How-to-Guide: Cash, Credit, and Debit – How Should I Pay?

We all have different ways to pay, but knowing when to use cash, credit, or debit can make a big difference for your budget—and even your credit score. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide which method works best in everyday situations.

1. Cash: The Classic Choice
Cash is easy to use and helps you stick to your budget because you can only spend what you have in your wallet....

Predatory lending isn’t always easy to spot, and if you’ve already found yourself stuck in a high-interest loan, you’re not alone. This guide will help you recognize the warning signs and provide steps to escape if you’re already caught in the cycle.

What Is Predatory Lending? Predatory lenders use unfair, deceptive, or abusive tactics to trap borrowers in loans that are...

For many Gen Z-ers, building credit can feel like one of those “adulting” tasks that you should be doing, but for many, no one really explains how crucial credit is for your financial future! Whether you're dreaming of renting your first apartment, or just want to be ready for whatever comes next,...

How to Use AI as a Smart Tool for Your Financial Planning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming more common in our daily lives—from personalized playlists to voice assistants. But did you know it can also help you take control of your financial future?

At CSE, we believe in giving you the tools to make informed, empowered decisions. That’s why we’re breaking down how AI can support your financial planning—without the tech jargon.

What...

What Happens When a Lender Checks My Credit Score? (And 5 Tips to Keep It Strong)

If you’ve ever applied for a loan, credit card, or even a new phone plan, chances are the company said, “We’ll need to check your credit.” But what does that actually mean? And can it hurt your credit score?

Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand — and give you 5 simple tips to keep your score healthy.

First:...

Understanding Buy Now, Pay Later Services

What You Need to Know Before You Click “Pay Later”

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services are popping up everywhere — from online shopping carts to your favorite clothing apps. They promise a simple solution: break up your purchase into smaller payments, often with “no interest” or “no fees.” It sounds like a great deal, right?

But like many things that sound too good...

The recent surge in scam attempts isn’t new—but it’s becoming harder to ignore.

It seems like every time we check our phones these days, there’s another suspicious text, voicemail, or call. Maybe you’ve gotten a text claiming you owe a toll fee, or a voicemail telling you you’ve been approved for a loan you never applied for. These scams are becoming more frequent — and more convincing — and let’s be real more annoying!

These...

HOW TO GUIDE: STAYING SAFE FROM AI SCAMS

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way we live, work, and manage our finances. While AI has many benefits, scammers are also using this technology to create more convincing and sophisticated fraud schemes.

As your trusted credit union, we want to ensure you know how to protect yourself. Follow this step-by-step guide to stay safe!

Step 1: Recognize the Most Common AI Scams

Attention Shared Branch Users: Enhanced Security for In-Person Verification

Your security is our top priority—both at CSE and through our Shared Branch partners. With the Shared Branch network, you can access your CSE accounts at over 5,000 credit union branches nationwide.

New Security Step for Out-of-State IDs:
Beginning May 1, 2025, if you visit a Shared Branch and present an out-of-state ID, you’ll now go through a quick multi-factor...

A Parent’s Guide to Teaching Finances to Gen Alpha

As parents, we want to equip our children with the skills they need to succeed in life, and financial education is one of the most important lessons we can pass down. But for Gen Alpha — kids born between 2010 and 2025 — the way they learn is already drastically different from previous generations. With rapid advancements in technology, digital banking, and a shift toward a cashless society, teaching...