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Beware of Social Media Scams
Social media scams are on the rise and young individuals are being targeted regularly. Being a victim of any social media scam can impact your life for many years.
Heading Off to College? Take SLFCU with You
If you’re heading to college out of state, you can use SLFCU’s on-the-go resources to keep track of your finances no matter where life takes you.
In the Community
SLFCU employees volunteer at the 2019 National Senior Games; SLFCU Partners with SNL to sponsor NM Habitat for Humanity blitz build.
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.
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.
SLFCU's Home Equity CreditLines Can Save You Money
A Home Equity CreditLine could offer you a lower rate than other loan types.
Why Do You Need a Will?
A will is an instrument of power. By creating one, you gain control over the distribution of your assets.
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.
How is a Credit Union Not Like a Bank?
Because members are our first priority, we focus on service and financial education, better rates, and lower fees.
Everyone Needs an Emergency Savings Account
Having an emergency savings account could help you cover the costs of unexpected expenses in the instance your income changes.
Individuals claiming to be SLFCU employees are calling members
SLFCU has received reports that individuals purporting to be SLFCU employees are calling members and claiming money is owed to the Credit Union.
College Planning Timeline
Whether you’re starting or returning to college, it’s a good idea to set up a plan so you can feel confident about your responsibilities.
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.
Buying a Home? Skip PMI with SLFCU and Save Big
Purchasing a home is exciting, but if you’re a first-time home buyer you’re likely to encounter many unfamiliar terms and concepts.
Purchasing a Car for Your Teen
Whether they’re heading to college or just received their driver’s license, buying your teen their first vehicle can be exciting, yet overwhelming.
Teen Article: Baking Up Business
SLFCU teen member Simran Bhardwaj talks about how she turned her baking hobby into a business.
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.
SLFCU's Online & Mobile Banking System: One Year Later
Since launching our new online and mobile banking system in March 2018, we have performed a number of updates to ensure the system is meeting the needs of our members.
Spring Real Estate Report: Albuquerque Area and Tri-Valley, California
Learn about the current real estate market in the Albuquerque and Tri-Valley areas.
Protect Yourself Through Data Breach Awareness
Many fraudsters use the internet as a source for personal data to help them commit fraud. Are you confident your information is protected?
Teen Article: Money – It Comes, It Goes
Mariah explains why saving your money is a wiser choice than spending it, and how SLFCU's Savings Laboratory® Program encouraged her to save.
Paying for College
If you or your student experiences a gap between your funding and the cost of college, here are a few options you can explore.
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.
The Benefits of Refinancing Your Auto Loan with SLFCU
In many situations, refinancing your auto loan can help you meet your financial goals or save you money.
The Borrower Protection Plan
Peace of mind for your auto loans, credit cards, and signature loans.
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.
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 Savings Laboratory® Program
SLFCU’s Savings Laboratory® Program is an exciting way for kids 12 and younger to learn about saving money.
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.
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.
Finance Your Next Vehicle with SLFCU in Four Easy Steps
If you’re thinking about buying a new or used vehicle, financing it through SLFCU is easier than you may think.
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.
SLFCU Scholarship Competition: $3,000 Top Prize
Members of SLFCU attending college in 2019-2020 are invited to enter our annual essay scholarship competition.
Member Feedback Drives Statement Enhancements
SLFCU values your feedback. We have made several improvements to monthly account statements based on recent input from our members.
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.
Your SLFCU Credit Card Could Save You Money
Now is a great time to work toward reducing debt. To save money and reduce credit card debt, many people opt to transfer their credit card balances to cards with a lower rate.
3 Reasons to Get Pre-approved for an SLFCU Home Loan
Home-buying season has begun. Thinking of moving? Getting pre-approved can reduce some of the stress of buying a new home.
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.
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.
Shredding Tips
Shredding unneeded receipts, bills, and papers with personal information is one way to help protect yourself from identity theft.
SNL Livermore Collaborates with SLFCU on Homebuying Assistance
SNL Livermore sought out SLFCU to help ease their employees' California home buying efforts.
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.
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.
SLFCU’s 15/15 Adjustable Rate Mortgage
We offer 15/15 adjustable rate mortgages that have the stability of just one rate change during the life of the loan.
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 100,000th member, Keely Dobbs, said joining the right financial institution couldn’t have been easier.
Is Now the Right Time to Go Roth?
Some say yes, pointing to the recent federal tax reforms. This could be a prime time, but the move is not for everyone.
Read to Me Book Drive
Please drop off new and gently used children's books at any New Mexico SLFCU branch February 5 - March 29.
Annual Report 2018
From technology upgrades to member milestones, SLFCU continues to grow and serve our membership and communities.
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.
BALANCE Webinar for the Win Contest
Attend a BALANCE webinar for a chance to win $1,000!
Teen Article: Writing and Submitting a Check
Since payments have turned digital, Rebecca feels the new generation doesn’t know the process of writing or cashing a check.
Introducing Paseo del Norte Branch Manager Sam Montoya
Sam Montoya is a familiar face to many of our Kirtland branch members.
Turbo Tax Discounts
SLFCU members can receive discounts on select TurboTax® products.
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 CardNavSM 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.
Phishing Emails Reported
SLFCU has been made aware of fraudulent emails being sent to both members and non-members.
College Scholarship Opportunity for New Mexico Students
The New Mexico Credit Union Education Foundation (NMCUEF) is accepting scholarship applications for the 2019–2020 school year.
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.
Teen Article: Early Birds and Money Worms
This summer I made a big decision. With the proceeds from my first job, I decided to open a Roth IRA.
Protect Yourself from Mail Theft This Holiday Season
Mail theft tends to increase over the holidays. Use these tips to reduce the chances of having your mail stolen.
Children Can Earn Prizes by Saving Holiday Gift Money
The holidays can be a great opportunity to teach children valuable lessons about money.
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.
Shop with Your SLFCU Debit Card for the Holidays
SLFCU’s free checking accounts come with a no-fee Mastercard® debit card you can use to simplify your holiday shopping.
Holiday Shopping Benefits with Your SLFCU Credit Card
Take advantage of these shopper benefits that can save you money this 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.
Keep Your Cards Working While You Travel
SLFCU debit and credit cards may be able to detect unusual activity patterns and block transactions unless you take precautions.
New MEMBERS Financial Services Advisor John Marek
John comes with 14 years of investment planning experience and a passion for helping people achieve financial success.
How Much Money Will You Need in Retirement?
Have you underestimated? If you’re considering retiring in the near future, consider these factors.
Teen Article: Advice to New Debit Cardholders
If you do these things, being a cardholder will be a lot easier, and you'll be more comfortable handling your own money.
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.
Shredding Tips
Shredding unneeded receipts, bills, and papers with personal information is one way to help protect yourself from identity theft.
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.
Online Tools for Finding Your Dream Home
When you register with the HomeAdvantage® program, you can take advantage of many home buying benefits.
Five Great Times to Buy a Vehicle
If you’re planning to buy a new vehicle, carefully timing your shopping may help you secure the best deal.
Help Teens Prepare for Financial Success
The teenage years are an ideal time to introduce young people to hands-on financial experiences and help them develop smart money habits.
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.
Annuities for Retirement Income
Why seniors choose them and what prospective annuity holders should consider.
Achieve Your Savings Goals with SLFCU
SLFCU members can create savings goals in online banking. Start a savings goal to buy a home, plan a wedding, or make charitable donations.
Security Resources on the Federal Trade Commission Website
The FTC website is a helpful resource for SLFCU members who are searching for information on ways to avoid scams, and how to protect yourself as a consumer.
Mortgages May Trigger Unsolicited Mail
If you closed on a new home loan, refinanced your mortgage, or opened a Home Equity CreditLine, you may receive multiple solicitations in the mail.
Access Your SLFCU Accounts Anywhere
Free services give you access to your accounts everywhere life takes you, saving you both time and money.
Teach Saving Habits Early
With the SLFCU Savings Laboratory®, teaching your child positive financial habits can be both fun and rewarding.
Insurance Built for Credit Union Members Like You
SLFCU partners with TruStage Insurance Agency to offer members competitive rates, quality products, and helpful advice without sales pressure.
Review Your Credit Report
The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires that your credit report be made available to you for free.
Summer Real Estate Report
Learn about the current real estate market in the Albuquerque and Livermore areas.
Online & Mobile Banking Tips
SLFCU staff in branches and at our Contact Center can answer your questions about our new online and mobile banking.
Smart Ways to Pay for College
What to do when school grants, scholarships and government loans don’t cover the costs of attending college.
Six Tips for Creating an Effective Budget
If you're building a new budget or updating an existing one, these tips could help you better manage debt.
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.
Planning for Travel with Your SLFCU Credit or Debit Card
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.
Teen Article: A Lesson in Giving
I will be making a tangible difference in our New Mexico community, and I know that someone’s life is improving.
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.
One Mortgage, No PMI
SLFCU’s new home loan option streamlines the mortgage process by allowing homebuyers to borrow up to 95% of the value of their home with a single loan.
No Credit History: Not Just a Problem for Young Adults
A lack of credit history can be an issue for financially established individuals who opt to pay cash instead of getting loans or using credit cards.
Reduce Monthly Vehicle Payments with SLFCU's Financing Options
A longer loan term can be a great option for those who need lower monthly payments to fit within a budget.
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.
How Much Should You Save By Age 30, 40, 50, or 60?
What number should you strive to reach?
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.
Should You Freeze Your Credit?
A credit freeze restricts creditors from accessing your credit report, which prevents both legitimate and fraudulent loans and accounts from being opened in your name.
Teen Article: The Bro Business
This past summer my friends and I started a neighborhood yard business. The four of us called it the Bro Business.
Manage Your Money Wisely in 2018
Setting up a budget can help you manage the money you earn and develop a plan to meet your future goals.
SLFCU Visa Cards Offer Benefits for Travelers
If you have a credit card from SLFCU, you may be able to take advantage of extra benefits that could save you money and make travel easier.
What is a CreditLine?
A CreditLine, also known as a line of credit, is a loan that allows you to borrow money and pay it back repeatedly, without having to apply for a new loan each time.
Mail Your Holiday Checks at the Post Office
Mail theft tends to increase over the holidays. Follow these tips to reduce the chances of having your mail stolen.
Teen Article: College Saving: A Long Term Reward
Although most teenagers' first instinct with money is to spend it, saving money is ultimately the most beneficial action in the long run.
Protect Yourself Against Data Breaches
Recent security breaches, particularly the September announcement by Equifax that data for 143 million Americans was compromised, have caused intense concern.
An Estate Planning Checklist
What to Check (and Double-check)
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.
Build Your Credit and Your Future with Smart Debt
Bigger purchases in life can require financing, and to qualify, you’ll need to have a credit score.
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.
Teen Article: The Value of Earning Your Own Money
I'm 14 years old, and while most of my friends slept late over the summer, I decided to get my first job.
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 23rd consecutive year SLFCU has awarded scholarships.
SLFCU and KFCU No Longer Merging
In 2016, we announced plans to pursue a merger between SLFCU and Kirtland Federal Credit Union. The boards of directors of both credit unions have decided to terminate that merger agreement.
Investing Basics for Teens
Although investing isn’t a necessary skill to master in order to become financially stable or independent, it may provide benefits to someone looking for a smart way to grow their extra cash
Find Surcharge-free ATMs at Convenient Locations
SLFCU belongs to a nationwide network of nearly 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs.
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.
One Couple, Two Different Retirements?
After many years together, some retired spouses may find their daily routines far apart.
Teen Article: The Importance of Saving
Setting aside perfectly good spending money is the basis for a much broader world of opportunities.
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.
Take Advantage of Your Card's Many Benefits
Most credit and debit cards come with benefits that encourage consumers to choose that particular card over the other options available to them.
Ensure Direct Deposit Information is Current
It's important to verify that your account information is up to date in order to ensure your direct deposits don’t experience problems or delays.
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.
What Do Teens Need to Know About Credit?
Good credit is the key to a solid financial foundation. It can help you secure a loan for school and a car, often at a better rate than someone with a low score would receive.
New Fixed Rate Mortgages with Low Down Payments
It’s a common misperception that lenders require a down payment of at least 20% of the price of the home.
Avoiding Mail Theft and Check Fraud
Mail theft and check fraud are causing increased concern for individuals trying to keep their financial information safe.
Tell Your Beneficiaries About Your Accounts and Policies
Will your heirs receive a fair share of your wealth?
Online Help with Buying Your Next Car
SLFCU has resources to help you navigate the car buying process so you can make informed decisions.
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.
New Fixed Rate Mortgages are Serviced by SLFCU Staff
SLFCU now offers fixed rate mortgages that are processed, approved, closed, and serviced by SLFCU professionals.
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.
Teen Article: Stay Alert to Prevent Card Fraud
Since I was a little girl, my parents have drilled in the importance of being smart with money.
Avoid Checking Account "Oops" Situations
SLFCU can help you set up your checking account to avoid Non Sufficient Funds (NSF) fees, returned checks, and declined cards.
Teen Article: The Right Way to Both Save and Spend
As a teen it can be hard to know how to spend and also save at the same time.
Comprehensive Financial Planning: What It Is, Why It Matters
Your approach to building wealth should be built around your goals and values.
Reward Kids for Saving
Designed to help encourage savings habits and financial responsibility at an early age, the SLFCU Savings Laboratory program offers an engaging way for kids to get excited about saving.
Is It Time for Life Insurance?
Important life events may call for it.
Choosing the Right Account Type for Children
When opening a savings account for a child, it's important to consider what purpose the account will serve.
Financing Your Vehicle
Buying a vehicle doesn't have to be stressful. Once you've found the car that best meets your needs, follow these tips for smooth shopping.
Keep Your Mobile Device Secure
The amount of malware targeting mobile devices tripled in 2015. Smartphones and tablets are as powerful as many desktop computers, and security is just as important.
Buying a Home: What to Save and How to Get There
There are three things you need to consider when saving for a home: a down payment, closing costs, and insurance and taxes.
Protect Yourself from Online Sales Fraud
A number of SLFCU members have been targeted by online sales scams, mainly in the form of bad checks. SLFCU recommends that you never accept a check from someone you don’t know.
Teen Article: The Snowball Effect of Saving
The way you spend and save money when you are a teenager can help you in your future. Some teens spend money as soon as they get it.
Starting a Career
Starting a career can be an exciting time, and it’s important to think about what a steady income means for your financial goals.
MasterPass Simplifies Online Shopping
Shopping online can be tedious – check out as a guest, and you're entering card and shipping information; set up an account, and now you have another username and password.
Teen Article: Weighing the Cost of College Tuition
Sierra Robinson is a senior at Eldorado High School in Albuquerque and the first winner of SLFCU’s teen article competition.
Convenient Account Access When Traveling
Just because you're away from home doesn't mean you have limited access to your accounts.
What Makes Up Your Credit Score?
If you want to see your credit score increase, there are several strategies to boost it.
Automated Phone Banking Provides An Individualized Experience
Call SLFCU's responsive phone system to check balances and history, make transfers, pay loans, and more.
Minimize Risk of Identity Theft
Identity theft is a growing problem that is a potential risk to everyone. Take steps to reduce the chances of having your identity stolen.
Budgeting Strategies for Kids and Teens
When teaching finances to children, it can be difficult to point out the distinction between needs and wants, since many needs are handled by their parents.
Preparing Your Accounts for the Future
Preparing your finances so others may assist you if necessary can be an important step in making sure your finances are handled the way you want.
Checking Account Questions Answered
There are a lot of features that comprise a checking account. We've answered some frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of your checking account.
Can You Afford a Home?
Buying a house can be daunting, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. You probably have many questions: Which neighborhood is right for you? Is an appraisal different from an inspection?
Heading to College
For most people, college is the first time you'll be fully responsible for your finances. During college a budget is critical.
$2,000 of Insurance Coverage
To help you protect the people who matter most in your life, SLFCU endorses TruStage Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance from CMFG Life Insurance Company.
Buying a New Car?
AutoSMART has the tools to guide you through the entire car buying process, saving you time and helping you make informed decisions.
Start Building Credit
Building credit is a common concern for teens and young adults. You need a good credit history in order to get an auto loan or credit card, and sometimes even contractual items like phone plans.
Maintaining a Healthy Credit Score
Your credit score and credit report are typically reviewed by lenders before they’ll approve you for a loan.
5 Things to Look for in a Checking Account
It’s important to select a checking account that helps you meet your goals.
Getting Married
Marriage marks a big turning point in life, and finances are often a significant consideration. Here are some topics you and your partner should discuss.
What Data Breaches Mean for You and SLFCU
Data breaches at retail merchants are occurring more frequently than in the past. However, members can be assured that SLFCU is ready to help if your data is compromised.
SLFCU Can Help in Difficult Situations
SLFCU offers solutions for managing difficult financial situations. You can rely on SLFCU to provide personal, caring service and professional guidance.
Starting a Family
Having a baby is expensive. Obvious costs include medical bills, baby gear, daycare, and lost wages. But there are many other financial considerations when it comes to starting a family.
Mastercard Identity Theft Alerts
Mastercard's Identity Theft Alert program monitors your online identity and sends you an alert if it detects that your personal information has been exposed to potential fraud or theft.
Credit Card Basics
A credit card allows you to borrow money to make purchases. You can make a large purchase and pay it off in small amounts.
How Much Can You Spend?
The balance in your checking account isn't necessarily the true amount of money you have available to spend. Your account balance only captures actions that have involved SLFCU.
Avoid ATM Fees & Surcharges
There are two costs you might incur for using an out-of-network ATM. An ATM surcharge is assessed by a financial institution for using one of their ATMs when you are not a customer.
Improved Security with eStatements
Using eStatements instead of getting statements by mail is more secure. Paper statements can be a prime target for criminals looking to steal your identity.
Manage Money with Your Child
Children can be introduced to the concept of money at a young age. Whether it’s spending birthday money on a new toy or helping a parent at the grocery store, there are many opportunities.
Car Shopping Tips
When buying a new car, there are a lot of things to keep in mind. The Credit Union National Association recommends these six tips:
Pays Bills on Time in Online Banking
SLFCU's online banking will automatically determine how much lead time is needed to process and send your bill payments.
Shop Safely Online
The holidays are fast approaching, and many of us will shop online. Credit card fraud and online scams spike over the holidays; here are some steps you can take to help keep your personal information and finances secure.
Managing Student Loans
If you graduated from college in the spring, grace periods for your federal and private student loans are probably coming to an end. Most student loans have a six-month grace period before entering the repayment stage.
Rent or Buy: What Makes Sense for You?
Many people are opting to delay buying a home in favor of renting in the short-term. However, the rental market is shifting.
How Much Should You Pay for an Allowance?
My 10-year-old earns $5 a week for taking care of regular tasks and for helping without complaint, ideally, with chores like yard work and washing the car.
Security Reminders for Your SLFCU Accounts
To create a secure username, choose something that you have never used on another site. Your username should include numbers and letters and should be difficult to guess.
Money Management Strategies for Teens
Managing money wisely isn’t just a concern for adults – teenagers with jobs receive paychecks, and many high school graduates receive monetary gifts.
Using Allowance as a Financial Tool
Here are some common approaches that some families take towards allowances.
Consumer Tips for Data Breaches
Recent data breaches have caused intense concern from consumers. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends the following steps to protect yourself:
Why Your Card May be Declined
Card fraud is becoming increasingly common. If your debit card or credit card is used fraudulently, it can be costly for both you and SLFCU – in terms of time, energy, and money.
Deposit Insurance
Through coverage provided by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), your deposits at SLFCU are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government, up to the insured limit.
How to Get the Best Car Deal
There's more to getting a good deal on your next vehicle than just negotiating with a salesperson.
Find Your Next Vehicle with AutoSMART
Shop online and compare prices for actual dealer inventory at AutoSMART.
14 Household Budgeting Tips
Putting together a realistic and helpful budget can be harder than it looks. Here are 14 tips.
Preventing Credit and Debit Card Fraud
As card fraud increases, so do SLFCU’s efforts to combat it. The safeguarding of our members’ cards is a top priority.
Disputing Credit Report Errors
A 2013 study on credit report accuracy found that one in five of the participating consumers had an error on at least one of their three credit reports.
Tips for Improving Your Credit
If you're planning to get a loan or just want to strengthen your financial standing, improve your credit with these six tips.
Members Often Ask: Savings Transfer Limits
Why am I limited to six unsigned savings withdrawals or transfers each month?
Stick With SLFCU When You Move
SLFCU offers all the financial services you need, even if you live far from a branch. These resources will help you keep track of your finances anywhere you go.
Keep Cards Working During Travel
Your SLFCU credit cards and debit card are protected by a system that detects unusual patterns of activity and may block transactions unless you verify that the transaction is legitimate.
Depositing Checks from Home
Many SLFCU members have taken advantage of mobile deposit through online banking.
Tips for Surviving the Post-College World
No more days and nights studying for exams and applying for scholarships. Now it's time for job hunting and paying student loans.
Think Twice Before Moving IRAs
Rolling over a distribution from your employer-sponsored retirement plan account to a traditional IRA isn't difficult. Still, it's easy to make a mistake that could cost you.