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

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Subscribe on Google Podcasts
Follow us on Stitcher
Follow us on Spotify

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.