At The Family Credit Union (TFCU), we’re committed to helping our members build financial confidence at every stage of life. That’s why we’re proud to partner with First Community Trust (FCT).
Whether you’re planning for retirement, investing for long-term growth, or preparing your estate, FCT provides expert guidance backed by decades of experience and professional credentials. Together, TFCU and FCT deliver accessible, personalized financial planning that supports your goals today and your legacy tomorrow.
FCT offers a full range of financial services designed to help you manage, protect, and grow your assets with confidence:
Your portfolio manager will work directly with you—building an investment strategy that aligns with your goals, risk tolerance, and long-term plans. FCT’s active involvement means you’ll always have access to knowledgeable support and a clear understanding of your investments.
Whether retirement is near or decades away, FCT helps you create a roadmap for a comfortable future. Their holistic approach ensures every piece of your plan works together—from savings strategies to distribution planning.
If you’ve recently changed jobs or want more control over your retirement funds, FCT can help you roll over your 401(k) or transfer an IRA. Members benefit from:
Greater investment flexibility
FCT’s financial planning process takes your entire financial picture into account. They help you:
Establish personalized goals
Identify opportunities for growth
Build a comprehensive, long-term financial plan
FCT’s experienced trust professionals help you navigate one of the most important (and often overwhelming) parts of financial wellness. Their goal is simple: provide peace of mind for you and clarity for your loved ones.
By teaming up with First Community Trust, TFCU can offer a higher level of financial expertise right where members already feel at home. You get:
Local access to highly trained trust and investment professionals
Personalized guidance based on your goals—not sales quotas
A long-term partnership focused on building financial stability and confidence
No matter where you’re starting, TFCU and FCT are here to support your financial journey—from simple savings goals to complex estate planning.
Curious about your financial options? Schedule a conversation to discuss your goals and see how First Community Trust can help you grow, protect, and manage your financial future.
Your goals matter—and with The Family Credit Union and FCT collaborating, you have a team focused on helping you achieve them. Visit your local credit union today for more information!
Looking for a smarter way to save that rewards you for building your balance? The Tiered Interest Account (TIA) at The Family Credit Union (TFCU) is a great option for members who want their money to work a little harder—without giving up easy access to their funds.
This account is our version of a money market account, offering tier rate savings that increase as your balance grows. It’s perfect for members who want to earn more while still enjoying the flexibility and security of a traditional savings option.
With a minimum balance of just $1,500, you can start earning competitive daily dividends, which are paid monthly. And the best part? The more you save, the more you earn—thanks to our tiered interest structure.
The Tiered Interest Account combines:
Higher interest rates based on your balance tier
Daily compounding dividends for maximum growth potential
Monthly payouts that help your savings grow consistently
Flexibility to access your funds while maintaining earning power
Whether you’re saving for a large purchase, planning ahead for retirement, or simply want to make the most of your money, a Tiered Interest Account can help. It’s a great fit for members who tend to keep a higher balance in their accounts and want to see a bigger return—while still being able to access their funds when needed.
We’re proud to offer savings options that reflect our commitment to your financial well-being. The Tiered Interest Account is designed to help our members grow their money with ease and confidence.
At The Family Credit Union, your future is our focus—and we’re always here to help you find smart, simple ways to succeed.
Helping members reach their goals starts early at The Family Credit Union (TFCU). That’s why we offer smart, fun, and rewarding financial programs for our youngest savers all the way through young adulthood. Whether you’re raising a future financial whiz or a young adult learning to manage money independently, we’re here to grow with you.
Designed for kids up to 13 years old, the Kirby Kangaroo Club is the perfect way to teach children how to save—and have fun doing it!
Here’s what Kirby Club members enjoy:
Just $25 is needed to open a Kirby savings account, and with interest paid on the first dollar deposited, their savings can grow right away.
Smart Financial Tools for Teens and Young AdultsFor members up to age 26, The Family Credit Union offers a range of financial products to support independence and build strong money habits. Whether it’s opening a first checking account or learning to manage money through budgeting and planning tools, we’ve got you covered.
Young Adult Accounts Offer:
*To qualify, accounts must meet monthly activity and enrollment requirements.
Zogo is the fun and rewarding way for teens and young adults to learn financial literacy through bite-sized lessons, quizzes, and daily trivia. Earn virtual “pineapples” and redeem them for $5 gift cards for their favorite stores—just for learning how to manage money!
The app includes nearly 300 modules in 20 different topics. Topics range from opening a bank account to saving for retirement – and everything in between. Zogo helps users make smart financial decisions that last a lifetime
Whether it’s a child learning the joy of saving, a teen opening their first checking account, or a young adult planning for the future, we’re here to help. Explore our Kirby Kangaroo Club, Young Adult Program, and financial literacy tools to set the next generation up for success.
Visit your local branch or contact us online to learn more about how we’re helping young members reach their goals!
At The Family Credit Union (TFCU), we’re committed to helping members reach their goals with personalized support and financial solutions. Whether you’re buying your first home, planning for the future, or seeking a trusted financial partner, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Our members’ success stories showcase our dedication to low rates, financial education, and outstanding service. Here’s how we’ve made a difference in their lives.
Banking shouldn’t come with endless fees and high interest rates. We prioritize keeping costs low for our members while offering the best financial solutions to fit their needs. Maxwell Richard has experienced firsthand how The Family Credit Union helps him make the most of his money:
“My credit union has kept money in my pockets throughout the years—low interest rates on loans and no fees on my checking and savings accounts. I never have issues and love their recent focus on Financial Wellness… shows how much they care about their members.” -Maxwell Richard
Our commitment to financial wellness means we go beyond banking—we offer the tools and guidance needed to build a strong financial future.
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make, and we’re proud to help our members navigate the process of a home loan with confidence. Mark Uecker, a first-time homebuyer, found the support and expertise he needed at The Family Credit Union:
“My family recently moved to Muscatine and we needed to find a lender for a mortgage. Family Credit Union was GREAT to work with. As a first-time homebuyer, I had a ton of questions. They never got frustrated no matter how dumb the question was, and everything on their end could not have gone smoother. We are so happy that we used them for our mortgage!” -Mark Uecker
From competitive mortgage rates to personalized guidance, we’re here to make the home-buying process smooth, stress-free, and rewarding.
Understanding savings, investments, and retirement planning can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help. Our team takes the time to research and provide tailored advice to help members make informed financial decisions. Dylan Parker appreciated the extra effort we put into his financial planning:
“Very helpful tellers and bankers at this branch. I’ve discussed at length things like college savings funds, ROTH IRAs, and traditional IRAs. They went out of their way to do some research for me.” -Dylan Parker
Whether it’s planning for retirement, saving for your child’s education, or managing day-to-day finances, we are dedicated to helping our members reach their goals.
At The Family Credit Union, we believe in providing more than just banking services—we provide a community of support, guidance, and financial empowerment. Our members trust us because we put their needs first, offering personalized solutions that help them thrive.
If you’re looking for a credit union that values you as more than just an account number, join The Family Credit Union today. Let us help you achieve your financial dreams—because when you’re a member, you’re family. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you on your financial journey!
Whether you’re planning a getaway soon or just dreaming of one, vacations can be a fun escape but also a pricey endeavor. Transportation costs, hotels, meals, activities, and souvenirs can quickly add up, often leaving you feeling financially stressed. According to CreditDonkey, the average vacation costs $1,145 per person. At The Family Credit Union, we’ve put together a list of tips to help you save money on your next vacation and make the most of your hard-earned funds.
The first step in ensuring you don’t overspend is to create a detailed vacation budget. Before booking flights, accommodations, or activities, outline all the expected costs, including transportation, accommodations, meals, excursions, activities, and even shopping for souvenirs. Create a realistic budget for each category based on your destination and preferences. Make sure to build in some room for unexpected expenses (such as an emergency treat or spontaneous activity). With a set budget, you can plan your trip without the constant worry of overspending and truly enjoy your time away.
Pro Tip: Use budgeting apps or tools, like Mint or PocketGuard, to keep track of your spending while on vacation.
One of the easiest ways to save money while traveling is to seek out free activities. Research your destination beforehand to find parks, beaches, free festivals, or museums that offer no-cost entry on certain days. Many cities have free walking tours, outdoor concerts, or public events that let you experience local culture without breaking your budget. These activities are a great way to explore your destination, interact with locals, and create memorable moments—all at little to no cost!
Dining out three times a day can quickly drain your vacation budget, especially at popular tourist destinations. To save money, choose accommodations that include a refrigerator, microwave, or even a kitchen area. By preparing simple meals like breakfast, lunch, and snacks in your room, you can cut down on dining costs. Stock up on essentials like bread, fruit, yogurt, and snacks from a local grocery store. This allows you to enjoy local cuisine at dinnertime without breaking your budget.
Bonus Tip: If you’re staying in a place with a kitchenette, consider preparing a picnic for a day trip, which can be both fun and affordable!
When booking accommodations, think about how much time you’ll actually spend in your room. You’re on vacation to explore and experience the destination—not to spend all day in your room. Consider opting for a more modest room with basic amenities. Choose what suits your needs, rather than splurging on luxuries you won’t use. The money saved can go toward fun activities or dining experiences that will enhance your trip.
Pro Tip: Check if the hotel or Airbnb offers discounts for booking directly, as third-party booking sites may charge additional fees.
Accommodations in city centers often come with a hefty price tag. Consider staying in a more affordable neighborhood just outside the main tourist area. You can easily take public transportation or use rideshare services to explore the city during the day and return to a quieter, more budget-friendly area at night. Not only will you save money on your stay, but you’ll also get a taste of life outside the touristy hustle and bustle.
Using a Rewards Credit Card is a great way to save money while on vacation. The Family Credit Union offers a Rewards Credit Card that lets you earn points on everyday purchases. These points can be redeemed for discounts on flights, hotels, or activities for future trips. Just make sure to use it responsibly to avoid unnecessary debt, and watch your rewards add up!
In today’s digital age, booking accommodations has never been easier thanks to online booking platforms. Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia offer a wide range of options that suit various budgets and preferences. Take time to compare prices, read reviews, and explore exclusive deals or last-minute discounts to save on your stay. By booking through these platforms, you can often access discounts that can help stretch your vacation budget even further.
Fun Tip: Use a browser extension like Honey to automatically apply coupon codes for extra savings when booking online.
Souvenirs can be a fun part of any trip, but they can also drive up costs. Set a budget for souvenirs and stick to it. Consider shopping at local markets for unique items, or opt for smaller mementos like postcards or photos that capture your memories. By planning ahead, you can make sure souvenir shopping doesn’t eat into your travel budget.
By following these practical tips, you’ll be able to save money and enjoy a fun and memorable vacation without the stress of overspending. If you need assistance with budgeting, saving, or finding the best financial products to support your travel plans, The Family Credit Union in the Quad Cities is here for you. Reach out today and let us help you plan and save for your next great adventure!
Tax season has arrived, and many of us will receive a tax refund that could provide a much-needed financial boost. While it’s tempting to spend that extra money on non-essentials, why not maximize your tax refund to work for you and set yourself up for long-term financial success? By using your tax refund strategically, you can pay off debt, build your savings, or invest for the future. Here are some smart ways to make the most of your tax refund:
If you have any outstanding debts, your tax refund can be a great way to reduce or eliminate them. Paying down debt frees up more room in your budget and gives you the peace of mind that comes with moving closer to financial freedom. Here’s how you can maximize your tax refund by tackling debt:
Credit Cards: If you have credit card debt, using your refund to pay off or reduce your balance can help improve your financial flexibility. It’s a step toward gaining more control over your budget and lessening the burden of high-interest payments.
Loans: Consider using your refund to pay down personal loans, car loans, or student loans. Reducing the amount you owe lowers your monthly payments and makes it easier to allocate money toward savings or other financial goals.
Your tax refund is the perfect opportunity to kickstart your savings. Whether you’re building an emergency fund, saving for a major life event, or planning for retirement, getting started early can put you on the path to long-term financial security. Here are some options for putting your refund to work:
Primary Share Account: The Primary Share account is your membership account, earning monthly dividends and providing quarterly statements.
Tiered Interest Account (TIA): This high-yield savings account offers higher dividends as your balance grows. It’s an excellent way to watch your savings grow while keeping your money easily accessible.
Share Certificate: A low-risk, fixed-term savings account that offers higher interest for locking in your money for a specific period (6 to 60 months). This is ideal for those seeking secure, short-to-medium-term growth.
Christmas Club: Planning for holiday expenses becomes easier with a dedicated savings account. Set aside a small amount throughout the year to have funds ready by next holiday season.
Direct Deposit and Payroll Deduction: Automate contributions to your savings accounts, making it easy to save regularly without thinking about it. Both options offer a seamless way to grow your savings over time.
If your goal is to build wealth over time, using your tax refund to invest can be one of the best ways to make your money work harder for you. While investments carry some risk, they’re a key part of building long-term wealth. Here’s how to start investing with your tax refund:
Roth IRA: A Roth IRA is a good choice if you expect a higher tax rate in retirement, want to avoid required minimum distributions, or are focused on tax savings for beneficiaries.
Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA): A Coverdell Education Savings Account helps you save for a child’s education with nondeductible contributions and potential tax-free withdrawals.
Tax season just got easier with exclusive TFCU member discounts on tax services. Save 20% on TurboTax® when you file yourself or with expert assistance. Or, save up to $25 on in-office tax prep services from H&R Block.
At TFCU, we’re committed to your financial success, no matter where you’re starting from. Let TFCU help you every step of the way, from maximizing your tax refund to achieving lasting financial success!
Making smart financial decisions is essential to achieving your short-term and long-term goals. One of the biggest challenges is balancing spending and saving. At The Family Credit Union (TFCU), we’re here to provide guidance on striking the right balance for a healthy financial future. Here are some tips to help you manage your finances more effectively:
Start by identifying your goals. Do you want to save for a house, pay off debt, or build an emergency fund? Having clear goals will help you prioritize your spending and saving habits.
Budgeting can be a helpful tool for financial management, even if it feels challenging to stick to one. Start with the 50/30/20 guideline as a flexible framework:
If the percentages don’t fit your current situation, focus on tracking your spending to understand where your money goes. From there, you can make small adjustments to prioritize saving or reduce expenses over time. Every little step counts!
Unexpected expenses, like medical bills or car repairs, can derail your finances. Aim to save three to six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund. TFCU offers savings accounts that make it easy to set aside money automatically. Start small—even $10 a week can add up over time.
It’s easy to justify splurges, but take a step back and ask yourself:
Being mindful of these questions can help curb impulse spending.
The Family Credit Union offers tools to help members achieve their financial goals:
Before making major purchases, research your options and compare prices. If possible, delay the purchase to give yourself time to save and avoid debt.
High-interest debt can hinder your ability to save. Tackle debts with the highest interest rates first, and consider consolidating loans with TFCU to secure lower rates.
At The Family Credit Union, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your financial goals of balancing spending and saving. Whether you need guidance on saving for the future or managing your expenses, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Stop by a local credit union branch today to learn more about our savings accounts, financial planning resources, and budgeting tools. Let’s work together to build a brighter financial future!
Hey there, savvy savers! May 29th is College Savings Day (or 529 Day), and it’s all about getting a jump start on saving for college. Think of it as a yearly nudge to remind you to stash away some cash for your kid’s future. And why May 29th? This day, cleverly chosen to correspond with the 529 college savings plan—your secret weapon in the battle against sky-high tuition costs!
Let’s talk numbers! In 2024, the average annual tuition and fees are $11,260 for in-state students at public colleges and $29,150 for out-of-state students. If you’re looking at private colleges, the average tuition and fees are a whopping $41,540 (College Tuition Compare) (CollegeData). Add in room, board, and other expenses, and the total cost can be quite daunting. But don’t worry, with a little planning and some savvy saving, you can make it happen!
College can be expensive, but planning ahead can make it more manageable. From savings plans to financial aid, here are key options to consider:
Financial Aid & Student Loans
Explore financial aid through your college’s office or online tools like the Department of Labor’s free scholarship search. TFCU partners with Sallie Mae® to offer student loans with:
College Savings Options
Start saving early with these flexible plans:
By combining savings and financial aid, you can ease the cost of college. The Family Credit Union is here to help—reach out today to learn more!
Having a savings account is an essential step in building a secure financial future. After landing your first job, make it a habit to set aside a percentage of your income into savings each month. It doesn’t have to be a large amount, but the goal is consistency. Over time, this small habit will grow, and you’ll have a financial cushion for emergencies. Whether you need money for unexpected college costs or a future trip, saving regularly gives you peace of mind and prepares you for life’s surprises.
Let’s do some math! If you start saving $100 a month from the time your baby is born until they turn 18, you’ll have a nice chunk of change waiting for them. Assuming an average annual return of 6%, you’d save about $38,000. Here’s the breakdown:
That’s a solid start toward covering those college costs, all thanks to the magic of compound interest!
The Family Credit Union offers great savings account options for students, allowing you to start building your financial foundation as you transition into college life. The earlier you start saving, the more financial security you’ll have down the road!
In addition to your financial planning, here are a few more tips to help you succeed in your college journey:
We’re here to make your college savings journey as smooth as possible. Here’s how:
College Savings Day is your yearly reminder to get serious about saving for college, but it doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right strategies and the support of The Family Credit Union, you can make saving fun and effective. Start today, and give your child the gift of a brighter future. Happy saving!
Retirement may seem like it’s far off for many of us, but ask anyone who is retired; start putting money away often and early! There is no specific age at which you should or need to retire. It’s all about when you want to retire lining up with when you will have enough money put away to replace the money you make from working. Many people also consider lining up their retirement with Social Security. The earliest you can begin receiving Social Security benefits is 62. However, if you begin claiming at this time (if you were born after 1960), you will sacrifice a portion of your benefits. Full retirement age is 67, although you can further delay your retirement to age 70 to increase benefits.
In one word? Now. In a few words? In your 20s. We also want to mention that it is never too late to start saving. Every dollar counts and you will thank yourself later for saving. The typical advice is to save 70% to 90% of the annual money you make pre-retirement. For example, a retiree who earns an average of $63,000 per year before retirement should expect to need $44,000 to $57,000 per year in retirement.
There are a few different options. If your employer offers a 401(k) or other similar options, we suggest you take part in it, especially if they match dollars. You can also open your own retirement savings account. We suggest talking to a financial planner if you want in-depth help. The Family Credit Union can help with some questions you may have and we can help you with a retirement savings account. Contact us today to learn more. The Family Credit Union is here to help you through all stages of your life, including student loans, home loans, auto loans, and more.
Financial independence is the ability to support your lifestyle through your savings, investments, and income—without relying on debt or living paycheck to paycheck. While it can sound out of reach, financial independence is often more achievable than people realize. With a clear plan, consistent habits, and the right guidance, you can take meaningful steps toward long-term security, freedom, and peace of mind.
Financial independence doesn’t look the same for everyone. For some, it means retiring early. For others, it means having enough savings to handle life’s surprises, travel comfortably, or reduce work hours later in life. No matter your goal, The Family Credit Union has put together these practical tips to help you start building a strong financial foundation.
Creating a financial plan is one of the most important steps toward financial independence. Start by defining what financial independence means to you—then map out how you’ll get there.
Your plan should consider your age, income, lifestyle, and future goals. Someone in their 20s may focus on building savings and starting investments, while someone in their 50s or 60s may prioritize debt reduction and retirement planning. The key is being realistic, flexible, and intentional. The earlier you start saving and investing, the more time your money has to grow—but it’s never too late to begin.
A budget is a powerful tool that helps you understand and control your finances. It tracks how much money is coming in, where it’s going, and how much you can allocate toward savings and debt repayment.
Budgeting isn’t about restricting your life—it’s about gaining clarity. When you know where your money goes, you can identify opportunities to cut unnecessary expenses and redirect those dollars toward your financial goals.
Living below your means is one of the core principles of financial independence. Saving consistently—even small amounts—can make a big difference over time.
According to moneyunder30.com, individuals in their 20s or 30s who save around 20% of their income and earn an average annual investment return of 5% can significantly increase their chances of achieving financial independence earlier in life. For married households, saving a large portion of one income can accelerate progress even more.
By limiting lifestyle inflation and making mindful spending choices, you free up more money to invest in your future.
Debt can be one of the biggest obstacles to financial independence. According to USA Today, the average American household carries over $137,000 in total debt. High-interest debt, in particular, can drain your income and limit your ability to save and invest.
Creating a plan to pay down debt—starting with the highest interest rates—can free up cash flow, reduce financial stress, and help you move forward with confidence.
Investing can be a great way to earn money. However, it is important to remember that all markets have ups and downs. Make sure to fully understand what you are investing in and keep your focus on assets that will make you money over the long run. Do your research and read up on investments so you know when to buy low and sell high. Also, make sure to look at the tax ramifications of any investment transaction you make.
Finances can change all the time. You can’t expect to make one plan and for it to always stay the same. Make sure that your financial planning is flexible enough to withstand both positive and negative changes.
Achieving financial independence is incredibly rewarding—and it starts with intentional steps taken today. Whether you’re building a budget, paying down debt, saving for the future, or planning your next move, The Family Credit Union is here to help.
Visit your local branch or explore our Education Center for tools, resources, and guidance to support you at every stage of your financial journey.
Achieving financial independence is incredibly rewarding—and it starts with intentional steps taken today. Whether you’re building a budget, paying down debt, saving for the future, or planning your next move, The Family Credit Union is here to help.
Visit your local branch or explore our Education Center for tools, resources, and guidance to support you at every stage of your financial journey.
Home Office: 1530 W. 53rd Street, Davenport, IA 52806
Main Phone: 563-388-8328
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