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Choosing the right financial account can feel like a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At 1st Community Credit Union, we believe banking should work for you—helping you save more, stress less and manage your money with ease. Whether you’re opening your first account or looking for another option, focusing on the important features can make all the difference. 

Below are five essentials to look for in an account, along with actionable tips to evaluate your options like a pro.

1. Low Fees: Keep More of Your Hard-Earned Money

Let’s face it—nobody likes seeing their money chipped away by unnecessary fees. Low fees are a top priority when choosing an account, because they directly impact how much you keep in your pocket. Monthly maintenance fees, ATM charges, overdraft penalties and transaction costs can add up fast if you’re not careful. At 1st Community Credit Union, we’re proud to offer accounts designed with affordability in mind, so you can focus on your financial goals instead of dodging hidden costs.
How to Evaluate: Check the credit union or bank’s fee schedule, which is usually found on their website or by asking a representative. Look for accounts with no monthly maintenance fees or easy ways to waive them, like maintaining a minimum balance. Compare ATM policies, too. Does the bank offer free access to a wide network or reimburse out-of-network fees? A little research can go a long way. 

2. High-Interest Rates: Make Your Money Grow

Why settle for an account that just holds your money when it could be earning for you? High-interest rates are a game-changer, especially for savings accounts or interest-bearing checking accounts. Even a small boost in your rate can compound over time, turning idle cash into a growing asset. At 1st CCU, we’re committed to helping our members maximize their savings with competitive rates that beat many big banks.
How to Evaluate: Compare annual percentage yields (APYs) across financial institutions—don’t just look at the base rate. APYs reflect how much you’ll earn with compounding. Ask if the rate is promotional (temporary) or standard, and check for balance requirements to qualify. Online tools like rate comparison sites can help, but calling the financial institution directly ensures you get the latest info. Aim for an account that rewards you for saving more.

3. Mobile Banking Capabilities: Convenience at Your Fingertips

In today’s fast-paced world, mobile banking isn’t just a perk, it’s a must. A robust mobile app lets you check balances, deposit checks, pay bills and transfer funds anytime, anywhere. At 1st Community Credit Union, our mobile banking platform is designed to keep you in control, whether you’re at home or on the go. 
How to Evaluate: Whenever possible, download the mobile banking app and test its features before committing. Can you deposit checks with your phone camera? Are there alerts for transactions? Read user reviews in the app store for insights on reliability and ease of use. Bonus points if the app integrates with budgeting tools, give you the ability to apply for a loan within the app, or offers a login with additional security functions.

 
4. Strong Customer Service: Support When You Need It

Whether you’re disputing a charge or figuring out loan options, strong customer service can turn a frustrating experience into a solved problem. At 1st CCU, we pride ourselves on being a member-focused credit union where you’re not just an account number. You deserve a financial institution that listens and delivers solutions fast.
How to Evaluate: Test the waters before signing up. Call the financial institution's customer service line. How long does it take to reach a real person? Are they friendly and knowledgeable? Check online reviews or ask friends about their experiences. Look for credit unions or banks with multiple contact options—phone, email, live chat—and branch access if you prefer face-to-face help. Good service is a safety net you’ll appreciate when it counts.

5. Account Flexibility: Options That Fit Your Life

No two people have the same financial needs, so why settle for a one-size-fits-all account? Flexibility ensures your account adapts to you. Think customizable features, no minimum balance requirements, or easy access to funds. Our credit union offers a range of accounts to match your goals.
How to Evaluate: Dig into the account details. Are there penalties for low balances or limits on transactions? Can you link accounts for overdraft protection? Ask about add-ons like credit card rewards or free financial planning tools. Visit the website or chat with a representative to see how well their offerings align with your habits—whether you’re a saver, spender or somewhere in between.

Take Charge of Your Banking Choice

Picking the right financial and the right account boils down to knowing what you value most, and doing a little homework. Low fees keep your money safe from erosion, high-interest rates help it grow, mobile banking keeps you connected, strong customer service offers peace of mind and flexibility ensures it fits your lifestyle. At 1st Community Credit Union, we’re here to check all those boxes for our members, delivering value with a personal touch.

Ready to find your perfect account? Start by listing your must-haves then compare options from a few banks or credit unions. Visit their websites, call their teams and don’t shy away from asking tough questions. Your money deserves a home that works as hard as you do, and with these points in mind, you’re well on your way to banking smarter.
 

Congratulations, you're an adult and heading to college!  There's no time like the present to start making smart financial decisions. Start by getting serious about your financial health. Manage your money and build spending habits that will set the stage for financial success in your future.

1. Take Charge:  Set goals for your time in college and refer back to them when you feel yourself slipping into bad money habits.
2. Set Ground Rules: Discuss financial expectations with your parents or guardians: what they'll cover vs. what you’ll pay for.
3. Get Organized: Stay on top of important financial and financial aid documents, and create a filing system to keep them in order. Designate a specific space in your dorm or apartment for safekeeping these very important papers.
4. Lock It Up: You have roommates and they have friends you don't know, so be sure to keep sensitive information (like SSN, account numbers) in a secure place to avoid identity theft.
5. Know Your Account Features: Make use of features like online banking, e-alerts and Bill Pay, and know your account's fees and requirements.
6. Don’t Bounce Checks: Track your spending carefully to avoid overdrafts, as available balances may not reflect pending transactions.
7. Be Smart About Choosing Your Meal Plan: Select the meal plan that fits your needs and, most importantly, use the meal plan instead of opting for fast food to help you avoid extra spending.
8. Save On Snacks: Buy snacks in bulk to avoid overpriced vending machines, and keep some in your room or backpack.
9. Resist Peer Pressure: Stick to your financial goals and say "no" to expensive activities that don’t align with your budget.
10. Ground Rules for Roommates: Set clear expectations with roommates about household expenses and responsibilities, and avoid lending them money.
11. Avoid Developing Bad Spending Habits: Don't take up costly habits like smoking, expensive coffee, gambling, or unnecessary subscriptions that can lead to overspending.
12. Pay On Time: Always pay bills on time to avoid late fees and damage to your credit score.
13. Separate Needs From Wants: Make spending decisions based on necessity rather than desire. Prioritize needs over wants.
14. Student Discounts For The Win: Take advantage of student discounts at various stores and services to save money. They are out there, and some companies don't heavily advertise them. Seek them out to save on expenses.
15. Avoid Random Credit Card Offers: Don't fall for campus credit card promotions. Avoid taking on high-interest debt.
16. Build Good Credit: Use a single credit card responsibly, pay it off each month, and avoid cash advances or unnecessary fees.
17. Transportation Tips: Walk or bike to save on parking and gas. If you need a car, combine errands to reduce costs.
18. Part-Time Employment: If you need extra money, find a part-time job that won’t interfere with your studies. Be sure to check with your financial aid office first!
19. Keep Up Your Saving Habits: Continue to put money aside in college, even if it's only a few dollars a month. Even small contributions to an emergency fund can help in times of need.
20. Avoid Scams: Be cautious of scams targeting young adults, especially those asking for personal or financial information. These can include, but are not limited to, Fake Social Media Links, Job Scams, Romance Scams, AI-Voice or Deepfake scams, Scholarship Scams, and texts or emails with links to malware.
21. Prepare Now For Your Future Career: Use campus resources like career fairs and interview prep to start building your career network and skills.
22. Understand Your Financial Aid: Know what’s included in your financial aid package, if it’s a scholarship, grant, or loan you’ll need to repay, and whether your grades will have an impact on your financial aid eligibility.
23. Seek Out Scholarship Opportunities: Talk to your financial aid office to find and apply for scholarships every year. They are there to counsel and advise you, so let them help!
24. Beware of Scholarship Scams: Don’t pay for "guaranteed" scholarships. Legitimate ones are free to apply for and have clear contact info.
25. Net Worth Does Not Equal Self-Worth: Value yourself for your character and achievements, not just financial success. Control your money, don’t let it control you.
     

Achieving financial fitness is similar to maintaining physical health; it requires discipline, planning, and regular monitoring. At 1st Community Credit Union, we believe that a well-structured budget is the cornerstone of financial well-being. By creating and adhering to a budget, you can take control of your finances, reduce stress, and work towards your financial goals.

Understanding Financial Fitness

Financial fitness involves managing your personal finances in a way that allows you to meet your current obligations while planning for future goals. It encompasses effective budgeting, saving, investing, and prudent spending. Just as physical fitness enhances your quality of life, financial fitness provides stability and peace of mind.

The Importance of Budgeting

A budget is a financial plan that allocates your income towards expenses, savings, and debt repayment. It serves as a roadmap, guiding your spending decisions and helping you avoid overspending. According to Harvard's Financial Fitness Basics, creating a budget is the first step to developing a workable spending plan. 

Steps to Create an Effective Budget

1. Assess Your Income: Begin by calculating your total monthly income, including your salary, bonuses, and any other sources of income.
2. Track Your Expenses: Monitor your spending habits for a month to identify where your money goes. Categorize your expenses into fixed (rent, utilities) and variable (groceries, entertainment) costs.
3. Set Financial Goals: Define short-term goals (e.g., building an emergency fund) and long-term goals (e.g., buying a home, retirement). Clear goals provide motivation and direction.
4. Develop a Spending Plan: Allocate your income to cover your expenses and savings. Prioritize essential expenses and ensure you're contributing towards your financial goals.
5. Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review your budget to ensure you're on track. Be prepared to make adjustments in response to changes in income or expenses.

Tips for Maintaining Financial Fitness

• Build an Emergency Fund: Aim to save at least three to six months' worth of living expenses to cover unexpected costs. 
• Manage Debt Wisely: Focus on paying off high-interest debts first and avoid accumulating unnecessary debt.
• Automate Savings: Set up automatic transfers to your savings account to ensure consistent contributions.
• Live Within Your Means: Resist the temptation to overspend by distinguishing between needs and wants.
• Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with a financial advisor for personalized guidance.

1st Community Credit Union's Commitment to Your Financial Fitness

At 1st Community Credit Union, we offer a range of services to support your financial journey:

• Savings Accounts: Our savings accounts are designed to help you build your wealth over time.
• Financial Calculators: Use our online calculators to plan your budget, savings, and loans effectively.
• Educational Resources: Explore our blog and financial education resources for tips and strategies on managing your finances.

By partnering with us, you gain access to tools and expertise that can help you achieve and maintain financial fitness. Remember, just like physical fitness, financial fitness is an ongoing process that requires commitment and regular effort.

Start your journey towards financial well-being today with 1st Community Credit Union.

 

The start of a new year is the perfect time for a fresh financial outlook. Whether you’re looking to build your savings, pay off debt, or plan for a major life event, taking a moment to reassess and revise your financial goals can set you up for success in the year ahead. At 1st Community Credit Union, we’re committed to helping you achieve your financial dreams, and we’ve put together a few tips to help you review and revise your financial goals for 2025.

 

Reflect on Last Year’s Progress

Before diving into new goals, take a moment to look back at your financial journey in the past year. Ask yourself:

• Did I achieve the financial goals I set for 2024?
• What obstacles did I face, and how can I overcome them in the future?
• What financial habits worked well, and what can be improved?

By reviewing your progress, you’ll have a clearer idea of what worked and what didn’t. If you were able to pay off a significant portion of debt or build up your savings, celebrate your success! If you faced setbacks, consider what factors contributed to them and how you can adjust your strategy going forward.

 

Set Clear and Specific Goals for 2025

Once you’ve reflected on last year, it’s time to focus on your goals for the new year. Make sure your financial goals for 2025 are:

 

• Specific: Rather than saying “I want to save more,” set a concrete goal, like “I want to save $3,000 for a vacation.”
• Measurable: Establish clear targets, such as increasing your retirement account contributions by $100 each month or paying off $5,000 in credit card debt.
• Achievable: Ensure that your goals are realistic based on your current income and expenses. If saving $10,000 feels out of reach, start smaller and build up over time.
• Relevant: Align your financial goals with your current priorities, whether that’s saving for a home, paying down debt, or building an emergency fund.
• Time-bound: Set deadlines for achieving your goals to stay motivated and accountable.

Creating specific, measurable, and realistic goals will make it easier to track your progress and stay focused throughout the year.

 

Reevaluate Your Budget

Your budget is a key tool for reaching your financial goals. As your life changes, so should your budget. Take time in January to:

 

• Review last year’s spending habits: Did you spend more in certain areas, like dining out or entertainment? Are there places where you can cut back to save more in 2025?
• Account for changes: If your income or expenses have changed—whether due to a new job, a move, or changes in family circumstances—adjust your budget accordingly.
• Prioritize savings and debt payments: Ensure that your budget reflects your financial goals, such as contributing to savings, paying down debt, or building an emergency fund.

At 1st Community Credit Union, we can recommend tools like budgeting apps or online calculators to help you track your spending and stay on top of your financial goals.

 

Focus on Building or Strengthening Your Emergency Fund

One of the most important financial goals you can set is to build or strengthen your emergency savings. Having an emergency fund provides peace of mind, ensuring that you’re prepared for unexpected expenses such as medical bills, car repairs, or job loss.

• Set a savings goal: Aim to set aside three to six months’ worth of living expenses. If this feels like too much to tackle at once, break it down into smaller, achievable goals. For example, save $250 a month for the next 12 months.
• Start small, if needed: Even if you can only set aside a small amount each month, it’s better to start now than to wait for the “perfect” time.
• Use a separate account: Consider keeping your emergency fund in a separate account, like a high-yield savings account, so you’re not tempted to dip into it for non-emergencies.

 

Tackle Debt Strategically

If paying off debt is a priority for you in 2025, start by reviewing all your outstanding debts, including credit cards, student loans, and personal loans. Prioritize paying down high-interest debt first, like credit cards, as it can be costly over time. Consider these strategies:

 

• Debt snowball method: Pay off your smallest debt first, then apply that payment amount to the next smallest debt. This method provides quick wins and motivation.
• Debt avalanche method: Focus on paying off high-interest debt first while making minimum payments on others. This will save you the most money in the long run.

Additionally, consider speaking with a financial advisor or a credit counselor for personalized advice if your debt feels overwhelming.

Plan for Big Financial Milestones

2025 could be the year for significant life events—such as buying a home, starting a family, or going back to school. These milestones require careful financial planning. Be sure to:

• Start saving early: If you're planning a major purchase, like a home or car, begin saving now to avoid taking on too much debt.
• Evaluate financing options: Research different loan options and interest rates to ensure you get the best deal possible for large purchases.
• Consider your long-term goals: Make sure that these big life milestones align with your financial goals and that you’re prepared to handle the expenses associated with them.

 

Automate Your Savings and Payments

To make progress on your goals, consider automating savings and payments. This can make sticking to your financial plan easier, as the money is automatically deducted from your account, and you’re less likely to forget or skip a payment.

• Set up automatic transfers: Schedule automatic transfers to your savings account, retirement fund, or debt payments each month.
• Use bill pay services: Take advantage of online bill pay to avoid late fees and missed payments.

Automation ensures that you stay consistent with your financial goals throughout the year.

 

Stay Flexible and Track Your Progress

Life can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to stay flexible. Regularly review your financial goals and adjust them as necessary. Life events such as job changes, family growth, or economic factors may require you to reassess and make changes to your plan.

Use tools like budget trackers or financial apps to monitor your progress and celebrate milestones as you achieve them.

Revising your financial goals for the new year is an empowering step toward achieving long-term financial success. At 1st Community Credit Union, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s helping you set up a budget, offering tools for savings, or providing financial advice, we’re committed to helping you achieve your financial goals in 2025 and beyond.

Ready to get started? Reach out to 1st Community Credit Union today, and let’s make this your best financial year yet!
 

 

At 1st Community Credit Union, we understand that shopping smart is key to managing your finances effectively. Whether you’re browsing online or walking the aisles of your favorite stores, finding the best deals can save you money and stretch your budget further. With our locations in Sparta, West Salem, and Tomah, we’re more than just a ‘credit union near me’—we’re your partner in financial well-being. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips to help you find the best deals and discounts, both online and in-store.

1. Start with a Plan
Before you start shopping, it’s crucial to have a plan. This means knowing what you need and setting a budget. Impulse buying is one of the quickest ways to overspend, so make a list of items you’re looking to purchase. Prioritize your needs over wants and stick to your list as closely as possible.

2. Sign Up for Newsletters and Rewards Programs
Many retailers offer exclusive deals and discounts to customers who sign up for their newsletters or join their rewards programs. These programs often provide early access to sales, special coupons, and points that can be redeemed for future purchases. While it might seem like a small step, these savings can add up over time. If you frequent certain stores, it’s worth signing up to take advantage of these perks.

3. Use Price Comparison Tools
With so many options available, it’s important to compare prices before making a purchase. Online tools and apps like Google Shopping, Honey, or CamelCamelCamel allow you to compare prices across multiple retailers. These tools can help you identify the best deals and even track price changes over time. By doing a quick price check, you can ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

4. Look for Coupons and Promo Codes
Before you check out, whether online or in-store, take a moment to search for coupons and promo codes. Websites like RetailMeNot, Coupons.com, and Honey aggregate a wide range of discounts that you can apply at checkout. For in-store shopping, consider downloading apps like SnipSnap or using store-specific apps to find applicable coupons. Sometimes, simply searching “[store name] coupon” can yield significant savings.

5. Shop During Sales Events
Timing your purchases around sales events can lead to substantial savings. Major sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school sales often feature deep discounts on a wide range of products. Additionally, many retailers have semi-annual or seasonal clearance sales where you can find great deals. By planning your purchases around these events, you can take advantage of the lowest prices of the year.

6. Use Cash-Back and Discount Apps
Cash-back apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Fetch Rewards offer a percentage of your purchase back in cash or gift cards when you shop through their platforms. These apps are easy to use and can be a great way to earn money back on your everyday purchases. Many credit unions, including a credit union near me like 1st Community, may also offer credit card rewards that can be redeemed for merchandise, travel, and more - so be sure to explore those options as well.

7. Shop at Discount Stores and Outlets
If you’re looking for brand-name items at a lower cost, consider shopping at discount stores and outlet malls. Stores like TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Ross offer designer goods at a fraction of the retail price. Outlet malls are another great option, where you can find discounts on everything from clothing to home goods. Keep in mind that while these stores offer great deals, it’s still important to compare prices and make sure you’re truly getting the best value.

8. Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs offer rewards for repeat customers, such as discounts, points, or early access to sales. Many grocery stores, clothing retailers, and even restaurants have loyalty programs that provide significant savings over time. If you shop at certain stores frequently, joining their loyalty program can lead to big savings in the long run. Be sure to use any accumulated points or rewards before they expire.

9. Buy in Bulk When It Makes Sense
Buying in bulk can be a smart way to save money, especially on items you use regularly. Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club offer bulk items at lower per-unit prices. However, it’s important to be strategic about what you buy in bulk. Stick to non-perishable items or products with a long shelf life, and always calculate the unit price to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

10. Consider Shopping Secondhand
Shopping secondhand is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally conscious. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like eBay, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace offer gently used items at a fraction of their original cost. You can often find high-quality clothing, furniture, and electronics at a steep discount by shopping secondhand.

Your Partner in Financial Success
Shopping smart is all about being informed and strategic with your purchases. By following these tips, you can find great deals and discounts that help you stay within your budget. At 1st Community Credit Union, your trusted ‘credit union near me’ in Sparta, West Salem, and Tomah, we’re here to support your financial journey. Whether it’s through budgeting advice, financial products, or resources to help you save, we’re committed to helping you achieve your financial goals.

In today's fast-paced world, convenience is key when it comes to managing your finances. With the rise of mobile banking apps, financial institutions are offering more features than ever to cater to the needs of their customers. But with so many options available, how do you know which features are essential? Let's explore the must-have features consumers look for in a mobile banking app and how 1st Community Credit Union (1st CCU) excels in meeting these needs.

24/7 Access At Your Fingertips
The hallmark of a good mobile banking app is accessibility. Consumers expect to be able to manage their accounts anytime, anywhere, and on any device. With 1st CCU Anywhere Online and Mobile Banking, members can enjoy simple, secure access to their accounts whether they're on their smartphone or computer. This means no more waiting in line at the bank or being restricted by branch hours.

Convenient Self-Service Features
You no longer need to visit a branch for your everyday banking needs. Today's consumers want the ability to manage their accounts and loans on the go. 1st CCU Anywhere allows users to perform a range of self-service actions, from checking balances and transferring funds to applying for loans. With the ability to pre-fill loan application fields using securely stored information, members can save valuable time and hassle.

Enhanced Security Measures
Security is important, especially when it comes to managing finances online. 1st CCU understands this and offers a range of security features to protect members' funds and personal information. From two-factor authentication to security eAlerts and secure messaging with the call center, members can have peace of mind knowing their accounts are safeguarded against unauthorized access and fraudulent activity.

Streamlined Transaction Management
Managing transactions should be intuitive and efficient. 1st CCU Anywhere allows users to add notes and images to transactions, making it easier to track and categorize expenses. Additionally, electronic statements, notices, and tax documents are readily accessible, reducing paper clutter and simplifying record-keeping.

Seamless Integration with Additional Services
A comprehensive mobile banking app should seamlessly integrate with other financial services offered by the institution. With 1st CCU Anywhere, members can conveniently manage their credit cards, pay bills online, update contact information, and even deposit checks using the mobile app. This means everything works together smoothly for an easy banking experience.

In conclusion, when looking for a dependable mobile banking app, consumers should prioritize features that offer convenience, security, and functionality. With 1st Community Credit Union's Anywhere Online and Mobile Banking, members can enjoy 24/7 access to their accounts, convenient self-service features, enhanced security measures, streamlined transaction management, and seamless integration with additional services. So why settle for anything less? Take control of your finances today with 1st CCU Anywhere. Download our highly-rated mobile app and experience banking at your fingertips.
 

Are you ready to take control of your finances and achieve your savings goals? Look no further than 1st Community Credit Union! We're excited to introduce you to the 30-Day Savings Challenge, a powerful tool designed to help you build your savings and make smart financial decisions.

Understanding the 30-Day Savings Challenge

The 30-Day Savings Challenge is a proven method to cultivate a habit of saving money consistently while avoiding impulse spending. Here's how it works: if you find yourself tempted by an impulse purchase, commit to thinking about it for 30 days. During this time, place the money you would have spent on the purchase into a savings account. This not only helps you avoid unnecessary spending but also allows you to save consistently and work towards your financial goals.
Impulse purchases can derail your budget and lead to unnecessary debt. The 30-Day Savings Challenge provides a structured approach to combatting these impulses, giving you time to consider your purchases thoughtfully and prioritize your financial well-being. By delaying gratification and focusing on your long-term goals, you'll develop healthier spending habits and build a stronger financial future.

How 1st Community Credit Union Can Help

At 1st Community Credit Union, we're committed to helping our members achieve financial success. That's why we offer a range of savings accounts tailored to meet your needs, whether you're saving for a rainy day or planning for the future. Our friendly team is here to assist you every step of the way, from opening your account to setting up automatic transfers for your 30-Day Savings Challenge.
Our savings accounts come with a variety of benefits, including competitive interest rates, no monthly maintenance fees, and convenient access to your funds. Whether you prefer a traditional savings account or a high-yield option, we have the perfect solution to help you reach your savings goals.

Making Smart Financial Choices

The 30-Day Savings Challenge empowers you to make informed decisions about your finances. By taking the time to consider your purchases and set aside money for savings, you'll gain a greater sense of control over your money and avoid falling into the trap of impulse spending. Plus, with the help of our savings calculator, you can track your progress and see how your savings grow over time.
As you progress through the 30-Day Savings Challenge, you'll develop a deeper understanding of your spending habits and priorities. You'll learn to distinguish between needs and wants, and you'll become more intentional about how you use your money. By cultivating these habits, you'll set yourself up for long-term financial success and achieve your savings goals faster than you ever thought possible.

Join the Challenge Today

Ready to take the first step towards financial freedom? Join us at 1st Community Credit Union and start your 30-Day Savings Challenge today! Visit our website or stop by one of our branches to learn more about our savings accounts and how we can help you achieve your financial goals.
Begin your savings journey with 1st Community Credit Union today. Let's work together to achieve your financial goals!

Why You Should Give Back
Charitable giving and donating are powerful ways to positively impact your community and support those in need. The holiday season is known for its abundance of food, gifts, and quality time with friends and family—but not everyone is fortunate enough to have the support system or funds to enjoy this season of celebration. Luckily there are multiple ways to donate this holiday season and all year round to help support your community and those in need while receiving tax benefits. Donating is a selfless and impactful act that is recognized and rewarded with substantial tax benefits. The tax benefits of donating require documentation and proof in order to reward deserving individuals for their charitable donations. Before we get into the tax benefits let’s dive into the most impactful types of charitable contributions you can make this year. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Types of Charitable Contributions
Charitable contributions can be divided into three general categories: cash donations, non-cash donations, and appreciated assets. To receive tax benefits, donations must be donated to verified charity organizations and well documented. 

• Cash Donations: Cash donations are one of the most popular types of donations and can be made with cash, checks, or online transactions.
• Non-Cash Donations: Non-cash donations include items like clothing, furniture, food, and so on. 
• Appreciated Assets: Most people are unaware that stocks and other assets can be donated as charitable gifts. It not only makes a big impact for charities, but it also helps you avoid capital gain taxes if your stocks or assets have appreciated in value. 

Tax Benefits of Charitable Giving
The tax benefits connected to charitable giving rewards deserving individuals for their donations. To see a real difference on your taxes, larger amounts will receive larger benefits. If you’re planning on donating the same amount every year, try donating a larger lump sum this year to receive better tax benefits in the long-term. Here are two types of tax benefits you can receive for donating.

Deducting Charitable Cash Donation
Itemized deductions of charitable cash donations to public charities can be deducted up to 60% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) while private charities can be deducted up to 30%. Each charity has specific deduction limits and guidelines. Check out this contribution deductions & benefits resource from the IRS to better understand the limits and benefits.

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
This type of tax benefit is only available to individuals 70 and a half years old or older with a traditional or ROTH IRA. These individuals can donate up to $100,000 from their retirement account directly to a qualified charitable organization without paying any tax on the income.

Give Back to Your Community
Giving back to your community is a selfless way to celebrate the holidays this season. Not only do you help support those in need, but you also get deductions and other benefits on your taxes. When navigating the documents and forms for the tax benefits of donating, seek out professional advice at 1st Community Credit Union with offices in Sparta, West Salem, and Tomah. Put your community first with help from 1st Community Credit Union today!