Four smart ways to spend your annual bonus

According to the latest data from the career firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, roughly 66 percent of employers awarded a year-end bonus in 2023. With bonus payouts on the decline in recent years – as much as 36 percent at some companies – it’s more important than ever to strategize how you’ll spend any extra […]

How to prepare your finances for holiday spending

‘Tis the season to be shopping! According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend nearly $990 billion in November and December alone – an increase of 3.5 percent year-over-year.  While the average holiday shopper is estimated to spend over $2,100 this winter, Empeople members are uniquely positioned to save while they spend. […]

Should You Help Your Loved Ones Pay Off Debt?

It can be hard watching someone you love struggle with debt, especially if it’s the type of debt they got into without any fault, like medical debt. You may want to jump right in, help with your funds, and try to limit their burden. This is a very noble gesture, but it isn’t a decision […]

How to Build Home Equity

Your home’s equity is a monetary value you can access now or later by selling your home or taking out a home equity loan. Your equity is calculated by subtracting what you owe on your home through a mortgage from the current value of your home if you were to sell it today. Many Americans […]

Differences Between Good Debt and Bad Debt

Many people in the U.S. grew up being told that all debt is “bad” and that it should be avoided at all costs. However, you may have also been told that borrowing money for “good” purposes, such as buying a house, is okay. Very few people can likely get through life these days without taking […]

5 financial podcasts you should be listening to

Continuous education is essential for anyone looking to implement risk management, retirement planning, or personal finance investing into their financial strategy.  With today’s technology, learning about money management has never been easier, thanks to resources like blogs, books, and podcasts. Podcasts have become a favorite for many, offering practical advice on the go — whether […]

10 best ways to spend your tax refund

Although tax season can be stressful, receiving a tax refund often feels like a much-needed financial boost. Rather than spending it on impulse buys, consider using your refund strategically to strengthen your financial future. Whether you want to pay down debt, grow your savings, or invest in long-term goals, there are plenty of smart ways […]

Digital Banking Security

Pete Sedgwick is the Chief Information Officer at Empeople and a Certified Information Systems Security Professional. With more than two decades of experience implementing strategies, teams and solutions for large and complex information technology systems across the industry, the Iowa State graduate sits in for us here at the Empeople Daily with a guest blog. […]

Empeople Digital Banking

Welcome to Empeople Digital Banking! We are excited and happy to bring you our new, secure and improved banking experience.  Let’s take a moment to familiarize members with a few facts about Empeople Digital Banking and then look at some new features. At Empeople, we’ve updated your digital banking experience to include instant, secure access […]

6 Questions Before You Buy an RV

Do you find yourself excited about summer vacation this year but still holding out on airplane flights and hotels? If so, you’re not alone. Now more than ever, there’s a growing call to hit the open road and see America from behind the wheel. National parks, beaches, and scenic drives are literally on your doorstep […]