"Words to ignore: Easy Payments. Those two words just don't belong together. NO payments are easy. So whenever you see "easy" and "payments" beware. Someone is trying to convince you of something -- often that low monthly payments are "easy", when in fact, they may conceal a high interest rate.

Don't be fooled by offers that seem too good to be true -- they are. And don't be lured into a deal you'll regret by another common phrase: "For a limited time only -- ACT NOW!" Always take the time to thoroughly understand the total cost of the purchase, including all credit payments, before buying another installment. Call the credit union first.

Here's the simplest way of all to make sure you get an honest deal: Call us first. That's why we're here -- to provide our members with only the best in financial services. Regardless of what you're buying, we may have a loan to fit your needs and budget. And if you already have loans elsewhere that are less than promised, see us about that too. We may be able to help you finance some of those deals that were too good to be true.

"You've seen the ads. A snazzy looking new car can be yours for 2.9% financing. Another will cost you only $189 per month. These may seem like great deals -- but look closer.

Perched at the upper right of those bold-type numbers is a star, barely visible to the naked eye. The asterisk.

Look harder and you'll see footnotes at the bottom of the ad explaining that the 2.9% rate is for a 24-month loan, which translates into big monthly payments. And those $189 payments are to be paid for 60 months. Neither of those loans may be in terms that you can live with.

In face, that 2.9% dealer financing may cost you more than an 8% loan at -- CU. And those lower monthly payments, paid for at a longer term, will add hundreds of dollars to what you spend on your car.

To see through this hype, you need the facts. Look at the loan package, not just one or two numbers. Call -- CU for low cost auto loans with terms that fit your lifestyle."

Co-signing a loan -- in effect guaranteeing to repay a loan when the borrower defaults -- can be an effective way to help a family member or close friend build a credit history or obtain money in times of emergency. Here are a few things to consider if you are ever asked to co-sign a loan:

• If the borrower defaults, the creditor can collect this debt from you without first trying to collect from the borrower. The creditor can use the same collection methods against you that can be used against the borrower, such as suing you, garnishing your wages, and so on. If this debt is ever in default, that fact may become a part of your own personal credit record.
• Even if you never repay any portion of the loan, creditors will figure your potential liability in deciding whether to grant a loan that you apply for.