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Allpoint:
As a compliment to our checking programs and to save you, our valued member, even more money, our SPEFCU VISA check cards will now provide you with access to over 53,000 surcharge fee-free ATMS nationwide! Use your SPEFCU VISA check card at any ATM in the Allpoint network to access your account 24 hours a day. Allpoint's surcharge free ATM's are located across the country at local, regional and national retail merchants. They include merchants such as Target, Walgreens, Shoprite, Costco, Exxon Mobil, Rite Aid and many more!
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PREVENTING IDENTITY THEFT
According to the National Crime Prevention Council, identity theft is the fastest growing crime in America. More than 7 million people filed identity theft complaints in 2006.
To help keep your identity safe, people are advised to shred, burn or pulverize any documents that contain personal information that can be used by thieves. Some of these items include: Bank Information, canceled or blank checks, budgets, credit card offers, employee evaluations, credit card information, income tax records, financial statements, investment information, insurance coverage, medical records, legal papers and personal bills.
WHY SAVE FOR RETIREMENT?
Whether it’s fishing, gardening, traveling or simply spending time with the grandchildren we all have a dream of what retirement will be like. As different as our dreams are, there is one thing that unites our individual retirement dreams: the need for money.
Just how much is enough? As a general rule, financial experts recommend individuals accrue enough to replace at least 70 percent of their pre-retirement income once they retire. For someone who makes $50,000 per year, that’s $35,000.
If you expect money to come from Uncle Sam, you are in for a disappointment. These days, Social Security typically replaces 40 percent of workers’ pre-retirement income.
That means it’s up to you to save. Even if you intend to have a very simple retirement, be aware it’s not the fun stuff –like endless rounds of golf – that adds up; healthcare expenses drive up retirement costs for most people.
The bottom line: the more you save, the more stable and happy your retirement will be, whether you are jetting off to the islands or simply reading a book at home.
TEN TIPS FOR USING YOUR DEBIT CARD WISELY
1. Know which type of debit card you have, and ask your bank whether you have a choice. Some consumers have complained that the bank changed their ATM cards to debit cards that do not require personal identification numbers without letting them know.
2. Always protect your ATM card and keep it in a safe place, just as you would cash, credit cards or checks. Do not leave your debit card lying around the house or on your desk at work.
3. If you card is lost or stolen, or you suspect it is being used fraudulently, report it immediately to your bank. Close your account and ask your bank for a new account number and PIN.
4. Hold on to receipts from your debit transactions. Don’t throw them away in public trash cans or even in your own trash can without first shredding them. Crooks have been known to “dumpster-dive” for documents that have account numbers and other personal information.
5. Memorize your PIN, and do not write it on your card.
6. Don’t choose a PIN a smart thief could figure out, such as numbers corresponding to your birth date or you phone number.
7. Never give your PIN to anyone. Keep it private.
8. Always know how much money you have in your account, and review bank statements carefully. Don’t forget that your debit card may allow you to access money that you have set aside to cover a check that has not yet cleared your bank account.
9. Keep your receipts in one place for easy retrieval and better oversight of your account.
10. Never give your debit card number over the phone unless you have initiated the call and are certain that the recipient is legitimate.
Holiday Clubs
Great news! If you already have a SPEFCU Holiday Club account, your funds will be transferred into your Checking/Savings account the first week of November.* Congratulations on planning ahead and saving!
If you don't have a Holiday Club account, why not open one today? Next year, your holiday season can be worry-free. You can chose ANY amount you wish and save all year long; there is absolutely no minimum balance.
Mail your deposits, bring them to the Credit Union, or take advantage of convenient Payroll Deduction.
We can open a Holiday Club account for you in just a few minutes. Simply stop by the Credit Union office or give us a call (203) 964-1229. You'll be glad you did!
*Members who prefer having funds mailed to their homes should contact the credit uion office.
