Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
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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Why Auto Loan From Credit Union is a Better Choice

Getting great deal while buying a car helps in making the financial decision easy. A lot would depend on the financial institution you are availing an auto loan from. While there are many providers, Credit Unions helps in availing one of the best deals on auto loan. Let us dig deeper into the benefits of taking an auto loan from a credit union.

Lower Rates of Interest

Credit Unions are community based, non - profit financial institutions, which provide products and services to promote financial wellbeing of the members. Since, credit unions does not seek huge profits, they are able to offer their members lower interest rates on auto loans and other lending services.

User Friendly Loan Process

Credit Unions provide a user friendly loan process with minimum hassle. You are likely to complete the loan applying procedure in lesser amount of time while getting the best possible deal. Credit union generally provide online access to their services.

Credit unions often provide financial counselling led by local experts to guide you through the process.

Financing

Being the member centric cooperatives, credit unions are quite flexible and try to find ways to help their members. It is relatively convenient to apply for a loan from a credit union as they have minimum-loan requirements and a better insight into your financial situation.

Community Ties

Credit Unions hold strong community ties which offer a better understanding of each other’s financial needs and requirements. They provide personalized services backed with community support. Volunteerism & community involvement makes a credit union more accessible and participative.

From providing auto loans to many other convenient services, Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, Killeen is committed to help its members reach their financial goals.

Insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, Killeen is member own cooperative which has been helping people with their financial needs since 1957. With multifarious savings and investment options, one can seek financial assistance for to build your dream home, saving for retirement etc. The lending services include New and Pre-Owned Vehicle Loans, Pre-Approval on vehicle loans and various Secured & Unsecured loans at feasible interest rates. 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, United States. You can also contact the credit union by filling up the contact form available at the website.

What is Over Draft Protection

Overdraft Protection (OD) is a product provided by banks and credit unions to offer financial coverage in case of insufficient funds in the account. An additional amount is transferred to cover a transaction thereby preventing it from getting declined. Let’s look at some benefits of opting Overdraft Protection.

Transactions - With overdraft protection in place, even if a person doesn’t have sufficient money in the account, ATM and debit cards transactions will still go smoothly. It will prevent transactions from getting rejected or declined due to negative balance, thereby saving you from inconvenience and embarrassing situations. Please note that it is the discretion of Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union (GCTFCU) to authorize and pay OD for any type of transaction. If we do not authorize and pay an overdraft, your transaction will be declined. If a transaction is declined, you will be charged a $35 fee.

Availability of Funds in times of Emergencies - Overdraft Protection gives coverage and cash during emergencies or temporary economic hardship. A situation might get worse without a financial support. If you have enrolled for overdraft protection, you get an automatic access to funds which can be used in times of crisis.

No Bouncing Checks - Bounced checks can create a lot of hassle and problems. Overdraft protection, prevents checks from getting bounced and saves a person from paying bounced check fees. This financial product may help you prevent money trouble blemishing your 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 encompasses 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 we pay on your behalf.

Federally Insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers services like direct deposit, on-line access, overdraft protection, wire transfer, ACH origination, bill pay, ATM and various other checking, savings and loans products. 

You can visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542 to know about financial services offered.
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

Important Financial Services Offered by Credit Unions

Members of credit unions enjoy a variety of affordable financial services. Credit Unions aim to offer their members an assortment of high-quality services, not with the aim of maximizing profits, but with the intention of empowering the community.

For example, Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative in Killeen, TX. The credit union is insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund. It strives to provide the members with a host of lending opportunities coupled with other financial services such as Bill Pay, debit cards, MasterCard, checking and savings account, and more. The services are instrumental in helping members attain their financial goals such as retirement savings, college education, home purchase and purchase of new and pre-owned vehicles.

Listed below are important financial services offered by Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union:

Unsecured/Signature Loans:

This category of loans is ideal for anyone with major expenditures impending in near future for example college education or purchasing a new home. The loans are available at affordable rates and the credit union also offers quick approvals; usually within 24-48 hours of completing an application and income verification. Interested parties can contact the loan officer and apply for the same on credit union’s website.

Secured Loans

GCTFCU provide secured loans against collateral. These loans are usually given against a collateral valued at an amount equal to or higher than the loan’s balance. Such loans have lower interest rates.

Savings Accounts

The saving accounts offered by the credit union include Share Account, IRA (Individual Retirement Accounts), Christmas Club, Certificates of Deposit, Vacation Club and Money Market Accounts. To open a savings account at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, you need to provide a proof that you are living, working or worshipping west of I-35, 2 ID proofs (such as picture id and social security card), a minimum of $5.00 to open an account and $20.00 to deposit in it. For a regular Share Savings Account, you will need a minimum of $25.00 and for Share Certificates of deposit a minimum of $1,000.

Credit Builder Loan

As the name suggests, credit builder loans are meant to help members enhance their credit score while saving at the same time. The way this loan works is that a specific amount of money is deposited in a member’s share account and frozen therein until the loan is repaid. The benefit of a credit builder loan is that members can avail it even with an unsatisfactory credit score. This characteristic makes it ideal for new members who are getting a loan for the first time.

Other Services

In addition to the above-mentioned financial services, the credit union offers services like Incoming wires, Outgoing Wires, Outgoing ACHs, Incoming ACHs, gift cards, an audio response system, an amortization calculator, checking cleared drafts, Notary service, ATM and safe deposit boxes.

For more information on important financial services offered by credit unions, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also visit www.gctfcu.net or call at (254) 690 - 2274.

Tips to Ensure Timely Loan Repayments

Managing your debts is vital for maintaining financial health. Timely loan repayments not only keep your credit score healthy but also ensure the uninterrupted functioning of the household.

Here are a few tips for making timely loan repayments while taking care of your expenditure.

Prepare a Budget

Prepare a monthly budget and earmark a particular amount for each household requirement. With proper budgeting, you can strategize your loan repayment while keeping track of your expenditure. Cut down on unnecessary expenses and spend mindfully. You can also install budgeting apps to keep your monthly outlay in check.

Loans Consolidation

It is difficult to keep track of multiple loans and their monthly installments. Consider various ways to consolidate your debts. Debt consolidation means unifying more than one debt into a new loan, especially the ones with a lower rate of interest. You can take personal loans from a credit union at a competitive interest rate to pay off your loan.

Prioritize the Loan with Higher Interest Rate

Focus on the loans with higher rate of interest. If allowed, make larger payments towards these loans to pay them off as early as possible. But make sure that you don’t skip payments towards other loans, if any.

Automate Payment Options

Choose auto payment deductions to ensure you don’t skip or delay any monthly installment towards your loan repayments. This is necessary to avoid penalties for late payments.

Emergency Funds

Prepare an emergency fund to walk through tough times without any financial complications. If possible, keep funds worth 2-3 months of EMI amount in your account to act as a financial safety net.

Deposit Extra Money Towards Debt/Loan

If you receive a considerable amount of money, such as a bonus, instead of splurging that sum on needless expenses, deposit this money towards your loan repayments.

Insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a member-owned cooperative that has been helping people with their financial needs since 1957. The lending options offered by the credit union include New and Pre-Owned Vehicle Loans, and Secured & Unsecured loans at competitive interest rates. The credit union also offers numerous other financial services such as savings accounts, Wire Transfer, Bill Pay, etc. 

To know more about loans in Killeen, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E. Elms Rd, Killeen, TX – 76542 or call (254) 690 - 2274. You can also browse through www.gctfcu.net

Convenient Credit Union Services




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How Credit Unions Promote Economic Growth?

Credit Unions are nonprofit financial co-operatives providing a comprehensive range of savings, lending & investment options. Owned and operated by the members, credit unions strive to offer higher interest on savings, lower loan rates, and various financial products & services to boost the community's economic well-being.

Economic Participation By Members

As a nonprofit & member-centric financial institution, the capital in the credit union is controlled & contributed by the member owners. Therefore, a credit union's earnings are shared among the members in the form of higher savings rates, low-cost loans, reduced fees, and more. Members' economic participation helps form a mechanism that facilitates the community's economic growth.

Lending Options

Credit unions provide various lending options at lower rates. Financial services like loans & credit limits assist members in fulfilling their respective financial obligations & needs like capital requirements, asset purchasing, home building, education, etc. The credit union helps to elevate the economic status of a family/individual by providing easy-to-access lending services, flexible terms and conditions, and a wide range of financial programs.

Savings

A savings account is a basic account type that allows a person to deposit funds with safety assurance. It is considered to be an essential part of financial management as it allows to save money without locking it away for longer period of time. Depositing money on a regular basis enables your money to grow over time keeping you prepared for recurring as well as sudden expenses. Credit unions offer higher interest rates on savings to help members achieve personal financial goals. 

Financial Counselling & Investment Options

Credit unions provide financial counseling led by local experts, allowing to make well informed decisions. They help to optimize member's income by educating members on financial skills including investing, borrowing, budgeting, personal finance, retirement planning, etc. Financial literacy allows individuals to utilize financial resources effectively, which eventually aids economic growth.

Ulterior Motive of Credit Union

Credit union mainly focuses on developing policies and services that can stimulate financial sustainability. The credit union's foremost concern is to promote its member's economic growth by offering democratic control, community support, voluntary membership, and various other means.

Insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, Killeen offers multifarious savings, investment & lending options. Visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union (GCTFCU) at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX 76542, United States. You can also contact GCTFCU by filling up the contact form available at www.gctfcu.net .

Checking and Savings Accounts in Killeen, TX




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Financial Management Tips

Financial management is the process of planning, budgeting, saving, investing & spending your money to meet long-term and short-term financial goals. With a good financial management plan in place, you will be able to make well-informed financial decisions while giving yourself a safety net for times of emergency. Here are some reasons that emphasize on the importance of financial management:

  • Allows to establish clear financial goals.
  • Fulfils daily financial needs.
  • Helps in managing your income. (Budgeting, Savings & Expenditure)
  • Gives a healthy financial future.
  • Keeps you prepared for sudden & big expenses.
  • Improved standard of living.
  • Helps to optimize the worth of your income.
  • Financial Independence.
Here are some proven money management tips:

Determine Your Financial Priorities

Assess your financial needs & priorities to streamline the process. Create short-term & long-term goals and build an effective financial plan to achieve them.

Create a Budget

Create a budget that aligns with your financial priorities, income, daily expenditures, recurring expenses, taxes, wants, needs, savings & debt repayments. You can also choose a budgeting framework to set financial boundaries.

Example: Use the 50/30/20 budget rule. Spend 50% of your income on needs & daily requirements. Dedicate 30% of your income on wants like shopping, dining out, travel, entertainment and other luxuries. Minimum 20% of your income should be added to savings, emergency funds & debt repayments.

There are multiple budgeting plans, choose one that suits your income and priorities.

Track Your Money

Making yourself aware of the financial situation helps to keep things organized and transparent. Make a checklist or use financial apps or calendar to monitor the movement of your money. With changing income, expenses and priorities revisit the budget plan time and again to keep track of it.

Savings & Investment

Explore various savings and investment options to grow your money over time. Study interest rates and other outcomes of the plan before investing your money. Consider opening a savings account in a credit union to seek higher dividends. You can also avail automated savings & investment options. Diversifying your investments usually generates positive results.

Create An Emergency Fund

Save a specific amount of money as an emergency fund. The emergency fund provides a safe cushion in situations like medical emergencies, financial distress, etc. 

Insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers multifarious automated services, savings, investment & lending options. For more financial management tips, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX - 76542 or browse through www.gctfcu.net

Lending Opportunities in Killeen, TX



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How Credit Unions Facilitate Financial Growth?

Credit Unions are member-centric, non-profit financial cooperatives that provide services to promote the financial well-being of their member community. They provide various savings options, low-cost loans, deposits, and a range of services to their members.

Here are some points that lay emphasis on the contribution of Credit Unions in Financial Growth:

Facilitates Economic Transactions

Credit unions offer financial services to foster economic independence while improving the quality of living in the region. Their savings, investment & lending services enhance economic productivity and protect against financial vulnerabilities.

Savings

A savings account allows depositing funds with safety assurance. It helps you to manage finances, and save for the future without locking the money away for a longer period of time. Depositing money on a regular basis enables your money to grow over time and keeps you prepared for unexpected expenses. Credit Unions offer better interest rates on savings to help their members achieve personal financial goals.

There are multiple savings account options available at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union to suit the specific financial needs of its members:  Share Savings Account, Checking Account, Certificates of Deposit, Money Market Accounts, Individual Retirement Account, Christmas Club & Vacation Club.

Savings accounts improve the financial health of community members resulting in better financial security.

Lending Options

Credit unions offer numerous lending options at lower rates. These financial services assist members to fulfill financial obligations, meet working capital needs, purchase assets, pursue education and help to elevate the economic status of members of the community. Credit union works for the financial betterment of the community; adding value to financial growth and sustainability. Lending services offered by GCTFCU include New and Pre-Owned Vehicle loans, Secured & Unsecured loans, and Credit Builder loan.

Overdraft Protection

Overdraft Protection is a product that offers financial coverage in case of insufficient funds in the account. An additional amount is transferred to cover a transaction thus, providing cash when needed.

Financial Counselling

Credit unions often provide financial counseling led by local experts. They assist their members in taking investment decisions, thereby stimulating the financial growth of the whole community.

Additional Services

Services like Direct deposit, Payroll deduction, Notary Service, MasterCard Cash Advance, Online access, MasterCard Gift Cards, Wire Transfer, ACH Origination, Bill Pay, ATM and automatic transfer services are available for the members.

Insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers multifarious savings, investment & lending options to its members in Killeen, TX. For more details on financial growth facilities offered by a credit union, 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

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