SLFCU News

SNL Reaffirms Enduring Relationship with SLFCU

SNL and SLFCU have once again formalized their important relationship with a Memorandum of Understanding.

Switch to eStatements and We’ll Plant a Tree

For every account switched from paper to eStatements and eNotices by midnight 12/31/20, SLFCU will donate $1 to plant a tree. 

SLFCU Branch Availability as of December 2, 2020

SLFCU Home for the Holidays Photo Contest

Share a festive photo of your holiday or winter decorations on our Facebook or Instagram page and you could win a $200 Lowe's gift card!

Join SNL & SLFCU’s Frozen Turkey Drive!

SLFCU is partnering with Sandia National Laboratories for their annual Take a Frozen Turkey to Work Day benefiting area food pantries

Hope + Education = Life Opportunities

Donations made to the NMCUCA go toward funding a full-time teacher at UNMCH. Following is a report on the program’s first-year progress.
 

Driven to Help Others

Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque provides more than just meals to Albuquerque seniors

Skip a Payment on Select Loans

SLFCU allows members in good standing to skip up to two payments on select loans in any rolling 12-month period.

Meet Ross Vogel, Jefferson’s New Branch Manager

With the Jefferson branch moving across the street in 2021, Ross is looking forward to keeping a high level of service as they transition to a larger location.

Google Pay and Samsung Pay Now Available for SLFCU Debit Cards

You can now use your SLFCU debit card with Google Pay™ and Samsung Pay®, as well as Apple Pay® – just like you can with your SLFCU credit card. 

SLFCU Donates to Programs Helping Children in Foster Care

NM Kids Matter is the voice for more than 1,000 kids in the foster care system. SLFCU is pleased to have provided a $5,000 grant to this important organization. 

In the Community

Thank you to our members and employees for their generous donations to this year’s virtual school supply drive benefitting the APS Education Foundation! 

Live Chat Now Available in Online Banking and on slfcu.org

SLFCU now offers chat in online banking and on slfcu.org, allowing members to speak directly with an SLFCU representative in real time. 

SLFCU and Animas Credit Union Announce Merger Plans

Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union and Animas Credit Union (ACU) have announced plans to merge.

Members: Please Ensure We Have Your Current Address

It is important for SLFCU to maintain accurate records for members to ensure they receive account-related communications, including 2020 tax documents. 

Double Your Donation

SLFCU will match all donations received for NMCUCA in September. Your contribution will help keep young patients on track toward graduation.

Save a Tree and Help a National Forest

For every new eStatement or eNotice registration made now through 12/31/20, SLFCU will donate $1 to the National Forest Foundation.

SLFCU Gives Back to Our Most Vulnerable Neighbors

SLFCU is giving a total of $45,000 in 2020 to 10 organizations in NM and Livermore, CA who are helping those in need during the pandemic. 

Accident Leads Teen to a Powerful Learning Opportunity

Meet Jesus, an energetic 15-year-old and patient at UNM Children's Hospital. While Jesus was recuperating, he met Monica, the full-time teacher at UNMCH. 

Congratulations to Our 2020 Scholarship Winners

Congratulations to our 2020 scholarship winners, and thank you to the 27 members who volunteered their time as judges. 

Help Us Support Meals on Wheels

Double your social dividends. A good deed is only a click away and could provide a second helping to those in need.

Five Reasons to Switch to eStatements

Now could be a great time to reduce your paper usage and stop receiving paper statements and notices from SLFCU.

“Meals on Wheels is a life saver”

Irene is a participant of Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque and wants everyone to know how important it is for people with economic hardships to receive a meal.

SLFCU Resources During Extreme Fire Danger

SLFCU members in California may experience difficulty visiting a branch due to extreme fire danger. During these times, members may use online, mobile, or automated phone banking.

A New Way to Request Additional Services in Online and Mobile Banking

The place to submit requests for services such as wire transfers or stop payments within online and mobile banking has been relocated.

SLFCU's Jefferson Branch Will Move

We are excited to announce our Jefferson branch will soon move from its current location into a new location across the street, allowing for a larger branch to better serve our members.

New: Make Principal-Only Loan Payments in Online and Mobile Banking

SLFCU has expanded the ability to make principal-only payments to many SLFCU auto, home, and personal loans through online and mobile banking. 

Rick Anderson: On a Mission for Our Members

Throughout his SLFCU career, Rick has taken part in many changes, including SLFCU’s growth from roughly $300 million in assets to just shy of $3 billion today. 

SLFCU Virtual School Supply Drive

Now through Saturday, August 15, SLFCU members can quickly and easily make a monetary donation in support of APS Education Foundation.

SLFCU is the #1 Credit Union in New Mexico…Again!

Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union ranked as the #1 credit union in New Mexico for the second year in a row by Forbes Magazine.

Stay On Track Summer Contest

Strengthen your financial skills this summer by completing a BalanceTrack module. You’ll earn a chance to win $500!

A Great Place to Be

To help SLFCU business members navigate the PPP application process, the Credit Union assembled employees across the organization. 

Introducing John Fehr, Vice President of Infrastructure

SLFCU’s newest Vice President’s interest in all things technical began in high school. 

SLFCU Streamlines Consumer Loan, Account Application Process

SLFCU is making the consumer loan and account application experience more convenient for our members beginning July 15, 2020.

Inspiring Hope Through Learning Opportunities

Jane and Gary have been SLFCU members since 1993. In 2018, they met Angela, a 12-year-old in need: her reading was at the pre-first grade level, and she required transportation to UNMCH for dialysis treatments.

Count on the Safety and Security of SLFCU

At Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union, looking out for our members’ financial well-being has been our top priority for 71 years. 

Help Protect Your Family from Financial Elder Abuse

June is National Elder Abuse Awareness month and is a great time to talk with your family members about their future plans.

In the Community

SLFCU partners with local restaurants to give back to TriCore, First Choice employees.

Procedures for Restricted Access to the Kirtland Branch

Members needing access to the SLFCU branch on Kirtland AFB must request and obtain a Defense Biometric Identification System pass.

Increase Your Social Dividends Contest

Every week, we’ll pick a new follower to win a $25 Amazon gift card. Once a month we’ll also pick from all of our followers on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to win a gift card, too! 

SLFCU Branch Re-Opening

Beginning Monday, May 18, 2020, Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union will begin re-opening our branch lobbies.

SLFCU’s Modest Beginnings

SLFCU was chartered in October 1948 by 15 employees of Sandia National Laboratories. But beyond the charter, how did the Credit Union begin serving members?

Your Family Can Join SLFCU

SLFCU membership is open to more people than you may think. Immediate family and household members of our current members are eligible to join at any time.

Your Accounts…at Your Fingertips

SLFCU’s online and mobile banking system gives you convenient access to your accounts. Make deposits, pay your bills, and more.

SLFCU Support for Restaurants

Please consider supporting our business members that currently offer delivery and/or takeout options. 

Assistance for Businesses Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic

Small businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for assistance in the form of Small Business Administration (SBA) loans.

Livermore Downtown Closed on Wednesdays until Further Notice

To help ensure the health of our members and employees, Livermore Downtown will be closed on Wednesdays until further notice.

SLFCU 2020 Scholarship Competition: $4,000 Top Award

SLFCU Members attending college in 2020-2021 are invited to enter our annual essay scholarship competition.

SLFCU Branches Receive ENERGY STAR Certification

SLFCU’s Edgewood, Rio Rancho, and Paseo del Norte branches received 2019 EPA ENERGY STAR certification.

Amaran: A Unique Approach to Senior Living in Albuquerque

SLFCU is financing the loan on the $22 million project for Amaran Senior Living, currently under construction in ABQ.

SLFCU Cardholders Can Now Set Personal Preferences for ATMs

SLFCU members are now able to set their language, fast cash, and receipt preferences at participating ATMs.

2020 Marks the 50th Anniversary of SLFCU's Kirtland Branch Grand Reopening

SLFCU’s Kirtland branch will celebrate its 50th anniversary this May.

SLFCU COVID-19 Lobby Closures

Effective immediately, our New Mexico branch lobbies will temporarily close until further notice. 

SLFCU Kirtland Branch Closure

As of Wednesday, March 18, the SLFCU Kirtland branch will be closed until further notice due to the closure of Sandia National Laboratories to non-essential staff.

All SLFCU Events Canceled Until Further Notice

All SLFCU events through April and the use of SLFCU’s community rooms have been canceled in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. 

SLFCU Livermore Branch Availability: The Downtown Branch Is Open; Livermore East Is Closed

We encourage members to use remote access options.

Meet Ryan Bobbin, SLFCU’s Vice President of Organizational Development and Project Management

Ryan started SLFCU’s organizational knowledge management system.

SLFCU Invests in the Community with High School Intern

As part of the Future Focused Education program, SLFCU Intern Kevin is mentored by Tech Park Branch Manager Mike Linton.

In the Community

SLFCU Honored at X3 Mentor Awards.

“Webinar for the Win” BALANCE Contest

Attend a BALANCE webinar for a chance to win $1,000!

SLFCU Cardholders Can Now Set Personal Preferences for ATMs

Beginning March 9, SLFCU members will be able to set their language, fast cash, and receipt preferences at CUAnytime ATMs and participating CO-OP ATMs.

After Hours Debit Card Support

SLFCU now offers support for debit cards after hours, on weekends, and on most holidays.

Read to Me Book Drive

Please drop off new and gently used children's books at any New Mexico SLFCU branch February 18 - March 21.

Teen Earning GED Through NMCUCA Learning Opportunity

UNMCH patient Dane became seriously ill with chronic kidney disease in middle school and is now earning his GED with the help of the NMCUCA.

Keeping our Members on the Road

In 2019, SLFCU originated almost $243 million in auto loans, keeping up with notable numbers from previous years. 

Annual Report 2019

Financially and operationally, 2019 was a solid year of growth for SLFCU. The right people, strategies, and systems are in place to maintain and build upon our institution. 

Deposit Your Tax Refund

It’s important that the account numbers you use for direct deposit services are in a specific format so funds are deposited to the correct account.

Tax Documents Available Online

Tax documents from 2018 and 2017 are available in online banking; 2019 forms will appear as they are generated through April 2020. 

TurboTax Discounts

SLFCU members can receive discounts on select TurboTax® products.

Email Delivery Issue For Credit Card Customers

An issue has been identified where SLFCU credit card holders were erroneously mailed a letter stating that their email address is invalid.

A Reflection on Compassion and Generosity

SLFCU employees, members, and community partners raised $80,000 in 2019 to help establish a full-time teacher at UNMCH.

In the Community

SLFCU attends the Christmas Electric Light Parade, SLFCU Employees Help Serve Breakfast with Santa

Sandia National Laboratories and SLFCU Celebrate Continued Partnership

SNL and SLFCU recently met to sign the Memorandum of Understanding between the two organizations. 

In the Community

SLFCU is partnering with Roadrunner Food Bank to collect non-perishable food for New Mexico families in need. 

Mastercard® Identity Theft Alert Program Update

Mastercard® is replacing their Identity Theft Alert program with a new, enhanced Mastercard ID Theft Protection™ service.

$20,000,000 Back to Our Members

SLFCU is giving back $20 million in November to its members via a special dividend.

SLFCU Gives Local Business the Strongest Building Material: True Partnership

“People do business with people, not companies,” says Ken Ray, current CEO and founder of Raysteel, Inc. 

Hospitalized Children Benefit from Learning Opportunities

Meet Taylor and her mom, Crystal. Taylor was admitted to the hospital and enrolled in the Mimbres school at the UNM Children’s Hospital.

Meet Brett Wallace Slayden, SLFCU’s New Vice President of Branch Operations

Brett brings extensive experience crafting the credit union member experience to SLFCU.

In the Community

SLFCU hosts semi-annual shredding event; SLFCU gives $20,000,000 back to our members.

Meet New Mexico Credit Unions Connected Academy's New Teacher

Meet Monica Garcia-Roach, the full-time teacher at the Mimbres School – a state-accredited elementary and high school operating in a hospital setting. 

Skip a Trip with Mobile Deposit

Depositing a check is as easy as taking a picture of it on your smartphone, or visiting a CUAnytime ATM.
 

2019 Scholarship Winners

Congratulations to our 2019 scholarship winners, and thank you to the 24 members who volunteered their time as judges. 

Help SLFCU Provide Learning Opportunities for Hospitalized Children

SLFCU is committed to raising $80,000 in 2019 to employ a full-time teacher for patients like Will who are admitted at the UNM Children’s Hospital.

In the Community

SLFCU attends the Route 66 Run, Rally & Rock Parade, SLFCU Members Support APS Students

Meet SLFCU's New Branch Managers

Meet Russell Wilson, the new branch manager at Paseo del Norte, and Seth Wilson, the new branch manager at Juan Tabo.

Shredding Tips

Shredding unneeded receipts, bills, and papers with personal information is one way to help protect yourself from identity theft.

Commonly Asked Questions About Online and Mobile Banking

Get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about using our online and mobile banking system.

In the Community

SLFCU employees volunteer at the 2019 National Senior Games; SLFCU Partners with SNL to sponsor NM Habitat for Humanity blitz build.

Counterfeit Fraud is on the Rise

The first half of 2019 saw an increase in counterfeit card fraud related to skimmers, deep-insert skimmers, and shimmers across the U.S.

Call Back Feature Now Available

SLFCU has a new feature that allows members who call our Contact Center to request a call back instead of waiting on hold.

Universal Transaction Form

In response to member feedback, SLFCU has created a universal transaction form that can be used for personal and business transactions. 

SLFCU Named a Forbes Magazine Best-in-State Credit Union for 2019

Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union has been recognized as one of Forbes Magazine’s Best-in-State Credit Unions 2019.

SLFCU Partners with Local Credit Unions to Help Hospitalized Children

SLFCU is helping fund the NM Credit Unions Connected Academy to keep children learning while at UNMCH.

Now is a Great Time to Start Saving for Holiday Spending

Being mindful about spending, and creating a savings goal now, can help keep your finances on track.

Make Saving Fun for Your Kids

SLFCU’s Savings Laboratory^® is an exciting way for kids 12 and younger to learn about saving money. 

Using Your Code Word for Identification

New members are asked to select a code word when opening an SLFCU account as an additional means of identification.

Back-To-School Supplies Drive

Sandia National Laboratories kicks off its annual school supply drive on July 1 (ending August 7).

Call Back Feature Now Available

SLFCU has a new feature that allows members who call our Contact Center to request a call back instead of waiting on hold for the next available representative.

Save for a Down Payment with Online and Mobile Banking

SLFCU's online and mobile banking make it simple to create and track your progress toward saving for a down payment.

SLFCU's Online & Mobile Banking System: One Year Later

We have performed a number of updates to our new online and mobile banking system to ensure it is meeting the needs of our members.

The Borrower Protection Plan

Peace of mind for your auto loans, credit cards, and signature loans. 

Online Banking Access for Joint Account Owners

Based on member feedback, we have implemented an online banking enhancement allowing joint owners on personal accounts the ability to see and transact on those accounts in online banking.

What is Product ID?

Product ID, formerly “type and suffix,” is the four-digit number that identifies SLFCU members’ sub-accounts, such as individual savings, checkings, term certificates, etc. 

Tips for Using SLFCU Automated Phone Banking

SLFCU’s automated phone banking system gives members 24/7 access to their accounts. It is designed to provide options based on your specific accounts.

Planning for Travel with Your SLFCU Credit or Debit Cards

While planning is usually done before booking a vacation, it’s also important to plan for using your SLFCU credit or debit card while you’re traveling.

Your Emergency Fund: How Much is Enough?

Bad things happen to the best of us – and they usually come in waves. In instances like these, it’s important to have a financial life preserver in the form of an emergency cash fund. 

Reaching Goals with Solid Plans

Cornell senior and 2018 SLFCU scholarship winner Rebecca Restrepo has a lot to look forward to in 2019. 

Retirees Bring Tech Expertise to Small Businesses

When they step out of the workforce, retirees take a wealth of knowledge and experience with them. 

SLFCU Donates $1,000 to Roadrunner Food Bank of New Mexico

Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union celebrated our new Jefferson branch with a grand opening ceremony on March 14.

MEMBERS Financial Advisors Make Top 100

Congratulations to Don Lutz and Paul Fedorko for making Bank Investment Consultant’s list of Top 100 Bank Advisors. 

SNL Livermore Collaborates with SLFCU on Homebuying Assistance

SNL Livermore sought out SLFCU to help ease their employees' California home buying efforts.

Members Ask, SLFCU Answers

SLFCU pays close attention to member feedback and survey responses. Here are some answers to recent questions and comments.

Five Ways to Establish Good Credit

The only way to build a credit record is to have and use credit. Here are some ideas on how to get started.

Jefferson Branch Grand Opening

SLFCU’s new Jefferson branch is now open to serve members and will host a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Scam Alert: Fake Calls About Your SSN

Decline calls from people pretending to be from the Social Security Administration to get your Social Security number and money.

Don't Get Hooked by a Phishing Scam

Scammers are working harder than ever to fool consumers. One trick of the trade is referred to as phishing.

Introducing Jefferson Branch Manager Jenna Deal

With 12 years of experience with SLFCU, Jenna is well versed in the services in which members might need some assistance.

SLFCU Reaches 100,000th Member Milestone

Our 100,000^th member, Keely Dobbs, said joining the right financial institution couldn’t have been easier.

New Jefferson Branch

SLFCU's new Jefferson branch located at 7500 Jefferson Street NE, Suite 100, is now open.

Increase in Debit Card Fraud

SLFCU has observed an increase in fraudulent transactions on SLFCU debit cards and has taken measures to safeguard our members’ accounts.

Introducing Paseo del Norte Branch Manager Sam Montoya

Sam Montoya is a familiar face to many of our Kirtland branch members.

Tax Document Mailing Schedule

2018 IRS tax forms generated by SLFCU will be mailed by these dates and will also be available in online banking. 

SLFCU Business Services Has Moved

As of Monday, January 7, SLFCU Business Services has moved to 7500 Jefferson Street NE, Suite 100.

Lock Your Debit Cards with Your Smartphone

Help protect your SLFCU Mastercard debit card from fraud. Set controls and receive alerts by using the CardNav^SM app.

Introducing BALANCE Financial Fitness

SLFCU's new partner can help you start 2019 on the path to a stronger financial future.

Government Shutdown: What If It Impacts You?

The government shutdown is creating uncertainty for many SLFCU members. If your job is impacted by the shutdown, be assured that SLFCU is here to help.

New Rio Rancho Branch Manager Tess Wasson

SLFCU’s new Rio Rancho Branch Manager, Tess Wasson, is a familiar face to many of our Rio Rancho branch members.

SLFCU Website Accessibility Tools

SLFCU meets legal guidelines for website accessibility and ensures slfcu.org functions well for all members. 

Holiday Help for Those in Need

SLFCU partners with Albuquerque non-profit to collect donations during the holiday season. 

October Shredding Event Helps New Mexicans in Need

SLFCU members generously donated 437 pounds of non-perishable food to the Rio Grande Food Project.

2018 Scholarship Winners

Congratulations to SLFCU’s essay scholarship winners, and thank you to the 17 members who volunteered their time as judges. 

Introducing Kirtland Branch Manager Melissa Cordova

After eight years of serving the financial needs of our Los Lunas members, Melissa is ready to build solid relationships with Kirtland members.

SLFCU Members Support APS Students

Thank you to all who brought school supplies to SLFCU branches or made monetary donations during the back-to-school supplies drive.

Local Landmark Relies on SLFCU

Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, located in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM, was originally founded in 1934.

SLFCU Supports Habitat for Humanity

SLFCU, Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity, Sandia Retirees, and Friends House celebrated the dedication ceremony in June with new homeowners.

Review Your Credit Report

The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires that your credit report be made available to you for free.

Online & Mobile Banking Tips

SLFCU staff in branches and at our Contact Center can answer your questions about our new online and mobile banking.

Save for a Down Payment with Online and Mobile Banking

SLFCU's online and mobile banking make it simple to create and track your progress toward saving for a down payment.

Move Your Money to a Free SLFCU Checking Account

Our free checking accounts have no minimum deposit requirement, no monthly fees, and may pay dividends on balances of $500 or more.

Upgraded Online Banking Brings Requested Functionality

With our recent online banking upgrade, we’re happy to be able to provide many updates that members have requested.

A Focus on Education

SLFCU scholarship winner Bella Starkweather is following in her sisters’ footsteps by attending the University of New Mexico.

Looking to the Future with Aligned Values

Danlar Collision's partnership with SLFCU Business is built upon shared values like respect, service, and support.

New Online Banking - How to Transfer Money

Learn about transfers in the new online banking system. 

Online Banking Budgeting and Savings Tools

SLFCU’s online banking gives you access to tools that can help you build a monthly budget, and more.

Building a Career Based on the Credit Union Difference

When Card Services Manager Jeff Morris was 20 years old, his sister – branch manager of a bank in Amarillo – suggested he look for a job with a financial institution.

Don't Give Your Account Information to Scammers

Cyber criminals create fake accounts or hack into real social media accounts and try to trick you into giving them money by asking for your account information.

Equifax Breach Information

Equifax has announced a cybersecurity incident potentially impacting approximately 143 million U.S. consumers.

Lock Your Cards with Your Smartphone

Help protect your debit and credit cards from fraud.

More Convenience for Automatic Credit/Debit Card Payments

Beginning in October 2017, updated card information will be provided to billers that automatically charge your card.

SLFCU Members Buy Their First Home

When Lesley and Kurtis Caldwell decided they were ready to buy a home, they turned to SLFCU for a quality mortgage and great service.

SLFCU Supports Habitat for Humanity

Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity celebrated the groundbreaking of two new homes.

2017 Scholarship Winners

Congratulations to SLFCU’s scholarship winners, and thank you to the members who volunteered their time as judges. This is the 23^rd consecutive year SLFCU has awarded scholarships.

Share the Benefits of Credit Union Membership

As a member and owner of SLFCU, you get great service, competitive rates, and products designed to fit your financial needs. And you can share the credit union advantage with your family and friends.

Printable Loan Payment Coupons

Now you can print loan coupons from SLFCU's website to mail with your loan payments.

Edgewood Branch Meets Member Needs

David Stout joined SLFCU in 1976 after starting a new job with Sandia National Laboratories. He had just left the military and was interested in buying a house with his wife.

Access SLFCU Accounts Wherever You Are

SLFCU offers all of the financial services you need, even if you are unable to visit or do not live near a branch.

Family Finds Value for All Ages at SLFCU

The Maki parents make sure their kids have regular opportunities to think about saving and spending money.

Meet Your Livermore Downtown Branch

For 33 years Livermore members of SLFCU were served by just one branch, located near Sandia National Laboratories’ Livermore site.

Support for School: SLFCU Scholarship Recipient Provides Community Support

Caroline Stapleton was one of 12 recipients of SLFCU’s 2016 Scholarship.

How SLFCU Sets Rates

SLFCU strives to price our products in a way that both benefits members and keeps their money safe. Robert Chavez, President/CEO, explains three factors that determine the pricing of deposits and loans at SLFCU.