Achieving financial wellness and securing a brighter future starts with understanding and improving your credit score. At The Family Credit Union, we’re committed to empowering our members with the tools and resources they need to take control of their financial health. That’s why we’re excited to introduce you to our innovative Credit Climber tool – your key to unlocking a world of possibilities, including credit improvement!

What is the Credit Climber Tool?

The Credit Climber tool is a comprehensive resource designed to simplify the process of meeting your financial goals, including credit improvement. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, the Credit Climber tool makes it easy for members to:

• Review Your Credit Report: Worried about the impact of a hard credit pull? With our Credit Climber tool, you can review your credit report without providing your Social Security Number, and without any hard credit inquiries. Gain insights into your credit profile and identify areas for improvement with ease.
• Understand Your Credit: Dive deep into your credit report and gain a clear understanding of your financial standing. Learn about the factors influencing your credit score and explore personalized recommendations to enhance your creditworthiness.
• Crunch Some Numbers: Curious about the potential savings you could achieve by refinancing or consolidating your existing credit products? Our Credit Climber tool allows you to compare different credit products and calculate potential savings, empowering you to make informed decisions about your finances.
• Learn About Personal Finance: Elevate your financial literacy and take your credit IQ to new heights with our educational resources. From articles, tools such as rent reporting and subscription reporting, the Credit Climber tool provides valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the world of personal finance with confidence. In addition, the platform will notify you when they’re ready to apply for the loan/goal you’ve set!

Why Use the Credit Climber Tool to Help With Credit Improvement?

• Simple and Easy: We believe managing your finances should be hassle-free. With the Credit Climber tool, reviewing your credit report and exploring your financial options has never been easier – no SSN required, and no hard credit inquiries.
• Empowerment Through Knowledge: Knowledge is power when it comes to financial decision-making. The Credit Climber tool empowers you to take control of your credit health by providing clear insights and actionable recommendations tailored to your unique financial situation.
• Drive Financial Progress: Whether you’re looking to boost your credit score, optimize your credit utilization, or explore opportunities for savings, the Credit Climber tool is your trusted companion on the journey toward financial progress and prosperity.

Get Started on Improving Your Credit Today!

Ready to take the first step toward a brighter financial future? Visit The Family Credit Union’s website and explore the Credit Climber tool today. With its intuitive interface and powerful features, it’s never been easier to understand, improve, and optimize your credit score. Unlock your financial potential with The Family Credit Union and the Credit Climber tool – your pathway to financial empowerment awaits.

Contact Our Financial Wellness Coordinator

Our Financial Wellness Coordinator, Abby Eaton, is all about helping you choose a path to achieve your own financial success. She is a great resource to help you achieve your goals, and provide the information and resources you need to optimize your credit improvement. Contact her today and get the support you need!

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a flurry of expenses. Whether it’s gift shopping, travel plans, or festive gatherings, managing your finances effectively is key. At The Family Credit Union, we’re committed to helping you make the most of this special time with a range of exclusive offers and holiday benefits designed to ease your financial burden. Let’s take a closer look at what’s in store for you!

Credit Card Purchases at 4.99%

Imagine a credit card with a remarkably low interest rate of just 4.99%. At The Family Credit Union, we’re delighted to offer you this fantastic opportunity to make your holiday purchases more manageable. With this competitive rate, you can shop with confidence, knowing you’re getting a great deal on your credit card purchases.

Holiday Loans at 8.99%

Planning for the perfect holiday celebration? Look no further. Our holiday loans are available at a remarkable interest rate of just 8.99%. Whether you’re dreaming of a winter getaway or planning an unforgettable family gathering, this loan option provides you with the financial support you need, all at a highly competitive rate.

Skip a Payment on Consumer Loans

We understand that the holiday season can bring unexpected expenses. That’s why we offer you the option to skip a payment on your consumer loans in December or January. This means you can free up some extra cash during this busy time, providing you with the flexibility you need to enjoy the festivities without financial stress.

Boost Your Pineapple Points on the ZOGO App

Earning rewards has never been more exciting! When you use the ZOGO app, you’ll have the chance to earn an additional 0.5X on your Pineapple points. This means you can accumulate rewards faster, giving you even more reasons to celebrate this holiday season.

No-Fee Visa Gift Cards

Spread joy this holiday season with The Family Credit Union Visa Gift Cards. Unlike some other institutions, we offer these convenient gift cards without any fees. This means you can give the gift of choice to your loved ones without worrying about hidden costs or extra charges.

Happy Holidays from The Family Credit Union!

The Family Credit Union is dedicated to providing you with holiday benefits that empower you to make the most of the holiday season. With low interest rates on credit card purchases and holiday loans, the option to skip a payment, enhanced rewards through the ZOGO app, and fee-free Visa Gift Cards, we’re here to support you in achieving a joyful and stress-free holiday experience. Embrace the season with confidence, knowing that your financial well-being is in good hands. Happy Holidays!

Find a location near you here.

*Restrictions and qualifications apply. For details familycu.com/familygiftsforyou

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, achieving and maintaining financial stability is a top priority for individuals and families alike. Just as we visit doctors for regular health check-ups, our financial well-being also demands careful attention and assessment. This is where The Family Credit Union’s Financial Health Check-Up comes into play. It helps to explore the significance of utilizing this invaluable tool and how it can pave the way to a secure and prosperous financial future.

Understanding Financial Health

Financial health goes beyond income and expenses. It’s a comprehensive evaluation of your financial landscape, covering income, expenses, savings, investments, debt, and goals. Similar to a doctor’s tests, The Family Credit Union’s Financial Health Checkup examines your finances to give you a view of your current financial status.

The Importance of a Financial Health Check Up

• Clarity and Awareness: The first step towards a healthy financial future is understanding where you currently stand. Reviewing your financial situation sheds light on your financial strengths and weaknesses, helping you identify areas that require attention. This awareness is crucial for making informed decisions and setting realistic financial goals.
• Goal Setting and Planning: Without clear goals and a well-defined plan, it’s easy to drift through life without a sense of purpose. A Financial Health Check Up helps you establish concrete financial objectives and map out a roadmap to achieve them. Whether it’s saving for a home, funding your child’s education, or planning for retirement, this tool provides the necessary insights to create a tailored financial strategy.
• Risk Assessment: Just as doctors evaluate risk factors for potential issues, The Family Credit Union’s Financial Health Check Up assesses potential financial risks. Whether it’s an excessive debt burden, inadequate emergency funds, or insufficient insurance coverage, identifying these risks empowers you to take proactive measures to mitigate them.
• Optimizing Savings and Investments: Are your savings and investments aligned with your goals and risk tolerance? The Family Credit Union can help you answer this crucial question. By analyzing your investment portfolio, the tool can suggest adjustments that optimize returns and reduce risk, ultimately working towards your financial aspirations.
• Debt Management: Unmanaged debt can quickly spiral out of control and jeopardize your financial stability. We will work with you to evaluate your debt situation. Plus we can help offer insights on how to consolidate, refinance, or create a repayment plan. This guidance can help you regain control of your financial situation and alleviate stress.
• Educational Resource: The Family Credit Union’s Financial Health Check Up isn’t just a tool; it’s an educational resource. It equips you with knowledge about budgeting, saving, investing, and other critical financial concepts. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and develop healthy financial habits.

Achieve the Financial Wellness You Seek!

As summer ends and school bells ring, the anticipation of a new academic year fills the air. However, the back to school season can also bring about financial challenges, especially for families with school-age children. This is where back to school loans from The Family Credit Union can help. They help families manage expenses and make the transition from vacation mode to study mode smoother. Let’s explore the various benefits of opting for a back to school personal loan from The Family Credit Union.

Budget Friendly Interest Rates

Getting a back-to-school loan from The Family Credit Union has the advantage of lower interest rates than traditional banks or alternative lenders. TFCU is member-owned and operated, meaning we prioritize the financial well-being of our members rather than maximizing profits. This translates to lower interest rates on loans, ensuring that families can borrow the funds they need without falling into a high-interest debt trap.

Flexible Loan Terms

We understand that every family’s financial situation is unique. To cater to diverse needs, TFCU provides flexible loan terms that can be tailored to match your repayment capacity. This flexibility allows you to choose a loan term that fits your budget. This makes it easier to manage the loan while keeping your financial stability intact.

No Hidden Fees

Unlike some traditional lenders that may surprise borrowers with hidden fees and charges, credit unions are known for transparency. When you opt for a back-to-school loan from a credit union, you can expect straightforward terms and a clear understanding of any associated costs. This transparency helps you make informed financial decisions and avoid any unpleasant surprises down the road.

Personalized Service

At TFCU, we take pride in delivering a personalized banking experience to our members. Expect personalized service and understanding when applying for a back-to-school loan. Our staff is  accessible and willing to guide you through the application process, making the experience smoother and more reassuring.

Back to School Loans Build Credit

A back to school loan provides an opportunity for young adults and students to begin building their credit history responsibly. By borrowing from a credit union and making timely payments, individuals can establish a positive credit track record, which can prove valuable when applying for future loans, credit cards, or even rental agreements.

Prioritizing Education

At The Family Credit Union, we prioritize financial education for our members. In line with this commitment, we offer resources, workshops, and guidance on budgeting, financial planning, and debt management. By taking advantage of these resources we hope to empower families to make informed financial decisions not only during the back-to-school season but throughout their lives.

Back to School Loans from TFCU

As the school year beckons, the financial strain of purchasing school supplies, clothing, and other essentials can be overwhelming for families. A back to school loan from The Family Credit Union emerges as a valuable lifeline, providing affordable financing options with lower interest rates, flexible terms, and a focus on member well-being. By opting for a TFCU back to school loan, families not only ensure a successful academic start for their children and young adults, but also set the stage for a stronger, more financially secure future.

Find a branch near you to get started today, or apply for a back to school personal loan here.

Have you ever wondered about the secret recipe behind your credit score? While some ingredients are straightforward, others can be confusing or open to interpretation. One such element is the “credit account mix,” which may leave you with mixed feelings. Let’s shed some light on this topic and gain a better understanding.

The Credit Account Mix Demystified

Your credit account mix refers to the blend of different types of credit in your financial portfolio. It goes beyond simply having multiple credit lines—it showcases your ability to handle various types of debts successfully. From cards to car loans and mortgages, each account type adds to your credit mix.

Why it Matters

Lenders value a diverse credit mix as it demonstrates your capability to manage different financial obligations simultaneously. Being able to handle both installment loans (e.g., mortgages, car loans) and revolving credit (credit cards) reflects positively on your creditworthiness. It instills confidence in lenders that you will repay borrowed money reliably.

VantageScore and Credit Account Mix

VantageScore, one of the prominent credit scoring agencies, emphasizes the significance of credit mix in its scoring model. In addition, VantageScore also considers credit experience. A varied credit mix, consisting of different types of products, indicates your expertise in managing diverse financial responsibilities.

How it Works With FICO

FICO, another major reporting agency, assigns a 10% weight to credit mix in its scoring model. Although this may appear relatively small, it shouldn’t be underestimated. FICO not only evaluates the types of credit you possess but also scrutinizes the payment history associated with each loan. A solid credit mix won’t compensate for a questionable payment history, as payment track record contributes 35% to your FICO score.

How You Can Build and Improve

If you currently lack a diverse credit mix, there’s no need to panic or rush into applying for multiple credit cards or loans. Haphazardly pursuing such avenues can harm your credit score. Remember, every loan application triggers a hard inquiry, which can cause a slight score drop. The most effective way to build and enhance your credit score is by consistently paying your bills on time, without exception.

The Family Credit Union and CreditSense

The Family Credit Union offers Credit Sense, powered by SavvyMoney®, is a tool that provides you ongoing access to your credit score, along with recommendations on how to improve it. Credit Sense℠ gives you the ability to monitor, improve, and ultimately save you money by managing your credit scores.

Remember, a well-balanced credit mix can unlock favorable borrowing rates and potentially save you thousands on loans for significant investments like homes or cars. Stay informed and proactive, and watch your credit score soar!

Now, access your credit scores from anywhere, anytime within your Home Banking session or in the Mobile Money app.

The Family Credit Union Invites you and your family to take advantage of four family friendly community opportunities with our 2023 Family Discount Mondays.

It is nearly summer, and with the warm weather and sunny skies comes the return of Family Discount Mondays brought to you by The Family Credit Union. This year your family can enjoy some wonderful experiences with four of our community’s great organizations: 

• The Putnam Museum 
• City of Moline Parks & Recreation 
• Quad City Botanical Center 
• The Family Museum 

With discount admission to museums, gardens and more, there is much to explore with your family with Family Discount Mondays this summer! 

Prepare to Explore and Have Some Fun

Join in on the fun and take advantage of Family Discount Mondays this summer on the following dates: 

• In June:  12th, 19th, and 26th 
• In July: 3rd, 10th, and 17th 

The Putnam Museum

The Putnam Museum, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a cultural gem that offers visitors an immersive and educational experience. With its rich history and dedication to engaging exhibits, the museum captures the essence of the region and beyond. The museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits, including natural history displays, interactive science exhibits, and captivating cultural artifacts. Visitors can explore the wonders of the natural world, delve into the depths of outer space, and uncover the fascinating stories of human history. 

With its commitment to education and entertainment, the Putnam Museum is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking an enriching experience in the heart of Davenport.

The Moline Parks & Recreation Department 

The Moline Parks and Recreation Department is a vibrant and dynamic organization dedicated to providing exceptional recreational opportunities for the community of Moline, Illinois and the surrounding areas. 

The department’s dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure that the parks and facilities are well-maintained and accessible to all, fostering a sense of community and promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. With its commitment to providing exceptional recreational opportunities, the Moline Parks and Recreation Department truly plays a vital role in enhancing the overall well-being of the community.

Due to construction, the pool is closed and this time, however there are four great upcoming events you can learn more about here: www.molineparks.com

Quad Cities Botanical Center 

The Quad Cities Botanical Center is a captivating oasis nestled in the heart of the Quad Cities region, spanning the border between Iowa and Illinois. This remarkable botanical center showcases the beauty and diversity of plants from around the world, offering visitors a serene and immersive experience. The center boasts stunning indoor and outdoor gardens, each meticulously designed to create a harmonious blend of nature and artistry. Visitors can stroll through lush tropical landscapes, explore serene Japanese gardens, and marvel at vibrant displays of seasonal flowers. 

The Quad Cities Botanical Center also features educational exhibits and programs, good for children and adults alike! Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a plant lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city, the Quad Cities Botanical Center offers a peaceful haven where one can reconnect with the wonders of the natural world.

The Family Museum 

The Family Museum in Bettendorf, Iowa, is a delightful destination that caters to the interests and imaginations of children and families. With its interactive exhibits, engaging activities, and hands-on learning opportunities, the museum offers a world of fun and exploration for visitors of all ages. The museum features a variety of exhibits, ranging from science and technology to arts and culture. Children can embark on imaginative adventures in the kid-sized town, where they can role-play various professions and learn about community life. They can also delve into the wonders of science through interactive displays and experiments. 

The museum encourages creativity with art studios, where children can unleash their artistic talents and create their masterpieces. With its emphasis on learning through play, the Family Museum fosters a sense of curiosity, discovery, and lifelong learning. It is a place where families can come together to make lasting memories while engaging in enriching experiences.

We hope you will take advantage of these great discounts available through 2023 Family Discount Mondays! Add some extra special family time to your Summer 2023 Mondays this year. 

Held April 20th at QC Botanical Center, it was a Memorable Night

The 88th TFCU Annual Meeting was held on April 20^th, 2023, at the Quad Cities Botanical Center. There was a very nice turnout at this beautiful location, and it was a memorable evening! Here are the TFCU Annual Meeting Results 2023:

Re-elected to the Board by unanimous vote are four incumbents:

Donald Schnauber

Don was appointed to the board as an associate board member in 2019 and then appointed to the board in 2021.  Don has an extensive Professional Engineering background. Some of his accomplishments include grant writing, Society of Manufacturing Engineer, served on many Mechanical and Engineering committees, and serviced as a Strategic Advisory Committee for the Quad Cities Chamber.  Don enjoys golfing, skiing, and Rod and Custom Cars.  

Steve Turner

Steve came to The Family Credit Union board through the Great River Credit Union merger in 2013.  Totaling both boards, he has served for over 25 years, first elected to the GRCU board in 1997.  He is currently the chairman of the Credit Committee.  Steve is retired from LaFarge Corporation, after 31 years.  He is currently the treasurer for the Quad City Antique Ford Club.  Steve enjoys traveling and sightseeing throughout the United States with his wife.  

William Buckley

Bill was elected to The Family Credit Union board in 1985.  He is currently the Chairman of the Board and is a member of the Asset Liability Committee.  He has served on various other committees throughout his tenure. He is retired from Repay of East Moline, where he was the Human Resources Manager and Accountant.  He attended Augustana College, graduating with Bachelors in Accounting and Business Administration. He is very active in the Boy Scouts of America. In his free time, he enjoys spending time in Northern Wisconsin.

William Macdougall

Bill has served on The Family Credit Union’s Board since the merger with the Davenport Fire Department Credit Union in 2008.  He was first elected to a credit union board in 1987 and totaling the two boards, he has served 35 years, in many different roles and capacities. He is a Navy veteran, who served from 1960 to 1966, including a deployment to Vietnam. Bill serves on the board of Directors of the 26th Chapter of American Legion, Davenport, IA and a member for over 25 years. Bill enjoys biking, walking his dog, and traveling.

Thank you to all who attended our Annual Meeting 2023! We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. We look forward to a great 2023 with all of our wonderful members in the next year. Contact us today about our contactless financial solutions or about loans, retirement planning, college programs, and more!

When the failure of Silicon Valley Bank and the problems it exposed at other banks dominated the news in March, many people began asking the same question: Is my money secure?

At Family Credit Union, we are proud to say that yes, yes it is.

We are among the 98% of credit unions that have accounts insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund.

And no one has ever lost a penny of an insured deposit in the credit union system.

What is the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund?

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC, is well known for securing bank deposits. The NCUSIF is not as famous.

At their core, however, they are similar.

The National Credit Union Administration, an independent agency of the United States government runs the NCUSIF. It regulates, charters, and supervises federal credit unions.

The NCUSIF insures deposits at National Credit Union Administration member institutions the same way the FDIC does at banks.

How Much Does the NCUSIF Cover?

Much like the FDIC insures accounts up to $250,000, the NCUSIF insures $250,000 per share owner at each insured credit union for every account ownership category.

That means that every credit union member gets $250,000 for their single ownership accounts (checking, savings, money market, and share certificates).

While the NCUSIF limits the insurance to $250,000 for single ownership accounts at a single credit union, there are other types of insured accounts that can increase that amount.

For joint accounts, $250,000 is insured for each account holder. That means that for a two-person joint account with no beneficiaries, the total insured is $500,000.

NCUSIF also insures retirement accounts and trust accounts. For more information on the amount of insurance for these accounts, visit the NCUA guide on account insurance.

MyCreditUnion.gov also offers a share insurance estimator.

In the rare case that a credit union fails, the money is usually available within just a few days.

The Credit Union Difference

One big difference between credit unions and banks is that credit unions are not-for-profit institutions. They are often managed locally by people in the area in which they are based.

Instead, members see the benefit of any “profits” in the form of higher interest rates on accounts or share certificates or lower rates on loans. This both leads to better rates for you and less incentive to accumulate risk.

We also offer financial education services to our members, both young and old, through our partnerships with Zogo and Banzai.

At Family Credit Union we have been serving the communities in which we are located since we began in 1935 at the Quad-Cities Oscar Mayer plant. We are dedicated to looking out for our members’ money.

Click here to become a member of The Family Credit Union and experience the difference in banking through a local credit union.

Have one of these? Or maybe one of these?

When you switch to e-Statements, you can say goodbye to the piles and files, BUT retain secure access to all the information they contain.

Discover the benefits of enrolling in e-Statements

1) 24/7 Access to your statements

E-statements allow you to access all of your accounts in one place.  You can quickly and easily keep an eye on your account balance, transactions and monitor for unusual activity.

2)View statements as soon as they are available

With traditional statements, you need to wait for the statement to be printed, stuffed into an envelope, go through the postal system and eventually make its way to your door. With e-statements, you receive an email at the end of the statement period that your account statement is ready to view. You can then log into your account and have immediate – and secure – access to your statement.

3)Reduce risk of identity theft and mail fraud

Your bank statements are full of sensitive financial and personal information. YOUR financial and personal information. When you switch to e-Statements, you are reducing the risk that your personal information will inadvertently fall into the wrong hands. E-statements help reduce your exposure to identity theft through your paper documents.

4)Better for the environment

Switching to e-Statements is a simple way to be more Earth friendly – from the reduction in the amount of paper that is used (the statement and also the envelopes!) to the amount of resources it takes to deliver that paper to your door.

5) Declutter

Using less paper is also better for your immediate home environment.  Clutter happens.  But it doesn’t have to!  You may have a stack of “important mail” that stacks up and becomes unmanageable.  When you sign up for e-statements, you don’t have to worry about misplacing your statement.  Your statement history is archived securely.  It is available for you whenever and wherever you are. 

So what are you waiting for? Start enjoying the benefits of e-Statements today!

Need we say it? It’s that time of year again! Tax season. With this in mind, it is a great time to review all the financial wellness tools, and other helpful offerings that we have available on The Family Credit Union website to help you navigate this tax season.

It is our hope that we can help make your life a little bit easier. Let’s break down what is available, and where you can find it:

TFCU’s Financial Wellness Center

Your financial well being is our priority! That is why we have resources available to you this tax season in our Financial Wellness Center. In order to help answer your tax related questions, you can read the following articles:

• Federal Income Taxes
• Completing a Tax Return
• Tax Brackets and Statuses

In addition, we also offer a Withholdings Calculator, available in our Financial Wellness Center. Federal Income Taxes are withheld from your paycheck by your employer. At tax time, you’ll determine whether you owe more or have over-paid and get a refund. This calculator will help you determine how much is being withheld as a percentage and monthly dollar amount.

• Federal Income Tax Withholding Calculator

The Wellness Center Coach

Another great resource that is part of our financial wellness center is the Wellness Center Coach. Here you will find short, information packed, learning sessions. Related to tax season, you will find the coaching session called “Your Tax Return Pre-Game“. Get the information you need to get prepared to file your taxes, so that filing is smooth and easy this year.

Additional Resources from TFCU

After you have visited our financial wellness center, you can also access additional resources available on our website to assist you this tax season. We have TurboTax at your fingertips on the site, to easily provide you access to personal filing. You’ll get your biggest possible refund and be confident your taxes are done right.

If you find that you owe a tax payment after completing your tax return, The Family Credit Union also offers personal loans to pay help off what you owe. If you would like more information about a personal loan, contact a branch near you or apply online!

This tax season, rely on The Family Credit Union to help you every step of the way. Our commitment, is to you, our members! Access our financial well-being center any time you need tools and information to help you become more informed and financially savvy. We cover all the financial topics that you care most about!