Indianapolis Finance Center

Want To Know How to Manage Money?

Sunday, May 9, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

Personal 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

In 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

If 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 Recession 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.

Money Education Tips

Wednesday, April 21, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

If 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.

What is the Purpose of an HSA?

Friday, April 16, 2010 by FCFCU Web Team

HSA accounts help balance high health insurance costs. A number of small businesses are helping their employees by making a contribution to an HSA.

HSA accounts have become very popular because they offer a great opportunity to pay for current medical expenses and save for future emergencies.

The monthly premiums that are paid for in this plan are less compared to the conventional health insurance policies that are available. It also helps protect your finances, as contributions to the fund are quite safe.

You can get all the information that you want about HSA banks with tax benefits and contributions online. You can also do a comparative study of the various plans that are offered and choose one that best suits your requirements.

Contact us at Financial Center of Indianapolis for questions that you have about a health savings account in Indianapolis.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Check Out a Local Credit Union for Hidden Savings

Thursday, January 7, 2010 by Michael Hostetler

Suze Orman recently published her easy money to-do list for 2010. Orman has three steps for readers to get their "financial house in order."

1. Get a grip.

2. Find hidden savings.

3. Build security.

Under step 2 Orman suggests that readers check out a local credit union. She wrote, "Credit unions are often a better deal than banks and tend to pay higher yields on deposits."

Financial Center can help you get a grip on your finances in 2010 and have products that can help you meet your goals. Looking to purchase a new home or vehicle? Searching for a new credit card to avoid increasing interest rates and higher fees? Want to earn more interest on your checking account? Our Indianapolis credit union can help.

Financial Center Welcomes New CEO

Monday, January 4, 2010 by Michael Hostetler

Financial Center, an Indianapolis credit union, welcomes J. Kevin Ryan as its new CEO. With over 28 years experience in the financial services industry, Mr. Ryan brings an abundance of knowledge to the local Credit Union. He has been involved in the credit union movement for the past 23 years with experience in finance, budgeting, investments, regulatory compliance, business development, and marketing.

Mr. Ryan has been a Board Member for Financial Center and its CUSO for the past two years. His previous Credit Union experience includes employment at the Indiana Credit Union League and CUNA Mutual Group. He has also earned numerous credit union executive certifications. Mr. Ryan has also received a Bachelors of Science in Management and a Master of Arts in Executive Development from Ball State University. He is a volunteer for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. He is also active in youth sports for his local community.

In his new position as Credit Union CEO, Mr. Ryan aims to lead Financial Center’s employees in providing Credit Union members with quality products and services while fulfilling the company’s mission to provide the highest level of personal service excellence attainable in the marketplace.