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

What Can You Do At A Credit Union?

If you are looking for financial services like opening a savings account, applying for a loan or paying bills without any hassle, you should consider visiting a credit union. These non-profit organizations are owned by their members/account holders. Credit Unions provide a plethora of financial services at attractive rates/fees and are federally insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund.

You can avail following services as a member of a credit union:

  • Savings Account: You can open a savings account to keep your cash safe while you earn interest. However, there are certain limitations on transfers from a savings account in a credit union.
  • Checking Account: Credit union checking accounts let members spend their money without any limits on payments. They can access cash from the credit union via debit cards, online bill payment, writing a check, etc.
  • Certificates of Deposit: These are a form of savings solution that pays members more than regular savings accounts. However, the pre-condition for this is that the customer has to leave his money in the account for a fixed amount of time. For customers who want some flexibility, some credit unions offer them money market accounts that allow them to access their funds throughout the month and enjoy high rate of interest.
  • Loans: Credit unions offer auto loans and various other secured loans to their members. Auto loans are popular amongst credit unions due to their competitive rates of interest and thriving relations of credit unions with local dealers.
  • Other Services: Most credit unions provide other services such as Direct Deposit, Payroll Deduction, Bill Pay, ATM, Notary Service, On-line access, Wire Transfer, etc. 
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a variety of services to help it’s members reach their financial goals. The services offered to the members include secured loans, savings accounts, checking accounts and various online banking facilities. To know more about what can you do at a credit union, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX – 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274. 

Why Choose A Credit Union?


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Credit Union Savings Account


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Why Good Credit Is Important



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How To Apply For A Vehicle Loan Through A Credit Union

Getting a vehicle loan from a credit union helps customers to save money in the form of interest and fees. Credit unions are known for offering vehicle loans at lower interest rates and charging minimal fees during the process of loan documentation and loan application. They also offer customer-friendly loan approval policies.

Some important points to keep in mind when applying for a vehicle loan via a credit union are:

  • Membership: In order to be eligible for a vehicle loan from a credit union, you should be a member of the same. Credit unions cater to a specific group of individuals i.e. those who have met the membership requirements. The membership criteria are simple e.g. work in a specific agency/company, members of a specific organization/group, residents of a specific municipality or location, or members of a specific ethnic group. Research on the requirements of the credit union and check how you can fulfill the same to enjoy the benefits of membership.
  • Credit: Credit unions offer affordable interest rates on new and used vehicles to members who exhibit creditworthiness prior to applying for a loan. If as a member of a credit union you can maintain good credit, you can enjoy competitive vehicle loan packages in terms of rate of interest.
  • Other Factors: The interest rates on vehicle loans by credit unions depend on the area, kind of vehicle, down payment, credit score and other eligibility criteria as stated by the loan officers.
  • Loan Application: When applying for a vehicle loan at a credit union, you will have to fill a loan application. The application will require information pertaining to your state of residence, type of application (individual credit, joint credit with spouse or with someone else), amount of loan required, purpose of the loan, whether it is a refinance, preferred method of payment, frequency and number of payments, information about collateral, personal information, etc. After filling the required information, you will be asked to review it before submitting.
  • Loan Processing: After applying, you will have to wait for it to be processed. You may have to pay a nominal processing fees.
Contact the loan officers at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union to apply for a vehicle loan. The credit union offers vehicle loans on both new and pre-owned vehicles. Members of the credit union can enjoy low-interest on vehicle loans. For more details on how to apply for a vehicle loan through a credit union, visit at 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX – 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274.

How Credit Unions Operate



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Direct Deposit Services By A Credit Union



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Reasons Why Millennials Should Open An Account In A Credit Union

For millennials, financial management relies on cost reduction and higher financial rewards to a large extent. This could be the main reason due to which most of them gravitate towards credit unions for opening savings accounts and borrowing loans. 

Reasons due to which credit unions are ideal for the millennial generation are:

  • Good Returns: Most millennials seem to keep much of their assets in cash due to which they look for financial institutions that remain stable, in spite of market fluctuations. This ensures returns and favorable rates of interest on their deposits. 
  • More Personal Attention: Millennials love the personal attention bestowed on them in credit unions. They are able to enjoy this kind of attention because of the customer-friendly and member-oriented services of credit unions. 
  • Empowering: It is empowering to know that as a member of a credit union, one is also its owner. Each member contributes towards the growth and prosperity of other members via the funds deposited in the credit union. Millennials love such collaboration and also the freedom to take ownership of their finances.
  • Non-Profit: Credit unions operate for the welfare of the community than the sole purpose of making profits. Millennials seem to resonate with this mode of operation and view credit unions as a reflection of charity organizations that give back to the community in the form of affordable loans, higher interest rates on savings and better deals.
  • Operates Locally: The fact that the money of a community stays within that community goes well with millennials who look for ways to develop their local community. When the money stays within the community, it can be used for aiding in its growth and development.
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a variety of financial services to its members. The range of services offered includes savings accounts, checking accounts, vehicle loans, online banking facilities, etc. For more details on reasons why millennials should open an account in a credit union, visit: 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX – 76542. You can also contact: (254) 690 – 2274. 

Requirements To Join A Credit Union



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Tips For Saving On An Auto Loan



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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

Brief Guide To Secured Loans




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Questions You Should Ask Before Buying Auto Loan

The process of buying a new or used car with the help of an auto loan is fairly simple if done under the guidance of a professional with in-depth knowledge of the requirements and procedure involved. Apart from being well-informed of your financial status such as monthly net income, credit score, etc. you should be equipped with the right kind of questions to ask before getting the auto loan.

Listed below are some questions an auto loan buyer should ask before getting one:

  • What Is The Interest Rate? The first question to ask is about the rate of interest for the auto loan. Interest rates for auto loans are expressed in the form of a percentage (Annual Percentage Rate). Owing a small amount of auto loans translates into a lower interest rate and vice versa. The aim of getting this information is to look for an auto loan that suits your financial requirements.
  • What Is The Amount Of Down Payment Required? Next, ask about the requirement and amount of down payment for the auto loan. The amount of down payment is equivalent to a certain percentage of the vehicle’s selling price. A borrower can either put down the minimum amount of down payment required or more as per the amount he can afford to put down.
  • What Would Be The Total Cost Of Loan For You? Get a clear picture of the total amount you have to pay for the vehicle by financing it. The total cost includes the down payment, loan principal and the interest part on the loan. It also includes loan processing fees and other fees if any.
  • What Is The Duration Of The Financing Period? Auto loans usually last for 36 to 72 months which directly impacts the amount of interest to be paid. So, depending on your budget, ask for an auto loan that is affordable in terms of interest. Short-term loans cost less as far as interest is concerned whereas long-term loans are easier for those on a budget.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers affordable auto loans to its members. For more details on questions to ask before buying auto loans, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274.

What Is Direct Deposit?




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How To Open An Account In A Credit Union?

The process of opening a credit union account is a relatively simple and convenient one. Members of a credit union enjoy access to a number of superior financial services and products and are deemed as equal owners of the non-profit organization. Profits earned by the organization are returned back to its members in the form of lower loan rates, higher savings rates, reduced fees and amazing customer support.

Listed below are some important pointers on opening an account in a credit union:

  • Select A Credit Union: Research on the credit unions in your locality and choose the one based on membership criteria. Inquire whether the credit union is federally insured by the NCUSIF (National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund). Review the services and products offered and verify whether they meet your needs.
  • Choose Account Type: Check different account types offered by the credit union. Credit unions offer numerous different account types such as Savings Account, Share Account, Money Market Account, etc. Ask about the features and minimum requirements for every account type and choose a suitable account that matches your requirements.
  • Gather Your Documents: The next step is to gather documents that contain important information about your identification such as your Social Security Number, tax bill receipt, credit card, voter’s registration, student ID, physical address, valid identification like a passport, driver’s license, passport, etc. Feel free to call the credit union for guidance and assistance about required documents.
  • Open An Account: To finally open an account after the initial formalities, you will be required to pay an amount of as opening amount to complete the account application. You will also have to pay an amount as the processing fee and deposit a minimum amount in your account which will remain in the account until its closure.
  • Consider Online Options: For your convenience, you can consider filling an online application form for opening an account in a credit union on its website. Information on the formalities and documents required can be accessed on online portals in full detail. Apart from information about opening an account, you can explore the variety of services and products offered such as the calendar of events, direct deposit, Christmas and Vacation club accounts, certificates of deposit, Individual Retirement Accounts, share accounts, money market accounts and so on.
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a variety of account types to its members. For more details on how to open an account at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274.

Services Offered By A Credit Union


Why Are Credit Unions Popular Financial Institutions

Credit unions are popular financial institutions for a number of reasons: they are affordable, convenient, have flexible terms, offer great customer service and more. They provide a number of financial services and products under one roof and offer various member-benefits. These non-profit organizations are founded on the sole philosophy of helping their members who are its owners too.

Let us take a look at some reasons due to which they so popular:

  • Cheaper Loans: Credit unions are famous for affordable lending rates. Their focus is on providing members with affordable products and services in the fastest and most convenient way possible.
  • High Rates On Savings Accounts: Those with saving accounts in credit unions enjoy higher rates on their savings and deposit accounts. The savings accounts offered in credit unions include share accounts, money market accounts, Christmas and Vacation Club accounts, Certificates of Deposit and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs).
  • A Strong Community Presence: Credit unions offer members an opportunity to contribute towards the welfare of their local community. This can be in the form of offering scholarships and grants, sponsoring local fundraisers and organizing valuable events for the local community.
  • Personalized Assistance: Credit unions are known for helping members figure out which financial services and products are the best for them as per their current financial situation. They provide personalized assistance to every member and walk them through all the available options to assess whether they are in tandem with their short and long-term financial goals, credit score and more.
  • Financial Education: Most credit unions work towards providing financial education to their members in order to help them make sound financial decisions; this is something many people appreciate. They do so in the form of financial workshops, free advice, telephonic consultation, etc.
  • Voting Rights: Credit union members are its owners too and enjoy the right to vote on important matters regarding its working e.g. selection of board members. Members feel relevant and acknowledged in the working of the credit union which adds to their overall level of satisfaction and trust in the organization.
  • Other Services: Credit unions offer a plethora of services to their members some of which are payroll deduction, on-line access, ACH Origination, ATM services, Bill Pay, MasterCard Cash Advance, Outgoing and Incoming ACHs, Outgoing and Incoming Wires, Gift cards and more.
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a variety of services such as secured loans, savings account, account services, etc. to its members. For more details on why are credit unions popular financial institutions, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274.

Credit Union Auto Loans Application Process



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Credit Union: How To Be A Member

A credit union is a non-profit cooperative financial institution owned by its members. The institution offers affordable financial services to its members in the form of reasonable interest rates and financial benefits. Membership requirements of credit unions are usually based on factors like place of work, worship, residence and more. Most credit unions charge a one-time membership fee and require members to open an account with them.

If you are interested in joining a credit union, here are some helpful pointers to do so:

  • Choice of A Credit Union: The first step is to choose a credit union that offers products and services that suit your financial and personal requirements. Also consider factors such as rates offered, online services, access to ATMs, safety (in terms of federal insurance), etc. A safe credit union is one that is insured by the NCUSIF (National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund), a Federal government agency. You can choose from locally run credit unions such as Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union.
  • Membership Eligibility: To be eligible for credit union membership, a person should be living, working or worshipping within the location stated by the credit union. In case of Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, any person who lives, works or worships within the portion of Bell County, Texas, west of Interstate 35, can be a member.
  • Application: Most credit unions require two forms of identification such as a driver’s license, State-issued ID card (with a photo), military ID and passport, Social Security Card, etc. Fill the application form and submit it as states by the credit union
  • Initial Deposit: To complete the application process, members are required to pay an initial amount. This includes a processing fee and initial deposit.
  • Membership Benefits: Credit union members enjoy a number of benefits such as excellent customer services, high interest rates, community support, secure deposits, financial literacy, easy qualification, low fees and more.
  • Member Services: Wire Transfer, Notary Service, MasterCard Gift Cards, CH origination, Bill Pay, Notary Service, safe deposit boxes, Direct Deposit, Traditional and Roth IRAs, Christmas and Vacation club accounts, savings and investments, Overdraft protection and more.
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a variety of services such as secured loans, savings account, account services, etc. For more details on how to be a member of the credit union, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274.

Tips To Choose Suitable Secured Loan

A secured loan is a type of loan in which the borrower pledges an asset as collateral for the loan. The loan amount depends upon the value of collateral. A major benefit of secured loan is its affordability in terms of low interest rate.

The choice of a suitable secured loan depends upon a variety of factors. Here are some tips to help you choose suitable secured loan:

1. Loan Amount: The foremost considerable factor is to choose the right loan amount. It is imperative as the loan amount has major impact on rate of interest, EMI, etc. For choosing right loan amount, consider the actual need and the funds available with you. However, make it a point to choose a loan amount that you actually need. Borrowing higher loan amount can have an impact on your financial situation in the future.

2. Collateral: The choice of collateral is important for ensuring loan approval. The value of collateral should be either equal to or higher than desired loan amount. Ask the credit union about allowed collateral and required collateral value.

3.  Loan Tenure & EMI: The choice of loan tenure and EMI are inter-dependent. Longer loan tenure results in lower EMI and vice versa. So, when choosing the right loan tenure, focus on choosing the right EMI. Here are some steps that may help you in choosing right EMI:
  • Consider your monthly income including total monthly salary and income from other sources.
  • Calculate monthly expenses by adding bills, general expenditure, etc.
  • Add monthly savings to the monthly expenses to calculate total monthly expenditure.
  • Subtract total monthly expenditure from total monthly salary.
  • The resulting value can be used as maximum affordable EMI.
4. Rate Of Interest: Rate of interest is governed by type of loan, loan amount, loan tenure, etc. So, consider the variables to check suitable rate of interest.

A great option is to contact the credit union staff for professional assistance in deciding suitable secured loan. The professional team analyzes the financial situation to suggest suitable loan parameters.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers affordable secured loan to its members. Members can apply for a secured loan online or by visiting the credit union. For more details on tips to choose suitable secured loan, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also call at (254) 690 – 2274.