Thinking About

Buying a Home?

Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

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On the

a publication of TruWest® Credit Union truwest.org

Do You Know WhatYou’re Applying For?

Credit UnionsFight Back

Identity Theft:A Growing Problem

Give GreenTravel a Go

Experience the TruDifference

A Message from the President & CEO .......................................................... 1Credit Unions Fight Back ....................................................................................... 2And the Winner is ........................................................................................................ 3

Whenever you see this symbol, log on to truwest.org for more information.

Whenever you see this symbol, call us for more information.

Your Future and OursGive Green Travel a Go ...........................................................................7Tips for First-Time Homebuyers ......................................................7Looking for a Better Rate? .....................................................................8What Did I Miss? Your Mortgage Crisis Cheat Sheet ....................................................................................8Retirement Planning Solutions .........................................................9

Your MoneyIntroducing the BALANCESM Financial Fitness Program .......4Identity Theft: A Growing Problem ......................................................4Do You Know What You’re Applying For? ......................................5Selling Your Home? What You Need to Know about the Capital Gains Exclusion .....................................................6

Your ConvenienceCO-OP Network Surcharge-Free ATM Access .....................................3On-The-Go Convenience ..................................................................................3

Your Community

TruWest Credit Union is chartered under the laws of Arizona and governed by a Board of Directors elected by its members.

Board of Directors: Chairman Tom Cummiskey Vice-Chairman Jeff Homer Secretary Tim Niesz Treasurer David Prechtel

Board Members at Large: Bill Fulton, Rich Hill, Scott Johs, Jeff Myers and Dan Price

Advisory Committee:Clark Straughan

Supervisory Committee: Chairman Rick O’Conner, Victor Berrios and Maximilian Steinbuchel

TruWest’s Senior Management:President and Chief Executive Officer Dan Desmond

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Alan Althouse

Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer Doug Lake

Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Gary Bernard

Senior Vice President and Technology Officer Tom Gessel

Senior Vice President - Strategic Initiatives Jason Scott

On the Money: Copyright 2008, TruWest Credit Union P.O. Box 3489, Scottsdale, AZ 85271

Editor: Mandy Minette

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A Message from the President & CEO

Whenever you see this symbol, call us for more information.

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The headlines and news stories can’t be missed – big banks are in financial trouble; brokers are in financial trouble; mortgage companies are in trouble. This historic mortgage crisis has everyone, including non-homeowners, on their toes. With stimulus checks mailed out and interest rates dropping, it’s hard not to stop and think about where our economy is heading. From soaring gas prices to the rising cost of food and the increasing number of home foreclosures, it’s not surprising that many consumers are turning to their financial institutions and asking, “Am I at risk? Is my money safe?”

A Credit Union You Can Depend OnTruWest Credit Union is no stranger to these issues; however, it’s important for me to reassure all of our members and potential members that TruWest remains a strong financial institution, and we have money to lend. It is unfortunate that many mortgage companies had to close their doors and that other financial institutions are now struggling, but their current situation is mostly due to their having offered sub-prime loans. When sub-prime lending first became available, TruWest did research our options and ultimately decided that it was not in the best interest of our members to offer these types of loans. During the “hot” market for home purchases, we continued to have strong growth in our mortgage portfolio, but it was due to our reliable mortgage programs and to our commitment to providing excellent products and services to our members. This is one of the main reasons why I can firmly state that TruWest is financially sound.

This is not to say that TruWest has not been affected by the economic crises. When our members suffer financial strain, we experience greater loan delinquencies and higher charge-offs, both of which indicate that we are clearly in a tough market. These issues can have an effect on the Credit Union’s bottom line, but the increases have not caused a dramatic change in our capital position. That is why I am able to tell you, without hesitation, that TruWest will not make changes to our commitment to our members, employees or the communities we serve.

BALANCESM Your FinancesTo help our members learn more about their finances through this tough economic time and maintain a healthy financial position, I am pleased to announce our partnership with the BALANCE Financial Fitness Program. TruWest members now have access to free, unbiased money management information and assistance. All you have to do is make a toll-free phone call to 888.456.2227 to speak to a professional BALANCE counselor. (Find additional details on page 4.) I encourage you to see how BALANCE can help you. As many financial institutions turn away from their customers, TruWest Credit Union invests in ways, like this program, to help our members – another demonstration of the TruDifference!

On behalf of everyone at TruWest Credit Union, I want to thank you for your continued support. Your membership and ongoing business are greatly appreciated.

Dan DesmondPresident & CEO

For years, credit unions have been under attack by the banking industry. In 2005, litigation initiated by banks urged federal courts to narrowly interpret credit union field of membership rules after expansions had been made to encourage inclusion of underserved, low-income populations.

In response to the litigation, the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) limited its field of membership regulations.

While NCUA’s revised standards don’t affect credit union services in previously approved areas, continued pressure from the banking industry will likely subject credit unions to future challenges.

Protecting Our MembersWith aggressive attacks at both the state and federal level, credit unions are fighting back. Employees and members have built grassroots programs to meet present and future challenges.

Many credit union members are protecting the heart of the credit union way. Project Differentiation is one example. Credit union members contact policymakers regarding the unique and positive acts credit unions perform for their members and communities. Members believe in their credit unions and are working together to defend them.

The Credit Union DifferenceThe real issue behind the argument is that banks see credit unions as competition. But they have failed to see the real distinction between the two. Credit unions are cooperatively owned, not shareholder owned. As not-for-profit entities, their sole purpose is to serve members, not profit-based goals. Banks, on the other hand, are in business to drive up share prices for their stockholders.

True, product lines don’t differentiate credit unions from banks, but what does set them apart is structure, ownership and objective.

Credit unions’ goals, including TruWest’s, revolve around helping people. We vow to serve all members well, not just those with high incomes. Edward A. Filene, the father of the American credit union movement, stated, “Credit unions are educational institutions.” TruWest promotes financial literacy and success for our members, and in turn, improves their lives. We offer free financial counseling and seminars to guide you in home buying, improving credit scores and planning for your future.

Stronger Community, Stronger Credit UnionIn short, TruWest Credit Union isn’t here just to protect your money. We are here to improve your life and help you experience the TruDifference. Our first responsibility is to our members, yet we understand that being a cooperative also means reaching out to the community.

If you would like more information on how to actively participate in the credit union movement, please visit www.cuna.org.

Credit Unions Fight Back

Banking Industry Continues Attempt to Stifle Credit Union Growth

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Have faith in the fact that what makes credit unions different is what makes us great.

CO-OP Network® Surcharge-Free ATM Access

Now Available at COSTCO® Stores Nationwide

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And the Winner is …

Congratulations to Larry Hayes of Mesa, AZ! He is the latest winner of TruWest Credit Union’s Million Rewards giveaway!

“What a surprise to win the 1 million credit card reward points from TruWest,” says Mr. Hayes. “My wife and I plan to use some right away for a long-awaited (and well-deserved) vacation to Hawaii. After that, we have some home redecorating projects coming up, so I know the points will come in handy for that, too.”

TruWest has given away 7 million reward points, and we’ll give another million to a lucky TruWest member this October. Will it be you?

How to Enter*• Balance Transfer: Transfer balances

from your higher rate credit cards to your TruWest Platinum Points Visa®. You’ll earn one entry into the Million Rewards drawing for every dollar you transfer.

• Shopping: Use your TruWest Platinum Points Visa for all your spending, eating out or for anything else you need, and you’ll earn one reward point AND one entry into the Million Rewards drawing for every dollar you spend.

Don’t Have a TruWest Visa? Call 480.441.5900 (AZ) or 512.996.4000 (TX), visit any TruWest branch or go to truwest.org to apply today*.

* Must be 18 years of age or older and a legal U.S. resident to participate. Promotion period: July 1, 2008, through Sept. 30, 2008. Entry in this promotion or acceptance of any prize constitutes acceptance of the official rules. Contact the Credit Union at 800.528.1441 for a copy of the official rules. Drawing for prize will be held in October 2008. Winner will be notified by phone and/or e-mail. Winner is responsible for any applicable taxes or other expenses related to any prize awarded.

** All loans subject to credit approval. Must be a TruWest member to qualify. There is a minimum deposit of $25 required to become a TruWest member.

Whether shopping for food, clothing or diapers, TruWest Credit Union members never have to pay a surcharge when using an ATM at Costco stores nationwide.* That’s because CO-OP Network ATMs are now located in 341 Costco Wholesale stores, giving our cardholders greater surcharge-free access to their money.

As many TruWest members are also Costco members, this agreement gives our membership more opportunity to conduct transactions at an ATM without incurring a fee.

Costco shoppers know that when it comes to value and convenience, nothing beats a Costco Wholesale store, and now, with the addition of CO-OP Network surcharge-free access at the ATM, TruWest Credit Union members will save even more money by not paying surcharges when withdrawing cash at a Costco Wholesale store ATM.

Costco joins 7-Eleven® stores as the only nationwide retailers to offer CO-OP Network surcharge-free ATM access inside their outlets. TruWest members have surcharge-free access to all 25,000 CO-OP Network ATMs across the country. To find the nearest CO-OP Network ATM, visit truwest.org and use the handy ATM locator.

* Except stores in Hawaii, Oregon and Washington state.

On-the-Go Convenience

You can also access your TruWest Credit Union accounts at participating 7-Eleven® locations.

Here are just some of the transactions you can make:1. Check deposit2. Cash withdrawals3. Loan payments by check4. Balance inquiries5. Account transfers

Here are a few simple steps to access your account using a participating 7-Eleven ATM:• Select CU Service Centers® Network on

the screen.• For first-time users, a PIN must be established

and questions will be asked to ensure security and protection.

• Input the name of your credit union (TruWest Credit Union) and your account number.

• Insert your TruWest debit card.• Make a transaction!

To find a CU Service Center near you, visit truwest.org and use the handy shared branch or CO-OP Network® locator tool.

Identity Theft: A Growing Problem Identity theft is one of America’s fastest-growing crimes. There were nearly 9 million victims in 2005, and in 2006, it resulted in 37 percent of all complaints reported to the Federal Trade Commission.

Unfortunately, most people don’t realize they have been victimized until more than a year after the crime occurred. By then, much of the damage is already done. A 2005 Nationwide Mutual Insurance survey showed one in four victims haven’t been able to restore their identities, even after a year of trying and spending an average of $587 in out-of-pocket expenses.

The Federal Trade Commission offers these tips to avoid becoming a victim.

• Shred confidential information like bills, old credit cards and even junk mail.

• Always sign the back of your credit cards.

• Keep a record of all your account numbers, company names, expiration dates and toll-free numbers in a location separate from your cards.

• Order a free credit report each year at www.annualcreditreport.com.

• Whenever you move, notify all companies you do business with.

• Check your statements against receipts to make sure the charges are correct.

• Protect your Social Security number. Don’t carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write the number on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier.

• Don’t give out personal information on the phone, through the mail or over the Internet unless you initiated the contact.

• Never click on links sent in unsolicited e-mails; instead, type in a Web address you know. Use up-to-date firewalls, anti-spyware and anti-virus software to protect your home computer.

• Don’t use an obvious password like your birth date, your mother’s maiden name or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

• Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help or are having work done in your house.

• Don’t leave mail in your box over nights or weekends.

• Consider purchasing identity theft insurance that provides credit monitoring and identity recovery service.

For more information on Identity Theft, visit www.ftc.gov. A description of recent identity theft scams can also be found on truwest.org in the Monthly Focus section.

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Introducing the BALANCESM Financial Fitness Program

TruWest Credit Union is dedicated to helping you realize your financial goals – reducing your debt, saving for higher education, buying your first home and planning for retirement. Which is why we are excited to announce the newest benefit of your membership: BALANCE Financial Fitness Program.

Through BALANCE, you have access to free, unbiased money management information and assistance. All you have to do is make a toll-free phone call.

BALANCE counselors can answer many of your questions immediately – from how long an item stays on your credit report to whether it’s better to lease or buy a car. For more complex issues, such as debt elimination or budget development, a free appointment will be scheduled – giving you the personal attention you need to meet your objectives.

If bills have gotten out of hand, your BALANCE counselor may be able to arrange a Debt Management Plan. Since you are a member of TruWest, the program’s usual monthly fee of $20 is waived.

Get Started NowTo use the new program, simply call 888.456.2227. Counselors are available Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.(PT) or visit www.balancepro.net for more information.

TruWest recognizes that money concerns have a serious effect on our quality of life. Now, through our newest partnership with BALANCE, you have access to the very best professional guidance – so you can achieve financial security faster than you ever thought possible.

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Do You Know What You’re Applying For?There are credit card companies that ask you what card you have in your wallet – implying that you should have theirs. There are others that announce great benefits, like getting front-row tickets at a sold-out concert. What these credit card companies won’t announce is that the price can get pretty steep for cards that seem too good to be true. Be sure to read the fine print before signing up for a new credit card account to see what type of annual fee is charged and what the default APR* will be if you’re accidentally late on your payment (by just one day in some cases!).

Understanding the BenefitsHere are a few things to look for in a credit card that you can rely on time and time again.

• No introductory rate. An introductory rate can be great, but once the promotional period is over, you might pay a lot more than you expected. Look for a card, like a TruWest Platinum Visa®, that offers a great low fixed rate all the time.

• No default rate. The default rate is the APR that your rate can jump to if you are late making a payment. When reading the fine print for a credit card, look for a card that has no default rate or has a default rate that allows for a more convenient cushion in case you accidentally make a payment late. A TruWest Platinum Visa comes with a default rate that only kicks in if you are 30 days late twice in a 12-month period. Some cards even charge a universal default rate, meaning even if you always pay them on time, they can raise the rate on the card you have with them if you are late paying another company.

• No annual fee. There are plenty of credit cards that come with great rewards programs. Be sure to look at the terms and conditions for these rewards programs before signing up. Many credit card companies will charge you an annual fee to have a credit card that earns rewards. Look for a card that charges no annual fee and offers a rewards program, like TruWest’s Platinum Points Visa card.

Make the Choice That’s Best for YouWith so many credit cards to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which one is best for your needs. We’re here to help you get a great rate on a card that has no annual fee, no balance transfer fee and a rewards program for our Platinum Points cards. For more information on a TruWest Platinum Visa, call 480.441.5900 (AZ) or 512.996.4000 (TX), or visit truwest.org.

* Annual Percentage Rate.

With so many credit cards to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which one is best for your needs. We’re here to help you.

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Selling Your Home?

What You Need to Know about the Capital Gains ExclusionIf you’ve owned your home for many years, it’s likely worth far more than what you paid for it. You may be surprised to learn that you can realize a gain on the sale of your home of up to $250,000 – $500,000 if you’re married – without paying any capital gains tax.

Meeting Eligibility RequirementsTo be eligible for the exclusion, the home must be your main residence. You must have owned and lived in the home for at least two years during the five years prior

If you’ve owned your home for many years, it’s likely worth far more than what you paid for it. You may be surprised to learn that you can realize a gain on the sale of your home of up to $500,000.

to the sale. There is no limit to the number of times you can take the capital gains exclusion as long as it is on a principal residence, you meet the usage tests and you have not sold another home and taken an exclusion on it less than two years before the current sale.

The IRS generally allows married couples to take the full exclusion as long as one spouse meets the ownership test and both spouses meet the use test. However, if either spouse took an exclusion on another home within the two-year period, you would not qualify for the $500,000 exclusion.

If you must sell your home before meeting the usage tests, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may allow a partial exclusion if the home is sold under “unforeseen circumstances.” These circumstances may include, but aren’t limited to, health problems, divorce and certain job changes. In addition, members of the U.S. Armed

Services, Foreign Service or the intelligence community may be able to suspend the five-year test period in certain situations.

Widows and Widowers Get a BreakPrior to this year, a widowed individual could claim the full $500,000 exclusion on a home sale only during the tax year of the deceased spouse’s death. Effective for sales on or after January 1, 2008, a new tax law allows widows and widowers who have not remarried to claim the full $500,000 exclusion, as long as the home sale occurs no later than two years after the death of the spouse.

In any case, surviving spouses continue to benefit from an increase in what is considered the base price for the deceased spouse’s share of a jointly owned home.

Ask the ExpertsThe rules for excluding capital gains can be complex, especially in the case of remarriage or when the home is owned jointly by non-spouses. See IRS Publication 523, “Selling Your Home,” available at www.irs.gov, to learn more, and be sure to consult a tax advisor for answers to your specific questions.

If you’re selling your home with the intent to purchase another one, TruWest Credit Union’s Professional Mortgage Planners can help you find the right mortgage loan to fit your needs. Call today at 480.441.5900 (AZ) or 512.996.4000 (TX) for a no-obligation home-loan evaluation.

Note that neither this financial institution nor any of its affiliates give tax advice. Consult a tax advisor for information in your situation.

If your idea of “green travel” includes sleeping on 30-count hemp sheets and snacking on soybeans as you travel by mountain goat, think again. You can protect our planet while still enjoying the vacation of your dreams.

Baby StepsThe following ideas can shrink your environmental footprint while traveling, yet they require little to no extra energy or expense.

When organizing your trip, try to book direct flights. The multiple take-offs and landings of added connections result in extra carbon emissions. In addition, make reservations at “green” hotels when possible. You can visit greenhotels.com* for a list of green hotels across the country.

Before leaving home, unplug appliances (such as the toaster and cell phone chargers), adjust your water heater and thermostat to the most energy-efficient setting and put your newspaper delivery on hold.

At the hotel, let the staff know it’s not necessary to change your linens and towels every day. Avoid the little bottles of amenities provided by the hotel, and use the hotel’s recycling program. Rather than leaving the bathroom light on all night, pack a night light, and turn off the air conditioning or heat, lights, TV and other appliances when you leave the hotel room.

When sightseeing, avoid fast food, pick up only the maps and brochures you need and shoot photos with a

digital camera rather than disposables to prevent unnecessary waste. Get to know the area better – and avoid the hassle, expense and pollution of driving – by enjoying walking tours and public transportation. If you need a rental car, consider a hybrid.

Living LargeYou may want to take a more committed approach to protecting the environment. Consider purchasing carbon offset credits, which help fund clean power initiatives and counter-balance the environmental impact of your travel. Comparisons of various offset projects are available at www.carbonfund.org.* You might also enjoy an eco-friendly tour organized by conservation groups such as The Nature Conservancy, World Wildlife Fund or The National Audubon Society.

Whether your travels take you near or far, a TruWest Platinum Visa® credit card offers you safety and convenience with every purchase – from travel reservations to souvenirs to photo developing to carbon offsets. Contact us at 480.441.5900 (AZ) or 512.996.4000 (TX) to learn more.

* Web site for information only. No endorsement is implied.

Give Green Travel a Go

Thinking About Buying a Home?Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

At the hotel, let the staff know it’s not necessary to change your linens and towels every day.

You’ve been hearing for months now that it’s a good time to buy a home. Both interest rates and prices are low – making it a favorable market for buyers. There’s a lot to think about when buying your first home, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By going into homeownership prepared, you’ll be assured you’re making a wise decision. Ready to take the homeownership plunge? Here’s how to get started:

• Think about your budget. Decide how much home you can comfortably afford. Typically, your monthly payment should be no more than 28% of your gross income. Create a budget with your new house payment included and try it out for a few months. Save the difference and not only will you see

what paying a mortgage will be like, but you’ll save some extra cash too!

• Pay off debt. The less debt you have before purchasing a home, the better. Lenders won’t usually allow your monthly debt service – such as credit cards, student loans and auto loans – and your house payment to exceed 40% of your income. Plus, your mortgage interest rate will be based on your credit score. If you pay off some debts first, your score will likely rise and lower your interest rate.

• Save for a down payment. 100% financing is becoming harder and harder to find. Saving for a down payment will allow you to qualify

for better interest rates, afford more home and start out with more equity.

• Get pre-approved at TruWest Credit Union. Once your finances are in order, come and see us to learn about the many mortgage products we have to offer. Call us at 480.441.5900 (AZ) or 512.996.4000 (TX) to learn more about starting the homebuying process. We can help find the right loan for you.

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Looking for a Better Rate?

TruWest Credit Union has some of the best rates in town. It’s part of what gives us a TruDifference from other banks and financial institutions. At TruWest, you’ll not only enjoy great loan and deposit rates, but you’ll also experience a culture of caring for our members, employees and communities. Visit truwest.org/trudifference for more information on how we’re making a difference!

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Dividend Rates Investment Certificates APY*

(based on $20,000 deposit)

6-month 2.75%12-month 2.90%

24-month 3.25%

36-month 3.50%

60-month 3.80%TruWest offers additional tiers, as well as higher yielding IRA Investment Certificates. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Fees could reduce earnings.

Money Market Checking Minimum Balance APY*

$0 - $9,999 1.10% $10,000 - $24,999 1.50%

$25,000 - $49,999 1.80%

$50,000 - $99,999 1.90% $100,000 and over 2.00% A minimum $5,000 initial deposit is required.

Money Market Maximizer Minimum Balance APY*

$0 - $9,999 0.75%$10,000 - $49,999 2.25%

$50,000 - $99,999 2.75%

$100,000 and over 2.80%A minimum $1,000 initial deposit is required.

Share Savings Minimum Balance APY*

$0 - $4,999 0.75%

$5,000 - and over 1.00%A minimum $25 balance in Share Savings is required to be eligible for other services.

Loan Rates

Home Equity Line of Credit As low as 4.99% APR†

Mortgages

Fixed rates as low as 6.373% APR††

Adjustable rates as low as 5.132% APR††

For more rates or to apply for any of these products, visit truwest.org or call 480.441.5900 (AZ), 512.996.4000 (TX) or toll-free 800.528.1441.

Rates current as of June 16, 2008, and are subject to change. A minimum $25 balance in Share Savings is required to be eligible for other services.* Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is based on monthly compounding. Call 480.441.5900 or

800.528.1441 for applicable fees and terms. † OAC. The rate listed is a variable rate based on the highest prime rate as published in

The Wall Street Journal and may increase after the loan is booked. Life Cap of Loan is 18%. The rate listed is fixed and reflects a .25% rate reduction for auto transfer payment and will increase if auto transfer payment is cancelled.

†† OAC.

What Did I Miss?

Your Mortgage-Crisis Cheat Sheet• Early ’90s Subprime mortgages are offered as a solution to help people with

less-than-perfect credit buy a home. Because the loans are riskier, lenders charge slightly higher interest rates. The rates are typically adjustable – starting low and rising after a few years.

• 2001 Greed kicks in: Higher profit margins drive lenders to seek out and approve borrowers who can’t really afford the mortgages. Wall Street gets in on the action, selling bundles of the mortgages off as securities to investors.

• 2006 Subprime-mortgage rates adjust upward. Homeowners miss loan payments and foreclosures begin. The value of securities tied to subprime mortgages declines.

• Now Banks, private investors and Wall Street are suffering billion-dollar losses. Consumer confidence, a strong predictor of recession, is at an 18-year low. In most places, it’s harder to sell a home or qualify for a mortgage.

Bottom line: No matter who’s spinning the math, never buy more house than you can afford. When you’re ready to take the leap into homeownership, TruWest can help. Contact us at 480.441.5900 (AZ), 512.996.4000 (TX) or toll-free at 800.528.1441 to find out more about our mortgage options.

Source: Bitner, Richard. Red Book June 2008: 28

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Retirement Planning SolutionsIf you’re approaching retirement, anticipating a job change or have recently changed jobs, you will be faced with making one of the most important decisions affecting your retirement savings, “What am I going to do with my 401(k)?” The Financial Advisors located at TruWest Credit Union can help you determine the option that is best for you.

Financial experts agree that cashing out a 401(k) can have a significant negative impact on your financial security during retirement because of the potential for stiff penalties and tax consequences. If you cash out a 401(k), you could be liable for ordinary income tax, plus a 10% penalty, as well as state and local taxes on your distribution. Depending on your tax bracket, that could take a 40% to 60% chunk out of your retirement nest egg.

If you leave your retirement dollars in your previous employer’s plan or roll it into your new employer’s plan, you lose some control over the investment options of your hard-earned savings. Your CUE Financial Advisors, located at TruWest Credit Union, can help you take control of your retirement money and invest it the way you want.

Get the Financial Advice You DeserveTruWest Credit Union has partnered with CUE Financial Group to provide Financial Advisors who will work closely with you to understand your goals and dreams and develop a highly personalized financial strategy that is designed to help grow and protect your assets.

The comprehensive planning process generally involves:

• Collecting information and discussing your goals. A needs-based approach means learning more about your financial needs and goals.

• Analyzing your information and making recommendations. The Financial Advisors study all your information carefully, evaluate the different options available to you and prepare recommendations based on the information gathered.

• Putting a plan into action. As you work closely together, you’ll have access to the information, products and services that will help you achieve your goals. Any decisions you make and any actions you take are entirely up to you.

• Conducting periodic reviews. People, personal circumstances and the economy can change. Through periodic reviews, the Financial Advisors can make sure your plan keeps you on course to meet your financial needs and goals.

CUE Financial Advisors, located in TruWest Credit Union branches, use state-of-the-art financial planning software to customize your plan and provide recommendations that are easy to understand. And, since we don’t offer any proprietary products, you can feel comfortable that our recommendations are made with your best interest in mind.

For more information about the financial planning program located at TruWest Credit Union, visit truwest.org/financial or call 480.441.5900 (AZ) or 512.996.4000 (TX).

Your CUE Financial Advisors can help you take control of your retirement money and invest it the way you want.

Not NCUA / NCUSIF Insured Not A Deposit No Guaranteed by the Credit Union

Not Insured By any Federal Government Agency May Lose Value

Branch office of and securities, insurance and investment services offered through CUE Financial Group, Inc., member FINRA and SIPC. CUE Financial Group, Inc. and TruWest Credit Union are not affiliates.

P.O. Box 3489, Scottsdale, AZ 85271truwest.org

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Go Green

Go Paperless with eStatementsStreamline the way you handle your finances and help protect the environment at the same time. How? Simply sign up for eStatements.

You’ll reduce the paper clutter in your home and have mouse-click access to your account history, neatly organized and securely presented on your eStatements. TruWest Credit Union maintains rigorous and up-to-date controls to protect the security of your personal information. In fact, eStatements are more secure than paper statements, since they can’t be lost or stolen from the mail stream.

And receiving eStatements not only saves trees, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and conserves energy that would be used to create and deliver paper statements.

Best of all, eStatements contain exactly the same information as paper statements, and even look the same. Each month, you’ll receive an email stating that your eStatement is ready. You can save it on your computer or simply view it online. You’ll have access to your eStatement a few days earlier than you would receive a paper one, so it’s easier than ever to stay on top of your finances.

To sign up for eStatements, or to learn more about our other online services, visit our Web site, truwest.org.

This publication does not constitute legal, accounting or other professional advice. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither the publisher nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this material. Images may be from one or more of these sources: ©Jupiterimages, ©Getty Images, ©iStock, ©PhotoSpin. ©2008 Priority Publications prioritypub.com

At TruWest, we are committed to helping the environment. When you’re finished with the useful information in this newsletter, please remember to recycle it.