Bank On MOre is a campaign developed by the Missouri Credit Union Association (MCUA) to raise awareness about credit unions in Missouri and our distinct differences from banks. You will see this campaign all around the area.

So you know the benefits of being a member of a credit union, but your friends and family don’t. Here’s a quick list of what credit unions offer that banks don’t, from the Bank On MOre campaign:

Higher education can be a real challenge with both an abrupt lifestyle change and some serious education. Unfortunately, that education could include a course in personal finance via The School of Hard Knocks. College is already expensive and doesn’t need additional financial pitfalls. According to College Board, an average college student at a public university will pay nearly $18,000 for tuition, fees, room and board for the 2012-2013 school year. That’s some real-world finance right there.

Many students aren’t ready for the financial grind of living on their own. There are mistakes that are easy to make. That’s where Vantage Credit Union’s College Resource Center can help. You’ll find all kinds of advice on all kinds of topics. One includes the seven worst money mistakes made by students. Let’s take a look.

When it comes to the average amount of debt in U.S. households, our credit card balances are behind only mortgages ($149,782) and student loans ($34,703). American consumers are in debt to the tune of over $11 TRILLION, with just under half carrying a credit card balance, with an average balance of over $15,000*.

If we take the average credit card balance for U.S. households ($15,000) and attach the average interest rate (around 14%), according to Bankrate.com’s Credit Card Calculator, the minimum payment (at 2% of your balance) would be $300.

Just what does your credit report include? All the things that help round out your title as a loan-seeking consumer. Your credit accounts. Credit inquiries you make when applying for a loan. Public record and collection items. It’s a simple snapshot of your credit history that lenders check before they decide whether or not they want to lend you money.

While it seems your credit report holds back no secrets, there are some things you won’t find on it. It may feel like you’re totally exposed by your credit report, but there are some things that do not make an appearance, according to our friends at Bankrate.com.

Well here it is, October. Already. Fall is officially cooling down a long, hot summer, and the holidays are lining up to take us through the New Year. Some serious shopping will be here soon (if it hasn't already started for some), but don't jump the gun on select items you may have your eyes on. October is just not the month to get the best buys on many items. So in the spirit of saving you some money, let's take a look at stuff you'll want to hold off on buying until prices hit more budget-friendly levels.

“If anyone feels this man and woman should not be united in holy matrimony, let them speak now or forever hold their peace.”

What if your financial advisor (you did invite him, right?) stood up at your marriage ceremony with an objection? He didn’t think you two were compatible based on your views on money, the top reason for many arguments between married couples. It seems you two didn’t sit down beforehand and have a frank discussion about finances.

Credit unions exist to help people, specifically, their members. Vantage is no exception. Our status as a not-for-profit business says it all…we aren’t out to make a profit for stockholders, our goal is to take care of our members. But this rallying cry of People Helping People extends beyond credit union membership and into the community at large. That’s why we offer free financial services to the local community through our Business Partner Services and Money Matters.