Medical Savings Account Indianapolis

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.

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.

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.

ABC News: Switch to Credit Union, Avoid Bank Fees

Monday, January 11, 2010 by Michael Hostetler

Recently ABC News reported on consumers moving their banking accounts to smaller community banks and their local credit union.

If your Indianapolis bank is raising its fees and treating you unfairly as a consumer, consider moving your accounts 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.

If you're ready to switch banks, it's time to switch to an Indianapolis credit union.

Learn more about Financial Center.

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.

Savings and Snowfall: It's All About Preparation

Wednesday, January 6, 2010 by Michael Hostetler

People across Indianapolis are anxiously awaiting the looming winter storm that is set to begin at some point later tonight and continue until Friday. This inevitably causes a rush at the local grocery store to buy milk, bread, and eggs (also known as "The French Toast Rush"). Salt trucks and snow plows hit the area roads to keep them in the best possible driving condition. Everyone does what they need to do to prepare for the snow before the storm hits.

The same thinking is true when it comes to achieving your savings goals. If you want to take a vacation in July, then you should start preparing for your trip now by saving money. Our Indianapolis Credit Union has many products that can help you save. For example, our Members' Choice Club Accounts allow you to select your own maturity date so that you can save money and withdraw it when you need it. Our local credit union also offers numerous share certificates and checking options.

Whether you're preparing for a blizzard or a trip to the beach, it's best to prepare. Learn more about our Indianapolis credit Union at www.fcfcu.com.

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.

Financial Center Introduces Mobile Banking

Tuesday, December 1, 2009 by Michael Hostetler

Financial Center, your Indianapolis Credit Union, has launched mobile banking for its 41,000 Credit Union members at https://mobile.fcfcu.com.

Members may perform the following functions with their mobile credit union banking:

- Check account balances.
- Perform account to account transfers.
- Change your password.
- Change your eMail address.

It is important to note that you must enroll in the Credit Union's online banking service at www.fcfcu.com prior to using mobile banking. Login information is the same whether you utilize it through the credit union's website or through your mobile device. We also advise members to log out of online banking when you are finished completing your transactions for security purposes.

We'd love to hear what you think of this new service from our Indianapolis Credit Union. Leave a comment below or send an eMail to marketing@fcfcu.com.

How Much are you Spending this Year?

Tuesday, November 24, 2009 by Michael Hostetler

It's almost time for Thanksgiving. This holiday brings about two events - mashed potato and gravy induced napping and great shopping deals.

Has the economic turmoil and all its related events affected how much you plan to spend on Christmas gifts this year? Answer the poll below and let our Indianapolis Credit Union know what your plans are this year?

How much money will you spend on Christmas gifts this year?(surveys)

Become a Banking Locavore

Monday, November 23, 2009 by Michael Hostetler

I recently read a great article on green.indy.com about people who are locavores in the Indianapolis area. A locavore is someone who eats locally produced food as much as possible. According to the article, foods that are grown locally and travel fewer miles can be

safer, fresher, and healthier for you.

Apply this thinking to who you're choosing as your banking services provider. A local credit union has employees and members just like you who work cooperatively to deliver financial services with preferable rates and less fees than bigger banks. Decisions regarding your money are made locally, and your institution is committed to serving the community in which you live.

When deciding who your next bank should be, consider an Indianapolis Credit Union.

Holiday Shopping, Cash or Credit?

Tuesday, November 17, 2009 by Michael Hostetler

An article in today's USA Today noted that customers may be using more cash and debit cards for their Holiday shopping this season instead of using credit cards. With the current economic turmoil, consumers are more conscious of the money they are able to spend and this is affecting what method they use to pay.

Whichever way you decide to pay, our Indianapolis credit union has you covered. We offer a debit card and a new VISA credit card product.

How will you be paying for gifts this season?

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!

Protect Your Checking Account

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Michael Hostetler

The pending FAIR Overdraft Coverage Act of 2009 legislation in Congress has the potential to dramatically restrict the current overdraft protection on your account. Changes include allowing you to only overdraft your account once per month and no more than six times per year.

When you have used the overdraft protection from Financial Center, it has allowed us to help cover your unexpected expenses or bookkeeping errors. Overdraft protection may have enabled you to pay for something at the grocery store, fill up your gas tank, or purchase a prescription for a sick family member.

The current system allows your Credit Union to offer a reputable service that prohibits you from the embarrassing circumstances of a failed debit card transaction, ATM withdrawal, or check with insufficient funds.

Join us in alerting your Congressional representatives that you oppose the FAIR Overdraft Coverage Act of 2009 and its effect on your current overdraft protection program. Take action now!

Banks Charging New Credit Card Fees

Monday, October 26, 2009 by Michael Hostetler

It's a good thing that your local credit union is keeping things the same. At our Indianapolis Credit Union, we pride ourselves on taking care of our members and creating financial solutions that are in their best interest. This does not mean instituting new fees when accountholders are being responsible with their credit cards.

Check out this report on new credit card fees from The Today Show.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

If you're considering changing credit cards to a local credit union, join Financial Center. We offer a VISA card that has a low rate on your balance transfer along with an extensive rewards program.

When your Indianapolis Bank begins to change the way you do your banking, change your bank to an Indianapolis Credit Union and join Financial Center.

Health Savings Accounts and High Deductible Health Plans

Friday, October 23, 2009 by Michael Hostetler

Health Savings Accounts from Financial Center can help you earn dividends on your savings for medical expenses. Learn more at www.abetterhsa.com

It's the time of year when new insurance plans for 2010 are up for discussion and presented for consideration by employees in Indianapolis. If your new insurance plan is a High Deductible Health Plan, a Health Savings Account may be a good option for you to save money towards medical expenses.

Financial Center provides a free health savings account Indianapolis residents can utilize as part of their insurance plan. Our Indianapolis credit union provides an HSA that has zero setup, transaction, and maintenance fees. We also offer a variety of product options to help you earn dividends on your savings.

Get started and open your account today by visiting www.abetterhsa.com, or give our local credit union a call at 317.916.7700.

System Outages Tuesday Afternoon

Tuesday, October 6, 2009 by Michael Hostetler

We are experiencing system outages this afternoon that have affected online services as well as member service in each of our Center locations. We apologize for this inconvenience.

Update: Our website is back up and access to online banking has been restored.