Indianapolis Credit Union

Indianapolis Credit Union Offers Directo a Mexico

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 by Debby Blake

Want an easy way to send funds to a family member in Mexico? Financial Center, your local credit union, now

offers a new financial service to help you. Directo a Mexico is a secure, low cost, fast and convenient way to transfer your money to Mexico. Ask one of your Credit Union associates to tell you more about Directo a Mexico. We think you will agree that it's the best way to send money home. Contact us today at 317.916.7700 to learn more.

Credit Card Solutions From Your Local Credit Union - Financial Center

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

It isn't breaking news anymore that credit card companies came under new regulation last month. In the last couple months you may have been receiving notices in the mail from your bank or credit card companies indicating the changes that were to take place. With more regulation to come in August, the government has taken a harder stance on a few of the ways credit card companies make a profit. As an obvious cause-effect scenario, these companies are finding other loopholes to leverage compensating on the profit loss through the new regulations.

In an article posted this morning at USA Today, Sandra Block explains in her weekly financial column advice and tips on how to avoid becoming victim to these new loopholes. One of her suggestions is to consider switching to your local credit union for cards. She explains how credit unions are able to have lower fees on credit cards (or no fees at all). According to a survey, median credit union late payment fees are $20, as apposed to $39 from bank credit cards.

If you're looking for a new Indianapolis bank you may want to consider checking out the credit card options at Financial Center. Credit union banking with Financial Center offers virtually all of the options that your current bank provides with the added bonus of lower fees and member-owned customer service.

Some of the features of a VISA Platinum credit card from FCFCU:

Fixed rate
Credit line up to $30,000
No annual fee
No cash advance fee
25 day grace period on purchases
Skip-a-payment option
Low 2% minimum payment required
Automatic payment from account

Consider becoming a member at your local Financial Center of Indianapolis. Or, move your accounts over to Financial Center.

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.

Help Haiti at Your Local Indianapolis Credit Union

Friday, March 5, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

Are you not quite sure how you want to help the Haiti relief project? Haitian residents are still in need of adequate supplies and aid in this desperate time. It has been over a month since the earthquake rumbled the small country and the giving nationwide (and even globally) has been remarkable. But, please don't think this a quick fix problem. The infrastructure of the country was so frail pre-earthquake that the road to recovery will take years and the American Red Cross is still in need of your valuable donations.

Your local credit union, Financial Center of Indianapolis, has pledged to donate funds to the American Red Cross to help with the relief effort. The staff at Financial Center is trying to make a difference in this disaster and they are asking for your help, as well. Financial Center has set up a system to make donations to the American Red Cross directly from your member accounts. Not only that, but FCFCU will match overall total member donations up to $2,500.00. Members can make donations by phone, by visiting any Financial Center location, or through the secure messaging feature in online banking.

This is just one way your Indianapolis Credit Union is different from other banks. The staff at Financial Center are willing and able to put a face to an institution and rise to meet even global challenges that we face. Financial Center is a member-owned credit union with personality and a heart, dedicated to serving the community not just here in Indianapolis, but around the World.

If you're looking for more out of your bank, or maybe you've been looking to open a checking account in Indianapolis, or maybe a Health Savings Account Plan, or possibly looking for better loan rates, consider Financial Center of Indianapolis. And when you do, consider giving a little of yourself to help the relief effort going on in Haiti right now.

Just another way your local credit union is more than just a bank.

Finance Center Federal Credit Union offers virtually all the benefits that your current bank does but with lower and even less fees, no hidden agenda, and better all around rates. Virtually anyone can become a member and find convenience in online banking, checking, savings, credit cards, money literacy, and even HSAs with Financial Center.

Save today with an HSA from your Indianapolis Credit Union

Wednesday, March 3, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

Now could not be a better time to find an alternative to rising health care costs. Ease the burden of out-of-pocket health costs, earn interest year after year, and enjoy tax free withdrawals on a Health Savings Account Plan from your Indianapolis Credit Union.

Curious about what an HSA is? According to the US. Department of the Treasury, “Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) were created by the Medicare bill signed by President Bush on December 8, 2003 and are designed to help individuals save for future qualified medical and retiree health expenses on a tax-free basis.” Read more on the US Dept of the Treasury website here.

Employers can save between 25 percent and 30 percent on health premiums by switching to an HSA. Those savings usually translate into lower premiums for employees – savings that employees can use to maximize their health savings accounts.

Financial Center offers the best Health Savings Account in the Indianapolis area. An HSA allows you to deposit funds to pay for current or future medical expenses. Funds used are tax free and remain in your account year after year. With numerous product options, zero fees, and the opportunity to earn dividends on your HSA, Financial Center is the right choice for your Health Savings Account. FCFCU has HSA options for Employers, Employees, and Insurance Brokers.

Open your HSA with FCFCU on-line or learn more at Health Savings Account FAQ.

Learn more about why more people are switching to credit union banking from their current banks.

Better loan rates at your Indianapolis Credit Union

Tuesday, March 2, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

As we have reclaimed the fighting spirit within this recent economic slump many of you are seeking loans to help you recover or to begin a new prospect and a fresh slate. But where does one turn in such a state of bank distrust? Are your national and even local bank loans going to force you to keeping counting pennies in your piggy bank? Where can you find an institution you can trust?

How about a member-owned credit union? Our Indianapolis Credit Union has virtually all of the benefits, programs, and incentives that your current bank does, and, under a non-for-profit structure, is able to offer you Indianapolis loan rates that beat any Indianapolis bank. Finance Center Federal Credit Union of Indianapolis (FCFCU) offers competitive auto loans, home equity, personal loans and more.

In an article posted on MSN Money, Liz Weston (the web's most-read personal finance author) explains the benefits of Credit Unions. "The nation's credit unions count 90 million members, and their trade association estimates members save $8 billion a year thanks to better interest rates and reduced fees. Credit-union-issued credit cards, for example, tend not to have annual fees or to charge punitive interest rates for a single late payment."

Consider opening an account and begin your credit union banking experience with FCFCU.

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.

Five Reasons to Switch to a Credit Union Credit Card

Thursday, February 25, 2010 by Michael Hostetler

David K. Randall of Forbes.com gave five reasons this week why consumers should consider switching their credit card to one from a local credit union. Here are his reasons:

Apply for a Financial Center VISA Platinum Credit Card

1. Interest rate caps.
2. Lower interest rates.
3. Lower fees.
4. Credit unions are member-owned.
5. Increased service.

Financial Center is an Indianapolis Credit Union committed to helping our members achieve their financial goals and save more money through our products and services.

If your credit card company recently raised your interest rate or is implementing additional fees, apply for a VISA Credit Card from Financial Center.

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.

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.

Businesses Seeking Loans

Monday, February 15, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

More and more, small businesses are seeking loans from local credit unions rather than large banks. Why?

Ease, security, low rates, and fast reliable member-owner services from our Indianapolis Credit Union are among the answers. Since their development, local credit unions are infamous for their low rates on loans, but today they offer so much more. Personal loans, Home Equity, Home Loans, Auto Loans, and Recreational Loans are all available with membership at Financial Center.

According to a recent Washington Post story, the Credit Union National Association's chief economist has announced that credit unions' small-business loans are up from less than $10 billion at the end of 2003 to more than $35 billion last September.

Lawmakers are trying to change the 1998 loan cap from 12.25 percent to 25 percent, in a bill proposed to Congress in December. Experts say credit union loans will be as high as $10 billion in the first year if this cap is raised.

Consider a loan for whatever your need at our local Indianapolis credit union. Learn more about Indianapolis Loan Rates, Credit Union Banking, and FCFCU membership.

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.

Tired of the BIG Bank?

Friday, February 12, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

Losing confidence in the big banks? I am too. All it takes is an intelligent person and a search engine and you can find an abundance of articles informing regional banks are failing more these days than before (sample article one, two, three). The FDIC is closing banks left and right, click here for the latest data updated 5 Feb 10 by the FDIC.

More and more, we are finding trust in our local, member owned credit unions. Most people come across credit unions when seeking solid rates on loans or financing, but turns out local credit unions can provide much more than that. In a recent article posted at Money Talk by LA Times' Liz Weston, you can find exactly what I'm talking about. People are losing heart in big, greedy banks and want to find security in member owned credit unions.

Being from Indy, the Indianapolis credit union I've found is Finance Center Federal Credit Union. In general, banking with credit unions translates to cheaper fees (if any), better rates on loans, thousands of ATMs, and most offer convenient online banking. Credit union banking is simple and streamlined, and FCFCU provided the savings and money market options I was looking for. All this, with the piece of mind of supporting my local Indianapolis credit union.

Visit Financial Center for more products and services or contact your local Center.

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.

Great News for Parents and Students on Overdrafts

Friday, February 12, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

One of the biggest hurdles to overcome when learning about personal financial management is how to accurately monitor your expenses. For parents, checking and debit accounts offer a wonderful alternative to a credit card but many can be just as confusing to maintain. Written checks, debit cards, online purchases and ATM withdrawals can be hard to track effectively. Children, students and adults alike all are fearful of the consequence that comes with overdrawing your account. Large initial fees, daily fees and poor confidence can build up unnoticed and quickly.

Thankfully, Finance Center Federal Credit Union of Indianapolis, IN offers a solution. The en genius system, from your local credit union, is called FlexLine. In short, FlexLine is a flexible line of credit that offers you protection, convenience and privacy. Think of it as your back up plan, your "oops" factor, your hallelujah angel with wings. When you accidentally make a mathematical error in your checking, make too large of an ATM withdrawal, or get behind in your checkbook register, FlexLine is quietly waiting there on your behalf to cover up your mistake. When these accidents do occur, Financial Center will automatically transfer from your FlexLine in $25 installments. Designed as a solution to overdrafts, FlexLine will give you peace of mind and protection from nasty slip ups with privacy. When you realize your miscalculation, the credit is as easy to pay off as picking up the phone or turning on your computer.

Not only will it provide protection, you can also use this line of credit to make major purchases or everyday expenses. Essentially, FlexLine is a credit account with a specific purpose of your safety in mind.

With the confidence in national banks diminishing, FlexLine is just one more way Financial Center is a reliable alternative for all of your (or your kids') financial needs. FCFCU is not just another Indianapolis bank, it remains as an institution with valued financial offerings and the highest level of personal service excellence attainable in the market.

Find more useful information on overdraft protection and other services from FCFCU credit union banking here.

What our Members Have to Say - Great Experience with Auto Loan

Wednesday, February 3, 2010 by Member Testimonials

"My husband and I purchased a new vehicle last summer and initially financed it through a bank near the auto dealer. Financial Center not only offered a lower rate, but allowed us to conveniently stop in on our lunch break to sign the paperwork. The process was quick and the staff were friendly and helpful. We are very pleased with our decision to finance with Financial Center and definitely will return for our future lending needs."

Katie
Fishers, IN

Consumers Trust Credit Unions More than Banks

Thursday, January 28, 2010 by Michael Hostetler

Finance professors from the University of Chicago and Northwestern University released their latest version of the Financial Trust Index this week. This report gauges Americans' trust and approval of our nation's financial system.

Here's what the report found:

Credit unions had a 58% approval rating.
Local banks had a 53% rating.
National banks had a 31% rating.

More consumers are moving their accounts from big banks to a smaller, local credit union. If you're searching for an Indianapolis Credit Union to help you manage your personal finances, consider joining Financial Center.

We're an institution that you can trust.

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.

Make a Donation to the American Red Cross Directly from your Credit Union Account

Wednesday, January 20, 2010 by Michael Hostetler

Financial Center is joining in the efforts of people all around the world in helping to raise money for the earthquake victims in Haiti. Credit Union members are now able to make a donation directly from their accounts to the American Red Cross.

Members may make donations by visiting any Financial Center location, by phone, or through the secure messaging feature in online banking.

The secure messaging feature can be found on the left hand side of your online banking screen. In your message please include the account (savings, checking, etc.) that you would like to make the donation from, the amount of your donation, and when you would like us to withdraw the money from your account. Please include the word "HAITI" in the subject line of your message.

Financial Center will be donating $5,000 to the American Red Cross. In addition, we will be matching our total member contributions up to $2,500.

If you have any additional questions, please contact our Indianapolis Credit Union at 317.916.7700 or visit any of our Indianapolis locations.

Financial Center will be Closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Friday, January 15, 2010 by Michael Hostetler

Your Indianapolis credit union will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 18th. We will resume business on Tuesday, January 19th.

Members may still access their credit union accounts via online banking, our bank by phone system, mobile banking, and our ATMs.