Are you using Overdraft Services from Financial Center?

Wednesday, June 30, 2010 by Michael Hostetler
Effective July 1, 2010, for new accounts and prior to August 15, 2010, for existing accounts, federal regulations require members who are eligible for Overdraft Services to opt-in to the program in order to be covered even if they have been covered in the past.

What does Overdraft Services cover?
Overdraft Services covers your everyday debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals even if you have insufficient funds in your account. Overdraft Services allows you to complete your transaction and purchase items that you need such as groceries or gas when you may have insufficient funds in your account. Overdraft Services is available when you need it the most when emergency situations arise and you do not have sufficient money in your account.

How much does Overdraft Services cost?
If you overdraw your account through an everyday debit card transaction or ATM withdrawal, Financial Center will charge you a $33 fee to authorize the transaction. This fee will be assessed each time you use your debit card or make a withdrawal from an ATM until you have sufficient funds in your account to cover the transaction. We only charge a fee when you utilize Overdraft Services. It is free to opt-in for this service, and the service is free even if you never use it.

Please tell us if you want to keep this convenient coverage on your account for everyday debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals. If you do not opt-in to Overdraft Services and there are insufficient funds to cover a transaction when you need it, Financial Center will not authorize the transaction after August 15, 2010.

If you choose to opt-in to Overdraft Services, these transactions will continue to be covered.

Click here to either opt-in or opt-out of Overdraft Services from Financial Center. Your response is needed by July 1, 2010.

If you have further questions, contact your Indianapolis credit union at 317.916.7700 or 800.473.2328 or visit any Center location.

Interchange Changes Could Cost You Money

Monday, June 7, 2010 by Michael Hostetler
Each time that you use your Financial Center debit or credit card, a merchant is paid immediately and your Indianapolis credit union receives interchange. Interchange helps pay the cost of many local credit union services such as reissuing cards compromised by a merchant data breach and supplying a contact center that is available when your debit or credit card is lost or stolen.

The United States Senate passed a financial reform bill that included provisions that would make changes to this card payment and interchange system. If you have a Financial Center debit or credit card, interchange supports the program that you depend on. If interchange is reduced and changes were made that hindered the ability for Financial Center to adequately support the program, then you may end up paying more to use your debit or credit card.

Furthermore, this legislation may allow merchants and retailers to discriminate against which debit cards they accept. Merchants and retailers may reject your debit card, regardless of what financial institution you belong to.

The current system allows your Indianapolis credit union to provide competitive and member-friendly products such as our debit and credit cards. Please join your local credit union in voicing opposition to this legislation. 

Important Changes are Coming to your Account

Thursday, June 3, 2010 by Michael Hostetler
Effective July 1, 2010, for new accounts and prior to August 15, 2010, for existing accounts, federal regulations require members who are eligible for Overdraft Services to opt-in to the program in order to be covered even if they have been covered in the past.

What does Overdraft Services cover?
Overdraft Services covers your everyday debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals even if you have insufficient funds in your account. Overdraft Services allows you to complete your transaction and purchase items that you need such as groceries or gas when you may have insufficient funds in your account. Overdraft Services is available when you need it the most when emergency situations arise and you do not have sufficient money in your account.

How much does Overdraft Services cost?
If you overdraw your account through an everyday debit card transaction or ATM withdrawal, Financial Center will charge you a $33 fee to authorize the transaction. This fee will be assessed each time you use your debit card or make a withdrawal from an ATM until you have sufficient funds in your account to cover the transaction. We only charge a fee when you utilize Overdraft Services. It is free to opt-in for this service, and the service is free even if you never use it.

Please tell us if you want to keep this convenient coverage on your account for everyday debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals. If you do not opt-in to Overdraft Services and there are insufficient funds to cover a transaction when you need it, Financial Center will not authorize the transaction after August 15, 2010.

If you choose to opt-in to Overdraft Services, these transactions will continue to be covered.

Click here to either opt-in or opt-out of Overdraft Services from Financial Center. Your response is needed by July 1, 2010.

If you have further questions, contact your Indianapolis credit union at 317.916.7700 or 800.473.2328 or visit any Center location.

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.
 

What Are The Advantages Of Credit Union Banking?

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

learning about moneyWhat are the advantages of credit union banking? Credit unions are nonprofit organizations and becoming a member is relatively easy if you belong to a particular labor union or residential community. The financial services that are offered by credit unions are very much similar to banks, yet credit unions are owned by their members.

Credit union banking offers plenty of financial services and the interest rates on loans of these services are favorable when compared to banks. Lower fees and lower interest rates on credit cards offered by credit unions make them extremely popular. The loans offered at credit unions also offer lower interest rates.

If you're interested in learning about putting your money into credit union banking, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Financial Center of Indianapolis.   


Looking For Financial Services Indianapolis?

Monday, April 26, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

financial servicesIf you are looking for financial services Indianapolis, you've come to the right place. 

We will help you handle your money in a better manner, which will help reduce debt. The world has witnessed one of its worst ever recessions and people with bad money management skills have accumulated debts and their credit history ratings have taken a fall.

The question, of course, is "how to manage money?" Here are some wonderful tips that will help you manage your finances better.

  • Pay your bills on time and avoid late fees. Most people end up paying late fees every month, which when saved will help you get rid of your debt quickly.
  • Follow a monthly budget. Prepare a financial plan and stick to it.
  • Avoid unnecessary expenses and do not indulge in impulsive shopping.
  • Try getting a best deal on your mortgage by consolidating it. You can also reduce your mortgage cost by refinancing it.

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

Looking for the Best HSA Plan?

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

hsa planHSA accounts help save money on health care. Employers who contribute towards their employee’s health plan also save a lot of money. HSA savings for individuals amount to $100.00 - $300.00 per month and over a number of years, this amount becomes quite substantial.

Contributions can be made by anyone on behalf of the beneficiary. An individual over the age of 65 can make a contribution to the account of an individual who is under the age of 65.

You can compare the best HSA plans online and choose one that best suits the needs of you and your family. Self employed people can also contribute to HSA accounts; you can also have access to the best medical services if you have regularly contributed to your HSA account.

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


Build A Good Credit History

Monday, April 19, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

credit cardMost credit unions offer secured cards to their members. You can use a secured credit card to build a credit history. In order to build a good credit history, you will need to only buy what is necessary and not indulge in impulsive shopping.

You should also pay off the card every month. In fact, your best bet would be to pay in full to gain an excellent credit history. As your credit rating improves, you can apply for an unsecured card. Most banks and credit unions normally observe individual usage of the secured card for a year, before accepting the application, for an unsecured card.

The process of getting a credit union credit card is much easier that getting it from a bank. Since you are a member of the credit union and not a customer, it enables you to get better customer service at the credit union. 

Contact us at Financial Center of Indianapolis for questions that you have about opening a credit union secured credit card.  You might also be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 

Why a Credit Union Bank Card is Better

Friday, April 16, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

federal union credit cardA federal credit union credit card offers the friendliest service to customers. The new federal bill, which is known as the CARD Act has prohibited banks from indulging in practices that are harmful to their credit card customers.

The Act stops the banks from charging customers exorbitant fees and banks have adopted new means to get over the provisions of the Act. Interest rates are increased by most banks and the annual fees have also been increased substantially.

However, a credit union bank card has always been a better option when compared to these large banks.  Why?  Because the interest rate cannot be more than 18% and there are less fees.

Contact us at Financial Center of Indianapolis for your questions about a credit card.  While you're at it, you might be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 


5 Reasons To Have A Health Savings Account

Wednesday, April 14, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

Are you wondering if you should have a health savings account?  We came up with five reasons to have health savings accounts.

1. Monthly premiums are less – High deductible health programs which are necessary for a health savings account can be 20% to 50% lower depending on the place of residence of the individual. This would mean that you pay less with each passing month.

2. Wide range of services – The money saved provides for a wide range of health care products like eye care, dental care, buying prescription drugs and much more.

3. No expiration for a Health Savings Account – The HSA contributions will continue to be in the account until the time they are used.

4. Funds can be used for any purpose – The funds that are contributed can be used for any purpose apart from health care. A tax deduction is received on the contribution and these contributions can be invested in high interest investments.

5. IRA funding allowed –
If the participant to the fund does not have enough money, they can use the money from IRA to do so but it can be done just once.

All these benefits make opening health savings account a good and sensible decision.

Contact us at Financial Center of Indianapolis for questions that you have about opening an HSA.  You might also be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 

Why Would I Want A Credit Union Bank Credit Card?

Monday, April 12, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

federal union credit cardPeople are tired of getting bad customer service and high interest rates that are prevalent at most banks and therefore they are gravitating towards having a federal credit union credit card since it offers them the maximum benefits.

A credit union bank card has low fees and lower interest rates, when compared to banks, and this makes it an ideal choice during our recession. Of course, all of your banking activities can be done at a credit union.

A federal union credit card can be used at hundreds of ATMs that are spread all over the country.  It is also quite easy to become a member of the Credit Union as the requirements are quite simple and easy to fulfill.

Contact us at Financial Center of Indianapolis for questions that you have about opening a credit card.  You might be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 

What's the Benefit of a Federal Credit Union Compared to a Bank?

Saturday, April 10, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

federal union credit cardA credit union is member focused rather than profit focused, which is what most banks are.

The interest rates and fees that are charged for a federal credit union credit card are significantly lower when compared to the bank, as they do not operate for profit.

There are a number of people who are opting for a federal credit union credit card as the interest rate is much less, which is a big benefit during our current recession.

Financial Center, which serves members in the Indianapolis area, offers a number of products and services that are useful to credit union members. Our credit union also offers its services to military and civilian personnel stationed overseas.

Contact us at Financial Center of Indianapolis for questions that you have about us.  You might be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 

5 Reasons to Have a Federal Credit Union Credit Card

Wednesday, April 7, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

federal union credit cardA federal credit union credit card is issued to members of our credit union and comes with a number of protections and benefits, which your bank may not be able to provide.

5 Reasons To Have A Federal Credit Union Credit Card:
 

  • Interest rates are capped – There is a limit to the interest rate, which can be charged by a credit union and there are legal provisions regarding this. The interest rate cannot be more than 18%. Banks do not have such a cap on the interest rates which makes them very expensive.
  • Interest rates are lower – The interest charges on federal credit union credit cards are much lower.
  • Less fees – The fees charged are quite less. The penalty amount in case of nonpayment is also significantly lower.
  • Members own the credit union – The members of the credit union get a number of benefits, which are generally not available to bank customers.
  • Excellent service – The customer service is always better with a credit union.

Consider Financial Center of Indianapolis for your banking needs.  While you're at it, you might be interested in our Reward Checking which earns dividends.
 

Using Online Banking and BillPayer

Saturday, April 3, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Are you using separate accounts for your banking and bill paying?  Are you still mailing in your bills the old fashioned way?  Or, are you still logging in to the vendor's web site in order to pay your bills?  Doesn't the peace of mind in knowing you can instantly pay your bills anytime, and anywhere there is an Internet connection sound attractive?  

If you're looking for an intuitive, streamlined bill paying system that provides you all of the flexibility you need to cover every bill, you should consider credit union banking online.  Finance Center Federal Credit Union (FCFCU) has developed a comprehensive extension of their online banking system in Bill Payer.  With the convenience of the Internet you have the capabilities to access and manage your accounts 24/7, and from whereever life takes you.  

With our Indianapolis credit union you can send out one-time or recurring payments and even make multiple payments at once with their Quick Pay feature.  Financial Center online banking gives you the freedom to micro-manage all of your accounts for free.  

If you're considering finding a more friendly and supportive alternative to your Indianapolis bank, then look into the extensive array of services from Financial Center.  

Find reasons to Move Your Money from your bank

Monday, March 29, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Many reports have been released in the last few months commenting on the overwhelming number of consumers that have been making the switch from their banks to local credit unions.

There has been rather large shifts going on in the banking industry in the last year, and banks have been forced to respond by increasing their fees and adding hidden costs.  Many angry Americans are fed up with the way the national banks have been treating their customers.  They say the bail outs and more fees have just meant more money in their pockets.  

Financial advisors across the country have been starting a 'Move Your Money' initiative, encouraging consumers to ditch the 26% and higher credit card fees for a card from a credit union or smaller, solvent-free banks.  There has even been a Facebook group created to circulate the message.  The Move Your Money page already has almost 36,000 fans.  Fans of the page are posting comments like, "It's nice to finally return to a bank that remembers me by name."  

If your bank has been treating you unfairly or creating massive fee hikes, then it may be time for you to consider making a switch to an Indianapolis credit union.  

Financial Center has many of the same products and services you would find at your current bank, but we provide a superior customer experience which keeps your financial goals and needs at the top of our list of priorities.

Consider the switch to Financial Center and receive great Indianapolis loan rates and convenient online banking for business and individual.  Credit Union banking with Financial Center couldn't be easier.  

Credit Union Seen for Ease and Benefits - Growing Rapidly

Sunday, March 28, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
This last week credit unions have received multiple positive media reviews concerning issues like growth, member business loans, credit card rates, benefits of credit unions and more.  Many are saying the only difference between credit unions and banks is who owns them.  Your local credit union's structure is based upon member satisfaction and they only operate on the benefit of the account holder.  

For many reasons, one being major tax differences, credit unions are able to cut fees and offer better loan rates that other banks would need in order to turn a profit.  This one difference is the key to credit unions ability to offer every kind of service the consumer that a bank can.  While banks are run by outside investors using deposited funds to loan to other people at an interest rate for a profit, credit unions are actually not-for-profit operations owned and operated by the people who belong to them. When profit is made on interest, it is reinvested in its members in the form of higher savings rates or lower loan rates.

The benefits of a credit union over a bank don't just end financially. Credit unions are built on the philosophy of community building. As an example of nondiscriminatory business practices, credit unions began in the 1840s in England to help community members when banks would not give them any notice because they weren't wealthy enough.

If you're one who is interested in banking ease, Financial Center (FCFCU) is an Indianapolis credit union built on your success.  With great rates on Health Savings Account Plans, insurance and investment opportunities, loans and credit, and convenient fast banking, FCFCU is an excellent alternative to your current bank.  

If you're ready to join the ranks of the 85 million credit union members nationally, consider making the shift to Financial Center of Indianapolis

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.  


Fund your new project with great loan rates from Financial Center

Thursday, March 25, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Starting a new project?  Believe it or not, right now is one of the best times to start a home improvement project, or a new construction project.  If you have put off your home project for a better day, you might want to rethink.  Take advantage of the economy and the prices and make your improvements now, so when the market does recover you are ready with a substantial house and a larger profit difference.  

Most projects of this magnitude require a notable amount of pocket change, which is where Financial Center (FCFCU) comes in.  As with most credit unions, Financial Center is able to offer better rates on all types of loans than your typical regional and even national bank can.  Due to member-ownership and tax differences, Financial Center has been able to offer great Indianapolis loan rates for decades.  Whether you're interested in an auto loan, home loan, personal loan, recreational loan, or equity line of credit, FCFCU has the resources and services to provide you with a great experience.  

While you're there, you may want to look in to the convenient banking options offered by your local credit union, as well.  With fast online banking, and great rates on cards, checking accounts, money markets, and even share certificates, your Indianapolis Credit Union provides ease and security.  

With great member resources and business consulting, you can increase your ability to manage your money and make great, guided decisions for your financial future.

Look into membership with Financial Center. 


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