The Hearts & Smarts Blog

What is a Credit Union, and Could NIHFCU be a Good Fit for Nurses?

Introduction This FAQ explains what a credit union is, who may be eligible to join NIHFCU, and how nurse-focused tools may help with everyday banking, debt, and unexpected expenses. It is written to answer the most common questions up front, in plain language, so you can decide whether NIHFCU may fit your situation. FAQ 1: What is a credit union, … Read more

Does NIHFCU Ooffer a Strong Digital Banking Experience?

Young woman using her mobile phone while sitting on the couch

Yes—NIHFCU digital banking is a solid fit if you want practical online banking tools without a lot of clutter. It covers the basics most members need, like mobile check deposit, transfers, bill pay, alerts, card controls, and secure login, while also giving you access to nearly 30,000 fee-free ATMs and over 5,000 shared branches. NIHFCU’s digital banking is designed to … Read more

What Is the Best Checking Account for Healthcare Professionals in Maryland and DC?

Nurse in blue scrubs drinking coffee and using her phone at home

Quick Answer: If you want a checking account that fits healthcare professionals in Maryland or Washington, DC, look for one that makes everyday banking easier, protects what matters, and gives you clear next steps. NIHFCU’s CompleteCare checking is one practical example.1 What should you look for in a checking account in Maryland or DC? Start with the basics that affect … Read more

Are Credit Unions a Good Place to Get an Auto Loan for Healthcare Workers?

nurse with new car

Yes—credit unions often offer flexible terms and a member-focused experience. For healthcare workers, that can make it easier to match financing to an irregular schedule and potentially reduce the total cost of a loan. An NIH Federal Credit Union (NIHFCU) auto loan can help you choose the right fit for your budget and timeline. Read on to learn when a … Read more

How much homeowners insurance should you consider?

model of house positioned under small umbrella signifying a covered home

Homeowners insurance can help cover the damage or loss of your home or personal property following a natural disaster, theft, or vandalism. In addition to the structure of your home, homeowners insurance covers your personal belongings inside and outside the home. Most policies also include liability coverage that will pay for damages caused by homeowner negligence. The amount of coverage … Read more

When should I consider reviewing my auto insurance coverage?

man reviewing auto insurance policy

Change is inevitable. So, as life happens and different events occur, it might be a good time to consider switching your auto insurance coverage. For example, are you thinking of buying or selling a car? You might have noticed that car values have gone up due to the car shortage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation. This also means … Read more

7 car insurance myths you should know about

automobile salesman in dealership reviewing auto features with customer

There’s a lot of information out there about car insurance, and it’s not always easy to know what’s true and what’s not. We’re going to look at seven common beliefs that some people have about car insurance and explore why they may or may not be myths. That way, you should be in a better position when evaluating your insurance … Read more

When to review your life insurance policy

mature couple viewing laptop screen together

Purchasing life insurance can be a big step towards helping provide financial security for your loved ones. But many people feel like once they sign their policy — whether it’s a term or whole life plan — they can set it and forget it. And that’s not the case. Let’s review the different occasions when it may be a good … Read more

5 Common life insurance scams and how to avoid becoming a victim

paper cut out of family resting within cupped hands

Criminals want to separate you from your hard-earned money and personal information. Some of their tricks include life insurance scams. So, what exactly is a life insurance scam? It’s a phony offer of insurance products or services. Anyone can be a victim, but key targets are generally older citizens who may be looking to get or update their life insurance … Read more

What is cash value life insurance?

3 jars of money and plants symbolizing growth

Many permanent life insurance policies offer the unique benefit of building cash value in an interest-earning account. This could give you and your loved ones financial flexibility in the present while helping provide a greater lump sum for your beneficiaries. How does cash value life insurance work? Permanent life insurance is designed to build cash value by placing a small … Read more

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