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FIRST ALLIANCE BLOG

Gain financial control when you explore our library of articles. We cover topics from paying off debt and credit scores, to saving money and budgeting. Subscribe today so you never miss out on a money tip!

How to Write a Business Plan: What It Is and Why You Need One

3 min read

How to Write a Business Plan: What It Is and Why You Need One

Donna never pictured herself drafting formal documents. She was the friendly face at the Rochester gym who lost 70 pounds and filled Instagram with...

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Assistance with Utilities: SE MN Programs to Cut Your Bills

3 min read

Assistance with Utilities: SE MN Programs to Cut Your Bills

Lena thought she had finally cracked the code on her monthly budget. She’d set up envelope budgeting in her checking account, stashed $20 each payday...

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How to Sta rt a Small Business: 9 Steps from Idea to Launch

5 min read

How to Start a Small Business: 9 Steps from Idea to Launch

Ever had a shower-thought you just know could turn into the next big thing—but two seconds later the “What if I mess this up?” voice kicks in? You’re...

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What is a sinking fund?

4 min read

What is a sinking fund?

That bill wasn’t an emergency—you just didn’t plan for it. New tires. School clothes. Your cousin’s wedding weekend that somehow eats half your...

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Credit Card vs Debit Card: Which One Should You Use?

6 min read

Credit Card vs Debit Card: Which One Should You Use?

Picture this: you’re grabbing snacks after school, and the cashier asks, “Credit or debit?” Both cards look alike, but they pull money from very...

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Back‑to‑School Drive Savings: Cut Your School‑Supply Costs in Half

3 min read

Back-to-School Drive Savings: Cut Your School‑Supply Costs in Half

Across the U S., the cost of gearing up for class just keeps climbing. The National Retail Federation says families will drop about $858 this year on...

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How to Build Credit with a Credit Card: Best Practices for Beginners

4 min read

How to Build Credit with a Credit Card: Best Practices for Beginners

Back in the late ’70s, when Abuela Carmela first arrived in Texas without the residency papers banks demanded, she tucked every hard‑earned dollar...

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First Alliance CU Employee Wins Charity Tournament, Donates $7,400

3 min read

First Alliance CU Employee Wins Charity Tournament, Donates $7,400

First Alliance Credit Union is excited to announce that Cindy Kapadia, Employee Experience Specialist at First Alliance Credit Union, was named the...

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What is an ITIN? A Guide to Turning a Tax ID into Real Possibilities

4 min read

What is an ITIN? A Guide to Turning a Tax ID into Real Possibilities

Lisa’s Guide to Turning a Tax ID into Real‑Life Possibilities “Lord, please help me understand money.” That’s the prayer 19‑year‑old Lisa whispers...

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How to Use Home Equity: Smart Strategies for Savvy Homeowners

4 min read

How to Use Home Equity: Smart Strategies for Savvy Homeowners

Home Equity 101: A Quick, No-Jargon Refresher Home equity is the portion of your home you own rather than owe. Every mortgage payment you make and...

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