Unlock Your Home’s Hidden Potential

Looking to fund your dream home renovation? Or maybe you’re interested in consolidating high-interest debt or creating a financial safety net with your home’s equity? For many homeowners, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a flexible and cost-effective solution. You can get access to funds whenever you need them without the rigidity of a traditional loan, all backed by one of your most valuable assets.

A HELOC is more than just another financial product; it’s a powerful tool offering unique advantages that could significantly impact your financial goals. Discover how these flexible lines of credit work, what makes them different from other borrowing options, and why aligning with a member-focused institution like Bellco could unlock lower interest rates, fewer fees, and more benefits.

Click Here to learn more about how you can benefit from a HELOC.

Right now, Bellco is offering a fixed rate as low as 6.99% APR on a Home Equity ChoiceLine advance of $10,000 or more.* To learn more about this offer, visit Bellco.org/ChoiceLine. Bellco is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender.

*All loans subject to approval. Membership eligibility required.

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Money Management Tips Every Small Business Owner Should Know

Article by Greenpath Financial Wellness

Owning a small business comes with satisfying rewards (being your own boss? Check. Deciding what days you wear real pants? Check.). With the benefits comes the responsibility of money management. From tracking cash flow to tax prep, these five best practices have a big impact when it comes to the success and sustainability of your business.   

1. Build a Budget: To lessen the risk of overspending, map out your expenses, including fixed costs like rent and utilities, variable expenses such as supplies, and one-time expenditures like equipment purchases. Remember to account for taxes and an emergency fund for the unexpected (we’ll get to that!). 

Unsure where to start? Expense management software can do the heavy lifting to ensure your budgeting efforts are precise and strategic. Gain insight into your business’ financial health and use features to: 

• Monitor Cash Flow: Track incoming and outgoing cash to ensure you have enough liquidity to cover expenses. Implement efficient invoicing and payment collection processes to minimize delays in receiving payments.  
• Automate Bill Payment: The last thing you want is mounting late fees or debt that can hurt your credit score or good standing with creditors and vendors. Automate, when possible, to save yourself time and calendar reminders.  
• Stay on Top of Taxes: Thorough records of income, expenses, and deductions throughout the year will streamline tax prep and make it easier to meet filing deadlines and avoid penalties. Some software includes tax prep guidance; however, you might consider consulting with a professional to optimize deductions.  

2. Separate Accounts: Operating from your personal account is a quick route to financial instability and potential personal liability for your company’s debts. Open separate bank accounts and credit cards for your business to stay organized. This will simplify accounting and tax preparation, as well as safeguards your personal assets if you’re faced with legal issues or bankruptcy. Make it a habit to only use business funds for business expenses.  

3. Manage Debt Wisely: Applying for loans may be necessary to finance operations or expansion, however high-interest rates can erode profits and damage your credit. Evaluate financing options thoughtfully, choosing the most cost-effective solution that meets your needs. Aim to keep debt levels manageable (to avoid over leveraging your business) and consider debt consolidation to streamline repayment.  

4. Plan for Emergencies: Recessions happen. Vendors change. Supply costs increase. Whatever the event, building an emergency fund provides a buffer during difficult times and allows you to weather temporary setbacks. What’s a good goal? Set aside three to six months’ worth of operating expenses in a dedicated business savings account. Treat your emergency fund as a non-negotiable expense and grow it over time.  

5. Evaluate your Finances Regularly: Ongoing financial check-ins will help you refine your budget as your business evolves. In addition to the money management practices listed above, you also have the option of enlisting professional guidance from financial advisors or accountants who can identify potential pitfalls and provide recommendations that align with your goals. 

Pro Tip: GreenPath Financial Wellness can help you eliminate debt, review your credit report, and take advantage of free financial courses on your preferred schedule.  

(This content does not constitute tax or financial advice. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed professional tailored to your individual circumstances.) 

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Why Homeowners Should Shop Their Insurance Before Renewals

Article by Bellco Home Loans

Rising costs are no surprise to homeowners. But with recent inflation causing price hikes for everything from gas to groceries, many of us are experiencing some serious sticker shock. One especially steep price increase we’ve seen in 2025 is homeowners’ insurance. So, if you haven’t reviewed or compared your policy lately, it’s time to act now before your next renewal notice arrives.

Home Insurance Rates Are Surging

According to the Insurance Information Institute, homeowners’ insurance premiums have increased by an average of 23% nationally over the past 12 months. In some high-risk areas prone to wildfires, hail, hurricanes, or flooding, those increases have been especially severe with rates rising up to 50% in states like Colorado, Florida, California, and Texas.

Fewer Options Means Higher Prices

Adding to the problem, several major insurers have pulled out of high-risk states, citing increasing claims due to natural disasters and the rising cost of materials and labor for repairs.

For example:

• State Farm and Allstate have ceased issuing new homeowner policies in California.
• Farmers Insurance significantly reduced its footprint in Florida.
• American Family and Nationwide have exited select coastal markets.

With fewer companies offering policies in these areas, consumers are often left with limited options and higher premiums.

Shop Around Before Renewal

If you automatically renew your existing policy each year without comparison shopping, you may be leaving hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the table.

Here’s why shopping before your renewal matters:

• Insurers price new customers differently than renewals. You can sometimes take advantage of discounts offered to new clients.
• Coverage can vary widely between carriers. You may be paying for protections you don’t need or missing ones you do.
• You may qualify for new discounts, such as for home security systems, bundling auto policies, or recent home upgrades.

Action Steps for Smart Homeowners

1. Start shopping 30-60 days before your renewal to allow yourself time to compare without pressure.
2. Review your current coverage to make sure your policy reflects the true replacement cost of your home and aligns with your needs.
3. Request quotes from at least 3 providers. Make sure to consider both national and regional insurers.
4. Check with your insurance broker. The Insurance Loft, or Bellco Home Loans’ insurance partners. The Insurance Loft and Bellco Home Loans insurance partners may be able to offer Bellco members a discount.

Protect Your Home Wisely

Reviewing your homeowners’ insurance may not be exciting, but it could save you significant money and ensure better protection for your home and family.

If you need help getting started, contact our team at Bellco Home Loans for referral assistance.

Bellco Home Loans is a joint venture between Bellco Credit Union and Guild Mortgage Company, LLC, an independent mortgage lender that has helped families attain home ownership since 1960. Bellco Home Loans, LLC, NMLS #2085298, is an affiliate of Guild Mortgage Company LLC, NMLS #3274; Equal Housing Opportunity Lender. All loans subject to approval.

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What You Need to Know About Bank Jugging

While awareness of different types of crimes can feel overwhelming, being informed is one of the best ways to keep yourself safe and in control. With law enforcement around the country warning about instances of “bank jugging” becoming a growing crime trend, we want to provide helpful information and smart, simple strategies to stay secure when handling cash.

What is Bank Jugging & How Does It Work? 

Bank jugging is a type of theft that involves watching financial institutions or ATM visitors withdraw cash, then following them in hopes of stealing the money later. Typically, jugging begins when someone is being observed withdrawing money. They might then follow the person to another public location like a grocery store, or gas station, waiting for a chance when the cash is left unattended. These are crimes of opportunity, meaning they are preventable by planning ahead. 

Easy Ways to Stay Safe & Confident 

With a few practical habits, you can protect yourself and feel secure as you manage your money. Here are some friendly reminders: 

• Maintaining Awareness: Always be mindful of your surroundings when visiting a branch or ATM. Try to avoid being on your phone or wearing earbuds and observe if anyone seems to be monitoring your activities or exhibiting other suspicious behavior.
• Changing Up Your Routine: Vary your banking times or routes to avoid patterns that might make you more noticeable.
• Keeping Your Cash Secure: Tuck your money away before you leave the bank or ATM, avoid counting it in public, and be sure to lock your doors when you return to your vehicle.
• Utilizing the Drive-Thru: Whenever it’s available, try to use drive-thru banking services. This adds a layer of convenience and keeps transactions private.
• Checking Your Parking Spot: When you visit a branch or ATM and need to park, make sure you choose a space that provides full visibility and lighting, and try to park as close to the entrance as possible. 
• Requesting a Security Escort: Safety is important. If you ever feel uneasy, please let us know! 
• Trying Digital Banking Options: Embrace the full suite of digital banking that Bellco offers. This means utilizing online banking, mobile payments, and digital wallets. By reducing the need for cash transactions, you reduce your risk of losing cash.

Remember to report any suspicious activity that you observe. Together we can give each other peace of mind and make sure all our members stay safe.