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CONSUMER INFORMATION FOR MEMBERS May 2008 |
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Here's what you'll find in this issue:
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Safeguard your personal information and help the environment
Signing up for electronic services can provide multiple benefits. In addition to convenient 24-hour access to your accounts, these services can help you protect your information and save valuable resources. Cut back on paper use You can make a small change that has a big impact. By switching to
electronic billing and statements, the average family could save
24 square feet of forest per year, according to the “Pay it Green Alliance.”
Protect your personal information Consumers who regularly monitor their accounts online are most likely to discover any fraud the fastest. Fraud experts note that the longer consumers wait to notice and report problems, the larger the impact could be. Experts also report that thieves more often obtain victim’s information by physically stealing it from trash cans, mailboxes and wallets. These steps can help you minimize the risk of identity theft
Sign up for free online banking, bill payer and electronic statements. |
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Small budget cuts equal big savings With gas prices higher than in the past and concerns about the economy, it’s a great time to find ways to cut expenses. Take your lunch. Cutting back on the number of times you eat out can really help you save. Evaluate wants vs. needs. Ask yourself whether each purchase is necessary. Take advantage of sales and coupons. Plan your shopping list ahead of time. Look for good deals and clip those coupons. Avoid paying fees. Look for ways to avoid ATM, overdraft, and monthly fees. Your credit union offers many free services and options to help. For more information on savings and other budgeting tips, visit our Education & Resources section. |
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Raising a Money Smart Kid Tuesday, May 13, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. First-time Homebuyers Thursday, June 5, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Your Credit Score Tuesday, June 17, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Register online or call Member Services for more information. |
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Consumers save with credit unions
Spread the word Share the benefits of membership with your family, friends, neighbors and coworkers. Your support and healthy membership growth enables your credit union to offer lower fees, better rates and to continue to expand benefits and services to members. See a complete list of eligible individuals. You may be surprised to see how many people are eligible for membership. New member specials From May 1 through June 30, 2008, when a new member joins and opens a checking account, they could receive a special incentive. See the details. |
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Be prepared for Hurricane Season May 25 - 31 is Hurricane Preparedness Week Before hurricane season begins in June, take the time to consider what the threat of a hurricane might mean for your family. Create a family disaster plan.
For more information about hurricane preparedness, visit the National Hurricane Center online. |
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Home supply is high, rates are low
Many homes are now on the market and some sellers are more willing to negotiate. Mortgage rates are also attractive. These could add up to a very good situation for potential home buyers, including first-time buyers. If you are considering purchasing a home, take the time to do some research. Visit our online Mortgage Center
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Reminder about electronic payments Electronic payments (such as mortgage or insurance payments) can post early in the morning before the credit union opens. If you’re expecting an electronic payment to be deducted from your account, to avoid an overdraft fee be sure to have your deposit in your account by the end of the business day before the payment is due. You can also avoid overdraft fees by signing up for overdraft protection from savings or a line of credit. |
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Fields wins $50 Special Edition drawing Congratulations to Irene Fields of Hanover who won $50 for her correct responses to the “Phishing” Quiz in the last Special Edition. For your chance to win $50, download the quiz and send it in with your responses. |
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Credit Union Quiz: You could win $50! Take our Credit Union Quiz and be entered into a $50 drawing. |
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America’s credit unions have nearly 90 million members. Collectively these members save nearly $8 billion a year through better rates and lower fees, according to a recent industry survey. 
