Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
www.gctfcu.net

Importance Of Credit Unions




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Should I Open A Savings Account?

A savings account is a type of account offered by a financial institution allowing you to deposit funds with safety assurance. It helps you to manage finances and save for the future without locking the money away for a longer time.

Here are some reasons why you should open a savings account at a credit union:

Savings: Opening a savings account is a crucial way of money management. Regularly depositing money into a savings account prepares you for unexpected expenses or major life events. You wouldn’t have to rely on high interest lenders, as you’ll have a savings safety plug to bear sudden expenditures. It also offers interest on the funds enabling your money to grow over time & making it a sound investment.

Security: With a savings account in a credit union, your funds remain safe & secured. For example, funds deposited at Greater Central Federal Credit Union are insured by National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF).

Easily Accessible: Funds in a savings account are easily accessible. You can withdraw funds anytime using provisions such as a debit card/ATM. Funds in a savings account can also be used for automated bill payments.

How to Open A Savings Account At Credit Union

  • Become a member of a credit union to get access to various financial products and services.
  • Apply for a savings account.
  • Check the eligibility criteria and other requisites for the savings account.
  • Collect all the required documents and start the procedure.
  • Once your account is active, make sure to add funds to it.
Requirements for Opening Savings Account at GCTFCU:

  • 2 forms of ID (original social security card and picture ID)
  • The person should be living & working in the west of I-35
  • $5.00 fee for opening an account
  • $20.00 to remain in the account
Savings Accounts Available at GCTFCU

  • Share Savings Account
  • Certificates of Deposit
  • Money Market Accounts
  • Individual Retirement Account
  • Christmas Club
  • Vacation Club
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers various savings, investment & lending options in Killeen, TX. The credit union also provides multiple account services to savings account holders. For more details on savings accounts, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX – 76542 or call (254) 690 - 2274. You can also contact us at www.gctfcu.net

Overdraft Protection




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How to Save Money?

Learning how to save money is one of the key components of financial literacy. It allows you to make the most out of your financial resources while encouraging you to take well-informed financial decisions. 

Let us explore some effective ways to build up your savings and a good credit score. 

  • Learn to Distinguish Between Wants & Needs - Be clear on your financial priorities and divide your income wisely. To make it more effective, learn to distinguish between wants and needs. Your needs include housing, transportation, electricity, insurance, gas, clothes, food, water, health and other household items. These are the recurring expenses and are essential for survival. Things that you buy for leisure, entertainment, fun like travel, expensive clothing, dining out, automatic subscriptions, memberships, etc. are considered as wants. To save money, keep your focus on the needs rather than overspending on the wants. Keep track of your monthly expenses; do not stress yourself and save a comfortable amount of your income. 
  • First Pay all the Debts - The first and foremost priority should be paying off all the debts while making small contributions to build up savings. Once you've paid off your debt, it will be more comfortable and convenient to save significant amount of your income.
  • Find Ways to Save on the Monthly Expenses - Find ways to save on recurring monthly expenses such as: investing in energy-efficient appliances. Managing lifestyle priorities also help in saving on monthly expenses.
  • Wise Savings & Investment Options - Explore various savings and investment options that have potential of higher returns, good interest rates, minimum risks and reliability.  
Insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, Killeen offers a broad array of financial services. With various types of saving accounts like Share Account, Money Market Accounts, Christmas Club, Vacation Club, Certificates of Deposits and Individual Retirement Account and investment & lending options including New and Pre-Owned Vehicle Loans, Secured & Unsecured loans, Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union strives to cater different financial needs and interests of our members.

Visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also contact us by filling up the contact form available at www.gctfcu.net or call us: (254) 690 – 2274.

Benefits of a Credit Union




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How to Open a Savings Account

Savings account is a basic account type held at a financial institution that allows you to deposit funds with safety assurance. One can also earn interest on the deposits at credit unions on your savings. The savings account also allows you to withdraw money any time you wish to.  Let us look through some important steps to open a savings account at a credit union.

Become the Member of Credit Union

First, become a member of a credit union. The membership of credit union will allow you to access their various financial products and services. Apply for savings account and take proper follow up. Member services offered by Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, Killeen include Direct deposit, Payroll deduction, Notary Service, MasterCard Cash Advance, On-line access, MasterCard Gift Cards, Wire Transfer, Savings Account options and many more.

Check the Eligibility Criteria

Go through the eligibility criteria and other relevant information regarding the savings account you want to open. If it suits your profile, go ahead.

Collect Documents

Collect all the required documents and start the procedure.

Requirements for Opening Savings Account at GCTFCU:

  • 2 forms of ID (original social security card and picture ID)
  • Person should be living & working in vicinity of west of I-35
  • $5.00 fee for opening account
  • $20.00 to remain in account
Fund the Account

Once your account is all setup, make sure to add funds in it. Keep the account active to enjoy all the services that come along. Credit union offers higher dividends on your savings and helps you reach your desired financial goals.

Savings Accounts Available at GCTFCU

  • Share Savings Account
  • Checking Account
  • Certificates of Deposit
  • Money Market Accounts
  • Individual Retirement Account
  • Christmas Club
  • Vacation Club
For more information, visit www.gctfcu.net

Insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, Killeen offers multifarious savings, investment & lending options. Our lending services include New and Pre-Owned Vehicle Loans, Secured & Unsecured loans.  Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union works within the area of Bell County, Texas, west of Interstate 35.

Visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also contact us by filling up the contact form available at www.gctfcu.net . Call us: (254) 690 - 2274

How To Manage Money?



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Overdraft Facility by GCTFCU Benefits

Overdraft Protection is a credit service offered by credit unions to provide monetary coverage in case of insufficient funds in the account. An additional amount is transferred, thereby allowing you to complete a transaction without any glitch. Let’s explore some benefits of opting Overdraft Facility. 

Successful Transactions 

With overdraft facility, a person is able to complete ATM and debit card transactions, even ifthe account is short on money. It prevents transactions from getting declined and provide immediate financial support. A person is saved from penalties which are imposed owing to negative balance in the account.

Availability of Funds in times of Emergencies

Overdraft Protection gives coverage and financial support during emergencies or temporary economic distress. Overdraft protection allows an access to funds which can be used during sudden monetary exigency. 

No Bouncing Checks

Overdraft facility prevents your checks from getting bounced. It saves a person from paying bounced check fees and helps to maintain good credit report.

Services under Overdraft Protection

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers Overdraft Protection in two different ways; standard overdraft practices that come with your account and Overdraft Protection through a link to your savings account. The standard overdraft practices that come with your account: checks and other transactions made using checking account number and automatic bill payments. Under standard overdraft practices Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union will charge a fee of up to $30 each time the credit union pays on your behalf. 

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a member-owned cooperative which has been helping people with their financial needs since 1957. Our member services include Direct deposit, Payroll deduction, Notary Service, MasterCard Cash Advance, On-line access, MasterCard Gift Cards, Wire Transfer, ACH Origination, Club Accounts, Credit Card, Bill Pay, ATM and automatic transfer services, etc. Our lending services include New and Pre-Owned Vehicle Loans, Pre-Approval on vehicle loans, Secured & Unsecured loans.  Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union works within the area of Bell County, Texas, west of Interstate 35.

For further details, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also contact us by filling up the contact form available at our website. Call us: (254) 690 - 2274

Savings Account In Killeen, TX




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What Is IRA?

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GCTFCU Blog | Credit Union Killeen TX | Home Loans, Secured Auto Loan in Central Texas
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
www.gctfcu.net

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Finding A Credit Union

Credit union membership has myriad benefits such as great services, low fees, competitive rates and exclusive member discounts. When looking for credit unions, strive to look for the best and not just the most convenient one.

If you are keen on opening an account in a credit union but cannot decide on which one is the best for you, the following tips may be helpful in simplifying your search:

  • An Insured Credit Union: Pay attention to whether the credit union is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or by the National Credit Union Administration. 
  • Eligibility: Narrow down your search by looking for credit unions for which you qualify. This will save you a lot of time and energy. Examples of factors that will determine whether you qualify for the membership in a credit union are the town you live in, the organization for which you work, etc.
  • Research: Consult people you know to search for credits unions in your area for which you are eligible. Listen carefully to what they have to say about its working, customer service and other services. Choose a credit union with maximum number of satisfied members. 
  • Assess Your Needs: Finding the right credit union is not just limited to eligibility but to your needs too. Consider whether the services and products being offered are what you are interested in. Compare the interest rates of the credit union/s with that of other financial institutions. Strike a conversation with the staff and assess whether their vibe and way of dealing with customers matches your expectations. 
  • Online Resources: Using online resources like credit union locators for finding credit unions based on location and distance to produce quick and reliable results right from the comfort of your home. All you have to do is click on “detect my location” and within a few seconds the results will be on your smartphone, tablet or desktop.
  • Consider The Services Provided: If you belong to a specific group or community e.g. an employee of a specific company, a member of military or a resident of a particular community, look for a credit union that provides specific services that are oriented towards your group
  • Variety Of Financial Services: An ideal credit union is one which provides a wide plethora of services under one roof. Example of such services are credit and debit cards, auto loans, home lending services, savings programs, financial counselling, etc.
For more information, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274.

Reasons Why You Should Have A Saving Account



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Reasons To Open A Roth IRA

Roth IRAs are individual retirement accounts which promise tax-free income on retirement. Roth Individual retirement accounts are the best option for those interested in lower taxes and more retirement savings. Thus, you save after paying your taxes. It is a great form of investment for people of all ages. In addition to the tax advantage, Roth IRA’s allow you to use the money for different purposes other than as a retirement fund without being taxed or charged for the same. You can visit a nearby credit union for more information on Roth IRA’s.

If you are wondering whether a Roth IRA is a good investment option for you, here are some reasons in favor of this investment option:

  • Easy Withdrawal: The best thing about Roth IRA’s is that there are no restrictions on withdrawing money like in other retirement plans. You are free to withdraw any amount of money at any time for any purpose. This is helpful in case of emergencies when you might need quick cash.
  • Tax-Free Retirement Income: You are not expected to pay any taxes on the amount saved for decades. That translates into tax-free income in retirement. Credit unions offering Roth IRAs, charge tax only at the time of making the deposit but not at the time of withdrawing the principal amount and earnings. This also protects investors from future income tax raises.
  • Benefits To Your Heirs: Roth IRA’s are not only beneficial for you, but also for your heirs. The money in your account can be used by your heirs as tax-free income for the rest of their lives. However, the heirs will be subject to minimum distributions depending on their age at the time of the original account holder’s demise.
  • No RMDS (Required Minimum Distributions): Roth IRA’s do not impose any restriction on making contributions after a certain age (70 ½ years). Investors can keep on adding to their Roth IRA accounts irrespective of how old they get. They are not required to take distributions and pay taxes.
  • No One-Time Investment Amount Required: With Roth IRA’s there’s no pressure to invest a huge sum of money in one go. Most credit unions these days encourage members to pay steadily and comfortably by setting up automatic deposits. So you are saving without making much effort on your part.
For more information, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542 or call at (254) 690 – 2274.

Services Enjoyed By Members Of A Credit Union

A credit union is a financial cooperative which is created, owned and operated by its members. They pool in money in the form of shares in the cooperative and use it to provide loans and other financial services to each other.
Members of credit unions enjoy a whole lot of services, some of which are enlisted below:

1. Services For Convenience: These services are provided to members of credit unions to save their time and increase efficiency. Most services are either completely free for the members or require a nominal fee. They include:
  • Online access
  • Direct deposits which make it convenient for members to receive their paychecks.
  • Notary service
  • Master Card cash advance
  • Wire transfer
  • Bill pay
  • ATM
  • ACH Origination
  • MasterCard Gift Cards
  • Checking accounts which facilitate free and unlimited check writing.
  • A Golden Apple Checking account for members above the age of 55 years. No minimum daily balance is required and members are not charged any fee for having money that falls below the minimum balance required.
  • Payroll deduction
2. Services Pertaining To Savings And Investments: The goal of a Credit Union is to help its members achieve their financial goals in the easiest and most cost-efficient ways. For this, credit unions help members save for retirement, college education of children, car etc. The following is a list of some savings and investment options that members of a credit union can avail:
  • Regular Share Savings Accounts: These require a nominal amount to start the account. Members are offered competitive dividend rates. The dividends are figured on a day-to-day basis and paid quarterly.
  • Share Certificates Of Deposits: The minimum amount of deposits required vary here. There are a variety of terms available for example minimum $1000 deposits and $6 month-$36 month terms. The Annual Percentage Yields are quoted on a weekly basis and interest is compounded quarterly.
  • IRAs: These comprise of Variable Rate Traditional and Roth IRAs. The Individual Retirement Accounts have great tax advantages. Roth IRAs help members make tax-free withdrawals on retirement.
  • Club Accounts: These consist of Christmas club and vacation Club accounts.
3.Lending Services: Credit unions offer various lending services to members to help them possess whatever they dream of, be it a new vehicle, a vacation to an exotic locale or even purchasing a dream home. They provide loans for New and Pre-Owned Vehicles at very competitive rates. Members are also assisted in the pre-approval on vehicle loans.

For more information, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Road, Killeen, TX 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274.

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