Financial Advice
Let's talk money
Talking about money can be pretty awkward, especially if you're not familiar with all the lingo we use in banking. But the reality is that talking about money shouldn't be that awkward, nor should understanding money management require an accounting degree. That's why we're committed to sharing with you everything we've learned from serving Long Island for over 80 years.
Whether you're just getting to know us, and trying to understand the differences between a credit union or bank, or moving onto big investments, like buying your first home, we have some tips to help you on your way.
Credit Unions vs. Banks
What is the difference between a credit union and a bank? Jo from Jovia covers the similarities – and differences – between the two types of financial institutions. (Oh, if you live on Long Island, within our field of membership, you’ve already met one requirement to join Jovia!)
50-30-20 Rule
Don’t skip this video! Jo from Jovia explains budgeting. Like it or not, budgeting is necessary to keeping a well-ordered financial life. And, its not as difficult as you might think, thanks to Jo’s explanation of the “50-30-20 rule!” Remember this. You’ll be glad you did.
Cars... Buy 'em or Lease 'em
Ah, the always hard-to-answer question: Buy a car, or lease a car? While relaxing in her own (or leased?) car, Jo from Jovia presents a question-and-answer session about which option is best based on your needs when it comes to cars. Vroom vroom.
Mortgage Tips
Confused about applying for your very first mortgage? Don’t be. Jo from Jovia has the tips you should know. Learn about rates, costs, fees, types of mortgages, and…well, we don’t want to scare you, so check out the video.
Acronyms
Have you wondered what some of those financial acronyms actually mean, but were afraid to ask? Jo from Jovia explains a number of them in this video (along with an entertaining tongue-twisting listing of them that’s worth the watch).
Financial Growth Articles
Stop Using ChatGPT as Your Therapist!
Let’s be honest, how many times have you asked ChatGPT about basic life questions like what to eat or spill your drama because, let’s face it, we need something to tell us how to live our lives?
The Rise of Loan Forgiveness Scams
Loan forgiveness scams are on the rise, taking advantage of people looking for real financial relief. With all the talk about student debt and loan forgiveness programs, scammers are jumping in, pretending to be legitimate sources of help.
Giving “Safe Travels” a New Meaning!
The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and the itch to book flights and plan road trips is getting stronger. Whether you’re going off to a beach in Florida, backpacking through South America, or taking a long weekend getaway, it is crucial to keep cybersecurity in mind.
Home Equity Line of Credit Breakdown: What it is and its benefits.
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Digital Decluttering: Simple Steps for a Cleaner Digital Space
March is the perfect time to embrace a fresh start, and that doesn’t just apply to your home.
Tax Tips for Tax Season: What to Know for 2025
Tax season is here, and with it comes a mix of excitement, stress, and often confusion. Whether you’re filing your taxes for the first time or have been doing it for years, understanding the basics can help make the process smoother and more manageable. Here’s some helpful advice as you prepare for the 2025 tax year.
Budget Planning: How to Set a Practical Budget
Life can get busy, and sometimes it can be difficult to find the time to slow down, sit down, and create a budget.
How a VPN Can Help Save You Money
Have you ever had a conversation about something you want to buy, and then boom, an ad for that exact thing appears on your screen? Creepy, right?
New Year, New Cyber-Safe You!
It’s that time again—new year, new resolutions! Maybe last year you were a bit of a risk-taker online, reusing passwords, ignoring those “update now” notifications, or connecting to public Wi-Fi like it was no big deal. But hey, that was so 2024.
Why You Should Open a Savings Account for Your Child
Young people these days are growing up with more access to financial products than ever before. From debit cards to mobile apps and specialty accounts, there are so many options when it comes to learning to manage money
Fun vs. Privacy: Be Aware of Smart Toys This Holiday!
The holiday season is a time of joy, laughter, and gift-giving. Among the many presents, (you probably told your kids they were not getting); smart toys often make their way into the hands of children.
Building Financial Resilience: Strategies for Overcoming Financial Stress
In today’s fast-paced world, we’re learning to navigate various financial responsibilities while working toward our goals.
Delivery Scams: Don't Fall for These Common Tricks
Package scams, delivery or parcel scams, have become a go-to tactic for fraudsters looking to exploit people for money, personal information, or both. These scams can range from fake emails and text messages to fraudulent delivery notices. The tactics are clever, but knowing what to look for can help you avoid becoming a victim.
Protecting Yourself from Government Organization Scams During Election Season
Election season is upon us, and while the candidates are making their cases, scammers are working overtime to take advantage of the situation. These scammers might claim to be from a government agency or political group to trick you into giving personal information, making donations, or paying for non-existent services.
Why a Credit Union is Safer Than a Bank in a Financial Crisis
During times of financial uncertainty, it’s normal to fret about the safety of your own money. Naturally, you want to be absolutely sure that your savings will be secure, even in times of financial crisis.
Understanding Zelle Frauds and Scams: How to Protect Yourself
Zelle is a widely used digital payment service that allows users to quickly send and receive money directly through their financial institution. While it offers convenience and speed, it has also become a target for scammers.
Ways to Protect your Devices
Ever felt like your smartphone is a cherished extension of your arm? Or your laptop is practically a member of the family? In a world where our devices are practically our sidekicks, it's only fair that we give them the proper protection.
How to Protect the Elderly from Scams
For years, con artists have preyed on the elderly. These scams often come in the form of a scammer contacting an elderly person claiming to be their grandchild and in trouble with a desperate need for money. This is the traditional grandparent scam, and it dates back to as long as home phones have been around.
Tips for Safe Online Purchases
Have you recently bought something online or paid for a service? With the convenience of online shopping, it's become almost second nature for many of us. But while it's easy to click 'buy', ensuring your online transactions are safe and secure is necessary.
How to Diversify Your Savings Portfolio With A Share Certificate
Did you know that your savings portfolio should be diversified just like your investments? Financial experts recommend giving your savings as much chance of growth as possible by diversifying.
What is Credit Card Interest and How Does it Affect Me?
Getting your first credit card is super-exciting. Hello, independence! Unfortunately, many first-time credit card owners don’t know enough about credit card interest. And then it’s hello, long-term debt. We don’t want this to be you! So, we put together a quick guide on what you need to know about credit card interest and how it works:
Tax Season Safety Tips
Tax season brings with it the potential for fraud. The IRS flagged over 1 million tax returns for potential identity theft during the 2023 tax season, as reported by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. By March 2, 2023, the IRS had identified almost 1.1 million tax returns as potentially fraudulent, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
Taking Steps Toward Financial Improvement for The New Year
The start of a new year is a great time to make financial changes that will help you lead the life you want to live. Lucky for you, you don’t have to do it alone. Jovia is here to help and offer you some financial improvement tips you can make this year.
How to Get By In an Emergency: Personal Loan or Credit Card?
We know unexpected expenses, by nature, can come out of nowhere. Your check engine light comes on, and your car requires you put another thousand dollars into keeping it on the road. Or, your air conditioner gives up during the longest heatwave you can remember. No matter what causes these personal catastrophes, they all have one thing in common: They’re expensive.
Securing Your Holiday Travel Itinerary: Protecting Personal Data on Booking Websites
The holiday season witnesses a surge in travel, with millions of people taking to the skies, roads, and railways to visit loved ones or embark on winter getaways. However, this peak travel season also witnesses a surge in cyber threats, as hackers take advantage of the increased online activity.
Digital Holiday Gifting: Securing Virtual Presents and E-cards
In today's digital age, our holiday traditions have undergone a transformation. More and more people are turning to online platforms for their gift-giving needs.
How to Protect Yourself from Online Scams on Payment Apps
Peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms, like Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal, have made life so much easier for many consumers. They have eliminated the hassle of having to go to an ATM or write a check to pay someone back
Benefits of Opening an Online-Only Savings Account
Over the past few years, online-only savings accounts have been gaining traction and popularity. Many banks and credit unions now offer online savings accounts. So you may be wondering, what is an online savings account, and is it right for me?
All You Need to Know About Check Washing
Despite the increasing digitization of money management, there is still a place in the economy for paper checks – and along with them, check-washing scams.
5 Steps to Take After a Data Breach
Data breaches show up in the news pretty often these days. According to Risk Based Security’s Mid-Year Data Breach Report, there were over 1,700 publicly reported breaches in the first half of 2021. Learn how you can protect your information.
5 Ways to Avoid Credit Card Fraud this Holiday Season
With the holiday shopping season heading into its final frenzied stretch, scammers are out in full force to take advantage of busy shoppers. In particular, credit card fraud tends to increase during this time of year.
How you can make the most of your money
Nowadays, it can seem like money comes and goes quickly. So, learning to stretch your dollars and budget can be an important step in building a brighter future. At Jovia, we want to help you reach those financial milestones, both big and small, no matter where you are in life.
How to Teach Children to Save Money
As adults, we know how important it is to save and find ways to feel financially secure. However, getting children on the same page might be challenging. It can be hard for them to grasp the value of money, and it’s our job, to prepare them as best we can for a bright financial future.
What is a Term Certificate?
No one wants to play around with their savings. You work hard for your money, and if you’ve built up a sizable nest egg. Now, you’ll want to put it somewhere safe where it will have the best chance at growth.
5 Things You Need to Know About Auto Loans
In the market for a new car or truck? Then you’re likely also shopping for a car loan, too. Your auto loan will affect your monthly budget for the full term of the loan, so it’s important to do your research and make an informed decision before finalizing it. Here’s some helpful information to consider when deciding on an auto loan.
Credit Card Tips for Beginners
Using your credit cards responsibly is a great way to boost your credit score and improve financial wellness. Let's review the best habits when it comes to using your credit card.
Should I Buy An Electric Car?
Is a good time to consider purchasing an electric car. This is a question thousands of drivers are considering as gas prices peak.
Buying A New Home Guide
Buying a new home step by step, so you’ll never have to wonder what happens next.
Tips on How to Spot and Prevent Fraud
Keep your information safe & secure with these tips on fighting fraud.
Refinancing Your Home Guide
How, when and why to refinance to get the most value from your home loan.
When it's Time to Upsize Your Home
What to consider before upsizing your home.
Reasons to Consider Refinancing Your Mortgage
Let’s go over some of the major reasons why refinancing your mortgage may be right for you.
Five Tips For a Successful Home Loan Approval
Set yourself up for success with these 5 tips.
Everything You Need To Know About the Appraisal Process
Breaking down the process and everything you know about home appraisals.
Should I Open An IRA?
No matter what life or career stage you are in, it’s always a good idea to think about your financial future and how you can save for retirement. Knowing how to get started can be overwhelming even if you’re familiar with some types of retirement accounts. This article will answer the most commonly asked questions when deciding to open an IRA, explain the benefits of IRAs, and guide you through the first or next step on your financial journey with confidence.
Fighting debit card fraud
Unfortunately, in today’s world, fraud and identity theft are a common occurrence, and that can make the world seem like a scary place. However, with a vigilant attitude and the right precautions, you can help protect yourself from being a victim of debit card fraud. Read this article to learn more about how to keep yourself safe.
Should I buy a house now?
To buy or rent a home? It’s a question many Long Islanders face when choosing where to live. Everyone has an opinion, but only you can decide what’s best for you. Since no two situations are alike, the choice to buy a home now or in the future is personal. Before you sign your next lease or hit the pavement house hunting, learn the key factors you should consider before buying a home.
What can I use a personal loan for?
Thinking about applying for a personal loan, but you’re unsure what you can use it for? You’re not alone. Personal loans are flexible and can be used for just about anything. Learn the common situations a personal loan can be used for and how it can help you financially.
The smartest way to pay off student loans
While some believe the experience of a college education is priceless, those with student loan debt may not agree. Whether you’re about to start making student loan payments or you have been trying to make a dent in the amount you owe for years, these tips on to how to pay off student loans can help you determine the best way to pay off your loans faster. What an exciting thought!
How to join a credit union
Looking for a place to stash your cash and wondering if a credit union is right for you? Credit unions offer great rates, personalized service, and are usually located where you live and work. This article will explain how to join a credit union and what it means to be a member at Jovia.
How to save for a wedding
Planning a wedding in the near future? Congratulations! This is an exciting time full of new beginnings, arrangements to coordinate, and expenses to consider. Our guide will explain how to set a wedding budget and open a savings account, so you can start saving for your walk down the aisle.
How do mortgages work?
Buying real estate will likely be one of the largest investments you make. Whether it’s your first home or your dream home; each purchase is unique and may have you asking questions like, what is a mortgage? How do mortgages work? And, how do I apply for a mortgage? We know there’s a lot to understand and we’re here to help. This article will explain the key factors of the mortgage process so you can eliminate the guess work and apply and buy with confidence!
How couples manage money
So, you’re coupled up and excited to share your life with your significant other, happy times! Whether you’re in a long-term relationship or beginning something new, there’s more to think about besides combined living spaces, daily routines, and remembering whose turn it is to wash the dishes. Deciding how to collectively manage finances as a couple is an important part of any relationship. This article will discuss the pros and cons of individual and joint bank accounts so you can determine what’s best for you.
How to budget for the holidays
‘Tis the season! The holidays are full of hope, joy, food, family, shopping, and, let’s not forget, stress! It’s a time known for giving and receiving, and if you’re thinking about planning for the holidays, especially in times of economic uncertainty, you’re not alone. We’ll explain how to budget for the holidays, so you can give without getting into debt.
Setting up savings accounts
The importance of saving money for your future and the basic knowledge of how savings accounts work may be well known, but a frequently asked question when starting to save, is how many savings accounts should I have? Learn why you may need more than one savings account, how much money you should have in each, and how to set them up in this article.
First-time homebuyer mortgages
Exciting times, you’re ready to become a homeowner. Buying a home for the first time can be exhilarating and nerve wracking, especially when it’s time to apply for a mortgage. Before the search begins and house hunting starts, learn what it means to be a first-time home buyer, 10 key steps to buying a home, first-time home buyer mortgage options and how to apply.
How to stay on top of your credit
Our credit follows us through life and captures the good, the bad, and the ugly. That’s why it’s important to stay informed of your score and on top of your credit reports. Credit monitoring helps millions of individuals, just like you, understand their finances, catch potential fraud, and alert them to changes in their score. Learn the benefits of credit monitoring and how to get started monitoring your accounts.
How to prevent identity theft
Living in a digital world makes us more susceptible to having our personal information stolen without even realizing it. In the US, 33% of adults have experienced identity theft. Read this article to learn how to prevent identity theft, and what to do if it happens to you.
Personal cybersecurity tips
Did you know there is a new victim of identity theft every two seconds? While our digital world helps make our lives more convenient, it also forces us to proactively look for ways to keep our personal information safe and secure. Learn more about personal cybersecurity tips in this article.
How does a home equity line of credit work?
If you have recently asked yourself, what is a home equity line of credit and how does it work, you’re not alone. It’s a frequently asked question when homeowners need cash. A home equity line of credit can get you the money you need when you need it. We’ll explain the process of how it works and what it can be used for so you can determine if a HELOC is the right choice for you.
Money management for college students
The college experience is about learning, growth, and, of course, fun! What can be a very exciting time can also be overwhelming, especially if you’re on your own and managing your finances for the first time. Check out these tips on how to save money in college while having the time of your life.
How to apply for a personal loan
If you’re in need of some breathing room, a personal loan can help. Whether you’re managing unexpected expenses, making a major purchase or just want to have some fun, a personal loan can be used for almost anything. We’ll explain how to apply for a loan and what you need to get started.
Savings accounts for children
Saving for a child’s future is always a good idea, and it’s never too early to start. We’ll explain how to open a youth savings account for the children in your life, the key features to look for and how to get started.
How to get pre-approved for a mortgage
The search is on! You’re in the market for a new home. Before you hit the pavement visiting open houses, you’ll want to get preapproved for a mortgage. We’ll explain how to get preapproved for a mortgage, why it’s an important step in the home buying process and the documents you need to get started.
What's the difference between a credit union and a bank?
Looking for a place to stash your hard-earned cash, but tired of banking where you’re just another customer? Maybe it’s time to invest your money in an institution where your account will give you a voice. Where’s that? Your local credit union. In this article we’ll discuss the differences between credit unions and banks and the key benefits to joining a credit union.
How to budget on a lower income
Being part of the workforce means you’ve probably seen your fair share of ups and downs. It’s not uncommon to be affected by a furlough or layoff at some point in your career. We’re here to help guide you through this challenging time so you can come out stronger. We’ll explain how to budget on a lower income and stretch your dollars further until you’re back on top again.
Homebuying 101: How to make an offer on a house
Your credit is in order, you found the right home at the right price, and you chose a mortgage term that best meet your needs. It sounds like you’re ready to make an offer on a new home!
How to build an emergency fund
Being prepared for an emergency situation can make all the difference. Learn how to build an emergency fund and be prepared for whatever life throws your way.
When should you refinance your mortgage?
Is it a good time to refinance? This is a common question homeowners ask themselves. Check out our tips on the best time to refinance and what to consider before refinancing your home.
What to do with your stimulus check
Congress approved a $2 trillion stimulus package in response to the coronavirus relief fund and checks are already being received by taxpayers. Learn your options for what you can do with your stimulus check here.
Homebuying 101: Fixed Rate vs Adjustable Rate Mortgages
Do you find yourself trying to figure out whether a fixed rate mortgage or adjustable rate mortgage is right for you? We can help!
Homebuying 101: Finding the right home for the right price
Every day, Jovia works with members who are exactly where you are. We’ve got some great guidelines and tips on finding the right home and buying it at the best price possible so you can enjoy the home-shopping process rather than worry your way through what should be an exciting time in your life.
Homebuying 101: Getting your credit in order
Congratulations! You’re considering buying a home-maybe your first. It’s a big step in life and it can be exciting, but it can also be a bit intimidating … at first. There’s lots of lingo to learn and lots of things to do between now and the day they hand you the keys. But, trust us, you can get there and Jovia can help!