Your Credit Union Can Help You Save Some Green!

If you have read any of my previous posts you know I am a huge advocate of credit unions. Have you ditched your bank and found a credit union yet? Here are some ways your credit union can help save some green.

-Low or no fee checking accounts – are you still paying a fee for your standard checking account? WHY? Your credit union probably offers a free checking account or a premier, gold, or upgraded checking account for a small fee (these accounts usually offer extra perks; free checks, free money orders, free ATM usage, etc.). Do your research and find a checking account that will fit your needs without breaking your budget. (This goes without saying, but be sure to balance your checking account on a regular basis – online banking makes this a cinch! Not balancing, and making a small error can mean BIG fees. This is avoidable – so both banks and credit unions have hefty fees!)

-Discount Services – Many credit unions offer discounted movie tickets, passes to area attractions, access to club memberships, etc. Find out what discount services your credit union offers.

-Convenience Services – Many credit unions offer amazing convenience services to save you time and money. Do you want to make a monthly transfer from your checking account to your savings account each month? Your credit union can probably do that for you – no charge! My credit union offers a service called ACH distribution – we love this! When my husband’s paycheck is direct deposited, we have it set up so that money is transferred automatically to our other accounts (savings, kid’s savings, medical savings account, etc.) This is not only a huge time saver, but it has helped us to develop a plan of regular savings deposits!

There are so many benefits to credit union membership. If you haven’t joined a credit union already – take the time to find one and join. You will be glad you did! (In the meantime, read this article I found on The Dollar Stretcher - one of my favorite sites!)