Nationally, 794,960 people filed for bankruptcy in 2016. Those filings cost financial institutions millions of dollars. Those losses require affected credit unions to charge more for loans and pay less on savings for other members. And money isn't bankruptcy's only casualty.

Did you know you can get credit union financing--right at the car dealership?

The process is designed so credit union members benefit several ways.

How do you define wealth? The dictionary says wealth is “a large amount of money and possessions." But I propose the following, straight-forward definition: wealth is the difference between what you are earning and what you are spending.

Financial institutions can appear to be alike from the outside, but once you look inside, you remember the reasons you chose (or are about to choose) to become a member of CES Credit Union:

It's a frustrating contradiction: You can't qualify for credit without a credit history—and you can't build a credit history without borrowing.

Borrowing is the most common way to build a credit history, but it's not your only option. Use these tactics to demonstrate to borrowers that you're a reliable credit risk:

If your budget says a big summer vacation is out of the question, here are some inexpensive options for immersive summer fun.

What's a certified pre-owned vehicle? Factory-trained technicians thoroughly inspect and recondition a slightly used vehicle to meet manufacturer specifications. When the vehicle is up to snuff, it's certified as an automobile worthy of many of the same assurances that auto makers put on new cars, with manufacturer warranties lasting anywhere from three months to seven years.

There are many different types of loans. So many, in fact, you may actually be overwhelmed. First, it is important to understand what credit unions look for and require when lending and then understand what options credit unions may have to meet your financial needs.

Before you say “I do,” it’s a good idea for the two of you to talk about finances and agree on how you’ll handle them. This will ensure your marriage gets off to a good start.

You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to go back to school. If you know where to look, financial assistance is available for any level of involvement, whether it's online or in the classroom, for credit or just for the enjoyment.  Here's how you can afford it.