2020

Former BECU CEO Benson Porter standing outside, smiling

Read reflections on the moments that defined the nation and our cooperative in 2020.

Stay Safe with This Virtual Holiday Guide

Four people gather on screen for virtual holiday party.

Make the most of this holiday season with these festive and safe celebration ideas.

How to Protect Yourself from Online Scams this Holiday Season

Shopping online

Don’t fall victim to fraud. Read advice from Sean Murphy, chief information security officer.

No Job? Take 5 Steps to Shore up Your Finances

Man sitting on a couch, hand in hair, paying paper bills next to laptop

Tackle holiday stress by making sure your financial basics are covered.

BECU Honors Nonprofits with Annual Awards

2020 People Helping People Award Recipients

Local nonprofits honored for helping communities, driving social change.
Load More

4 Shopping Tips for Black Friday 2020

Shopping bags

Tips for Black Friday shopping while keeping yourself and others safe by staying home and avoiding the crowds.

Support Small Businesses on Saturday, November 28

Small business merchants

Learn how to support your favorite local shop on Small Business Saturday.

Ideas for a Virtual Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving Celebration

Family photo on cell phone

With the latest guidance from the CDC and Governor Inslee, many of us need to rethink our holiday plans. Get ideas for a virtual Thanksgiving (or Friendsgiving) celebration.

Turkey Shopping Tips for Thanksgiving 2020

Turkey

Get the best bang for your bird buck with these turkey shopping tips.

Update on BECU's Journey Towards a More Inclusive Cooperative

Diversity and Inclusion word collage

CEO Benson Porter shares the credit union’s progress in 2020 and what’s ahead.

7 Easy Alternatives to Trick or Treating

Ghost trick or treating with witch

Spook-tacular ideas for a fun and safe Halloween.

4 Tips to Manage Debt and Loan Payments During COVID-19

Counting money

Get advice on how to approach debt and loan payments during the pandemic.

BECU’s Annual Day of Service with Tom Berquist, Chief Marketing Officer

Tom Headshot

Read how BECU plans to give back to our communities this year.
Load More

BECU Tellers on the Front Line

Teller Blog Promo Image

Read how tellers work to put members first, and how they’ve adapted during COVID-19.

BECU and KEXP Partnership

KEXP Cassette Tape

Get the inside story about the BECU and KEXP partnership from KEXP’s Kevin Cole and BECU’s Toby Travis.

BECU Expanding to Whatcom County with Scott Strand, Chief Operating Officer

Bellingham Market Entry: Scott Strand

Learn about BECU’s expansion into Whatcom County this year.

Meet Oliver: Recent Grad and Soon-to-Be Med Student

Member Spotlight - Meet Oliver

He aspires to become a doctor.

We are Listening, Learning and Taking Action

Benson Porter

Driven by our values, we are taking meaningful action.

Neighborhood Financial Center Managers

BECU's Seattle Branch

We meet two branch managers who embody the BECU value of Members First.

10 Free Ways to Keep Kids Entertained This Summer

Sign that says Museum

Ideas for free summer fun from the comfort of home.

Save Money by Starting a Victory Garden

Various vegetables

Even if you don’t have much space or a yard, you can grow your own food.
Load More

How You Can Celebrate Pride From Your Living Room

Pride flag in front of a building

Proud together: here's how you can celebrate Pride without leaving home.

A Celebration of Freedom

Juneteenth Freedom Day

We stand with the Black community in recognizing the importance of Juneteenth.

Taxes in July - What You Need to Know

Calculator on top of tax papers

What the extension on the income tax filing date means and why it matters.

Unemployment Benefits Fraud - What You Need to Know

Display of empty envelopes

Even if you don't file for unemployment, you can fall victim to this fraud.

Affordable Social Distancing Ideas for Long Weekends

A glass and pitcher of refreshments on grass

Socially distant ideas for spending your holiday weekend with others.

Four Ideas for Celebrating Moms, Grads and Dads From a Distance

Greeting card of a cartoon person and a heart

Four ideas for celebrating Moms, Dads and Grads during the COVID-19 crisis.

4 Tips for Using Your Stimulus Check

Rolled up money

Our Lead Financial Educator offers suggestions for prioritizing your stimulus check.

In a Time of Crisis, Our Focus Remains Serving our Members

In a Time of Crisis

In these times of uncertainty, BECU remains focused on the financial wellbeing of our members and their communities.
Load More

COVID-19 Stimulus Checks – What You Need to Know

A U.S. dollar bill.

Get your stimulus check questions answered.

Meet Kayleigh and Colton - They Are Saving For A Wedding

Member Spotlight - Meet Kayleigh and Colton

They both have been members their entire lives.

4 Tips for Buying a Budget-Savvy Engagement Ring

Engagement ring in an open box

Don't feel like you need to break the bank.

Benson Porter, CEO

Benson Porter, CEO

See what's on the horizon for 2020 and more!

Are Meal Delivery Services Worth It?

Are Meal Delivery Services Worth It?

We look into meal delivery services and see if they save you money.

Meet Leo - He Is an Early Saver

Member Spotlight Meet Leo

He gets financial advice from his grandma.

Is Online Shopping Safe?

Multiple blank, colorful price tags

We review computer viruses, sweetheart and online scams and reporting them.

Brian Knollenberg, VP Digital Marketing and Analytics

Brian Knollenberg, VP Digital Marketing and Analytics

Read more about doing the right thing for our members.
Load More

Best Summer Camp Tips for Parents

Best Summer Camp Tips for Parents

The best time to book a summer camp? Now.

Let's Talk About the Cost of Turkey

Turkey

Get the best bang for your bird buck. Check out our turkey-shopping tips.

Meet Dianissa - She Is All About Saving

Member Spotlight Meet Dianissa

Not having a debit card helps her save money.

Sean Murphy, Chief Information Security Officer

Sean Murphy

Learn how to keep yourself safe online.

Are Password Manager Services Worth It?

Are Password Manager Services Worth It?

We look at the pros and cons of password management services.

Look out for Sugar Daddies, Public Wi-Fi, and LinkedIn Scams

Look out for Sugar Daddies, Public Wi-Fi, and LinkedIn Scams

Check out three of the latest scams and how to avoid them.

Meet Bruce - He Has His Eye on Retirement

Member Spotlight Meet Bruce

He wants to retire and help raptors.

Shannon Finch, Director of Environmental Branding

Shannon Finch

Read how her and her team create engaging branch atmospheres.
Load More

Top 6 Tips for Perfect Kid Presents

Gifts decorated with ribbons

Hopefully this will make shopping easier.

Meet Terri - She Wants You to Check Your Credit

Meet Terri – She Wants You to Check Your Credit

She shares her favorite financial advice.

Four Tips for Finding Some Extra Money for Summer

Container full of coins

It's more than checking the couch cushions.

5 Budget-Friendly Home-Improvement Hacks

Blueprint, small model home, and pencil marking compass

You don't have to break the bank to up your curb appeal.

Meet Sarah - She's Not Just a Number

Member Spotlight Meet Sarah

She feels like a member at BECU and not just another account holder.

Stacey Black, Lead Financial Educator

Stacey Black

She's never met anyone that regrets saving too much.

Best of Back to School Sales

Chalk board that says Back to School

Did you know some of the best back to school sales happen in July?

Meet Kristine - a Member for Over 25 Years

Member Spotlight Meet Kristine

She loves being able to access her accounts anywhere in the world.
Load More

Free (Or Almost Free) Things to Do in Seattle

Seattle's Pike Place Market

You don't have to break the bank this summer in Seattle.

Three Can't-Miss Summertime Side Hustles

Sign that says Pizza

The summer is the perfect time for professional moonlighting.

Meet Charmaine - It Feels Like Family

Member Spotlight Meet Charmaine

When she talks to a BECU rep she feels like she’s known them forever.

Meet the Affinity Team

Affinity Team

Learn about the team behind all of our cool partnerships and sponsorships.

Meet Josh - He Tries to Spend Wisely

Member Spotlight Meet Josh

He likes to invest in experiences rather than things.

Saving Through Streaming

Yellow, white, and red cables

"Cutting the cord" with cable providers can benefit your bank account.

Debbie Wege, Cooperative Community Advocate

Debbie Wege, Cooperative Community Advocate

Learn how she brings our co-op principles to life.

Meet Patricia - She Likes to Keep Her Money Local

Member Spotlight Meet Patricia

She shares the best piece of financial advice she's received.
Load More

Take a Fresh Look at Your Debt This Spring

Piggy bank in a meadow

Check out the debt consolidation tools available to BECU members.

Meet Melissa - She's Seeing the Country

Member Spotlight Meet Melissa

She downsized to an RV and travels.

Alvin Lee, Digital Channel Manager

Alvin Lee, Digital Channel Manager

Additional self-service features arrived in 2019 and more!

A Wake-Up Call From the Shutdown

Sign that says Sorry We're Closed

We look at options for possibly missing a paycheck.

Meet Dave - He Believes in Saving Early

Member Spotlight Meet Dave

He started savings accounts at BECU for his grandkids.

Liz Wagner, Senior Digital Strategy Manager

Liz Wagner, Senior Digital Strategy Manager

Learn what we accomplished in 2019.

Meet Nickii - She Believes in Rainy Day Funds

Member Spotlight Meet Nickii

See how much she sets aside for her emergency fund.

Keep Imposter Scammers Off Your Gift-Giving List

Gift with open ribbon

We review the Gift Card Imposter Scam and how to report it.
Load More

Watch out for These Common Scams – Part 2

Man viewing a mountain with binoculars

We review advance fee scams, impersonation scams and reporting them.

Watch out for These Common Scams – Part 1

Man viewing a mountain with binoculars

We review computer viruses, sweetheart and online scams and reporting them.

Is Biometrics Here to Stay?

Finger pointing to the word Security

Looking into biometrics.

The Virtual Gold Rush

Are You Missing Out On a Virtual Gold Rush?

Taking look at digital currency.