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A loan that is backed up by any collateral is known as a ‘Secured Loan’. Collateral can be in the form of a financial asset owned by the borrower such as a house, car, precious jewelry, commercial property, etc.

Reasons for which secured loans are considered an effective way to borrow money from Credit Unions are:

Rate Of Interest: Credit unions offer secured loans at competitive interest rates. Secured loans typically have fixed interest rates so, a borrower’s monthly payments remain consistent in spite of changes in market trends.
Bigger Loan Amount: The borrowers can apply loan for a larger amount provided collateral is satisfactory. This makes a secured loan apt for large investments such as purchasing a new or used car.
Improves Credit: These loans help borrowers with low credit ratings to improve the same over time. As a borrower repays a secured loan according to the schedule set out by the loan officer, a positive track record is established and the credit score improves. A secured loan also improves credit score by lowering your credit utilization ratio.
Flexible Terms: Those who borrow secured loans enjoy flexible terms of repayment as per the options offered by the credit union. The term of the loan can be set to match the financial circumstances of the borrower. These loan term may range from a few years to a longer stretch.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers secured loans to its members. In order to be a member of the credit union; the applicant should live, work or worship within the area of Bell County, west of I-35. The credit union provides secured loans at competitive interest rates. The loan can be used to buy new or used cars. The credit union members are also offered the option to apply for the loan online. The loan officers assist the applicants in understanding the loan process to help them choose suitable loan amount and terms. To know more about why secured loan is a good option, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX – 76542. You can also call at: (254) 690 – 2274.

Managing Your Credit Card Wisely

Responsible credit card usage is important for effective financial management. It helps in building credit score, preserving savings accounts, minimizing risks and enjoying financial rewards.

To gain maximum benefits from credit card usage, following are some tips on how to manage your credit card wisely:

Borrow Wisely: A thumb rule is to borrow what you can pay back easily. Create a budget based on your monthly income and expenditures to have a clear picture of how much you should spend with your credit card.
Check The Interest Rate: While applying for a credit card do make sure that you research the market and get a card which offers lowest rate of interest. Do pay attention to the annual fee and reward system offered by the lender. You may consider getting a credit card from a credit union for a competitive rate of interest.
Pay Off Debts On A Monthly Basis: Restrict your interest charges from growing exponentially by paying off your balance every month. Avoid skipping a payment, as this will lead to higher expenses due to late fee and will negatively impact your credit score.
Maintain A Low Credit Utilization Ratio: Use less than the credit utilization ratio i.e. borrow less than what you are authorized to borrow. Experts recommend keeping this ratio under 30 percent.
Keep Checking Your Credit Reports: Keep a tab on your credit reports by asking for a copy from a credit reporting company annually. The report will provide you an insight into your credit history and also throw light on fraudulent accounts, incorrect information, if any and more.
Beware Of Hidden Fees: Ask the lender for any hidden fees such as late payment fees, processing fees, balance transfer fees, credit limit fees etc. before applying for the credit card.
Limit The Number Of Cards: Limiting the number of credit cards you own, makes it easier to manage them. Having more cards may translate into higher debts which can affect your credit score. Once you have decided the cards that you want to keep, hold onto them. Sticking to your credit card, keeping the account active and maintaining a good payment history can build your credit score.
Use Technology: It is much easier to manage accounts now as most financial institutions offer free online tools to enable clients to keep a tab on their accounts.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that operates for the common benefit of its member and offers an array of services. For more information, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX -76542 or call at (254) 690 – 2274.

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