Independent Advantage

The Better Banking Class For Teens

The Independent Advantage program is a series of financial courses for high school students. In a relaxed and fun environment, IA students learn about modern financial concepts. These skills are critical to well-rounded adult life. Independent Advantage graduates are set up with real-world tools for real-world finances. 

Independent Advantage will educate your teen on:

• Importance of credit and how to use it wisely
• The value of a credit score and how to maintain it
• How to create short and long-term financial goals
• How to budget their money
• Proper use of credit cards, debit cards, and electronic financial systems
• How to maintain financial records and balance a checkbook
• How to identify fraud and protect your accounts
• AND SO MUCH MORE!

Independent Advantage graduates are set up with real world-tools for real-world finances. Upon completion of the courses, graduates receive:

• Checking account with a free box of checks
• Mastercard debit card
• Electronic access to their accounts
• Opportunity to apply for a low-limit credit card (restrictions apply)*

But the benefits of Independent Advantage don't only come in the classroom. IA also provides:

• Eligibility for Gaining Ground Scholarships for college
• Merit Badge Certification for Boy Scouts of America
• Merit Badge Certification for Girl Scouts of America
• Ambassador programs in our local schools
• Gain Internships for our NAF Business Academy students

* For more information about these restrictions contact our Independent Advantage Program Coordinators at 818-846-1710 extension 501. 

The Better Banking Podcast: Independent Advantage

This is just one episode of The Better Banking Podcast. Download all episodes to hear more!

The Better Banking Podcast

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Independent Advantage Calendar

Use the calendar below to find a class for your teen today!

Each course consists of four sessions spread over the course of four weeks. You can choose between in-person sessions at our Burbank branch or virtual sessions over Zoom. Please do not sign up for both in-person and virtual sessions for the same month as the same content will be covered in both venues.

Classes are free. Students must open a savings account with the Credit Union before the first course. Click here to open an IA savings account.