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.

 

Popular Topics

The Top 4 Best Ways to Pay for College

May 17, 2023

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.

How much down payment is normally required to buy a home?

March 29, 2023

For many people, buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions they will make in their lifetime. One of the key considerations in this process is the down payment, which is the amount of cash that a buyer pays upfront toward the purchase price. While the amount of the down payment required can vary depending on several factors, it is an essential component of the home-buying process.

Why Do Credit Unions Have Better Rates?

March 29, 2023

There’s a reason more than 130 million people belong to a credit union. Individuals choose credit unions over traditional banks for higher dividend rates, minimal account fees, and lower interest rates on loan products. But how can a small army of 5,000+ federally insured credit unions offer these benefits and a host of other financial benefits to everyday consumers?

Understanding Financial Aid Award Letters

March 29, 2023

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.

5 Pinch-Proof Tips to Prevent Scams & Fraud

March 17, 2023

Don't let scams and fraud catch you off guard this St. Patrick's Day. Protect your identity and money with these 5 pinch-proof tips!

Auto Buying eBook

March 07, 2023

This eBook will give you everything you need to know before buying a car. Learn how to be a savvy car shopper so you don’t get taken for a ride. We’ll arm you with knowledge of financing, interest rates, terms, and more. Be prepared, so you can drive off the lot with confidence.

‘Pre-qualified’ and ‘pre-approved’ for a loan – what’s the difference?

March 07, 2023

As a home buyer, knowing the difference between being pre-qualified and pre-approved is an important step in the mortgage process. Making your decision on which one to choose starts with understanding the definition of each of those terms.

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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.