5 Reasons Why You Should Join A Credit Union

Without further ado, here are 5 reasons why you (and everyone you know) should join a credit union (specifically, U.S. Eagle). 

Keep Your Money Local

Yep, keep your money in New Mexico. The majority of credit unions are local. U.S. Eagle was founded in 1935 in a federal building located in downtown Albuquerque. 82 years and nine branches later, we’re still local and, we still have a branch downtown - see our sign atop the tallest building in New Mexico!  We aren't going anywhere, in fact, we are so close to one billion in assets, we can taste it. 

Not-For-Profit, Financial Cooperative

Breakdown: Credit unions use funds to pursue our mission and keep the lights on. Our mission is to improve the financial well-being of each members and the community we serve through trusted relationships. Our members are our owners!  Your voice is heard and your vote counts. Attend our Annual Meeting on the first Wednesday in May to learn more about your credit union.

Community Service

If you follow us on social media or read our newsletter, you know we are big on community. Check out our blog from August and see what we’ve been up to around town. Since most credit unions are local, we do our best to invest in our community. Whether it be through the financial support of a local baseball team, volunteering at a food drive, or hosting a bake sale – we do our best to ensure the success of our community. 

Service

No question is a dumb question. We want our members to succeed and one way we ensure their success is through our personalized service.  You will notice a different experience when you set foot inside a credit union. Our staff greets you warmly when you enter a branch, members can grab some coffee before speaking with their favorite teller, and receive assistance with confidence.

Favorable Rates, Low Fees

You got that right – our rates are favorable, after all, we distribute our profits back to our members through higher returns and lower fees. The fees we do have can be waved with qualifying products. Fees that are charged, are returned back to our members! 

U.S. Eagle in the Community

Giving back to the community is one way U.S. Eagle exhibits the credit union difference. We do our best to emulate the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People". 

Here are our community service initiatives for the month of August:

• Packaging Food:  Every other week, employees from different branches and departments head to Rio Grande Food Project to help package food for those who may not know where their next meal will come from. Rio Grande Food Project provides food and emergency support to working families, seniors, and people in need. Our employees spend their morning packaging beans, veggies, rice, and more for those in need. 

• Popcorn Sales: U.S. Eagle sells popcorn throughout the year with proceeds benefiting a local nonprofit organization. This month, members and nonmembers can purchase popcorn from our tellers for $2.50 with all proceeds going to the Alzheimer's Association New Mexico Chapter. Popcorn flavors include cheese, green chile cheese, cherry, green apple, and caramel. Treat your sweet tooth all for a good cause!

• School Supply Drive: Access to books, backpacks or the materials needed to learn is a challenge for New Mexican children and their families. U.S. Eagle is dedicated to helping those in need and are again hosting an in-branch school supply drive. In all our branches, members and non members can donate school-related goods or cash to helps students at La Luz Elementary and El Camino Real in Albuquerque, Adelante in Santa Fe, and Farmington Public Schools. These donations will go directly to the students in need.

• Blue Star Mothers Supply Drive: U.S. Eagle supports Rio Grande Valley Blue Star Mothers by hosting supply drives at our branches. Drives collect much needed supplies to send to our troops overseas. Supplies include: toothbrushes, shaving cream, packaged snacks, and of course, green chile! Make a soldier's day, drop off some supplies at any of our branches.

• Meals on Wheels: Every week, a pair of U.S. Eagle employees come together to deliver meals to residents around Albuquerque. They meet at the Meals on Wheels headquarters, pick up warm meals, and hit the road to ensure the meals are delivered. Our employees knock on the door and provide a delicious meal to someone in need. Recipients are thankful and look forward to seeing a friendly face. Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque is the only home delivered meal program in our area supporting special diets. They provide service to anyone of any age. 

• Casa Esperanza: Twice a month, U.S. Eagle employees come together to plan, purchase food, and prepare a meal for residents at Casa Esperanza. Employees meet at Casa Esperanza, cook, and mingle with residents as residents enjoy a home-cooked meal. Casa Esperanza provides appropriate housing and emotional support for patients and their families who are temporarily residing in Albuquerque while the patient receives treatment. A delicious meal and friendly conversation could be just what someone needs while enduring a difficult season. 

These are just a few examples of what your credit union does to help our community. When you buy a bag of green apple popcorn, donate a can of hatch green chile, provide colored pencils, or make a monetary donation, you're helping someone else in our community.Thank you to everyone who make these opportunities for us to help, possible. 

National Credit Union Youth Month Recap

Bad news first, then good news.

Bad News: National Credit Union Youth Month has come to a close. 

Good News: U.S. Eagle treats every month like National Credit Union Youth Month! 

U.S. Eagle had such a great month hosting financial literacy, posting fun contests on social media, organizing scavenger hunts, and participating in National Take Your Kid to Work Day! Here is a quick recap of all the activities and winners of April’s National Credit Union Youth Month.

Financial Literacy

Your credit union takes financial literacy very seriously. We strive to provide basic money management classes wherever there is a demand. This month, we provided multiple Mad City Money classes around the city. So, what's Mad City Money? Mad City Money is a real life simulation which gives students a sense of adulthood with income and bills to pay. Participants are assigned a temporary identity, including occupation, salary, debt, marital status, children, and more. They have to decide where they will live and how they will live, all while staying within budget.

Mad City Money at Warehouse 508

Social Media Contests

U.S. Eagle ❤s social. We had a blast hearing from our members via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! We posted questions and received such a great feedback from our followers.

 

 

Scavenger Hunt

You heard it right – we hosted scavenger hunts at our branches. Clues were posted all over social media, and the first child to find the hidden blue ticket won a VISA gift card!

Take Your Kid To Work Day

U.S. Eagle made sure to celebrate Take Your Kid To Work Day! About thirteen kids showed up bring and early to learn about the credit union difference. They met our President and CEO, Marsha Majors and THE Eagle! Kids played credit union bingo and learned about the different departments of the credit union. The day ended with the kids learning about the vital roles their parents play to make U.S. Eagle operate smoothly.

U.S. Eagle treats every month like National Credit Union Youth Month. We strive to offer financial literacy wherever there is a demand. We post financial tips and important articles on all our social media pages. Make sure to follow us or add us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and LinkedIn! 

If you are interested in U.S. Eagle providing a Mad City Money experience for your class, please call Danielle Silva at 342-8875 or send an email to dsilva@useaglefcu.org  and schedule a complimentary financial literacy session for your students. 

National Credit Union Youth Month

April is National Credit Union Youth Month! Kids – the spotlight is on you! Credit Unions all across the nation designate this month to our youth. It highlights the understanding of basic financial concepts, such as saving and budgeting, and of course, the credit union difference!

U.S. Eagle is celebrating three ways:

1. Social Media Contests

If you haven’t already, “Like” us on Facebook and “Follow” us on Twitter! Every week we will be posting a financial question – submit your answer and you could win a VISA gift card.

2. Scavenger Hunt

Each week, we will be hiding a prize around one of our nine branches. Clues will be posted on our Facebook, Twitter, and Snapchat. When clues are provided, be the first to find and retrieve the object. Make sure you’re on the lookout for your chance to win a fun prize! There is one rule: you must be under the age of 18 to play. So, bring your grandchild, son, daughter, niece, or nephew and find the prize! Make sure you alert someone at our branch that you won our scavenger hunt! 

3. Balance  

Balance Financial Fitness Program is a free financial counseling service sponsored by U.S. Eagle. Financial counselors work with you to help avoid or resolve financial distress and establish personal financial control. Programs include debt and budget coaching, student loan coaching, credit report review, and more. Take advantage of this free program and let a Balance financial counselor help you develop a customized plan for achieving your financial goals! 

5 Favorite New Mexican Holiday Traditions

Let's talk tradition! What are our top five favorite New Mexican holiday traditions? We've listed them below.

1.       River of Lights

Wear a heavy jacket and some good walking shoes because you aren’t going to want to miss the River of Lights. With millions of twinkling lights and more than 500 displays, make sure you add this to your list of holiday activities. The River of Lights landed on MSN’s “The 15 Most Spectacular Holiday Lights Displays in the U.S.” and definitely deserves a spot! Grab the family, head to the BioPark and witness this magical display of lights for yourself.

2.       Luminarias

The most infamous of all Christmas decorations: Luminarias. You just need three things: brown bags, candles, and sand. Place them all around your house and yard, and you are set. Luminarias are basically a Christmas staple here in New Mexico! In fact, ABQ Ride has created a Luminaria Tour to highlight just how much we <3 luminarias.

3.       Nob Hill Shop and Stroll

Check some gifts off your list at Nob Hill Shop and Stroll. Central shuts down, and local businesses keep their doors open later. Nob Hill expects to see 8,000-10,000 people at this event. Customers come to shop, browse, and grab a bite!  

4.       Twinkle Light Parade

Congratulations are in order for this bright and twinkly occasion! The Twinkle Light Parade has been named #2 Best Holiday Parade in the country by USA Today.  This infamous New Mexican tradition features over 300,000 lights stretching over a mile, cool cars, firetrucks, and of course, Mr. and Mrs. Klaus! Bundle up and grab a canister of hot cocoa because you won’t want to miss Albuquerque’s biggest holiday parade.

5.       Biscochitos

What goes best with all four traditions mentioned above? Biscochitos. Everyone in New Mexico loves biscochitos especially right out of the oven! You can get them anywhere…even at U.S. Eagle. In fact, when you purchase biscochitos at any one of our branches, all proceeds will benefit local organizations. Delicious cookies all for a good cause.

Well, this concludes our top five favorite New Mexican Holiday traditions! We would love to learn about your family tradition around the holidays. Leave a comment and tell us your favorite tradition. Happy Holidays!

The Authentic Difference

 

 

Every third Thursday of October since 1948, credit unions across the globe celebrate International Credit Union Day. For those of you who didn't know credit unions exist on a global scale - now you know. In fact, the first credit union was founded in Germany by Friedrich Raiffeisen. Moving on from my history lesson of the day, International Credit Union Day recognizes the history of the credit union movement and its achievements. This momentous day also celebrates the hard work of those who dedicate their lives to the credit union industry.

 

This year, the theme of International Credit Union Day is "The Authentic Difference". Not to toot our own horn, but there truly is an authentic difference in the credit union industry. Our goal is to serve our members and help them financially succeed. We do this as an organization, and each department has an integral role to make our members' experience as authentic as possible. Here is how some of our employees exhibit the authentic difference in their roles at U.S. Eagle:

 

Meet Theo. Theo has worked for U.S. Eagle for nearly 27 years! Theo was the "SEG Champ" back when the ball first started rolling. "SEG" stands for "Select Employee Group". In order to join U.S. Eagle you had to be a part of a select employee group or a family member of an employee. Theo added hundreds of SEGs so that all their employees and family members could truly experience the authentic credit union difference.

 

  

 

Meet Jeremy. Jeremy has worked for the credit union for almost three years and is one of our biggest cheerleaders! His favorite part of his job is helping people with their financial needs. Jeremy is passionate about the credit union movement and exhibits the authentic difference by providing the right services and products that will fit our members' lifestyles. Jeremy leaves work every day knowing he made a difference in someone's life.

 

 

Meet Patty. Patty has been working for U.S. Eagle for eleven years! Her favorite part about working for the credit union is the impact she has on families. Many families may be in need of guidance concerning financial situations. Her financial knowledge is continually developing and allows her to confidently give members different options that best fit their specific needs. Patty says the best part of learning is that it never stops - tomorrow is an endless day full of possibilities! Patty demonstrates the authentic difference to our members by helping them feel like a person and not a paycheck. She strives to offer them an experience of belonging and is always eager to share our meaningful mantra - "Where Everyone Belongs".

 

 

 

Meet Ina. Ina has been working for U.S. Eagle for nearly five years. Her favorite part about working for a credit union is how our organization lives out the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People". She recognizes how community-centered U.S. Eagle is and appreciates the many opportunities available to commit time to local non-profits. Ina exhibits the authentic difference through her position in human resources by ensuring our internal members are happy and confident in their position which allows better service for our external members. She is a trusted resource, her door is always open, and she commits daily to go above and beyond in her position.

 

Meet Diana. Diana has been lovin' life at U.S. Eagle for almost a year. Her favorite part of her job is interacting with our members and knowing that U.S. Eagle is helping them financially. Diana exhibits the authentic difference in a few ways. Farmington is such a tight knit community and everybody is familiar with one another. This allows Diana to demonstrate authenticity by acknowledging each member by their name and treating them as individual and not just a number. She welcomes them as soon as they walk through the door and treats them with kindness. Through membership interaction, Diana has become more outspoken and enjoys having important conversations with members to ensure their financial success.

 

Stop by any branch on Thursday, October 20th from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and celebrate International Credit Union Day with U.S.!

 

 

 

 

Beware of Fraudsters

Have you ever received an email from a random individual offering you a job, and even better – advance pay before you have even interviewed? What about receiving a message from someone who claims they are romantically interested in you and within days requests to deposit a check into your account with the promise to designate a portion of the cash to you?  Have you ever heard the saying, “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is”? Well that applies to these scenarios.

Recently, our Fraud Department has noticed an influx of our members falling prey to scams like these. Let me break down these two scenarios a little bit better.

Scenario 1: At some point in the past year or so, you have posted your resume on a job search engine. One day, you receive a job offer sent to your personal email describing a position the “employer” is pretty much giving to you with the promise of a paycheck before you even start. All you have to do is send your account information and you’re set! Should you send any of your information? NO. In fact, you should block the sender and report the email as spam.

Scenario 2: You have recently started online dating. After exchanging some messages with a promising contender for your heart, they ask if they can deposit a check into your account. Even better – since you two are exclusive, they want to provide you with some money for the trouble and have offered to deposit the check on their end using RDC (remote deposit capture). You agree and send them your login information. They download the app on their mobile device, deposit the check, and boom – your balance increases $5,000.  All you have to do is head to the credit union and withdraw the amount they want you to send to them. The things we do for love!

Both of these situations have one thing in common – you never meet the person on the receiving end. You never meet your “employer” nor do you ever meet your new “crush”. In the end, you’re the one with the negative balance in your account, and your information is in the hands of a scammer somewhere in the world.

So, what can you do to avoid these types of situations? Never give out any of your account information or personal information.  Stop all communication with the fraudster – they will be very persistent. These scams are common no matter what age you are. If you find yourself in a similar situation, please call our Fraud Department immediately at 505-342-8871.

Money Management vs. the Pythagorean Theorem

Growing up, kids and teens learn about the Pythagorean Theorem, ionic compounds, and how to diagram compound sentences. But after they finish school, do they actually remember all the information surrounding these topics? Maybe. How about actually applying these skills in the real world? Eh, probably not. Don’t get me wrong, the Pythagorean Theorem is great. I can’t say I have done much with it since I learned it back in middle school, but I am sure there are people out there that really enjoy solving problems using the Pythagorean. And, yes, I had to look up the spelling of that word. I think I am getting a little bit off topic. Back to financial literacy. So, why aren’t we teaching our children and teenagers how to balance their checkbook or how to manage their credit score - both skills that will last a lifetime. Most people apply these skills daily, and at least monthly.  Why don’t we teach our youth basic money management skills?

I know that first paragraph was kind of a downer, but there is good news. Your credit union (us, U.S. Eagle) tries to actively fix this problem to the best of our ability. We do this through financial literacy. We go into schools and organizations and actually talk with our youth about budgeting, understating credit, saving money, and more. We discuss these topics in their classrooms and engage them in conversation to help them learn about these basic financial concepts.

Now, my personal favorite financial literacy tool is “Mad City Money”. Kids love this game, as well as parents and you’ll see why. Mad City Money is a simulation that gives kids a taste of the real world. They have a family, bills, and a steady income. Participants must decide where they are going to live, how they are going to commute, what they are going to eat, and much more. They discover how much internet costs, how expensive groceries and eating out can be, and…how much diapers cost! I find parents who participate in this game sometimes enjoy it more than their kids…

Through these presentations and simulations, our youth are learning more about these important financial topics. They are engaged and they are having fun. This is one way we hold true to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People”.  We encourage parents to bring in their kids or teens and teach them about the importance of saving their money in a savings account. Even if it just $5.00 per month. Getting into the habit of saving at a young age can really pay off in the long run.

 

If you are interested in facilitating financial literacy at your school or organization, please call Danielle at 505-342-8875.

 

 

12 Ways to Spend $1,000

Imagine $1,000 falls into your lap. How would you spend it? Or would you save it? Here are some ideas on what you should do with that extra cash.

Kick Debt Out the Door.

Take the responsible option and get rid of that $865 balance remaining on your credit card. This option may not be the most adventurous route, but it will definitely be a weight off your shoulders. It could also add an extra $50 to your monthly disposable income and you can say "Good-bye" to interest.

700/300

Ever heard of the 700/300 ratio? Me either, but this option may work the best for you. Pay off some debt with $700 and have some fun with $300; a conservative approach with a spin.

Upgrade Your Wardrobe.

This may be a great opportunity for you to upgrade your wardrobe. Maybe purchase a new suit or that new purse you’ve been eyeing at your favorite high-end store. A new suit or new purse are style staples and can also come in handy when you need to look professional.

Quick Getaway, Anyone?

Sometimes we just need a break to relax, recharge, and getaway. Use $1,000 for exactly this. Purchase a roundtrip flight, or gas up your car and head towards that destination you’ve always wanted to visit. Spend a couple nights in a hotel, experience the culture, eat some delicious food, and then make your way back home.

Save, Save, SAVE!

Some people may consider this a less exciting option, but for those who want to play it safe – invest your $1,000 in a money market account or share certificate. Make that  money work for you!
 

Electronic Upgrade, Please!

It seems like every day there is a new upgrade available for your laptop or your cell phone. Maybe it’s time to upgrade your computer. If it weighs over five pounds, then it’s time to get rid of that desktop still using dial-up and invest in a new laptop. Upgrading your cell phone to the latest and greatest is always useful and, well, fun! Our society uses and relies on mobile devices more and more every day. You can make purchases by paying with your phone, find your location within seconds, or take a photo - all on your 5in x 3in device. It’s a good idea to invest in something so present and usable in today’s age.

Save It for that Unexpected Expense that WILL Come Up Next Month.

This seems to always happen. You get some extra money, spend it, and then shortly after you conveniently get a flat tire. Well, say “NO” to that unexpected expense by saving your spare $1,000. When you find yourself at the dentist with a $500 bill, okay let’s be real, a $900 bill, guess what? You can cover that no prob. Be prepared for these situations that conveniently hit you at the most inconvenient times.

Redecorating; Hello New Walk-In Closet!

Tired of staring at that old couch? Are your wooden floors starting to look like potential firewood? Time to consider a mini-home remodel! Use your extra $1,000 to do some spring cleaning around your house. Maybe organize your closet, hire someone to shampoo your carpets, replace some old furniture, or hire a landscaper to make your backyard a jungle of beautiful vegetation. Did we hear some say, "Pool Day"?

Continuing Education.

Dust off your thinking cap and enroll in some classes to further your skillset. Maybe learn a new language, improve your graphic design skills, or take some cooking classes. Improve yourself mentally by taking on a new challenge.

Healthy YOU!

Take advantage of your extra cash by hiring a personal trainer or joining a gym. Gyms can be on the expensive side, add a personal trainer and a new diet and watch that total grow. Clean up your diet by purchasing organic or shopping at your local grower’s market. Your body will thank you!

Donate.

Give your extra cash to a charitable organization of your choice. The money will be much appreciated and you’ll feel good knowing you contributed to a worthy cause. Go all out and donate some of your time too!

Invest in a New Hobby.

 

Always wanted to learn pottery? Maybe gardening is more up your alley? Well the moment you’ve been waiting for is here – take on a new hobby with your spare cash. Escape your daily routine by cycling through the mountains or canoeing down the nearest river.


There are a lot of ways to spend $1,000. Just remember to weigh out the pros and cons, and make a decision that is right for you and your financial situation.

Vacay Without Breaking the Bank!

Summer is almost here which means a vacation is in order. How do we go about planning a vacation without breaking the bank? Here are some ideas:

1. ROAD TRIP! Gather the family (or friends) and hit the road. Make a stop at the Grand Canyon or Elitch Gardens and spend some time in nature or touring some shops and museums. Quality time with the fam or your closest pals is always a fun time.

2. Use Airbnb! For those of you who don't know, Airbnb connects people to unique travel experiences, at any price point, in more than 34,000 cities and 191 countries! Talk about some options. If you're home for the summer and looking to make some extra cash, put that spare bedroom on Airbnb and earn some money.

3.  Tour New Mexico. New Mexico is beautiful and if you like the outdoors, then you're in luck because you have a lot of options. White Sands, Santa Rosa Blue Hole, Carlsbad Caverns, camping in Ruidoso, zip-lining in Angel Fire...the list really goes on...be a local tourist!

4. STAY-cation. Yes, this is a thing and it's pretty fun. Here's the idea- you stay at home, but you act like you're on vacation which means no work, eating junk food, going to the pool, shopping, and watching movies until 2am. Affordable, yet still a vacation.

5. Camping. Grab your cooler and fill it with hotdogs, marshmallows - the necessities, and head for the mountains. Set up your tent, lay out your sleep bag, and tell your best spooky story. Camping is affordable and away from the city, so you still get that vacation-feel with the plus of nature for the weekend.

Summer is right around the corner, so remember, you can still vacay without spending thousands of dollars. A vacation can be a tent in the backyard or a movie marathon in your living room. Just remember to take some time off, relax, and maybe spend some quality time with your loved ones or pet!

Tips and Tricks to Help You Save During the Holiday Season

The Holiday Season is upon us! Don’t worry – U.S. Eagle has your back. Check out these Holiday Tips to help you save during the Holiday Season.

1. Budget, budget, budget. Before you map out your shopping route, grab a pen and paper, make yourself a cup of hot cocoa, and create a list of all the people you need to purchase a gift for. Once you make your list and check it twice, set a dollar amount for each person. Plan not to spend more than this amount. Extra credit: Write down some gift ideas for people on your list!
2. Before braving the holiday crowds, do your research. Track down the Sunday paper and check out what’s on sale at your favorite shopping spot. Score some coupons using mobile apps like “RetailMeNot”, “Flipp”, and Target’s new “Cartwheel” app. Since we live in the Digital Age, take advantage of websites that price compare for you. Before you purchase something online, check out FreeShipping.Org and make sure you grab a free shipping code if it’s available! If possible, start your shopping early, saving it for the last minute tends to be an expensive and stressful adventure.
3. Use cash! Prepare for your on-foot shopping adventure by making your first stop at your financial institution. Take out your total budgeted amount and keep it separate from other spending money. Taking this precaution will lessen the chances of you overspending. U.S. Eagle is offering an Instant Holiday Loan through the end of December. We can deposit the cash right in your account. No need to worry about overspending!
4. Didn’t save for the holidays? Use plastic. I may be able to recommend one of the best credit cards around…U.S. Eagle has some of the lowest rates in the state! If you choose to go this route, make sure you don’t overspend. You’re more likely to spend more using a credit card instead of cash. Another tip, Skip-A-Pay at U.S. Eagle will give you some spending leeway this holiday season.
5. If you’re extra tight on money this holiday season, DIY projects are usually inexpensive and allow you to be creative. You can also create in bulk. Sugar scrubs, homemade cookies, coupon books, candles, ceramic tile coasters, embroidered handkerchiefs, or hand designed mugs are a few gift ideas that are affordable, easy-to-do, and personable for this holiday season. Pinterest or a simple Google search will give you endless DIY ideas!
6. If you plan on purchasing lots of gift cards, take advantage of e-cards. A lot of retailers offer gift cards you can purchase online and send to someone via email for little to no cost! Use GrannyGiftCard.com to purchase gift cards at a discounted price. Personalization of your gift card is usually available on websites as well.
7. If you’re a super shopper, plan on taking full advantage of offers on dreaded Black Friday and anticipated Cyber Monday. Prep yourself ahead of time, find the best discounts, map out shops in the city, and do your research. Beware – some of these “deals” are no better than shopping on a Tuesday or Sunday!
8. If you’re worried about your bank account with the holidays approaching, find areas you can cut back. Driving past Starbucks instead of going to the drive-thru twice a week will save you around $40 per month. Making your lunches at home instead of dining out and ordering water when you do dine out, will help save you some money too.
9. Enjoy free activities around town. If you’re short on money this holiday season, check out Christmas light displays with your loved ones. Pack up your family in the car, put some delicious hot chocolate in a jug, and see beautiful light displays. Some other ways you can afford holiday cheer are: gathering your friends and family for a Christmas caroling journey, volunteering at local shelters and charities, or hosting a Christmas potluck.
10. Remember the reason for the season. Although a lot of stress may come with your holiday planning, remember your reason for celebrating. Spending time with family will always be more meaningful than presents. Volunteer some time at local charities and bake your neighbor some holiday cheer! Happy Holidays!

A Day in the Life of the Fraud Department…

Fast Facts:

- U.S. Eagle is the only Credit Union in the state with a dedicated, local Fraud Department
- Our Fraud Department has been safeguarding member information since 2008
- Our Fraud Department consists of three individuals who are constantly on the lookout for thieves trying to steal from our members

Q&A with Tina in our Fraud Department!

I wanted to put the spotlight on our Fraud Department for a month and let everyone know hard they work to protect our members. Today, we will be speaking with Tina who is our Lead Fraud Investigator. She has been an employee at U.S. Eagle for seventeen years and has been handling fraud claims for fifteen years. Let’s hear what she has to say about fraud!

Q: What does a typical day look like for the Lead Fraud Investigator?

Tina: Well, the main things I deal with on a daily basis are: check card disputes, speaking with members affected by fraud, and working with local law enforcement to prevent financial crime.

Q: What is your favorite part about working in the Fraud Department?

Tina: Helping our members who have fallen victim to fraud. I immediately seek to remedy the situation as well as educate them on how to prevent these awful scenarios from happening again. My goal is to turn a negative beginning into a positive ending.

Q: What is the most common type of fraud?

Tina: The most common type of fraud is check card fraud. Comprises of large corporations have really caused some members a lot of stress. My goal is take this stress away! Due to these compromises, our member’s card information is basically available online. Their card numbers can be purchased by thieves on the black market. Once purchased, the culprits will create a copy of the card and use it to make purchases.

Q: How will members know if their card is being compromised?

Tina: Members will notice purchases they did not make. Once they see these transactions take place, they should call us immediately to close their card. We will have them come down to any of our branches, fill out some paperwork and we will solve the issue as quickly as possible. Our call center may also provide assistance with fraud disputes as well. We will also reimburse the member the amount that was stolen from their account. In the end, U.S. Eagle actually becomes the victim because we will always reimburse our members.

Q: What’s a new type of fraud that you are witnessing?

Tina: Mail theft. Mail theft consists of thieves stealing physical checks from mailboxes. Once a check is in their possession, they steal the identity of our member, and cash checks. For example, let’s say a member pays their electric bill using a check and places the check in the mail. A thief will come to the mailbox, steal the check, create a driver’s license and a fictitious check using the information on the check, and go to a drive thru and attempt to cash or deposit the check.

Q: How can our members prevent fraudulent activity?

Tina: Members can protect themselves from fraud in a few ways. I recommend pulling your credit report once a year – it’s free and allows you to be aware of any suspicious activity that could potentially take place. Another way is utilizing online banking. Checking your account regularly ensures that the transactions are valid and that there is no suspicious activity taking place. Lastly, stay up to date with current events and maintain a healthy knowledge of potential fraudulent activity that could happen to anyone.

Q: Any last words of advice for our readers?

Tina: If you ever think you are a victim of fraud and or your account has been compromised always know that U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union has a local fraud department that is here for you. The Fraud Department can be reached at 505-342-8871.

 

5 Tips for the First Time Car Buyer

Congratulations! You’ve just graduated college. You landed a great entry level position making a salary of $33k. You live in an apartment with a friend from college. Life is good. You look outside your window and your beat-up old car with nearly 200,000 miles stares back at you. Driving to work every day is risky business as you anticipate the breakdown of your beloved first car from Mom and Dad. Now is the time to think about your first large purchase – a new vehicle. Whether you’re starting a new job or starting a new college class – car buying can be tricky. Before traveling down the road of car buying, safeguard yourself using these tips and tricks!


1. Get pre-qualified.
Now that you’re on your own, more expenses will occur. Know how much you can afford before purchasing a vehicle. Representatives at your local Credit Union can assist you with getting pre-qualified. This gives you an advantage because you know what vehicle you can afford and decreases the chance of overspending on a vehicle. The bigger the down payment the better! Why? This decreases your monthly payment and allows you to budget accordingly. If you do not have enough credit established, you may need a co-signer. A co-signer can be anyone with a good credit score, but typically your parents or other family will be able to sign on the loan. The average car loan is generally five to six years; the longer the loan period, the more you will pay in interest.


2. Prepare yourself and do your homework.
Before walking into a dealership, make sure you are prepared and have an idea of what you can afford and what type of vehicle you need. Do not rely on a salesman to educate you about their business. A salesman wants to make money, not save you money. Vehicles that are reliable, have great gas mileage, and fit into your budget seem like the obvious choice. The internet has an unlimited amount of resources available at your fingertips! Plan ahead before purchasing and take into account your current financial situation. Don’t forget to add in car insurance! Anticipate expenses that will accompany your new vehicle purchase such as: monthly car payment, insurance, gas, and any maintenance fees.


3. Take someone with you.
Just like you wouldn’t jump out of an airplane for the first time solo, it’s wise to take someone with car buying smarts along for your first vehicle purchase. An experienced car buyer can help you avoid the traps first time car buyers fall into.


4. New or used?
Getting pre-qualified will help you determine whether or not you can afford to purchase a new vehicle. A car or truck with some mileage is not a bad decision, especially when purchasing your first vehicle. If you are interested in purchasing a used vehicle, it is wise to take the car or truck to a mechanic for a second opinion. Do your due diligence and make sure you are getting the best deal for your money.


5. Have fun!
Buying a car or truck for the first time may seem like a stressful scenario, but it is an exciting opportunity to learn about an important process and come out with a sweet ride in the end! Do not forget to take your potential new vehicle for a spin! Get behind the wheel and make sure you like the way it drives. There are hundreds and hundreds of vehicles out there, pick the one that’s right for you and won’t break the bank.

Credit Unions Rock - Here's Why

Credit Unions Rock – Here’s Why:

I’ve been a member of U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union since I was just a little Coyote Kid. Back when I joined at the ripe age of ten years old, I had absolutely no idea just how much Credit Unions rocked. Now that I am an adult, I know how Credit Unions, in particular U.S. Eagle, can help me and you achieve our financial goals.

5 reasons why you shouldn’t join a credit union:

1. If you do not like saving money, RUN.
2. If you do not like working with a local business that maintains a heavy community footprint, RUN.
3. If you do not like walking into your financial institution where friendly faces greet you, RUN.
4. If you like high interest rates and low returns on investments (dividends), RUN.
5. Lastly, if you do not like having a say in the way your money is handled, RUN.

It’s a pretty simple concept – Credit Unions really do rock.

Typically, a savings account and checking account at almost every Credit Union is free. That’s right – free. Once you open a savings account, you’re now officially a member. I like to think of Credit Unions as clubs. You’re a member of a club where your voice is heard and you decide how things go – you’re the boss. Depending on where you are employed or what organizations you are involved in will determine whether or not you can join a Credit Union. Fortunately at U.S. Eagle, everyone can join! Oh, and did I mention our savings accounts and checking accounts are free?

One of my absolute favorite things about U.S. Eagle is our huge community footprint. I have worked here for nearly a year and I am still discovering different organizations we support. The best part? Employees have the opportunity to contribute their time to charitable organizations. For example, U.S. Eagle has signups for employees to volunteer their time at Rio Grande Food Project, Casa Esperanza, and Meals on Wheels. We also have a whole committee dedicated to community involvement called, “Community Involvement Committee”. The purpose of this committee is to plan different fundraising events, discover organizations to sponsor, and assist with community service related projects.

I can think of some pretty important relationships I have made throughout my young life. One relationship that I have found essential is a good relationship with the individual who handles my money. When I started working at U.S. Eagle, I visited different branches to acclimate myself to the company. Staff that had helped with my finances at some point throughout my U.S. Eagle membership still remembered me! U.S. Eagle employees do their best to help you succeed financially. You will always find a friendly face more than willing to assist you.

Credit Unions are not-for-profit. This means that we do not operate with the intention of bringing in the dough. We return what profit we do make to our members through low interest rates on loans and credit cards, and higher returns on your investments. Score!

Guess what? We have some good news! Once you’re a member at U.S. Eagle you call the shots. How?

1. Volunteer and be elected to our Board of Directors
2. Attend our Annual Meeting and have your voice heard

Our Board of Directors work on a volunteer-basis. They are not compensated for their time and dedication to the Credit Union. They have monthly meetings where they discuss the state of the Credit Union and how we as a Credit Union can exceed our members expectations.  Once a year, we hold an Annual Meeting and invite all our members. This meeting is intended to address the questions and concerns of our members.

So why hasn’t everyone joined a Credit Union? Good question. Maybe people like paying fees and watching the banks profit. Plus, a lot of people don’t know just how great a Credit Union can be. Truth is that we aren’t just great, we rock.