Author: John Scharff
Check Your Debt-to-Income Ratio in Seconds
If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I carrying too much monthly debt?” you’re not alone—and now you’ll have a quick way to see it. Starting January 13, 2026, a new Debt-to-Income (DTI) module will be available inside the Credit Score experience in...
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What to Do If You Think You’re Being Scammed (or Have Been Scammed)
Scammers win by creating panic and urgency. Your job is to do the opposite: slow the situation down, verify independently, and take fast action where it matters. If you’re in the middle of a suspicious call/text right now: Hang up. Don’t reply....
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Small Business Tax Services: Exclusive Member Discounts
Running a small business takes grit. Filing taxes shouldn’t take your soul, too. Small business tax services discounts for PDCU members People Driven Credit Union is excited to share new special member discounts on small business tax prep...
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Save to Win® + Round Up to Win: Build Your Savings (and Get Chances to Win Cash Prizes)
Saving money is a good habit. It’s also… not exactly a thrill ride. Save to Win® rewards the habit of saving with chances to win cash prizes—without putting your savings at risk. (See official rules for details.) At People Driven Credit...
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Is Debt Consolidation Worth It? A 2026 Analysis
Credit card balances remain near record highs in 2026, with national average interest rates still exceeding 20% APR. For many households, that means hundreds of dollars each month going toward interest alone, while balances barely decrease. Rising costs...
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How a Bridge Loan Works
A bridge loan lets you use the equity in your current home to fund the down payment on your next one—so you can buy first, sell second, and move once. Buy Before You Sell: How a Bridge Loan Works (Without the Headache) At People Driven Credit...
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Bridge Loans vs. 80-10-10 Piggyback
Bridge loans and 80-10-10 piggybacks both help you buy a home, but they solve different problems. A bridge loan tackles timing (buy before you sell). An 80-10-10 tackles structure (keep the first mortgage at 80% to avoid PMI). Different Tools,...
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How to make a budget
Let’s be honest: most budgets don’t fail because people “can’t do math.” They fail because life happens, groceries cost more than planned, the car needs something, and suddenly your “perfect budget” is a fond memory. At People Driven...
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New Year, New Goals: How to Plan Your 2026 Finances
As the year winds down and your calendar fills up with family, shopping, and last-minute “oh yeah, that’s still due” moments, it’s easy to push money planning to “later.” But mid-December is actually the perfect time to take control of your...
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Year-End Financial Checklist: Steps to Take Before 2026
As 2025 winds down, it’s the perfect time to give your money habits a quick tune-up before the calendar flips to 2026. A little end-of-year attention can help you reduce stress, avoid missed deadlines, and start the new year with...
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