Banking Advice

Tips and tools to own your financial future.

When you join USC Credit Union, you’re more than a member. You’re an owner in a not-for-profit cooperative founded to help you achieve your financial dreams. As your credit union, we’re 100% committed to your financial wellbeing – and the role financial literacy plays in enhancing it. We pulled together these resources to boost your financial literacy on a wide range of topics, so you can manage your money with confidence.

Banking Advice Articles

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.

What is the difference between a credit union and a bank?

When it comes to managing your finances, you have several options available to you, including banks and credit unions. While both offer similar financial products and services, there are some key differences between the two that can affect your decision about which one to choose.

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.

Financial Wellness

Your money goals matter, and the financial counselors at GreenPath can help you reach them. Our financial partner and a trusted national nonprofit since 1961, GreenPath can help you pay down debt, improve your credit score, explore student loan options and make the best housing choices for your budget. Added bonus: Your first financial counseling session is free, just for being a USC Credit Union member.

Learn More about Greenpath

Calculators

How much do you need to retire? How much do you need to set aside for college loan payments? How much new home can you afford? What will your payments be if you refinance your mortgage? How much can you grow your savings with a share certificate? Should you buy or lease your new vehicle? How long will it take to pay off your credit card? Find out with one of these financial calculators:

View Calculators

IRAs

It’s never too early to plan your retirement, and an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) lets you save for the future safely and securely at your pace. Which IRA is right for you? Explore the features and benefits and talk to us for more details.

Contact Us

Learn More  about IRAs

Student Checking & Savings Accounts

Managing your money shouldn’t be as hard as your homework. Open a student account that fits you and your campus life. No monthly service charge. Free ATMs. Mobile banking.

Student Checking

Student Savings

Share Certificates

Lock in our best yields on your terms. Share savings earn you a guaranteed return and let you choose how much to deposit amount and for how long.

Learn More about Share Certificates

I’ve been with USC Credit Union over 20 years as my main banking source. It just feels like a supportive community-based location to handle all of my financial needs.

-Marco

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.