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.
 


Manage Money With A Budget In Place

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

learning about moneyIn our current tough economic situation, it is very important that you know how to handle money. Learning about money is essential to manage your savings and expenditures.

Planning is very essential, when dealing with finances. A good plan will help in avoiding debt and you can save for all your future needs. It is not difficult to manage money if you have a budget in place. You must stick to the budget and avoid impulsive shopping.

Reduce non essential spending and when going out shopping always have a list of items to buy. This will help prevent frivolous shopping.

Another tip is to save regularly for your retirement. A financial plan will make your future secure and safe from any problems you may face.

If you're interested in learning about money, 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 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.
 

Wondering How To Manage Money?

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

The mortgage account indianapolisRecession has made everyone wary of spending money and most people who mismanaged their finances got into a deep financial mess. Managing money in a sensible way will help live a debt free life, free of any worries. Here are some tips:

  • Keep your expenditures under control and do not indulge in impulsive shopping.
  • Always carry a list of items to be bought while shopping and strictly adhere to the list.
  • Keep track of all your credit card purchases and pay your bills on time.
  • Budget and save each month. Invest the money prudently.
  • Minimize the use of credit cards.
  • You will need to track your income and your savings.
  • Consolidate your debt.

These simple tips on money literacy will help you have a good financial plan.

If you want to learn more about how to save 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.
 

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.  


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

Is your bank holding you back? Find ease in your local credit union.

Monday, March 15, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Is your online banking system cumbersome and still requiring you to make multiple trips to the bank every week?  If so, you are banking the old fashioned way.  Banking at Financial Center means no more waiting in lines or rushing to the bank on breaks.  Are you looking for more convenience from your bank or credit union?  Financial Center Online offers convenience at your fingertips 24 hours a day every day.

Not only is online banking with Financial Center Credit Union (FCFCU) advantageous but the easy interface and painless Billpayer application makes the experience a breeze.  I often become frustrated with online banking systems that aren't straightforward and user-friendly but online banking and money management with Financial Center is effortless.  Make multiple payments (Quick Pay) from one screen with the ability to select from your Savings, Checking, or Money Market accounts.  Send out one time payments and add virtually any payee you want. 

FCFCU has teamed with Microsoft Money and Quicken/Quickbooks to bring you even more simplicity through day-to-day money automation.  Service is free when you activate online banking with FCFCU.  Download your account history and receive intelligent methods to manage and monitor your finances.  Click here to view an online demo of how to use FCFCU online banking and Billpayer

A primary reason most do not consider a credit union for their banking and financial needs is because of the perception of narrow scope and limited services.  Your Indianapolis Credit Union offers practically every option you can receive at a national, regional or even local Indianapolis bank.  With member-owned customer service, online banking, HSA Accounts, and low Indianapolis loan rates, FCFCU has been offering exceptional and personal service for years. 

Look into membership with Finance Center Federal Credit Union.

Online banking features provided by Financial Center:
  • BillPayer
    • Send out one-time or recurring payments.
    • Multiple payments (Quick Pay) can be make from one screen with the ability to select from your Savings, Checking, or Money Market accounts.
    • Add any payee that you want (with certain exceptions). 
    • Find/Modify/Delete any payees.
    • View pending payments. Review bill payment history.
    • No charge with most of our checking accounts.
  • e-Documents
    • View and print images of your monthly financial statements and checks.
    • Two years of financial statement history available.
  • Account Services
    • Activate you CheckCard (debit card) online.
    • Purchase U.S. Savings Bonds online.
    • Place stop payment on a check.
    • Open new accounts (Checking, Club, or Savings).
    • Purchase and fund a certificate online.
    • Schedule recurring transfers.
    • Simplify loan payments.
    • Re-order checks online.
    • Control the distribution of your direct deposits. 
      Add/Modify/View automated distributions from your accounts.
  • Personal Finance
    • Review account histories, balances, and detail.
    • Inquire to see details on recently cleared check.
    • Transfer funds between accounts.
    • Make a withdrawal and have check mailed to you.
    • Free to all members

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

Start saving now with a Money Market Account from Financial Center

Monday, March 8, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Have you always operated a savings account at your bank?  Are you an avid saver, always trying to find the best deal for the greatest value and storing more in savings than the rest?  Or maybe you struggle with saving money and want to limit your access to you money so you do make poor decisions.  Either way, you may want to consider a Money Market Account from Finance Center Federal Credit Union

Money Market Accounts from your local credit union operate much like a savings account you're used to.  Some key differences include a higher APY and usually limited withdrawals and transfers made from that account.  In a Money Market account you are essentially placing a given sum of cash in the hands of your bank, and they are, in turn, investing your money across many low risk options.  You can learn more about Money Markets here.  

A Money Market with Financial Center is a great alternative to your savings account as it yields a higher APY than most savings accounts and it protects you from impulse buying as you are limited to six withdrawals per month.  

Financial Center offers three tiers of Money Market Account options, Standard Money Market, Premium Money Market, and Prestige Money Market, all based on amount of initial deposit and subsequent APY.  You can manage all of your Money Market Accounts with your credit union banking online.  Open a Money Market today and put your money to work for you. 

If you are looking for advice on how to manage money, or simply learn more about money and the options provided to you, Financial Center can help you.  With Anytime Adviser, an online explanation and advice tool, and scheduled free seminars, you can learn about how to better manage your money and improve your money literacy.

Find your Relief in your Indianapolis Credit Union

Tuesday, March 2, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team
Many of you are realizing you're not tied down to your bank and are making a switch to your local credit union.  Getting hit with high fees, hidden penalties, and extremely lousy interests rates are among the top reason for the swap. 

What we're realizing is a lot of you didn't even consider a credit union as a viable alternative to your bank.  Until now, that is.  So, let's explain some of the most important distinctions between your current bank and your credit union down the street. 

First, credit unions are member-owned.  Essentially, if you have an account with a credit union than you are part owner of that institution.  This results in you feeling less like a  number and more like person.  Credit unions are recognized as having some of the best customer service in the nation.  Second, credit unions are non-for-profit.  You current bank is a business. They seek a profit.  Hence, those fees and charges we were discussing earlier.  Credit unions are able to place any profits made back into the account holders as dividends.  How's that for a stark difference?  Thirdly, banks despise your local credit unions.  Credit unions more concerted structure means being exempt from most federal and state taxes.  Banks have spent a pretty penny trying to lobby credit unions into extinction.  

But when it all comes down to it people trust credit unions more than banks. A recent study released in the Financial Trust Index reports a 58% approval rating for credit unions.  In contrast, local banks scored a 53% and national banks scored 31%.

Bottom line?  Consider looking into opening an account with your Indianapolis credit union.  You Indianapolis Financial Center has competitive loan rates, online credit union banking, credit cards, advice and tips to improve your money literacy and how to manage your money.  

Contact us by calling 317.916.7700 or visit the Finance Center Federal Credit Union website. 

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. 

Rising Health Insurance Costs? Open a Health Savings Account

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by Michael Hostetler
With the rising costs of health insurance, many companies are encouraging employees to participate in a high deductible health plan and take advantage of a health savings account or HSA. An HSA is a different way to save for future health care expenses. HSAs enable you to pay for current health expenses and save for future qualified medical and retiree health expenses on a tax-free basis.

Members own and control the money in their health savings account plan. They can make decisions on how to spend money in their account without relying on a third party or a health insurer. Our Indianapolis Credit Union also offers multiple health savings account product options that enable you to earn interest on your health savings account.

Funds in your health savings account plan stay with you even if you switch employers. There is no "use it or lose it" provision. This is just one of the great HSA benefits our local credit union offers.

Our low-cost solution does not charge for setup, monthly account management, or PIN based debit card and ATM withdrawals.

If you have a high deductible health plan, consider opening a health savings account from our Indianapolis Credit Union.

Learning About Money at your Indianapolis Credit Union

Friday, January 22, 2010 by Michael Hostetler
One of the most important services that our local credit union provides to our members is our free member education seminars. We have finalized our schedule for 2010 and there are some exciting opportunities for you to learn how to manage money better this year.

Learn tips to help save money on your tax return. Learn how the new rules surrounding credit cards will affect you. Learn how to save and invest your money in the new economy. Learn how to use QuickBooks more effectively in your small business.

Take advantage of these opportunities this year. It's just one benefit of being a member of our Indianapolis Credit Union.

Have a suggestion for a new seminar? Send us an eMail at marketing@fcfcu.com.

Write It Down

Monday, November 16, 2009 by Michael Hostetler
I've decided to start on my New Year's resolution early this year. One of the goals I've set is to eat a more healthy diet.

One of the ways that I've been keeping track of what I'm eating is by writing it in a journal. This is helping me stay on track and avoid junk food and other unhealthy items. It's working so far. When deciding what to have for breakfast, the thought of having to write down "Cocoa Puffs" instead of "Oatmeal" has kept me from selecting the less nutritious choice.

This method is a great way to help you reach your savings goal each month and show you how to manage money better. Write down the expenses you have each month that are unnecessary and extraneous. This might help you avoid making impulse purchases or spending money on items that you don't really need. Cut out these expenses, and you can reach your savings goal each month!

To help reach all of your financial goals, move your bank accounts to an Indianapolis credit union. At Financial Center, we're here to help. Visit us today! 

How to Manage Money

Friday, November 13, 2009 by Debby Blake

What do VHS tapes, stamps and checkbook registers have in common?  Obsolete technology! 

 

At your local Indianapolis credit union, there are better options for managing your money than keeping a checkbook register.  Check out your easier options through our on-line banking:

 

Ø      on-line banking that features free downloads to either Quicken, Money or QuickBooks

Ø      free bill payer with easy payee set up and tracking

Ø      easy transaction search

Ø      view statement and check copies

 

Visit us at www.fcfcu.com and sign up for on line banking today! 

 

 

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.

Can You Save $100 at an Indianapolis Credit Union?

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Michael Hostetler
Everyone is searching for ways to stretch their budgets further and find more effective ways on how to manage money. One way to save money is to evaluate your debt and find areas where you can save money.

At our Indianapolis credit union, we're offering members the chance to bring their outstanding mortgages, home equity loans, auto loans, and credit cards to their local credit union to save money. Our goal is to save each member at least $100 a year in interest payments. If we can't save you a $100 in a year, we'll give you $100.

Stop in one of our Indianapolis credit union locations and take the $100 challenge. Find out how much your local credit union can save you.  

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.

Facing Foreclosure? Credit Unions are Stepping up to Help

Tuesday, August 25, 2009 by Michael Hostetler
One of my favorite parts of working as part of the credit union banking industry, is the opportunity to see how credit unions across the country are reaching out to help their members and show them how to manage money.

One new website that I heard about from some fellow staff members here at Financial Center, was Right at Home from the Michigan Credit Union League. This site provides tips on avoiding foreclosure, problem solving guides to help you deal with rising mortgage payments, and information on mortgage products that may fit more comfortably within your budget.

If you're facing foreclosure or have a mortgage account in Indianapolis that you're struggling to keep up with, contact your local credit union. We're ready to help.


There's more to college finances than paying tuition

Friday, August 14, 2009 by Greg Schmeisser

My daughter is almost prepared to move off to her first year at college. It has been interesting to watch her prepare for the event. Most of the summer was spent almost in denial that the move was coming. Now, when there are only a couple of weeks before move-in day, the activities are increasing. She is organizing lists of items to remember to pack, to purchase, and to make sure her roommates are bringing. The questions go like this: Is anyone bringing a microwave, TV, dvd player, etc.? What is your cell number? Do you have a txt’ing plan? Are you on Facebook?

Observing all this I reflected on how little I took to college my freshman year. A bicycle, a large suitcase full of clothes, laundry supplies, some school supplies, an Apple IIe, and a checkbook are really the only things that I recall. The recollection got me thinking about how different this will be for Kristen.

One of my biggest challenges was managing finances from 2.5 hours away from a branch in a time when branches were necessary for deposits. Back in that day, phone banking much less PC banking were non-existent, ATMs only talked to the bank they were in, the only plastic that could be used for a purchase was a Credit Card and no one my age had one of those. So, I had the only tool available a checkbook. When my checkbook balance got low, I had to pay for a long distance call to my parents so they could go to the branch at home and transfer money from their account into my checking account.

By contrast, my daughter has a Reward Checking account (earning 4.51% interest), online banking, phone banking, and a Debit Card. Her accounts and mine are at Finance Center FCU. When she needs extra funds, I can transfer them from my account to her account 24x7 and the funds move in real-time using a PC, an ATM, or the phone. She has a checkbook but the box of checks she received will probably last until after her college graduation, because she does not write checks; she uses her debit card for purchases.

Her school is 4 hours from a Finance Center FCU branch , but if she gets a check while at school she can go to either an ATM or a Shared Branch Service Center in her town to deposit the item into her account. She will probably never get a check from a student, they all use PayPal to transfer funds when splitting a pizza bill, and the school uses direct deposit and direct debits.

When I was at college, I had to keep my checkbook balanced or I would never know when I was running low on funds. Kristen’s Finance Center FCU account sends her an email when her balance is below any threshold she has set. She still keeps track of the balance, but the system tells her that she is in need of a little cash.

Could the capabilities of Finance Center FCU help you and your student get ready for a new stage in your life? Our products and services eliminate the problems of a long-distance relationship.

Is your high school student already managing a checking account? Have you considered a student checking account at Finance Center FCU?