For a millenial, saving can seem like a scary word. We often look at saving as something meant for adults looking to buy a house or save for retirement, simply not applicable to us. However, starting to save in your 20's can have incredibly positive effects on your financial wellbeing as you continue into adulthood. Here are some reasons saving is important and some ways to start saving (even if you think you have no money). 

If you’ve been following this blog, you may have suddenly realized that you want everyone in your family to become member-owners of the USC Credit Union. However, they might also be hesitant to make the switch. The process of closing one account and opening another appears daunting, but it is actually very easy! If you want to share the joy of lower fees, greater accessibility, and better resources with a loved one, just send this blog their way to clarify the process.

Let's face it, growing up is hard. Who ever thought being an adult brought so many changes so fast. But it isn't all bad right? Like most transitions, there are things to look forward to in adulthood. Here are 8 signs that indicate you're in the middle of a quarter-life crisis.

1. When Friday nights on your calendar are booked as "Netflix".
   
   Late night partying is a thing of the past. The only “parties” you’re familiar with now are the political parties in “House of Cards”. (Bonus points if you actually own and update a calendar).
   
   
   
2. You sip your cocktails, instead of chugging them.
   
   Cocktails are expensive, and you work hard for your money! So yes, you are going to sip that drink and enjoy Every. Last. Drop.
   
   
   
3. A “weekend getaway” no longer means crashing on your buddy’s couch.
   
   Say goodbye to awkward sleeping positions. Though your friend’s couch may be exotic and exciting by some standards, your discoveries there are not as pleasant. No more cheese dust and loose change, you have more exciting adventures waiting!
   
   

Many fun and fascinating local museums are free or have periodic free days. Start with two across the street from the University Park campus, and one only a few blocks away. We’ve included links to their apps so you can see what special events and exhibits are scheduled.

We all know Black Friday offers the best holiday season shopping deals, but they only come to those who are prepared and in the right place at the right time. Here are some tips to help you make the most of the sales and discounts so you get the most bang for your buck.

Cyber Monday is like Black Friday. It’s another day of discounts and deals that you can’t wait to take advantage of on items you want. The difference is you can sit at home in your pajamas and sip a cup of hot chocolate while shopping. Cyber Monday features online deals from dozens of retailers with brick and mortar stores and stores based solely online. Some participating retailers in Cyber Monday include:

• Amazon.com
• JCPenney
• Kohl’s
• Overstock.com and many others!

As a part of our committed partnership with USC Athletics, we offered USC fans the chance to win a once in a lifetime Trojan experience to the USC vs. Notre Dame game on Novemeber 29th, 2014. The winners will receive: 

• 2 passes to the Fox Sports Tailgate 
• 2 sideline passes to the USC vs. Notre Dame game 
• The opportunity to join legendary Voice of the Trojans, Pete Arbogast in the radio booth and call the first play of the second half live on the air!

Last week the winners were announced and we would like to say congratulations to Ryan McCoy and his son Van for winning our USC Credit Union Unforgettable Trojan Experience!

Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) is an important vehicle protection product because most primary auto insurers only cover the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of a vehicle—not the  outstanding loan balance. This means, if a member’s car is declared a total loss because of an accident or theft, their insurance settlement may not be enough to cover the amount they still owe their financial institution, potentially leaving thousands of dollars for them to pay out-of-pocket for a vehicle they can no longer drive.