If you have been hearing that credit scores are changing, you are not imagining it. 2026 is shaping up to be a transition year for how lenders evaluate borrowers, especially for mortgages. Fortunately, most of the habits that help your credit stay healthy are not changing.

The Big Shift: New Scoring Models

Mortgage lenders can now use newer models, like VantageScore 4.0, which consider additional information – such as rent, utilities, or telecom payments.

This can help more people, especially those with limited or “thin” credit histories, have a score on record. It does not guarantee loan approval, however it gives lenders a fuller picture when evaluating applications, and it highlights how credit scoring is evolving to include a wider range of financial behaviors.

Lenders are also adopting FICO 10, which looks beyond a single snapshot to your credit patterns over the past two years. This means consistent habits matter more than short-term fixes.

Other Changes to Watch in 2026

Credit scoring isn’t just getting a facelift – it is evolving in ways that could impact how you borrow and manage debt. Here’s what else is on the horizon:

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) Reporting
BNPL plans will start showing up on credit reports. This can help build credit if you pay on time – however, missed payments could hurt your score.

Medical Debt Is Fading Out
Paid medical collections and debts under $500 are disappearing from reports, reducing surprise dings for many borrowers.

Stronger Consumer Protections
Updates to the Fair Credit Reporting Act will speed up dispute timelines, require better documentation for errors, and strengthen identity theft safeguards.

What’s Staying the Same

The fundamentals of credit health are not changing. No matter which scoring model a lender uses:

• On-time payments still matter most.
• Lower balances relative to your limits (a.k.a. credit utilization) remain important.
• Length of credit history still plays a role, so older accounts often help.
• New credit and how often you apply still factors into your score.
• A credit mix that reflects a variety of credit types (like credit cards, installment loans, or a mortgage) can positively impact your score.

How to Prepare

1. Monitor Your Credit Reports

Check your reports regularly to catch mistakes or fraud early. Use AnnualCreditReport.com for free yearly reports from all three bureaus and set alerts for new accounts or major changes.

2. Confirm Which Scoring Model Your Lender Uses

Scores vary by model, so ask your lender whether they use FICO, VantageScore, or both. Knowing this helps you understand differences and focus on the right credit habits.

3. Strengthen the Controllable Factors

You are not able to choose the scoring model, however you can pay on time, aim to keep utilization below 30%, and maintain older accounts. Automate minimum payments to avoid late fees and protect your score.

4. If You’re Planning to Buy a Home, Start Early

Credit is only part of the mortgage equation – debt-to-income, employment, and down payment matter too. Aim to budget and debt plan 6–12 months ahead to show stability and avoid surprises.

5. Get Connected

Ask your lender which score they use and what factors matter most. For broader guidance – budgeting, debt management, or big financial goals – GreenPath offers free financial counseling with NFCC- and HUD-certified experts to help you review your finances and support you in taking the next step forward.

According to a recent WalletHub survey, nearly 3 in 4 people say their financial situation impacts their mental well-being, and 69% of Americans feel insecure about their finances. It is no wonder so many of us are tired of traditional “new year, new budget” advice. Financial wellness does not have to mean strict spreadsheets. It is about taking small, actionable steps to feel more in control.  

Do This: Review your spending patterns 

Not That: Start with a strict budget  

Take a week to observe how you actually spend. Look at your bank statements and credit card bills to spot patterns. Are subscriptions you no longer use still draining your account? Are grocery runs adding up to more than you realize? 

When you understand where your money is really going, you can make small, realistic adjustments – like shopping for generic brands or switching streaming services seasonally. Real progress beats rigid plans every time. 

Do This: Automate what you can 

Not That: Rely on willpower to save 

If you have ever meant to transfer money into savings but forgot (again), automation can save you from yourself. Schedule automatic transfers to savings on payday, set up direct deposit to savings, or set up autopay for bills to avoid late fees. 

This trick works because it removes temptation and decision fatigue – two major barriers to saving consistently. Even a small automatic transfer adds up over time. Think of it as paying your future self-first. 

Do This: Build an emergency cushion 

Not That: Wait until you can save “enough” 

A full emergency fund (three to six months of expenses) sounds great on paper and can feel impossible when money is tight. Start smaller. Even $20 a week builds momentum. Keep it in an easy-access account, separate from other money, so it does not get mixed with daily spending. 

This cushion helps protect you from unexpected costs – a car repair, a surprise bill, or even a missed paycheck – and gives you confidence that you can handle what comes your way. 

Do This: Plan for joy – not just bills 

Not That: Treat fun as “extra” or “unnecessary” 

Your budget should not just be about survival. Planning ahead for things that bring you joy, like a family outing, a weekend getaway, or even a nice meal out, keeps your financial plan sustainable. When you budget for joy and happiness, you are less likely to fall into guilt spending or burnout later. 

Do This: Check your credit and debt picture 

Not That: Avoid it because it feels stressful 

It is tempting to look away from debt; however, facing it head-on is the first step to taking control. Pull your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com and review all your balances, interest rates, and due dates. 

Focus on paying off the smallest balance first (the “snowball” method) to build momentum or tackle the highest-interest debt first (the “avalanche” method) to save money over time.   

Do This: Seek trusted support  

Not That: Navigate your finances alone 

You do not have to have every answer to feel financially confident. Your financial institution offers budgeting tools, workshops, or savings programs to help you get started.  

If you are dealing with debt, GreenPath offers free financial counseling and a proven Debt Management Program designed to lower interest rates, reduce payments, and reduce your stress in the coming year.

Starting in September this year, the U.S. government will no longer issue paper checks for federal payments — including Social Security, VA benefits, tax refunds and payroll for government contractors.

If you have not already, get ahead of the changes and set up Direct Deposit of your benefits into your Soarion Credit Union account.

Start enjoying all the perks of direct deposit, including:

• Get paid a day early¹
• No more lost or stolen checks
• Skip the lines and save time
• Deposit is automatic, no delay to getting paid!

Get started here.

Set up is easy. You only need Soarion’s routing number (314085504) your social security number, and your checking account number to provide to your employer or federal benefit provider.

Questions? Drop us a line anytime by any of the methods below. We are happy to assist.

Call: (210) 673-5610

Message: Send a Secure Message in Digital Banking

Visit: Drop by one of our Financial Centers

¹Set up direct deposit of your paycheck or benefits and you could get access to your funds a day early if they are received by the credit union.

When disaster strikes, peace of mind often takes the biggest hit. In the aftermath, you may be grappling with more than just physical damage—you’re also facing the emotional toll of uncertainty, disrupted routines, and financial strain. It’s not just about what was lost, but how to regain a sense of control and rebuild your foundation, both financially and emotionally.

The road to recovery can feel overwhelming, but taking a few key steps can help you move forward with greater confidence and begin the rebuilding process.

Start With a Clear Financial Overview

• Document damage and loss. Take photos, save receipts, and note what’s repairable versus what needs replacing. That documentation will help with insurance and aid claims.
• List immediate expenses. Include essentials: alternate housing, food, medicine, etc.
• Track income and ongoing bills. Even after the storm passes, your utility, insurance, and loan payments won’t stop. Create a simple budget for the next 60–90 days to stay ahead.

Tap Into Available Aid and Insurance

• File insurance and FEMA claims. FEMA grants can provide important relief, but they’re often just a starting point. Between 2017 and early 2024, FEMA’s Individuals & Households Program provided an average of roughly $3,030 per household.
• Look into SBA disaster loans. After the 2017 hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, the U.S. Government Accountability Office reported that the SBA accepted about 340,000 disaster loan applications and approved approximately 141,000, issuing over $7 billion in loans to homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits.
• Apply for emergency funds early. Even partial payouts help. If you’re approved, track usage carefully to avoid running out.
• Submit everything thoroughly and follow up with FEMA, SBA, and insurers. Even minor paperwork issues can delay support.
• Keep in mind: Relief program details may shift based on policy updates and funding levels—check official sources for the latest.

Build Back Stronger

• Rebuild your credit with care. If you need to borrow, start with trusted lenders and explore low-interest options from your financial institution. Avoid payday loans or other high-cost borrowing that can trap you in long-term debt.
• Review your insurance coverage. If you live in an area prone to flooding, wildfires, hurricanes, or windstorms, talk to your insurer about adding supplemental coverage. Adequate insurance is key to reducing financial risk in future emergencies.
• Prioritize rebuilding savings. If you dip into savings or retirement, work  to refill them gradually—your financial safety net matters long after the debris is cleared.
• Ask about credit relief. Some financial institutions may offer support in the form of eased terms on credit cards and auto loans, deferred payments, waived fees, or personalized recovery guidance.
• Lean on trusted help. Our nonprofit partner, GreenPath, offers complimentary financial counseling to help you navigate debt, modify your budget, and regain stability. Rebuilding after disaster is stressful—but you are not alone. 

Planning a move soon? You’re in good company. According to Zillow, June is the most popular month to move, with many families and individuals packing up during the summer to take advantage of better weather and school breaks.

Moving comes with more than just boxes and change-of-address forms – it can also be a major budget-breaker. The average cost of a local move is about $1,250, while a long-distance move can run upwards of $5,000, according to Forbes.

Ahead of summer’s biggest moving month, here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

1. Underestimating the Total Moving Costs

It’s easy to focus only on the cost of the moving truck or professional movers, however, there is a lot more to factor in. Think: packing supplies, utility deposits, cleaning fees, gas, meals on the go, and potential hotel stays. It adds up quickly.

Tip: Build a moving budget before you do anything else. Include a buffer for unexpected costs – it will save you stress down the road.

2. Not Gathering Multiple Quotes

Hiring movers? Don’t go with the first quote you receive. Prices can vary widely depending on timing, services, and distance.

Tip: Round up at least three estimates and ask about discounts – some companies offer deals for students, military members, or off-peak days.

3. Forgetting to Cancel or Transfer Services

Overlapping services (like cable, internet, or utilities) can cost you double if you’re not careful. Forgetting to cancel gym memberships or local subscriptions can leave you paying for things you no longer use.

Tip: Make a checklist of every service tied to your current address, and schedule transfers or cancellations at least two weeks in advance.

4. Skipping the Decluttering Process

The more stuff you move, the more it costs. Plus, hauling boxes of things you don’t use just makes unpacking that much harder.

Tip: If you have not used it in the last year, donate it, sell it, or toss it. You will save on moving supplies and labor – and your future self will thank you.

5. Not Accounting for Post-Move Expenses

It is easy to think the spending stops once the moving truck pulls away. Setting up your new home often comes with additional costs, like new furniture, cleaning supplies, and restocking your pantry or refrigerator.

Tip: Set aside a portion of your budget specifically for post-move purchases. Even just a few hundred dollars can help you settle in comfortably without resorting to credit cards.

Need Help Creating a Budget?

We partner with GreenPath Financial Wellness, a trusted national nonprofit, to offer free financial counseling and tools to help you manage life’s big transitions – including moving. Whether you need help building a budget, managing debt, or planning for your next step, GreenPath is here for you.

Building your savings is important and having a standard savings account is great, but have you ever stopped to wonder if other savings account options are better for you?

While there’s no one right way to build wealth, a good rule of thumb to remember is “Store your money in an account where it can earn the most interest with little risk.”

Different types of accounts will grow your money more quickly than a traditional savings account and they each have different benefits to offer in terms of access and interest rates. Comparing a variety of savings options can help you decide which option is best for you.

When it comes to your finances, we know how important it is to understand the positives and negatives of each type of deposit account. Below you’ll find some information we’ve gathered to help you make an informed decision.

Share Certificates

A Share Certificate is a savings account that is designed to pay a set interest rate on your initial deposit for a fixed amount of time.

The fixed amount of time is referred to as a term. Terms can range from six months (short-term certificates) to five years or more (long-term certificates). At the end of the term, the certificate “matures,” and you’ll receive the initial amount you put into the certificate, plus the interest that accrued on that amount over the certificate term. The rate of return you receive (and other types of deposit accounts) is the annual percentage yield (APY) and is a fixed rate.

Share Certificate Features

• Fixed interest rates
• Higher rates compared to traditional savings accounts
• Funds are federally insured by the NCUA (Credit Unions) or FDIC (Banks)
• Variety of term lengths
• Money is locked in for term length
• Penalties for early withdrawal
• Minimum deposit requirements

Share Certificates are a great way to save for future expenses. See what Soarion’s Share Certificates have to offer.

High Yield Savings Accounts

High yield savings accounts are a type of savings account that offers better-than-average interest rates on deposits. However, the interest rate offered by a high-yield savings account is variable and can fluctuate. This account also offers account holders flexibility to make withdrawals but may require a minimum balance or deposit limits.

High Yield Savings Accounts Features

• Higher rates compared to traditional savings accounts
• Funds are federally insured by the NCUA (Credit Unions) or FDIC (Banks)
• Flexible withdrawal options
• Variable interest rates

A High Yield Savings Account is a great option for an emergency savings account. Discover the benefits of a High Yield Savings Accounts from Soarion.

Money Market Accounts

Money market accounts share similarities with both savings and checking accounts. This saving option allows account holders to earn interest, like savings accounts, while still having access to your money that you get with a checking account. There may be some limitations related to withdrawals and minimum opening deposits for a Money Market Account, but that varies depending on the financial institution.

Money Market Account Features

• Higher rates compared to traditional savings accounts
• Funds are federally insured by the NCUA (Credit Unions) or FDIC (Banks)
• Potential deposit requirements
• Flexible withdrawal options
• Variable interest rates

A money market account may be the ideal option for you if you’ve already built a nice cushion of savings and are looking to earn more. Find out if a Money Market Account from Soarion is right for you.

Knowing the basics about these different types of savings accounts can help you take control of your money. Plus, you’re not limited to just one type of savings account. You can open a number of them to maximize the benefits for your finances.

You may be using your debit card or bank transfers to pay your bills, but you could be using a convenient service that connects to your savings or checking account.

Bill Pay is a service that allows you to easily manage your payments to various companies all in one place. Many financial institutions offer free online bill pay services to their members through their online banking and mobile app. Here are some perks to utilizing this helpful system.

Peace of mind

Organize and automate all of your one-time and recurring bills in one place. You can also set up reminders for future payments so you’re never charged a late fee.

Save Money

Avoid additional processing fees companies may charge for using their payment portal and keep that money for yourself.

Protected Privacy

Safeguard your personal and financial information by limiting the number of bills and payments you have mailed to and from your physical address.

Going Green

By signing up for eDocuments and enrolling in Bill Pay you’re helping reduce that organization’s paper waste and making a positive impact on the environment.

Save Time

Using an electronic bill pay service allows you to organize your bills in one place. You’ll be able to pay bills in just a few clicks, and less time logging into each account. Bill Pay users can also set up recurring payments, alerts for scheduled payments, update or cancel payment amounts and search past bills and payments.

These are a few of the ways that opting into an online bill payment service can be a great first step in getting financially organized. You can easily eliminate errors and make your financial management much easier.

AFFCU’s new Digital Banking platform features a streamlined payment system that’s more than just Bill Pay. The new Digital Payments system allows users to quickly pay bills, send money to other accounts, and Pay a Person (P2P).

Even better, since electronic Bill Pay is integrated with Digital Banking, you can get a clearer picture of your finances when you pay your bills through Online Bill Pay. Find out how you can get started with Soarion Digital Banking.

With the holidays coming up, many of us have big plans to host large get-togethers, travel to visit loved ones, or go on vacation and buy gifts for family and friends.

Unfortunately, many times our budget doesn’t match our plans. If you’ve ever been worried about how you’ll be able to get through the holidays without a mountain of debt, the sight of decoration and cheerful music can be enough to stress you out.

Don’t worry! We’ve compiled tips to help you manage, save and balance your finances to prepare you financially for the holiday season.

Set a Budget

Make a list of items you’ll be spending money on, such as travel expenses, grocery items, and gifts. Once your list is done, look through it again and see if any items can be trimmed, consolidated, or cut altogether. Your edited list of holiday expenses will help you figure out a dollar amount that you can reference and stick to as you prepare to start shopping.

Trim Spending Habits

Try to find expenses you can remove from your regular spending habits to maximize your holiday funds. Avoid stopping for coffee, cancel unused subscription services, and brown bag your lunch rather than going out to eat. The money you save from these expenses will add up and pad your pockets shopping during the holidays.

Shop Early

Don’t wait for retailers to start promoting holiday sales to start buying your holiday must-haves. If you start shopping early you’ll be able to compare prices, and spread your spending over several months, so you’re not draining your account all at once.

Cash In Rewards

If your financial institution offers rewards points or cashback, the holidays are a perfect time to consider using those perks to your advantage. You’ve already earned the points or cashback and are waiting to be redeemed for merchandise that may already be on your loved ones’ list, gift cards to stores you already plan on shopping at, and cover travel expenses instead of using your own money.

Use Helpful Resources & Tools

Utilize your financial institution’s Skip-A-Pay programs to skip your qualified loan payment, then use your loan payment funds for the holidays. Not interested in skipping a loan payment? Your credit union or bank still has helpful tools to help you during the holidays. Use your online or mobile banking platforms to track your spending and set alerts when you’re close to going over budget.

Open a Christmas Club account

A Christmas Club account encourages account holders to save up for the holiday season by making deposits to this special interest-earning account, to avoid spending your money too soon. Then the money from the Christmas Club account will get deposited into your primary account before the holiday season begins, so you can start shopping.

Soarion Christmas Club Savings account offers convenient direct deposit and automatic transfer options, and a great interest rate to allow your money to earn dividends. Plus there is no minimum opening balance requirement and no monthly service changes.

Budgeting for the holidays can be tough, but getting prepared for the holidays can be easier if you apply this advice to your finances.

Kids grow up fast. By the time your child reaches middle school, they’re likely earning money regularly whether that be from an allowance, earning good grades, completing chores, holidays and birthdays, and even a part-time job depending on their age.

Teaching your teen smart money habits, or anything really can be challenging. However, with the right motivation, your teens can learn to manage their finances.

A simple way to support your child’s financial education is by opening a checking account for your teen. Helping your teen open a checking account is a great way to set them up for a lifetime of financial success. Below are four reasons to consider opening a checking account for your teen:

Teach Basic Money Management Skills

Managing a checking account may seem like a breeze to an adult, but your child will need to learn the ropes of how to maintain their accounts. Teens will need to learn basic things, such as monitoring their spending, safeguarding their debit cards, and how to deposit, withdraw and transfer money.

Instead of having your child figure this out later in life, you can help guide them through this process while they’re still under your roof by opening a checking account for them. Together, you can explore the account’s features and services, such as Mobile Check Deposit, P2P Payments, and Card Controls.

Build Healthy Budgeting Habits

As your teen begins to recognize the value of a dollar, you can introduce some early budgeting concepts. For example, they can start to learn how to prioritize necessities over their “wants.” Having a checking account of their own provides your teen with the independence that will help them learn to budget better.

Start by talking to your child about a large purchase they want to make, like a new phone, a car, or concert tickets. Help them budget for the expenditure and think of creative ideas to earn the money for it. Seeing the balance in their checking account rise or decrease can be a powerful motivator for your teen to stick to a budget and not overspend.

Establish Financial History

While a checking account does not directly impact your child’s credit history or credit scores, your teen will benefit from keeping their account in good standing.

In the future, when your child is ready to apply for lines of credit like an auto loan or credit card, lenders will often ask for an active bank account on the credit application to confirm that your child is financially responsible.

The healthy money habits you helped instill in your teen with their checking account, will not only help them get approved for the loan but also give them a leg up on handling credit cards and paying off loans as an adult.

Develop Self Accountability

Most teens can’t wait to be an adult and want to be treated as a grown up. Being an adult involves handling expenses and saving money. A checking account can act as a stepping stone to adulthood while allowing them to make financial mistakes in a safe environment.

Many checking accounts for teens offer features like overdraft protection, monitoring features or alerts, and financial education resources. These benefits allow your teen to gain financial independence under the guidance of their parents. Teenagers are bound to make some mistakes upon opening their first checking account. As a parent, the best thing you can do is to let them learn these hard lessons now, and not years later.

Opening a checking account for your teenager may seem like a big step, but with the right account, this financial journey can be a lot less scary. Soarion’s Student Checking Account offers features and benefits perfect for 13 to 17 year olds.