Articles
The following articles cover a wide-range of topics, and all are aimed at improving
your quality of life and helping you reach financial independence.
They come from a variety of sources, including individuals not employed by MidCountry Bank / Pioneer Military Lending Division.
Building bench strength
When it comes to management principles and philosophies, there are thousands of articles, books and seminars that claim to have the answers. But there are no magical solutions to management challenges—instead, it takes a more holistic approach. This article provides the foundation for that approach; one that leaders can use to create effective policies and empowered associates.
Tips to save money
Learn ways your family can save money and be financially successful during tough economic times.
What to do with your economic stimulus check
Millions of Americans—including military families—will soon start receiving checks as part of the economic stimulus plan. This article gives you suggestions on how to use your check to improve your financial situation.
Important changes to credit reports for 2008
Several changes coming soon will affect your credit score. This article explains what these changes are and how to use them to your advantage.
Military families eligible for tax stimulus checks
Military families are able to receive the economic stimulus checks being sent out beginning May 2008. But they need to follow a few steps to get their money—this article shows how to do so and provides other information about the economic stimulus plan.
Money saving tips and tricks for your next vacation
It's almost vacation time, and this article details ways your family can save money, whether you're going across town or across the country.
Preparing for financial emergencies: Simple advice for military families
An emergency savings account is a vital part of a good financial strategy. Learn how to set one up, even on a limited income.
The importance of debt prioritization
Debt is a reality of modern life, but not all debt is created equal. Learn which debt is best to pay off early, which can wait, and how to manage it all effectively.
Curing the holiday debt hangover
If you have found yourself with a migraine from holiday bills, this article can help you cure it.
Playing your cards right: A guide to gift cards
While millions of Americans spend billions of dollars on gift cards every holiday season, few people read the fine print to find out the fees and conditions. This article gives you the information you need to ensure that you're getting the most for your money
Affordable gift giving
Don't suffer from the post-holiday financial blues! Find out how to give friends and families great gifts without destroying your finances.
How military families can save money on college
As tuition continues to rise, paying for college can become a financial nightmare. This article gives you tips on how to make it a little easier.
Corporate social responsibility: A strategy for success
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is more than just a public relations tool -- it's a way that companies can affect positive change in their communities. This article provides strategies to implement an effective CSR plan.
The Dos and Don'ts of teaching kids about money
Understanding the concept of money doesn't come naturally to a child, but this article can make it easy.
A pre-deployment checklist for military families
The tips in this article can help military families better prepare for the stressful time of deployment, and may help mitigate some unnecessary difficulties associated with a loved one's departure and return.
Twelve tips for online borrowing
When it comes to borrowing money online, a customer needs to be educated and ready to ask key questions regarding the transaction, and this article can help.
A taxing season for military families
Pioneer Services has compiled some tax filing tips and savings advice for military families.
Gone phishing: A bit of prevention, a byte of cure
Phishing scams defraud millions of dollars from consumers and ruin the reputations of countless companies. This article shows you how to protect yourself and ways to stop them from happening in the future.
Financial advice for a successful military career
Many military families are already aware that financial problems can often have an impact on a service member’s ability to carry out his or her duties.
Financial education: Information and execution are vital
This document is a collection of facts, figures, stories, and case studies assembled by Pioneer Services Representatives addressing predatory practices and the need for a responsible alternative for our men and women in uniform.
Can you make a million dollars in the military?
Find out how you can have a million dollars when you retire from the military (it's easier than you think).
Alternatives to payday loans for the military
Don't get stuck with thousands of dollars in fees and interest! There are alternatives to predatory lending practices that can get you the money you need today while protecting your financial future.
Risk-based pricing
Learn about the many different factors that lenders use when deciding on whether or not to approve a loan and what interest rate a customer receives.
The true cost of borrowing
When looking at different lending options, it's important to look at more than interest rates and APR. There are many other costs that affect how much you wind up paying.
Breaking the debt cycle
Are you constantly borrowing money from one place to pay off money you borrowed from another? Stop this downward spiral of debt and gain control over your finances!
Car buying tips
Everyone needs a car, but not everyone knows how to get the best deal. These tips can save you thousands of dollars on your next automobile purchase.
Budgeting: A marriage's dirty word
More than half of all divorces are caused by money problems. This article can show you and your spouse how to come to an agreement and live happily ever after.
Are you a good investment?
Learn how and why your credit report determines how much you pay when borrowing money.
Credit cards: Are you ready to be debt free?
Using credit or charge cards to pay for purchases is a fact of life in today's economy. Knowing when you're over-your-head in credit card debt and when to seek help is key in your quest for financial freedom.
Borrowing on your terms
When borrowing money, there are many ways to compare cost. This article highlights two of the most common: the APR and the term, or length, of the transaction.
Financial independence requires money management
A synopsis of some of the techniques you can use to better manage your money and build wealth -- even on a limited budget.
Protect yourself against identity theft
Learn how to protect yourself from the fasting growing crime in America.
Living out your dreams and within your means
So why should you learn how to take better care of your money? This article shows you why financial education is important and how it can help you and your family "live out your dreams and within your means."
Where to turn in times of need
This article provides links to numerous resources for military families.
Defining terms: Interest rate and APR
Interest Rate and APR are definitely the most commonly confused terms in lending. This article helps clear up that confusion.
Hope for the best ... plan for the worst
No one wants to think about being the victim of a natural disaster, but preparation can make what is often a tragic time much easier. This article can help you prepare.
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