--- title: Excite Credit Union Blog | Excite Credit Union description: Helpful financial tips and community news from your local credit union – grow your knowledge and your savings. --- Quick Links - [Apply for a Loan](https://app.loanspq.com/apply.aspx?lenderref=alliancecu072715&list=VLPLCCHECBST&__hstc=252540758.bfd648fb4d85804455d19f67175cec20.1607694245454.1614070041557.1614072156284.12&__hssc=252540758.1.1614072156284&__hsfp=1927552622&_ga=2.9158332.885728407.1614017764-121813073.1607694182) - [Become a Member](https://app.loanspq.com/apply.aspx?enc=Kw21Wblm1yxpjJabdoZaD0RL3d1qFbsgl3hCp93n027H1L7KzQZRI2Db4r0gTGgxv49ElHWJLJGUTrsAFeKZSpF43nMHP5vg6uO7xTE5xO8&_ga=2.1016631.788664191.1587659479-1211589023.1585243269&__hstc=252540758.bfd648fb4d85804455d19f67175cec20.1607694245454.1614070041557.1614072156284.12&__hssc=252540758.1.1614072156284&__hsfp=1927552622) - [Make a Payment](https://excitecu.org/payment-options) - [Make an Appointment](https://apps.excitecu.org/appointments) Locations/Hours% Rates Contact [![branding-excitecu-header](https://blog.excitecu.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Imported%20images/branding-excitecu-header.png?width=286&height=119&name=branding-excitecu-header.png "branding-excitecu-header")](https://excitecu.org/)   ### [Personal](https://www.excitecu.org/Personal) - 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Invest - [Investments](https://excitecu.cusonet.com/) - Insure - [Auto Protection](https://www.excitecu.org/Personal/Borrow/Vehicle-Loans/Auto-Insurance) - [Insurance Services](https://www.excitecu.org/Plan/Insure/Insurance-Services) - [Learn](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn) - Education - [Financial Education](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/Education/Financial-Education) - [SavvyMoney®](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/Education/Credit-Score) - [Calculators](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/Education/Calculators) - About Us - [Why We're Here](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/About-Us/Why-Were-Here) - [Membership](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/About-Us/Membership) - [Locations](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/About-Us/Locations) - [Leadership](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/About-Us/Leadership) - [Media](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/About-Us/Media) - [Careers](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/About-Us/Careers) - [Fee Schedule](https://www.excitecu.org/ExciteCU/media/Documents/Fee-Schedule-rev-8-24-2020.pdf) - [Privacy](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/About-Us/Privacy) - [Give](https://www.excitecu.org/Give) - Community - [Community Events](https://www.excitecu.org/Give/Community/Events) - [Excite Cares](https://www.excitecu.org/Give/Community/ExciteCares) - [Apply for a Loan](https://app.loanspq.com/apply.aspx?lenderref=alliancecu072715&list=VLPLCCHECBST&__hstc=252540758.bfd648fb4d85804455d19f67175cec20.1607694245454.1614104306112.1614149210007.14&__hssc=252540758.1.1614149210007&__hsfp=1927552622) - [Become a Member](https://app.loanspq.com/apply.aspx?enc=Kw21Wblm1yxpjJabdoZaD0RL3d1qFbsgl3hCp93n027H1L7KzQZRI2Db4r0gTGgxv49ElHWJLJGUTrsAFeKZSpF43nMHP5vg6uO7xTE5xO8&_ga=2.1016631.788664191.1587659479-1211589023.1585243269&__hstc=252540758.bfd648fb4d85804455d19f67175cec20.1607694245454.1614104306112.1614149210007.14&__hssc=252540758.1.1614149210007&__hsfp=1927552622) - [Make a Payment](https://www.excitecu.org/Payment-Options) - [Make an Appointment](https://apps.excitecu.org/appointments) ## [Where Your Emergency Fund Fits In: How to Start a Savings Plan](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-start-a-savings-plan?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) September 10, 2026 [Budgeting](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/budgeting?hsLang=en), [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Emergency](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/emergency?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_Sept2026_Blog_Square.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-start-a-savings-plan?hsLang=en) Building a cushion for unexpected expenses can give you peace of mind and a stronger foundation for your future savings goals. A strong savings plan starts with knowing what you're saving for—and for many people, building an emergency fund is a... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-start-a-savings-plan?hsLang=en) --- ## [Will vs. Trust: What's the Difference?](https://blog.excitecu.org/will-vs.-trust-whats-the-difference?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) August 10, 2026 [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Retirement](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/retirement?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_Aug2026_Blog_Square.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/will-vs.-trust-whats-the-difference?hsLang=en) The Quick Answer: What's the difference between a will and a trust? A will is a legal document that explains who should receive your assets after you pass away. A living trust is a legal plan that holds assets and can manage or distribute them... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/will-vs.-trust-whats-the-difference?hsLang=en) --- ## [How Do Personal Loans Work?](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-do-personal-loans-work?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) July 02, 2026 [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Building Credit](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/building-credit?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_July2026_Blog_Square.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-do-personal-loans-work?hsLang=en) The Quick Answer: How does a personal loan work? A personal loan gives you a set amount of money upfront. You pay it back over time with fixed monthly payments, plus interest. Personal loans are often used for one-time expenses, debt consolidation,... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-do-personal-loans-work?hsLang=en) --- ## [How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Your Spending Habits and Goals](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-choose-the-right-credit-card-for-your-spending-habits-and-goals?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) June 16, 2026 [Budgeting](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/budgeting?hsLang=en), [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Building Credit](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/building-credit?hsLang=en), [Security](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/security?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_June2026_Blog_Square.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-choose-the-right-credit-card-for-your-spending-habits-and-goals?hsLang=en) With so many credit cards out there, it can be hard to know where to start. Rewards cards, low-rate cards, secured cards, business cards—the options add up quickly. But the best credit card isn't the one with the flashiest offer. It's the one that... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-choose-the-right-credit-card-for-your-spending-habits-and-goals?hsLang=en) --- ## [Leasing vs. Buying a Car: Which Is Better for You?](https://blog.excitecu.org/leasing-vs.-buying-a-car-which-is-better-for-you?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) April 28, 2026 [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Auto](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/auto?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_May2026_Blog_Square%20(1).jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/leasing-vs.-buying-a-car-which-is-better-for-you?hsLang=en) Trying to decide whether to lease or buy your next car? The right choice depends on how you drive, what you can afford, and what matters most to you long term. Leasing means paying to use a car for a set period—typically two to three years—with... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/leasing-vs.-buying-a-car-which-is-better-for-you?hsLang=en) --- ## [Rebuild Your Finances with Second‑Chance Banking](https://blog.excitecu.org/rebuild-your-finances-with-second-chance-banking?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) April 01, 2026 [Budgeting](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/budgeting?hsLang=en), [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Building Credit](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/building-credit?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_Apr2026_Blog_Square.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/rebuild-your-finances-with-second-chance-banking?hsLang=en) If you’ve ever gone through a difficult financial period and had to manage your money without a reliable bank account, debit card, or direct deposit, you know how frustrating it can be. That’s where second-chance banking can help. Excite Credit... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/rebuild-your-finances-with-second-chance-banking?hsLang=en) --- ## [How to Protect Your Tax Refund and Put It to Work](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-protect-your-tax-refund-and-put-it-to-work?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) March 04, 2026 [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Emergency](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/emergency?hsLang=en), [Retirement](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/retirement?hsLang=en), [Taxes](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/taxes?hsLang=en), [Security](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/security?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_Mar2026_Blog_Square.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-protect-your-tax-refund-and-put-it-to-work?hsLang=en) Your tax refund\* can be a welcome boost to your finances, whether you want to catch up on bills or work toward your financial goals. But it’s important to handle that money intentionally. A mistake can delay your refund, expose it to fraud, or... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/how-to-protect-your-tax-refund-and-put-it-to-work?hsLang=en) --- ## [Smart Money Moves: Simple Financial Planning Strategies](https://blog.excitecu.org/smart-money-moves-simple-financial-planning-strategies?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) February 03, 2026 [Budgeting](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/budgeting?hsLang=en), [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Emergency](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/emergency?hsLang=en), [Retirement](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/retirement?hsLang=en), [Building Credit](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/building-credit?hsLang=en), [Security](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/security?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_Feb2026_Blog_Square_Final.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/smart-money-moves-simple-financial-planning-strategies?hsLang=en) Have you ever noticed how ambitious New Year’s resolutions can lose momentum before spring even arrives? You set big goals for personal finance management and financial planning strategies, but feel overwhelmed when it’s time to put them into... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/smart-money-moves-simple-financial-planning-strategies?hsLang=en) --- ## [Drive Home Savings: Nine Reasons Excite Credit Union Auto Loans Are the Smart Choice](https://blog.excitecu.org/drive-home-savings-nine-reasons-excite-credit-union-auto-loans-are-the-smart-choice?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) January 13, 2026 [Budgeting](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/budgeting?hsLang=en), [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en), [Auto](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/auto?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_January2026_Blog_Square_Final.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/drive-home-savings-nine-reasons-excite-credit-union-auto-loans-are-the-smart-choice?hsLang=en) Figuring out vehicle financing on your own can be stressful—from auto loan terms and rates to pre-approvals, refinancing, and more. Fortunately, the team at Excite Credit Union is here to guide you through the entire process, helping you secure a... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/drive-home-savings-nine-reasons-excite-credit-union-auto-loans-are-the-smart-choice?hsLang=en) --- ## [Six Financial Resolutions You Can Actually Stick To](https://blog.excitecu.org/six-financial-resolutions-you-can-actually-stick-to?hsLang=en) [By Excite Credit Union](https://blog.excitecu.org/author/excite-credit-union) December 10, 2025 [Budgeting](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/budgeting?hsLang=en), [Savings](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/savings?hsLang=en), [Talking About Money](https://blog.excitecu.org/topic/talking-about-money?hsLang=en) [![](https://blog.excitecu.org/hubfs/EXCITE_December2025_Blog_Square_Final-1.jpg)](https://blog.excitecu.org/six-financial-resolutions-you-can-actually-stick-to?hsLang=en) Wondering how to stick to your financial resolutions in the New Year? The key is to focus on small, achievable goals that deliver meaningful results. Start in January with these six simple steps. Each one is easy to do and will help you build... [Read More](https://blog.excitecu.org/six-financial-resolutions-you-can-actually-stick-to?hsLang=en) --- - - ### Posts by Topic - [Talking About Money (50)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/talking-about-money?hsLang=en) - [Savings (27)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/savings?hsLang=en) - [Budgeting (22)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/budgeting?hsLang=en) - [Building Credit (12)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/building-credit?hsLang=en) - [Auto (10)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/auto?hsLang=en) - [Credit Unions are Different than Banks (6)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/credit-unions-are-different-than-banks?hsLang=en) - [Retirement (6)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/retirement?hsLang=en) - [Security (6)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/security?hsLang=en) - [Business Services (5)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/business-services?hsLang=en) - [Parenting (5)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/parenting?hsLang=en) - [Small Business (5)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/small-business?hsLang=en) - [Credit Cards (4)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/credit-cards?hsLang=en) - [Emergency (4)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/emergency?hsLang=en) - [Real Estate (4)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/real-estate?hsLang=en) - [Taxes (4)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/taxes?hsLang=en) - [Community Engagement (2)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/community-engagement?hsLang=en) - [Home Improvement (1)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/home-improvement?hsLang=en) - [Insurance (1)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/insurance?hsLang=en) - [Student Loans (1)](https://blog.excitecu.org/tag/student-loans?hsLang=en) see all ### About Excite - [About Us](https://excitecu.org/in-the-community/about-us/locations) - [Careers](https://excitecu.org/in-the-community/about-us/careers) - [Community](https://excitecu.org/in-the-community/community/excitecares) - [Legal](https://www.excitecu.org/Legal) - [**Phone: 800.232.8669**](tel:8002328669) - **Routing: 321176804** - **NMLS #477592** ### Resources - [Forms](https://www.excitecu.org/Learn/About-Us/Forms) - [Order Checks](https://www.deluxe.com/products-services/financial-checks-retail-linking.jsp) - [Opt Out](https://newapps.excitecu.org/MemberOptOuts/OptOutHome) - [Sitemap](https://www.excitecu.org/Sitemap) - [Privacy](https://excitecu.org/in-the-community/about-us/privacy) - [Make a Payment](https://www.excitecu.org/Payment-Options) - [Homeowner Hardship Assistance](https://www.excitecu.org/Personal/Borrow/Home-Loans/Home-Loan-Hardship-Assistance) ### Follow Us | [![Download on the App Store](https://www.excitecu.org/Content/Images/mobile-app-apple.png)](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/excite-mobile-banking/id441879558) | [![Get it on Google Play](https://www.excitecu.org/Content/Images/mobile-app-google.png)](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ifs.banking.fiid5230) | | --- | --- | Equal Housing Opportunity Federally Insured by NCUA © 2021 **Excite Credit Union**. 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