Financial Education For Health Savings Accounts

Tuesday, May 11, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

learning about money

A health savings account plan can be used to save money for your medical needs in the present and in the future.

The biggest advantage of a health savings account plan is that they provide security against high and unexpected medical bills. Even if the funds are not utilized they will remain in the account with each passing year, earning interest on it.

The withdrawals from the account are also tax free, if they are utilized for medical purposes. Even when you are unemployed or move to a different state the funds will continue to remain in your account.

If you want to learn more about money education, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Financial Center of Indianapolis.   


Great Money Literacy Tips

Monday, May 10, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

learning about moneyDuring the current recession, now more than ever it is important to really understand the importance of learning about money.

Here are some great money education tips:

  • Before making any investment and loan choices, you need to carefully analyze all the options available and choose a plan that best suits your needs.
  • Reduce your credit card usage and if you own more than three cards, try bringing it down to two.
  • Select credit cards with the lowest interest rates.
  • Use the Internet to get bargain and discount deals on things you wish to buy.
  • Do not make expensive purchases unless it is an emergency.
  • Consolidate all your debt to avoid paying different interest rates.

Our Financial Services Indianapolis will be able to guide you in making good financial plans, which will help you achieve financial success. Our Financial Education Indianapolis helps to provide financial literacy to the community, which will help everyone have a secure financial future.

If you're interested in learning about money, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our Financial Center of Indianapolis.  You might also be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 

Want To Know How to Manage Money?

Sunday, May 9, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

learning about moneyPersonal money management can be really tricky in these tough economic times. You will need to be financially savvy to avoid falling into a debt trap.

Here are some simple money education tips that will help you manage your finances better.

  • Analyze your finances; calculate your income, expenses and debt to arrive at a clear understanding of your financial health.
  • Prepare your budget, with specific allocations towards fixed and variable expenses.
  • Make a shopping list and strictly adhere to it. Do not make any unnecessary purchases.
  • Track every purchase to check whether your financial plan is fool proof.
  • Prioritize all your expenditures and try implementing your prudent financial plans.

If you're interested in learning about money, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our Financial Center of Indianapolis.  You might also be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 


Need An Indianapolis Federal Credit Union?

Saturday, May 1, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

mortgage account indianapolisAn Indianapolis Federal Credit Union serves its members by providing financial assistance by way of loans and credit cards at very reasonable interest rates. The financial education Indianapolis that we provide is intended to help the youth in the community.

We have a partnership with the school authorities to promote the financial decisions of its young people with a goal to improve the education process.

The students can have access to a credit union center and this helps them in planning their financial future. The credit union is established in the school for no extra cost and is maintained with the aim to provide financial education to the students.

If you want to learn more about how your students can gain by learning about money, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Financial Center of Indianapolis.  
 


Money Education Tips

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

money literacyIf you need more help with your finances, then you might be interested in our financial education Indianapolis.

Here are some other great money education tips!

  • Switch to credit cards with lower interest rates. Credit unions offer credit cards to their members at low interest rates and most of them even waive the annual fee.
  • Analyze your spending style and make a plan according to it. Make a list, while shopping and stick to it strictly in spite of the temptations.
  • Try and build an emergency fund, which can be utilized in case of a job loss.
  • Get the best insurance deals by comparing the various plans online.
  • Build a retirement fund and contribute regularly to it.

Our financial education Indianapolis is concerned with giving financial literacy to the teens living in your area so that they are able to manage their finances better in the future.

If you want to learn more about money literacy, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our Financial Center of Indianapolis.  You might also be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 

Financial Center Contributes Over $26,000 for Earthquake Relief Efforts

Tuesday, April 13, 2010 by Michael Hostetler
Financial Center, an Indianapolis Credit Union, presented a check this week to the American Red Cross for $26,267.93 for the Haitian earthquake relief. The American Red Cross Haiti Assistance Program will continue for the next three to five years providing shelter, improving the water supply and sewage systems, developing health programs and helping families rebuild their lives with financial assistance.

Financial Center made an initial $5,000 contribution to the American Red Cross for the Haitian earthquake relief. In addition to this contribution, Financial Center matched the first $2,500 in member donations. Members made contributions at Center locations and electronically through online banking. Financial Center's check presentation to the American Red Cross. Pictured are Andre Arnold, VP of Sales and Community Development; J. Kevin Ryan, CEO; Bill Sweeney, American Red Cross Board Member; and Bryan Fluke, VP of Marketing.

Informational flyers on how to help Haiti were posted in Center locations and on social networking sites. In addition to offering a matched contribution to the American Red Cross, Financial Center also provided educational information regarding fraudulent relief funds.
Financial Center experienced an overwhelming response from the local Indianapolis community. In addition to generous donations from our Indianapolis Credit Union members, we had several groups join in our efforts.

The IPS Building America's Dream Club, an after school leadership activities group that promote a drug and violence free lifestyle, were challenged to help raise relief funds for the Haiti victims. BAD clubs from Arsenal Tech High School, IPS schools #34, 39, 42, 43, 51, 79, 114 and Shortridge High School accepted the challenge and raised $7,847.78 through personal contributions and many special projects.

The day after Financial Center announced our Haiti outreach within the Minton-Capehart Federal Building, the Social Security Administration office brought a collection of donations totaling $170. The day nursery located within the building joined in the efforts as well and held a bake sale to raise $265 toward the Haiti relief fund.

Credit Union Member Programs to Help you Make the Right Decision

Friday, April 2, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Are you looking to start investing and aren't sure where to begin?  Are you getting married and need some financial advice for after the honeymoon?  Are you looking for better credit card rates?

These are all tough questions that do not elicit simple responses.  You could spend countless hours surfing the web in search of answers to these and other financial questions.  As much as you wished they were, these aren't the type of questions you Indianapolis bank is going to address either.  

This isn't the case at your Indianapolis credit union.  Financial Center is a member-owned and operated institution driven to succeed only when you succeed.  You get the convenience of online credit union banking combined with the ease and security of banking centers that actually remember your name.  Plus, unlike the bank next door, Financial Center is able to provide you exceptional financial advice through an assortment of programs.

Educate your self online with Anytime Advisor, through the many free seminars offered, or by simply walking in (or calling) your local Center and anyone will be happy to help you make the right financial decisions.  Whether you're looking for the pros and cons of an HSA, or searching for the right money market, or even direction on which savings account is right for you, FCFCU is there to help.  With Financial Center, learning about money is a breeze.  View the Member Education opportunities. 

Millions are making the switch from their suffocating banks to the ease of a credit union. Consider Financial Center of Indianapolis for your banking needs. 

Work towards financial stability with your local credit union

Saturday, March 27, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
If you haven't already begun thinking about savings for later in life, now might be a good time to start.  Studies have shown that the past two generations have developed significantly poorer savings habits than their predecessors.  Much of this is due, experts say, to high buying capabilities, accessibility, credit cards, and lack of financial ownership at earlier ages.  And yet, habitual money saving is a critical step in any healthy financial status or program.  What most of this younger generation is failing to realize is that time is on their side, but ticking away. 

With compounding interest, a retirement investment will gain huge rewards if started at the age of 23 versus the age of 30.  Believe it or not, seven years could mean tens of thousands more in stashed cash.  If you're curious about how to manage money better or increase your money literacy in order to make more educated decisions about your financial future, you may have a hard time getting the information you need from a bank.  Most banks don't provide you with free, no obligation financial advice, even if you're banking with them.  

That's not how it is at Financial Center (FCFCU).  At Financial Center you receive member-owned customer service that is about giving you the best experience and total security.  With online adviser programs and free seminars, or face-to-face advice, you will find complete confidence in the knowledge and expertise of the professionals at your local credit union.

Financial Center offers excellent savings products that most banks are not able to offer.  Competitive IRAs, money market accounts, share certificates, high interest savings accounts, and even HSAs, are all available. This Indianapolis Credit Union is ready to educate you to better financial freedom.  


Business Banking and Financial Services from Financial Center

Tuesday, March 23, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
If you're looking for a reliable financial institution for your business that will deliver more than just your standard business products, you may find your answer in a credit union, not a bank.  Rising apprehension and current economic depression has prompted many to seek alternate forms of banking and financial services.  Businesses, as well, are looking for better reliability and consistency in service.  

If you have a business in Indianapolis, it would be beneficial to you to looking into your financial needs at Finance Center Federal Credit Union (FCFCU).  This largest local credit union is premier when it comes to member-owned service and character.  As a growing institution for the past few decades, Financial Center has a wide range of services and options for businesses seeking to maximize their ability to manage their finances. 

Whether you're looking for bookkeeping services, business growth consulting, internal audit services, strategic planning, or even tax services, Financial Center will give you a host of options and a full list of services.  FCFCU has been focused on providing the best service to members for over 50 years.  The difference lies in resources to educate you with the best product to fit your needs.  Find fast, online credit union banking and an array of employee benefit programs, packaged to give you rounded and secure financial service. 

Your Indianapolis Credit Union is ready to help your business grow. 

Affordable Auto Coverage in Indianapolis

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Last week, a close friend took his car to the repair shop to fix its broken transmission.  He ended up needing major work done on the transmission. The procedure cost him over $2000.  That started me thinking, my own vehicle is pushing 120K miles and threatening repair work of its own.  Yesterday, I made a decision that I am confident in and leaves me at peace in the face of an inevitable breakdown.  

I was searching for auto coverage in Indianapolis, when I discovered a program through Finance Center Federal Credit Union's Auto and Consumer Loan section.  For literally pennies-a-day I was able to enroll in their Mechanical Breakdown Protection (MBP) program and have complete confidence of full coverage.  Through an easy, no obligation, free quote I found just how affordable extended warranty through FCFCU could be.  My vehicle qualified for Main Street Coverage and gave me complete peace of mind on all aspects of my car.  Engine, transmission, drive, A/C, brakes, cooling, fuel components, electrical, all standard parts and labor covered through Financial Center's MBP program (click here for full list of coverage).  I couldn't be happier knowing that if my car bites the dust tomorrow, I won't be hit with massive, out-of-pocket expenses that could break the bank. 

FCFCU MBP

Check out what I saw in Financial Center's auto products here.  Fill out a free, no obligation quote, or learn more about FCFCU's MBP service

Financial Center is a local Indianapolis credit union built around the principles of member-owned products and services.  If you are looking for a dependable auto loan in Indianapolis or affordable road side and repair coverage for your vehicle, FCFCU can help you.  

Beyond auto, learn more about credit union banking, money management and money education at Finance Center Federal Credit Union of Indianapolis.  

Contact your local Indianapolis credit union or learn more online

Increase your money literacy with services from Financial Center, Indianapolis

Tuesday, March 9, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Feel swamped by the never-ending offers from your local bank?  Not quite sure how to leverage your money to best work for you or want to make sure you avoid all the common pitfalls of most account holders out there?  Banks are always eager to 'educate' you on why their program will fit your needs but very, very few offer straight, no obligation financial advice.  Their stance is to leave it to the financial advisers out there. 

This is just one of the many reasons why credit unions are different.  Your local credit union is a member-owned, community based institution.  Their success is determined by your success.  Which is why Financial Center offers a program to members like Anytime Adviser.  Financial Center's Anytime Adviser is a unique and effective program to help you make the right decisions with your money and investments.  Obtain interactive advice anytime with online coaches ready to help you with topics such as Checking, Credit Management, ID Theft, Couples & Money, and Home Buying.  

If you're frustrated with your local Indianapolis bank you may want to consider a reputable credit union banking institution as an alternative.  At Financial Center, your money literacy and education is important to them.  Through Anytime Adviser and many free informative seminars, as well as friendly services at any Center, FCFCU is ready to help you.  Under their community charter, the Credit Union's field of membership is defined as anyone who is a part of the Indianapolis community, whether they or their family live, work, worship, attend school, or volunteer in Marion County.  With their "Once a Member, Always a Member" philosophy, Financial Center continues to retain the membership of several thousand military and civilian employees located around the world.

Today the local credit union has seven Centers located in Marion County with 145 employees serving over 42,000 members worldwide.  Open an account today at a Center, by phone, or online

That Time, Again: Tax Season

Monday, February 15, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
If you haven't already begun thinking about preparing your taxes, you better start soon.  We all know April 15th comes faster than expected.  Got questions?

Really understand the implications of your personal tax situation through our Indianapolis Credit Union's helpful seminar.  Experienced professionals at your fingertips is just one of the benefits of membership at Finance Center Federal Credit Union (FCFCU).  Key areas to discuss will be common deductions, tax planning, self-employed health care, and retirement planning.  

At FCFCU, membership resources are abundant.  Money education and literacy, and methods on how to manage your money are all available to members.  Helpful seminars and interactive guides through Anytime Adviser, are some the financial services and membership education provided to you.  
FCFCU Anytime Advisor

Learning about money couldn't be easier at FCFCU.  Check out the 2010 schedule of free member seminars.  Contact a Center or learn more online. 

Questions on Credit Union Cards

Monday, February 15, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Recent news has indicated that rising fees, higher rates, and unfavorable terms from the major credit card companies is probable soon. 

Sounds a bit extreme, but an article posted Friday explains the issuing of a legal, and looming interest rate of 79.9% on a First Premier Bank card.  Unbelievable? Check it out.

This is just one example of what may be ahead for credit card owners.  Many are stressing consumers be aware of all terms and conditions associated with their current and future cards concerning fees and inflated interest rates.  

You may want to include in your research local credit union cards as a viable alternative.  An article on Saturday by the AP answers many questions on why a local credit union card may be more beneficial than sticking with your current bank.  

Consider becoming a member at Financial Center Indianapolis for great rates and virtually no fees on cards.  Our local credit union boasts many financial services that the Indianapolis bank offers at more exceptional rates and better service.

Educate your self here, and consider credit union banking for all your banking needs.  Learn more about the local Indianapolis Credit Union. Contact FCFCU.

Life Registry for Life

Friday, February 12, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
The only registry you'll ever need.  Literally. 

 

It is such a hassle to keep the monetary gifts from friends and family straight when there are much more important things to be thinking about.  Planning a wedding or graduation is hard enough, not to mention organizing the gifts from your loved ones.  Finance Center Federal Credit Union of Indianapolis makes it easy with a one-stop shop Life Stages Registry ready to receive monetary gifts.  Instead of going crazy over multiple registries at multiple stores, consolidate to Financial Center's convenient Life Stages Registry and cut the hassle out.  

 

Whether it be a wedding, graduation or a new baby, Financial Center will organize and and maintain your registry with thoughtfulness and ease.  Anyone can contribute their gifts through FCFCU's announcement card and confirmation program.  Once the monetary gift is deposited you can access those funds at anytime, anywhere and for anything.  

 

Key Features of the Life Stages Registry:

- Establish an account to receive monetary gifts.

- Provide registry announcements that explain the program to your guests.

- Provide confirmation of all those who contribute to your account.

- Provide financial education resources for young adults and couples.

- Guests may contribute at any Financial Center location, via telephone or mail. 


View sample registry announcements from FCFCU for baby, graduation, or wedding. See any Financial Center Representative or call Member Services at 317.916.7700 or 800.473.2328 for further details.
 

 

 

Learn More About Online Credit Union Banking

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 by Michael Hostetler
The next member education seminar at our Indianapolis credit union focuses on online services.

Learn how to maximize your time and reduce your costs through the use of Financial Center's online services. Using both a classroom environment and hands on training, members will learn how to safely access their local credit union accounts via online options. Special focus will be given to a BillPayer demonstration.

This seminar will take place on Saturday, November 14th from 9 am to Noon at our Main Center location. To sign up, contact the marketing department at 317.916.6250 or send us an eMail at marketing@fcfcu.com.

We look forward to showing you how to manage money better through our online services.

Take Advantage of Bank on Indy at Indianapolis Bank Locations

Thursday, October 29, 2009 by Michael Hostetler
Our Indianapolis Credit Union is proud to be part of the Bank on Indy. This partnership between Indianapolis banks and credit unions aims to bring financial services to the 79,800 unbanked citizens in Marion County.

If you need tips on how to manage money better or if you need help learning about money, this program is right for you. The overall goal of Bank on Indy is to promote financial education in Indianapolis. If you've never had a savings or checking account, or if you've had trouble in the past and need a second chance, Bank on Indy is right for you. Indianapolis residents can take advantage of this program at any Financial Center location.

Here's what you will need to open your account.

1. A photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID card, or passport.

2. A second form of ID. A utility bill with your current address can be used.

3. Your Social Security number or your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

Get started with using financial services in Indianapolis. Open your Bank on Indy account today at our Indianapolis Credit Union.

More Awards for an Indianapolis Credit Union

Friday, September 18, 2009 by Michael Hostetler
The Indiana Credit Union League recently announced that Financial Center is the recipient of two awards given annually to select Indiana credit unions.

The first award that Financial Center won is the Dora Maxwell Award. The Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Recognition Award recognizes a credit union for its social responsibility work and charitable projects that support its community. Our entry focused on our work with the Mozel Sanders Foundation, the Castleton Kiwanis Club, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, Riley Children's Hospital, and Indiana Black Expo.

The second award that your local credit union won was the Alphonse Desjardins Award. The Desjardins Youth Financial Education Award recognizes leadership within the credit union movement on behalf of youth financial literacy. In addition to operating three student-run Centers at Indianapolis high schools, Financial Center also promoted money literacy within the Indianapolis community. The credit union was featured in a public service announcement with Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita regarding the NEFE Financial Literacy Program. The credit union also established relationships with Indianapolis churches to promote financial literacy and presented financial educationclasses in Spanish for the Hispanic community.

If you want to be a part of an award-winning financial institution focused on providing excellent service to the Indianapolis community, join Financial Center.

Skippy, The Lioness of JEL

Thursday, September 17, 2009 by Eric Vermilion

In our continuing series of FCFCU Center Managers, we have a chat with Haylee Teeple.

She manages our student-run Center at the J. Everett Light Career Center on the North Central High School campus. Haylee has been with us since June 2008 and she joins us today for an interview.

 

Eric: Haylee, thanks for the time. Are you a Hoosier

Haylee: Yep, Anderson, Middletown, Pendleton High School, and Ball State.

 

Will you tell me two true things about you and one lie in random order. We’ll try and pick the lie.

My nickname in high school was Skippy.  I’m going to run the mini marathon. I hate reading.

 

Who was your favorite childhood celebrity? 

Madonna was my first favorite album.

 

What is your favorite store? 

Kroger! I mean Kohl’s. I like a lot of stores. (Singing) Let’s go Krogering.

 

If you were stranded on an island what three things would you want?

My Husband, a set of knives, and matches. 

 

What word describes you? 

Genuine

 

If you were an animal which animal would you be

A lion! I could protect my family and I would be the top of the food chain!

 

Would you bungee jump? 

Yes, but I would puke my guts out.  And, I wouldn’t parachute out of a plane…

What is the difference?

I don’t know…I just wouldn’t.

 

What would you do if you won $10 million? 

Oh, man!  I would start a not-for-profit to help needy families, pay off my debts, invest (at FCFCU), buy a fabulous boat, vacation home, a lake house, and cars too. Oh my, I wish I really had won!

 

Tell me about the first time you did public speaking.  

I won a medal for the best speech in our 9th grade speech class. It was on flag burning. The next thing I knew I was up on stage in front of the whole school, the local VFW, and my mom!  I was so nervous and just like many speakers it was bad for the first minute and then I just kind of kicked it in and did fine. 

 

What is your greatest moment?

Being a mommy, a mentor to the kids here, a wife, and just overall helping people.

 

What radio station do you listen to?  

99.5. Smiley is the man!

 

What is your favorite TV show? 

Big Brother. I know I know, but it is terribly addicting.

 

On a scale of 1-10 rank yourself as a chef? 

7. No, a 6.  Not gourmet, but good. My staple is shepherds pie. It is yummy!

 

What makes FCFCU the best credit union in the nation?    

The commitment to the members is what we all work for and we take that very seriously. We really do want to do the best for our members.  Our involvement in the community and the financial education of our youth really makes us stand out. 

 

Did you know that FCFCU has 3 student branches in local high schools?  Did you know that these branches educate our local teenagers in banking and personal finance?  These branches were also cited as one of the reasons that your credit union won Federal Credit Union of the Year!

Upcoming Member Education Seminars

Tuesday, June 9, 2009 by Michael Hostetler
Financial Center offers you numerous ways to help you learn more about money and help you maximize your credit union banking experience.

Here's what's coming up at your Indianapolis credit union:

Investment Options - Saturday, June 20th
Gain an overview of what types of investment products we offer including annuities, mutual funds, and brokerage accounts. This seminar takes place from 10 am to Noon at our Main Center location.

Home Buyers Seminar - Saturday, August 15th
Making smart financial decisions regarding your home requires research and planning. Insightful information will be provided on topics such as choosing the best Realtor, the complete mortgage process, and the various mortgage products available. This seminar takes place from 10 am to Noon at our Main Center location.

To enroll in any of these seminars, call our marketing department at 317.916.6250 or send an email to dept.busdev@fcfcu.com.

Learn More about Online Banking this Saturday

Thursday, May 14, 2009 by Michael Hostetler
Financial Center will be hosting an Online Services member education seminar this Saturday at our Main Center credit union location in Indianapolis. Learn how to maximize your time and reduce your costs through the use of our online banking services. We use both a classroom environment and hands on training. We'll teach you how to safely access your credit union accounts online and give a special demonstration on how to use BillPayer.

The seminar will take place this Saturday (May 16th) from 9 am to Noon at our Main Center located at 7101 East 56th Street in Indianapolis.

Register today by calling our marketing department at 317.916.6250 or by sending an email to jodonnell@fcfcu.com.