Should you open a joint bank account with your partner?
Whether you’re newlyweds or long-term partners, one of the biggest questions people often ask is if they should have a joint bank account with their significant other. Money can be a touchy subject, especially in relationships, but it’s necessary to ensure you’re on the same page. Money is the number one subject couples fight about, and it’s the second-leading cause of divorce. Every couple’s situation is different, but below are a few points to contemplate if you’re on the fence about opening a joint bank account.
Why have a joint bank account?
Joint accounts can make managing money easier when your funds are in one place, especially if you’re using it to pay for bills like a mortgage, rent, or utilities. It also makes sense to have a shared account if you’re saving for a common goal, like a down payment on a house or a vacation.
Joint accounts also promote trust and shared decision-making. Spending can be viewed by both parties, plus you’re working together to budget your money and make decisions about your finances.
In addition, each account holder is federally insured by the NCUA (or FDIC outside of credit unions) for $250,000—a total of $500,000 if there are two account owners and no other beneficiaries. This allows you to maximize your NCUA insurance. For example, if you have an individual CD in addition to a joint checking account, your CD is still entitled to $250,000 in NCUA insurance—meaning all of your deposits are insured up to $750,000.
When joint accounts don’t make sense
A joint account may not be the best choice if you have drastically different spending habits. If one person is a spender and the other is a saver, it could potentially lead to conflict. In that case, consider opening a joint account for bills only and have individual accounts for your “fun” money.
A shared account is also not ideal if one partner has significant debt. With separate accounts, you can ensure the more financially responsible partner is protected if debt collectors come knocking on your door. If you have a joint account with rights of survivorship (which is common), then the responsibility of the account is placed on one partner if the co-owner passes away. Your account could be seized for that debt, depending on where you live.
Lastly, if one partner is paying alimony or child support, separate accounts may be best to keep track of those payments.
What to consider before opening a shared account
Some serious (and maybe not-so-fun) conversations must happen before you dive into joint account ownership. In addition to considering each other’s spending habits, you should evaluate how you communicate. Strive for open conversations and transparency with your spending and budgeting.
It’s important to take your partner’s funds into account, too, because it’s no longer just your money. For example, it’s probably a good idea to inform each other of big purchases that you need (or want) to make, like a new gaming console or home improvements. Discuss how the funds will be used, as well as whether or not you can afford it in the first place. Consider agreeing to an amount you can spend without consulting the other person (still keep your spending in check, though).
How to open a joint account
Opening a joint account is easy. You can open an account online or in person at your nearest Georgia’s Own branch. You’ll need your and your partner’s Social Security number, birthdate, mailing address, and ID, plus how you’ll fund the account.
Pros and cons of shared accounts
Pros
- Reduces the hassle of paying bills when your funds are in one place
- Allows you to save toward a goal together
- Promotes trust and shared decision-making
- Each account holder is NCUA insured up to $250,000—a maximum of $500,000 for two account holders
Cons
- You could potentially be responsible for a partner’s debt
- Less privacy surrounding your spending
- Both of your spending needs to be accounted for
Whether or not to open a joint bank account is a decision that should be made on a case-by-case basis, depending on your circumstances and your relationship with your partner. If you’re considering opening a joint account, have an open and honest conversation about your spending habits, financial goals, and communication style.
Still on the fence? Consider speaking with a financial advisor to get personalized advice. You can meet with a financial advisor from Georgia’s Own at no cost and no obligation to discuss your situation and determine what’s best for you.
Do college students need a checking account?
Perhaps it hasn’t hit you yet. If you are or soon will be a college student, financial responsibility is an essential lesson. The sooner you learn it, the better off you’ll be, not only through college but for the rest of your life. But, for now, let’s focus on college life and how opening a checking account now can make it easier.
Added convenience
Cash is okay for covering small costs, but what about the bigger ones, such as parking passes and living expenses? It’s not safe or feasible to keep that much cash on hand. By opening a checking account that comes with a debit card, you can knock out those expenses quickly and securely. Also, if you plan on having a part-time job, you’ll need to have a checking account to take advantage of direct deposit. You’ll also enjoy the ease of online bill pay to cover utility bills, etc., if applicable.
Money management
College is a time when most students have to learn how to get by with less. Worn-out sofas, care packages from home, and cheap eats are the norm. Those who learn how to manage their money well do best. A checking account makes it easier to keep an eye on your limited funds, create a budget, and reconcile your account. These are lessons that you’ll be glad you learned in college because you’re really going to need them once you graduate, get a full-time job, and, for some, start a family.
Which account is best for you?
As previously mentioned, most college students are working with limited funds. If you’re one of them, you want a checking account that offers the features you need but without expensive fees.
Keep in mind, many financial institutions will advertise “free” checking accounts with no fees, but they come with strings attached. Be sure you check out the fine print. Students tend to sign up with a bank or credit union that’s on or close to campus. It may be well worth your effort to expand your search to find a better option. Generally speaking, you can expect better rates, fewer fees, and exceptional customer service from a credit union. By making smart financial decisions now, you’re laying down a solid foundation for success that lasts well beyond college.
Five things you’ve got to do if you have a credit card
Establishing and managing good credit is an important responsibility in today’s world. Especially since your credit rating—that 3-digit number that defines your credit worthiness- depends on it. There are several factors that impact your credit rating, one of which is your credit card activity. We’ve come up with five best practices when tempted by the love of plastic money:
1. Watch your credit limit
Did you know that credit card companies start to monitor any account with a balance that’s more than 40% of the credit limit? Experts recommend keeping credit card utilization below 30 percent on each card and collectively. This shows lenders that you know how to spend responsibly and this can help raise your credit score. Anything more than that and it could indicate that you’re struggling financially and lenders might worry that you’ll have trouble paying it back.
2. Make your payments on time
If you’re late just one time, call the customer service representative and kindly ask if they’ll waive the late fee. If you’ve historically paid on time, they may do it as a courtesy. If you’re habitually late, it will cost you. Making your monthly payment on time impacts your credit rating, your interest rate, any promotions the company offers, and more.
We all slip up now and again, though. If you miss a payment, make it as quickly as possible because the amount of time really does matter. Paying five days late is better than paying 30 days late so act quickly—and then maybe think about signing up for auto pay.
3. Pay off your monthly balances in full
Paying off your monthly balance in full each month builds a practice of excellent credit habits. It will help to avoid late payments, unnecessary finance charges, and the accumulation of unnecessary debt. It will also benefit your credit score and keep your credit utilization ratio in check, which is an important factor in the calculation of your credit rating.
4. Open your statements!
Even if you pay your bills online, it’s important to view the activity on your monthly statements. Is there a random charge you didn’t authorize? Maybe a monthly subscription that you didn’t realize you agreed to? Has your payment due date changed? Is a promotional date ending or has there been a change in your interest rate or fees? Your statement includes lots of valuable information, much of which impacts your finances, so take a few minutes and read it carefully. We’re hoping not, but you may be surprised at what you find.
5. Store the customer service number, just in case
If your card is ever missing or stolen, the first thing you’ll need to do is report it to the credit card company so a hold can be put on the account. Without the physical card, however, you won’t have the customer service number. Write down the credit card name and customer service phone number now and keep it handy. If you choose to copy the credit card number, plan to put it in a safe place where it’s not easily accessible to just anyone.
Buying your first car – how the process works
Purchasing a car can be an intimidating process, especially if you buy into the over-dramatized, stereotypical depiction of car salespeople and dealerships. Here’s the catch, though–it doesn’t have to be. When you’ve done your research, you know what you want, and you’re ready to buy, YOU’RE in the driver’s seat. Here are some steps that will help you effectively manage the car buying process with confidence.
Check your credit score
Before your visit any dealership, be sure to check your credit score. Your credit score is a three-digit number that reflects your individual creditworthiness. It quantifies the likeliness that you will repay your credit obligations and is the best prediction of risk a lender can assume when extending credit to you. Consumers have the right to one free credit report annually from each of the three credit reporting agencies. If you haven’t yet requested your copy, click here.
Loan pre-approval
Once you know your credit rating, visit your credit union to meet with a lending officer. They’ll review the loan options best suited to help you manage your purchase and the subsequent payments. By planning in advance of your trip to the dealership, you’ll be able to get pre-approval for a dollar amount that fits within your budget and comes with a competitive interest rate. This will alleviate the pressure to accept the dealer’s convenient, but often unfavorable financing.
Narrow down your car choices
Before you start looking for a car, decide on the features you need and want in a vehicle. Do you want a sedan or an SUV? Are leather seats a necessity? How about an entertainment system? What safety features are a must? Make a list of features and prioritize them in terms of importance. This list will help you start to narrow down your vehicle choices.
Do some research online. There are many websites that can help you decide which cars might be a good choice. KBB.com reports information from Kelly Blue Book, JDPower.com/cars is an especially good resource if you’re looking to research reliability, and ConsumerReports.org’s annual car issue is an excellent source of independent rating by an unbiased third-party.
Once you narrow down your choices, spend some time visiting dealerships and test driving the vehicles at the top of your list.
Avoiding the lemon
Today, people frequently trade in their cars after a year or two or after their lease expires. No longer is the used car lot full of old clunkers. In fact, pre-owned cars can often be a better deal than buying new. To make sure you’re not inheriting someone else’s headache, be sure to make your purchase through a reputable dealer who has to answer to manufacturers. Look for cars with low odometer mileage, which typically means less wear and tear, and those with warranties still in effect.
Also, be sure to request a copy of the vehicle’s history report, like Carfax, to see accident, repair and title information.
Finalizing the deal
When you’re satisfied that you’ve found the right car, one that meets your needs and fits within your budget, meet with a salesperson to negotiate the price. You’ll need to contact your credit union, provide them with some information, and coordinate payment before the deal is officially finalized and the car is delivered.
Any car, whether new or pre-owned, is an expensive purchase that warrants the appropriate time and attention. It’s not a quick and simple process. In the end, though, you’ll feel confident in the fact that you did everything you could to secure the best deal and execute the smoothest transaction possible.
#MemberAppreciationMonday – Snow Mountain!
As part of #MemberAppreciationMonday, we are giving our members special perks, simply for being one of Georgia’s Own. As part of our next offer, enjoy discounted tickets to Snow Mountain* at Stone Mountain Park in January and February.
As member of Georgia’s Own, get a Snow Pass for a special rate of $22 on the Sundays listed. From snowman building to snowball shooting, tubing to togetherness, enjoy all the moments that will make for the perfect snow day. Each pass includes a two-hour tubing session and all-day access to Snowzone and Little Angels.
- January 22nd
- January 29th
- February 5th
- February 12th
- February 26th
To take advantage of this offer, click here. Capacity is limited. Advance reservations required to guarantee your space.
#MemberAppreciationMonday is one way that Georgia’s Own is working to surprise and delight our members. Please check back the first Monday of each month for a new offer or discount.
Best Resale Value Vehicles
Most experts agree that the best time of year to purchase a new model car is in January and February – plus, if you finance with us by January 31 this year, you can enjoy 60 days of no payments*! Sales at the beginning of the year are usually slow and dealers start to raise prices as the year progresses. One thing to keep in mind when buying a new ride is the best resale value vehicles. As you probably know, cars start losing value the second you drive off the lot which is a bad thing if you think you’ll resell or trade it down the road. Resale value begins when you buy the “right” car in the first place. Here are a couple of things to look for that affect resale value.
Color — Standard colors are much easier to sell than trendy colors.
Upgrades and options — Options like leather seats and sunroofs add to a car’s value, but a navigation system or upgraded stereo won’t bring any extra money when selling. Also, automatic transmission is much more popular than manual transmission.
Geography — Demand for vehicles varies in different parts of the country and even in different communities. Convertibles may be good for warmer weather states, but it’s not as valuable in the colder northern states. Likewise, a pickup truck holds less value in bigger cities as opposed to rural towns.
These are just a couple of tips to consider when purchasing a car. Though resale value is important to many who purchase a new vehicle, if you plan to keep it until it dies, then you won’t need to worry about the resale value.
Source: bankrate.com
*Restrictions apply. Offer valid December 1, 2016 through January 31, 2017. No payment period only applicable to first 60 days of the loan. Interest will begin to accrue as of the loan date.