Family Finances

Many Americans struggle financially, living paycheck to paycheck, hoping they have enough to cover all their bills at the end of the month. Life is easier if you have a cash cushion or an emergency fund, but how do you save when there is not much fat in your budget?

To lease or to buy? It’s one of the age-old questions car buyers ask themselves. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The option that’s right for you depends on a number of factors, including your financial situation, lifestyle and your future plans for the vehicle.

Before choosing the option that’s best for you, it is important to understand the difference between leasing and buying.

Kids - check out these scenarios and try to determine which options give you the better deal!

Now that the holidays are a wrap, there’s no time like the present to start those post-holiday to-dos!

All of our annual seasonal celebrations cost money – lots of money. This year, help your family spend less by incorporating these ideas into your holiday budget plan. 

The holidays will be here before we know it.

Saving money on energy during the holidays isn't always easy, but it is possible!

Heating the house in the winter and cooling it in the summer can result in high utility bills, which certainly puts a strain on your budget. There are a few things you can do in order to cut back on heating and cooling costs. Brought to you by GreenPath.

Use our checklist to make sure your student is financially prepared for college.

What items should you consider when moving high-rate credit card debt.

Just because many of us don’t use cash, this doesn’t rule out some great, easy ways to save. 

First Commonwealth has a financial tool to help you improve your financial health.

Here are a few gift ideas you can give the person who has everything.

The 24-hour holiday movie channels have already started their “countdown to Christmas.” Thinking about them has made me liken my holiday spending to today’s formulaic holiday movies. Here are 5 ideas to help you pay off your holiday debt.

Use these tips to help you save money and organize your family during the school year.

The big topic of discussion among the community where I live has been the merger of the local bank with a larger national bank. Find out how we can help your family and friends.

Make the most of the time you are spending with your children, it’s a perfect time to start or continue your child’s financial education.

We have many resources to help you teach your children good money management and the importance of saving.

Simple ways to figure out if you can afford large purchases like a car, mortgage, or house remodeling.

Learn more about what documents you can shred and how shredding will reduce your risk for identity theft.

How a rising rate economy may affect your finances.

A list of financial opportunities and financial benefits may help you increase your 2015 tax deductions, savings and retirement.

10 ideas to help you save money during the holidays.

We can all help  build our community and strengthen our local economy.

If you need help financing the the items on your bucket list First Commonwealth can help you secure a low-interest loan.   You choose which loan is best for your life - a manageable payment that won't take a long time to pay back.

Let First Commonwealth help you prepare your children for a great school year.

Does your child know the impact financial decisions will have on their financial future?

You don’t need to travel far to find great summer vacation attractions and activities. Take advantage of the amazing venues you have in your backyard.

Your teen will need all the resources and good advice they can find throughout their lives to make informed and intelligent money decisions.  First Commonwealth makes it easy to set up your teen’s checking account. There are many great resources to help you and your teen discuss the responsibilities of a checking account and how to manage money.

Have you fallen into the gift trap? I had for many years and after my daughter’s third Christmas I finally had a different perspective and made some adjustments that have helped our family and friends.