Blackhawk Area Credit Union

06/08/2026

Your 40s and 50s are a financial turning point.
Yes, you're earning more, but you're also juggling more: family, career, future planning. And with retirement on the horizon, your strategy matters more than ever.
Now is the time to:
• Maximize retirement contributions
• Pay down high-interest debt (ahem, those credit cards need to be paid off ASAP)
• Reevaluate spending habits that aren't serving you anymore
• Build a comprehensive financial plan so that you can actually see the future, not just next month
Let's make these next years count. Here's how: https://ow.ly/25Zs50Z5Hof.
Filene Research Institute HerMoney

06/05/2026

06/01/2026

No, not every dealership is out to get you — but enough of them are playing games that you need to know the signs!
• If they ask "What monthly payment are you looking for?"
Don't answer. This is how they shift your focus away from the total cost and into a payment that sounds manageable — but may cost you more in the long run.
• If the car you came to see has "just been sold"...
You may be looking at a classic bait-and-switch. Suddenly, you're being steered toward something more expensive. Convenient, right?
• If they're pushing an extended warranty hard...
Pause. Many people never get their money's worth on thsoe.
• If they try to bundle financing with the price of the car...
Big no. These are two completely separate negotiations — and mixing them is how things get murky (and more expensive!)
The smartest move you can make happens before you step onto the lot.
Get pre-approved for a loan with your !
With lower rates, fewer fees, and more flexibility from your credit union, you don't have to just "hope" for a good deal — you've got one! Learn more: https://ow.ly/WJcv50Z5nNt.
Filene Research Institute HerMoney

06/01/2026

05/27/2026

Buying a new or used car can be an intimidating experience, which is why it's so important to go in armed with all the facts, and to shop your financing (i.e. car loan) with as much effort as you do the car itself. It's important to understand: You are not locked into financing from your dealer. In fact, you'll have an edge if you come in to shop with financing from another source. One of the best places to start your rate-shopping journey is at your local credit union. Credit unions across the country have some of the best auto loan rates — for used cars as well as new. After chatting with your credit union, you can search for the best rates using rate comparison tools offered from sites like Bankrate and LendingTree. Once your homework is done, you'll have several rates in hand and can compare them all to make sure you're getting the best deal.
Here's a primer on buying your first car: https://ow.ly/lEo250Z4pvk.
Filene Research Institute HerMoney

05/25/2026

Our offices are closed in honor of Memorial Day.

Have a Safe Holiday!

05/21/2026

Congratulations to Jan Bawden for being a "SAVE TO WIN" National Prize Drawing winner of $25.00!!

Don't have a Save to Win account? This could be YOU!! Contact us for details.

05/21/2026

The Northwest Illinois Chapter of Credit Unions, which includes Blackhawk Area Credit Union, is selling raffle tickets for fabulous prizes! 🎁

Tickets will sell fast so stop by any BACU office to get your tickets today! 🎟

05/20/2026

Harper Vaclavicek was one of our National Youth Month coloring contest winners of $25.00. Congratulations Harper! 🎉