Holiday EOQ · 2017-06-30 · NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 Be sure to tell your...

4
Serving Texas Since 1952 Your Financial Partner for Life Insights Serving Texas Since 1952 Your Financial Partner for Life Summer 2017 Summer 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 www.gtfcu.org MEET YOUR SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE The Supervisory Committee arranges credit union audits and serves as a sounding board for member comments and concerns. If you have any comments or concerns you would like to share, you can mail them directly to the Supervisory Committee, P.O. Box 9732, Austin, TX 78766-9900. ARE YOU READY TO BUY A HOME? A growing family, freedom from renting, space to entertain or run a home business – there are plenty of compelling reasons to leap into homeownership. Still, you need more than good intentions to manage a mortgage. See how you measure up in the following categories. Qualities of a Prepared Homebuyer Past employment: Two years or more on the job. This shows the stability of your employment and income. Future plans: Live in the area five years or more. If there's a chance you'll need to relocate for work or other reasons, renting may be a better option than buying. Existing savings: A respectable down payment. First-time homebuyers may qualify for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans with a 3.5% down payment. A 10% down payment is even better (and may be required for a conventional mortgage). Emergency savings: Enough to last three to six months. Maintain a reserve of money to pay the mortgage and other expenses in case of a job loss or other emergency. Home budget: Property taxes, insurance and repairs. The costs of owning a home far exceed the mortgage amount. Estimate all of these costs and build them into your budget. Sweat equity: Time and money for home upkeep. Depending on the home, you could spend a small fortune (and/or many hours) on repairs, refinishing and redecorating. And there also may be ongoing maintenance such as mowing the lawn, cleaning the gutters, etc. It's important to feel good about your decision to buy. At Greater Texas and Aggieland Credit Union we can help determine if you're qualified to buy and how much you can afford. Call one of our mortgage specialists at (855) 699-5919 to get started. EVOLVING WITH YOU No matter what stage of life you're in, Greater Texas has dedicated our efforts to improving the lives of our members for more than 65 years. From your first car to your dream car, we have the perfect auto loan for you! Let our experienced team of loan professionals help you save with auto loan rates as low as 1.99% APR.* And we have numerous ways to make your auto loan even better with roadside assistance, extended warranty plans, GAP Coverage and auto insurance. Do you have an auto loan with another lender? Are you paying a higher rate? Let us refinance your current auto loan for even greater savings. Your credit union is evolving with you every step of the way. Visit us at gtfcu.org for more details. *APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Terms and conditions apply. Rate is for loan terms up to six years, 72 monthly payments of $14.75 per $1,000 borrowed. Rate is based on credit approval and subject to change. Additional discounts do not apply. Promotion applies to new money loans for purchase or competitor refinance only. Supervisory Committee members include (L to R): Chris Langan, Member; Linda Lothringer, Secretary; Robyn Johnson, Member; Sheila Bell, Member; Stephen Mason, Chairman. READY OR NOT? Which of the following milestones show that you’re ready to own a home? A. You have a steady job. B. Your high-interest credit card debt is paid off. C. You saved $10,000 for a down payment. D. All of the above – and more. The answer is D. These are all good signs, but no single achievement is a green light for homeownership.

Transcript of Holiday EOQ · 2017-06-30 · NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 Be sure to tell your...

Page 1: Holiday EOQ · 2017-06-30 · NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 Be sure to tell your heirs about your “˜nal ˜le.” They need to know that you have created it; they

NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017

Serving Texas Since 1952 Your Financial Partner for LifeInsightsServing Texas Since 1952 Your Financial Partner for Life

Summer 2017Summer 2017

NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017

EOQCongratulations to Theresa Alvarado, the 2nd quarter 2017 Employee of the Quarter. Theresa is a teller at our S.E. Military Branch in San Antonio. She was nominated for EOQ because she is always happy to assist. She is always so positive and you can hear her smile when she answers the phone. Theresa inspires people to always want to do their best and is willing to learn and help motivate her fellow peers. She is a true champion of Greater Texas. Way to go, Theresa!

CLOSINGSHoliday

w w w . g t f c u . o r g

Tuesday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day Monday, September 4 in observance of Labor Day Monday, October 9 in observance of Columbus Day

MEET YOUR SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE

The Supervisory Committee arranges credit union audits and serves as a sounding board for member comments and concerns. If you have any comments or concerns you would like to share, you can mail them directly to the Supervisory Committee, P.O. Box 9732, Austin, TX 78766-9900.

ARE YOU READY TO BUY A HOME?A growing family, freedom from renting, space to entertain or run a home business – there are plenty of compelling reasons to leap into homeownership. Still, you need more than good intentions to manage a mortgage. See how you measure up in the following categories.

Qualities of a Prepared HomebuyerPast employment: Two years or more on the job. This shows the stability of your employmentand income.

Future plans: Live in the area �ve years or more. If there's a chance you'll need to relocate for work or other reasons, renting may be a better option than buying.

Existing savings: A respectable down payment. First-time homebuyers may qualify for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans with a 3.5% down payment. A 10% down payment is even better (and may be required for a conventional mortgage).

Emergency savings: Enough to last three to six months. Maintain a reserve of money to pay the mortgage and other expenses in case of a job loss or other emergency.

Home budget: Property taxes, insurance and repairs. The costs of owning a home far exceed the mortgage amount. Estimate all of these costs and build them into your budget.

Sweat equity: Time and money for home upkeep. Depending on the home, you could spend a small fortune (and/or many hours) on repairs, re�nishing and redecorating. And there also may be ongoing maintenance such as mowing the lawn, cleaning the gutters, etc.

It's important to feel good about your decision to buy. At Greater Texas and Aggieland Credit Union we can help determine if you're quali�ed to buy and how much you can afford. Call one of our mortgage specialists at (855) 699-5919 to get started.

Federally Insured by the NCUA

Online Loan Applications

Apply for a loan 24/7 by visiting our website.

Mobile App

All of the same great features of online banking now available on your Apple or Android mobile devices. Download our free mobile app at the Apple Store or Google Play.

GTCall 24 - hour Account Access

Automated voice response system lets you check your balance, transfer money, even apply for a loan, all over the phone, from anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, free!Austin: (512) 451-5195Nationwide toll-free: 1-800-749-0179

Internet Access

www.gtfcu.orgwww.aggielandcu.org orwww.freecuatms.orgfor many more FREE or NO-FEE ATM locations. You can use your ATM card at PLUS machines worldwide, but if you use machines other than the ones listed above, the first five transactions per month (seven per month for Golden Star members) are free, and you will be charged $2 for every transaction after that.

EVOLVING WITH YOU No matter what stage of life you're in, Greater Texas has dedicated our efforts to improving the lives of our members for more than 65 years.

From your �rst car to your dream car, we have the perfect auto loan for you! Let our experienced team of loan professionals help you save with auto loan rates as low as 1.99% APR.*

And we have numerous ways to make your auto loan even better with roadside assistance, extended warranty plans, GAP Coverage and auto insurance.

Do you have an auto loan with another lender? Are you paying a higher rate? Let us re�nance your current auto loan for even greater savings.

Your credit union is evolving with you every step of the way. Visit us at gtfcu.org for more details.

*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Terms and conditions apply. Rate is for loan terms up to six years, 72 monthly payments of $14.75 per $1,000 borrowed. Rate is based on credit approval and subject to change. Additional discounts do not apply. Promotion applies to new money loans for purchase or competitor re�nance only.

Supervisory Committee members include (L to R): Chris Langan, Member; Linda Lothringer,Secretary; Robyn Johnson, Member; Sheila Bell, Member; Stephen Mason, Chairman.

MEMBER’S ROADSIDE ADVANTAGE Emergency roadside assistance and more, just for credit union members! SAVE UP TO 65% ON ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

Member’s Roadside Advantage was created exclusively for credit union members to help you save on a wide range of roadside assistance services and other travel bene�ts.

Wherever the road leads you, you and your family can enjoy peace of mind with fast, friendly roadside assistance. Whether it's a �at tire, dead battery, lockout or other roadside issue – you are covered.

Member’s Roadside Advantage Assistance Hotline is available 24/7, whenever you need it. Simply give us a call, and we will work hard to get you and your loved ones back on the road quickly and safely.

Member’s Roadside Advantage offers the following roadside assistance and other great bene�ts to credit union members: • Towing Assistance • Jump Start • Flat Tire Assistance • Fuel, Oil & Fluid Delivery • Lock-Out Assistance • Collision Assistance • Emergency Travel Expense Reimbursement (not available in CA & NY) • Ambulance Service Reimbursement (not available in GA, NY & VA) • Legal Defense Reimbursement (not available in AL, CA & NY) • Custom Trip Routing Service • Emergency Message Relay

In addition to the roadside assistance bene�ts, you will also have access to the “Savings Connection” program where you save on things you need and enjoy.

Save Big On:• Theme Park & Attraction Discounts• Car Rental Discounts• Hotel Discounts• Cruise Discounts• Retail discounts on movies, dining, �owers and more!

Enroll today! Plans start at $39/year. To enroll visit us online at gtfcu.org and select Member’s Roadside Advantage from the Loans tab.

READY OR NOT?

Which of the following milestones show that you’re ready to own a home?

A. You have a steady job.

B. Your high-interest credit card debt is paid off.

C. You saved $10,000 for a down payment.

D. All of the above – and more.

The answer is D. These are all good signs, but no single achievement is a green light for homeownership.

Page 2: Holiday EOQ · 2017-06-30 · NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 Be sure to tell your heirs about your “˜nal ˜le.” They need to know that you have created it; they

NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017

w w w . g t f c u . o r gw w w . g t f c u . o r g

Be sure to tell your heirs about your “�nal �le.” They need to know that you have created it; they need to know where it is. It will do no good if you are the only one who knows those things when you die. You can compile your “�nal �le” gradually. The next account statement, income payment, or real estate or insurance newsletter than comes into your inbox or mailbox can be your cue to tackle and scratch off that particular item from the “�nal �le” to-do list. Yes, it takes work to create a “�nal �le” – but you could argue that it is necessary work, and your heirs will thank you for your effort.

Fernando Arenivas may be reached at 512.657.1289 or [email protected].

This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their af�liates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Securities offered through SWBC Investment Services, LLC, a registered broker/dealer. Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered through SWBC Investment Company, a Registered Investment Advisor. SWBC In- vestment Services, LLC & SWBC Investment Company are not affiliated with this institution. *NO CREDIT UNION GUARANTEE *NCUSIF INSURED *MAY LOSE VALUE. Citations.1-marketwatch.com/story/13-steps-to-organizing-your-accounts-and-assets-2016-03-03 [3/3/16]2-reuters.com/article/us-retirement-death-folder-idUSKBN0FK1RW20140715 [7/15/14]

Who wants to leave this world with their �nancial affairs in good order? We all do, right? None of us wants to leave a collection of �nancial mysteries for our spouse or our children to solve. What we want and what we do can differ, however. Many heirs spend days, weeks, or months searching for a decedent’s �nancial and legal documents. They may even discover a savings bond, a certi�cate of deposit, or a life insurance policy years after their loved one passes. Certainly, you want to spare your heirs from this predicament. One helpful step is to create a “�nal �le.” Maybe it is an actual accordion or manila folder; maybe it is a �le on a computer desktop; or maybe it is secured within an online vault. The form matters less than the function. The function this �le will serve is to provide your heirs with the documentation and direction they need to help them settle your estate. What should be in your “�nal �le?” De�nitely a copy of your will and copies of any trust documents. Place a durable power of attorney and a health care proxy in there too, as this folder’s contents may need to be accessed before you die. Copies of insurance policies should go into the “�nal �le” – not only your life insurance policy, but home and auto coverage. A list of all the �nancial accounts in your name should be kept in the �le – and, to be complete, why not include sample account statements with account numbers, or, at least, usernames and passwords, so that these accounts can be easily accessed online. Social Security bene�t information should also be compiled. That information will be essential for your spouse (and, perhaps, for a former spouse). If you happen to receive a pension from a former employer, your heirs need to know the particulars about that. They should also be able to access documentation pertaining to real estate you own. If you have a safe deposit box, at least one of your heirs should know where the key is – otherwise, your heirs will have to pay a locksmith, directly or indirectly, to open it. Along those lines, the combination to a home safe should be disclosed. If you have trust issues with some of your heirs, you can only disclose such information to the trusted ones or to an attorney. Contact information should be inside the “�nal �le” as well. Your heirs will need to look up the email address or phone number of the �nancial professionals you have consulted, any attorneys you

GETTING YOUR FINANCIAL PAPERWORK IN GOOD ORDER Help make things easier for your loved ones when you leave this world. Provided by Fernando Arenivas

have turned to for estate planning or business advice, and any insurance professionals with whom you have maintained relationships.

Other documentation to include: credit card information, vehicle titles, and cemetery/burial information. Be sure to include your social media and e-commerce passwords for sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Amazon, and eBay. Some social media sites may require a copy of your death certi�cate or obituary notice before allowing any other party to access your pro�le. Furthermore, you may also wish to leave a letter or note instructing your heirs on how the world should be noti�ed of your death.1

Your heirs will want to supplement your “�nal �le” with contributions of their own. Perhaps the most important supplement will be your death certi�cate. A funeral home may tell your heirs that they will need only a few copies. In reality, they may need several – or more – if your business or �nancial situation is particularly involved. A “�nal �le” may save both money & time. If documentation is scant or unavailable, settling an estate can be a prolonged affair. As National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys president Howard Krooks told Reuters, “It could be six months or longer if you don't have the paperwork in order.” In the worst-case scenario, probate consumes 5% or more of an estate.2 One other important step may save your heirs money & time. If you add the name of an heir to a key bank account, that heir can pay a hospital bill or make a mortgage payment on your behalf without undue delay.2

At Greater Texas and Aggieland CU, we know that our most valuable resource is our loyal members. We believe in providing top quality �nancial services to meet our members’ needs, and we always strive to set an example of the “People Helping People” principles that have made us successful for over 65 years. We are excited to introduce ReferLive: a refer a friend platform designed to encourage and incent existing members to refer their friends and family to open and use a new checking account at Greater Texas or Aggieland CU. Both you and the friend or family member that you refer can earn a $50 Visa® Reward Card for the quali�ed opening and use of a new GTFCU checking account. The rewards don’t stop there; you can earn up to $500 per year for making referrals!

How does it work?

1. Visit www.referlive.com/gtfcu to register as a referrer or stop by any GTFCU branch for more details.

2. Share the offer with friends and family via email, social media or text message.

3. Once your friend or family member registers, opens a new GTFCU checking account and meets the account quali�cations within 60 days of account opening, both you and the new account holder will each receive a $50 Visa® Reward Card!

ReferLive is a great way for you to share Greater Texas and Aggieland CU with your friends and family and be rewarded! If you have any questions, please feel free to visit your local branch or call ReferLive at 629-888-9043.

*Terms & Conditions apply and are available at www.referlive.com/gtfcu or upon request at your local Greater Texas or Aggieland CU branch.

$50 FOR YOU & $50 FOR THEMWHEN YOU REFER A FRIEND TO OPEN AND USE A NEW GREATER TEXAS OR AGGIELAND CU CHECKING ACCOUNT!*

TIPS TO DUMP THAT DEBT FASTERAre you one of the estimated 37 million Americans with student loan debt? According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the average college loan debt hovers at just over $24,300 — a burden that can prevent you from investing or purchasing a �rst home.

Paying down your loan debt faster than the traditional 10 or more years just makes good economic sense: In doing so, you end up shelling out less in interest than if you had made all the scheduled payments. So, how do you get out from under this �nancial burden? Read on to �nd out.

5 ways to pay off student loans — fast!

1. Consider paying more than the monthly amount — or more frequently. If you’re strapped for cash that might be easier said than done. But if you have some extra money each month, try sending it in with your payment or as an extra payment with written instructions that the additional money is to be applied to the loan principal.

2. Budget, budget, budget. Without one, you probably don’t really know where your cash is going. But expenses such as daily lunches out can really add up. Budgeting can help you �gure out where you can curb spending and decide on how much extra you can comfortably send per month.

3. Use that extra cash. Windfall? Tax refund? Additional cash from a part-time job? Consider putting it toward your debt. Sure, it’s not as exciting as buying the latest iPhone® incarnation or going on vacation, but just think of when you can better enjoy those things without the dark cloud of student loans hovering over you!

4. Go automatic. Automatic payments or arranging to have a set amount taken out of your paycheck and deposited into a savings account set up speci�cally for loan money can ensure money goes to the right place.

5. Get an interest rate do-over. Paying on time, having good credit and enrolling in automatic bill pay can help you get your interest rate lowered. For example, lenders often knock about .25 percent off of interest rates for auto pay.

Looking for some loan forgiveness or �nancial assistance with your loans? Check out the numerous programs available (and websites like those run by the nonpro�t American Student Assistance, www.asa.org). In some profes-sions — such as teaching and nursing — working in low-income, rural or other high-needs areas for a set number of years can be rewarded with loan forgiveness. Some employers may also help pay a portion of student loans.

Page 3: Holiday EOQ · 2017-06-30 · NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 Be sure to tell your heirs about your “˜nal ˜le.” They need to know that you have created it; they

NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017

w w w . g t f c u . o r gw w w . g t f c u . o r g

Be sure to tell your heirs about your “�nal �le.” They need to know that you have created it; they need to know where it is. It will do no good if you are the only one who knows those things when you die. You can compile your “�nal �le” gradually. The next account statement, income payment, or real estate or insurance newsletter than comes into your inbox or mailbox can be your cue to tackle and scratch off that particular item from the “�nal �le” to-do list. Yes, it takes work to create a “�nal �le” – but you could argue that it is necessary work, and your heirs will thank you for your effort.

Fernando Arenivas may be reached at 512.657.1289 or [email protected].

This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their af�liates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Securities offered through SWBC Investment Services, LLC, a registered broker/dealer. Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered through SWBC Investment Company, a Registered Investment Advisor. SWBC In- vestment Services, LLC & SWBC Investment Company are not affiliated with this institution. *NO CREDIT UNION GUARANTEE *NCUSIF INSURED *MAY LOSE VALUE. Citations.1-marketwatch.com/story/13-steps-to-organizing-your-accounts-and-assets-2016-03-03 [3/3/16]2-reuters.com/article/us-retirement-death-folder-idUSKBN0FK1RW20140715 [7/15/14]

Who wants to leave this world with their �nancial affairs in good order? We all do, right? None of us wants to leave a collection of �nancial mysteries for our spouse or our children to solve. What we want and what we do can differ, however. Many heirs spend days, weeks, or months searching for a decedent’s �nancial and legal documents. They may even discover a savings bond, a certi�cate of deposit, or a life insurance policy years after their loved one passes. Certainly, you want to spare your heirs from this predicament. One helpful step is to create a “�nal �le.” Maybe it is an actual accordion or manila folder; maybe it is a �le on a computer desktop; or maybe it is secured within an online vault. The form matters less than the function. The function this �le will serve is to provide your heirs with the documentation and direction they need to help them settle your estate. What should be in your “�nal �le?” De�nitely a copy of your will and copies of any trust documents. Place a durable power of attorney and a health care proxy in there too, as this folder’s contents may need to be accessed before you die. Copies of insurance policies should go into the “�nal �le” – not only your life insurance policy, but home and auto coverage. A list of all the �nancial accounts in your name should be kept in the �le – and, to be complete, why not include sample account statements with account numbers, or, at least, usernames and passwords, so that these accounts can be easily accessed online. Social Security bene�t information should also be compiled. That information will be essential for your spouse (and, perhaps, for a former spouse). If you happen to receive a pension from a former employer, your heirs need to know the particulars about that. They should also be able to access documentation pertaining to real estate you own. If you have a safe deposit box, at least one of your heirs should know where the key is – otherwise, your heirs will have to pay a locksmith, directly or indirectly, to open it. Along those lines, the combination to a home safe should be disclosed. If you have trust issues with some of your heirs, you can only disclose such information to the trusted ones or to an attorney. Contact information should be inside the “�nal �le” as well. Your heirs will need to look up the email address or phone number of the �nancial professionals you have consulted, any attorneys you

GETTING YOUR FINANCIAL PAPERWORK IN GOOD ORDER Help make things easier for your loved ones when you leave this world. Provided by Fernando Arenivas

have turned to for estate planning or business advice, and any insurance professionals with whom you have maintained relationships.

Other documentation to include: credit card information, vehicle titles, and cemetery/burial information. Be sure to include your social media and e-commerce passwords for sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Amazon, and eBay. Some social media sites may require a copy of your death certi�cate or obituary notice before allowing any other party to access your pro�le. Furthermore, you may also wish to leave a letter or note instructing your heirs on how the world should be noti�ed of your death.1

Your heirs will want to supplement your “�nal �le” with contributions of their own. Perhaps the most important supplement will be your death certi�cate. A funeral home may tell your heirs that they will need only a few copies. In reality, they may need several – or more – if your business or �nancial situation is particularly involved. A “�nal �le” may save both money & time. If documentation is scant or unavailable, settling an estate can be a prolonged affair. As National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys president Howard Krooks told Reuters, “It could be six months or longer if you don't have the paperwork in order.” In the worst-case scenario, probate consumes 5% or more of an estate.2 One other important step may save your heirs money & time. If you add the name of an heir to a key bank account, that heir can pay a hospital bill or make a mortgage payment on your behalf without undue delay.2

At Greater Texas and Aggieland CU, we know that our most valuable resource is our loyal members. We believe in providing top quality �nancial services to meet our members’ needs, and we always strive to set an example of the “People Helping People” principles that have made us successful for over 65 years. We are excited to introduce ReferLive: a refer a friend platform designed to encourage and incent existing members to refer their friends and family to open and use a new checking account at Greater Texas or Aggieland CU. Both you and the friend or family member that you refer can earn a $50 Visa® Reward Card for the quali�ed opening and use of a new GTFCU checking account. The rewards don’t stop there; you can earn up to $500 per year for making referrals!

How does it work?

1. Visit www.referlive.com/gtfcu to register as a referrer or stop by any GTFCU branch for more details.

2. Share the offer with friends and family via email, social media or text message.

3. Once your friend or family member registers, opens a new GTFCU checking account and meets the account quali�cations within 60 days of account opening, both you and the new account holder will each receive a $50 Visa® Reward Card!

ReferLive is a great way for you to share Greater Texas and Aggieland CU with your friends and family and be rewarded! If you have any questions, please feel free to visit your local branch or call ReferLive at 629-888-9043.

*Terms & Conditions apply and are available at www.referlive.com/gtfcu or upon request at your local Greater Texas or Aggieland CU branch.

$50 FOR YOU & $50 FOR THEMWHEN YOU REFER A FRIEND TO OPEN AND USE A NEW GREATER TEXAS OR AGGIELAND CU CHECKING ACCOUNT!*

TIPS TO DUMP THAT DEBT FASTERAre you one of the estimated 37 million Americans with student loan debt? According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the average college loan debt hovers at just over $24,300 — a burden that can prevent you from investing or purchasing a �rst home.

Paying down your loan debt faster than the traditional 10 or more years just makes good economic sense: In doing so, you end up shelling out less in interest than if you had made all the scheduled payments. So, how do you get out from under this �nancial burden? Read on to �nd out.

5 ways to pay off student loans — fast!

1. Consider paying more than the monthly amount — or more frequently. If you’re strapped for cash that might be easier said than done. But if you have some extra money each month, try sending it in with your payment or as an extra payment with written instructions that the additional money is to be applied to the loan principal.

2. Budget, budget, budget. Without one, you probably don’t really know where your cash is going. But expenses such as daily lunches out can really add up. Budgeting can help you �gure out where you can curb spending and decide on how much extra you can comfortably send per month.

3. Use that extra cash. Windfall? Tax refund? Additional cash from a part-time job? Consider putting it toward your debt. Sure, it’s not as exciting as buying the latest iPhone® incarnation or going on vacation, but just think of when you can better enjoy those things without the dark cloud of student loans hovering over you!

4. Go automatic. Automatic payments or arranging to have a set amount taken out of your paycheck and deposited into a savings account set up speci�cally for loan money can ensure money goes to the right place.

5. Get an interest rate do-over. Paying on time, having good credit and enrolling in automatic bill pay can help you get your interest rate lowered. For example, lenders often knock about .25 percent off of interest rates for auto pay.

Looking for some loan forgiveness or �nancial assistance with your loans? Check out the numerous programs available (and websites like those run by the nonpro�t American Student Assistance, www.asa.org). In some profes-sions — such as teaching and nursing — working in low-income, rural or other high-needs areas for a set number of years can be rewarded with loan forgiveness. Some employers may also help pay a portion of student loans.

Page 4: Holiday EOQ · 2017-06-30 · NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017 Be sure to tell your heirs about your “˜nal ˜le.” They need to know that you have created it; they

NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017

Serving Texas Since 1952 Your Financial Partner for LifeInsightsServing Texas Since 1952 Your Financial Partner for Life

Summer 2017Summer 2017

NEWSLETTERSUMMER 2017

EOQCongratulations to Theresa Alvarado, the 2nd quarter 2017 Employee of the Quarter. Theresa is a teller at our S.E. Military Branch in San Antonio. She was nominated for EOQ because she is always happy to assist. She is always so positive and you can hear her smile when she answers the phone. Theresa inspires people to always want to do their best and is willing to learn and help motivate her fellow peers. She is a true champion of Greater Texas. Way to go, Theresa!

CLOSINGSHoliday

w w w . g t f c u . o r g

Tuesday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day Monday, September 4 in observance of Labor Day Monday, October 9 in observance of Columbus Day

MEET YOUR SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE

The Supervisory Committee arranges credit union audits and serves as a sounding board for member comments and concerns. If you have any comments or concerns you would like to share, you can mail them directly to the Supervisory Committee, P.O. Box 9732, Austin, TX 78766-9900.

ARE YOU READY TO BUY A HOME?A growing family, freedom from renting, space to entertain or run a home business – there are plenty of compelling reasons to leap into homeownership. Still, you need more than good intentions to manage a mortgage. See how you measure up in the following categories.

Qualities of a Prepared HomebuyerPast employment: Two years or more on the job. This shows the stability of your employmentand income.

Future plans: Live in the area �ve years or more. If there's a chance you'll need to relocate for work or other reasons, renting may be a better option than buying.

Existing savings: A respectable down payment. First-time homebuyers may qualify for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans with a 3.5% down payment. A 10% down payment is even better (and may be required for a conventional mortgage).

Emergency savings: Enough to last three to six months. Maintain a reserve of money to pay the mortgage and other expenses in case of a job loss or other emergency.

Home budget: Property taxes, insurance and repairs. The costs of owning a home far exceed the mortgage amount. Estimate all of these costs and build them into your budget.

Sweat equity: Time and money for home upkeep. Depending on the home, you could spend a small fortune (and/or many hours) on repairs, re�nishing and redecorating. And there also may be ongoing maintenance such as mowing the lawn, cleaning the gutters, etc.

It's important to feel good about your decision to buy. At Greater Texas and Aggieland Credit Union we can help determine if you're quali�ed to buy and how much you can afford. Call one of our mortgage specialists at (855) 699-5919 to get started.

Federally Insured by the NCUA

Online Loan Applications

Apply for a loan 24/7 by visiting our website.

Mobile App

All of the same great features of online banking now available on your Apple or Android mobile devices. Download our free mobile app at the Apple Store or Google Play.

GTCall 24 - hour Account Access

Automated voice response system lets you check your balance, transfer money, even apply for a loan, all over the phone, from anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, free!Austin: (512) 451-5195Nationwide toll-free: 1-800-749-0179

Internet Access

www.gtfcu.orgwww.aggielandcu.org orwww.freecuatms.orgfor many more FREE or NO-FEE ATM locations. You can use your ATM card at PLUS machines worldwide, but if you use machines other than the ones listed above, the first five transactions per month (seven per month for Golden Star members) are free, and you will be charged $2 for every transaction after that.

EVOLVING WITH YOU No matter what stage of life you're in, Greater Texas has dedicated our efforts to improving the lives of our members for more than 65 years.

From your �rst car to your dream car, we have the perfect auto loan for you! Let our experienced team of loan professionals help you save with auto loan rates as low as 1.99% APR.*

And we have numerous ways to make your auto loan even better with roadside assistance, extended warranty plans, GAP Coverage and auto insurance.

Do you have an auto loan with another lender? Are you paying a higher rate? Let us re�nance your current auto loan for even greater savings.

Your credit union is evolving with you every step of the way. Visit us at gtfcu.org for more details.

*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Terms and conditions apply. Rate is for loan terms up to six years, 72 monthly payments of $14.75 per $1,000 borrowed. Rate is based on credit approval and subject to change. Additional discounts do not apply. Promotion applies to new money loans for purchase or competitor re�nance only.

Supervisory Committee members include (L to R): Chris Langan, Member; Linda Lothringer,Secretary; Robyn Johnson, Member; Sheila Bell, Member; Stephen Mason, Chairman.

MEMBER’S ROADSIDE ADVANTAGE Emergency roadside assistance and more, just for credit union members! SAVE UP TO 65% ON ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

Member’s Roadside Advantage was created exclusively for credit union members to help you save on a wide range of roadside assistance services and other travel bene�ts.

Wherever the road leads you, you and your family can enjoy peace of mind with fast, friendly roadside assistance. Whether it's a �at tire, dead battery, lockout or other roadside issue – you are covered.

Member’s Roadside Advantage Assistance Hotline is available 24/7, whenever you need it. Simply give us a call, and we will work hard to get you and your loved ones back on the road quickly and safely.

Member’s Roadside Advantage offers the following roadside assistance and other great bene�ts to credit union members: • Towing Assistance • Jump Start • Flat Tire Assistance • Fuel, Oil & Fluid Delivery • Lock-Out Assistance • Collision Assistance • Emergency Travel Expense Reimbursement (not available in CA & NY) • Ambulance Service Reimbursement (not available in GA, NY & VA) • Legal Defense Reimbursement (not available in AL, CA & NY) • Custom Trip Routing Service • Emergency Message Relay

In addition to the roadside assistance bene�ts, you will also have access to the “Savings Connection” program where you save on things you need and enjoy.

Save Big On:• Theme Park & Attraction Discounts• Car Rental Discounts• Hotel Discounts• Cruise Discounts• Retail discounts on movies, dining, �owers and more!

Enroll today! Plans start at $39/year. To enroll visit us online at gtfcu.org and select Member’s Roadside Advantage from the Loans tab.

READY OR NOT?

Which of the following milestones show that you’re ready to own a home?

A. You have a steady job.

B. Your high-interest credit card debt is paid off.

C. You saved $10,000 for a down payment.

D. All of the above – and more.

The answer is D. These are all good signs, but no single achievement is a green light for homeownership.