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

How to Build Your Savings with a Credit Union

27. April 2023 Administrator Blog (0)
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that has been serving the Central Texas area since 1957. It offers a wide range of financial services like savings accounts, checking accounts, loans, and more.

Here are some tips on how to build your savings with a credit union:

  • Set a savings goal - The first step to building your savings is to set a goal. Determine how much you want to save and by when. This will help you stay motivated and focused. You can use Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union’s online calculators to help you determine how much you need to save each month to reach your goal.
  • Open a savings account - Once you have a savings goal in mind, it’s time to open a savings account with Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. It offers competitive interest rates and low fees, which means more money in your pocket. You can open an account online or in person.
  • Set up automatic transfers - To make saving even easier, set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account. You can choose how much you want to transfer and how often.
  • Take advantage of other services - Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a variety of other services that can help you make the most of your money. For example, it offers financial counseling and budgeting tools that can help you create a plan for achieving your savings goals.
  • Consider opening a CD - If you’re looking for a way to save for long-term goals, consider opening a certificate of deposit (CD) with Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union. CDs offer higher interest rates than regular savings accounts and can be a great way to earn more on your money.
  • Avoid unnecessary fees - To maximize your savings, it’s important to avoid unnecessary fees. Stay within your account limits and avoid overdrafts whenever possible.
  • Be patient and persistent - Building your savings takes time and effort, but it’s worth it in the end. Be patient and persistent, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results right away.
In conclusion, building your savings with a credit union like Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union can be a smart financial move.

Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is located at 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX  76542 (contact number is 254-690-2274). You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus and Instagram.

How To Build And Maintain Good Credit

27. March 2023 Administrator Blog (0)
Building and maintaining good credit is an essential part of personal finance. It can help you qualify for loans and credits cards, and even impact your ability to rent an apartment or get a job. With good credit, you can secure lower interest rates and better terms on loans, which can save you money in the long run. To build and maintain good credit, discipline, patience and a proper understanding of your financial situation are required. 

If you are new to credit or need to improve your credit score, the following tips will help you do so:

Understand Your Credit Score
Your credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness. It's based on information in your credit report, such as your payment history, credit utilization, and length of credit history. The most commonly used credit scoring model is the FICO score, which ranges from 300 to 850. The higher your score, the better your creditworthiness.

Check Your Credit Report
It's important to regularly check your credit report to ensure that the information on it is accurate. Inaccurate information may affect your creditworthiness. You can request a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year. Upon receiving your credit report, review it carefully for any errors or inaccuracies.

Pay Your Bills on Time
Paying your bills on time is the most important factor in building good credit; late payments can negatively impact your credit score. To pay your bills on time and ensure that you never miss a payment, set up automatic payments or reminders.

Keep Your Credit Utilization Low
Your credit utilization is the percentage of your available credit that you're currently using. It's recommended to keep your credit utilization below 30% to maintain good credit. High credit utilization gives the impression of being heavily reliant on credit which can negatively impact your credit score.

Apply for Credit Sparingly
Each time you apply for credit, it results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can temporarily lower your credit score. Only apply for credit when you really need it, and try to limit your applications to once every six months.

Mix Up Your Credit Types
Having a mix of different credit types, such as credit cards, auto loans, and mortgages, can positively impact your credit score. It shows that you can manage different types of credit responsibly.

Keep Your Credit Accounts Active
Using your credit accounts regularly can help to keep them active and in good standing. Make small purchases on your credit cards and pay them off in full each month to keep your accounts active and show a positive payment history.

For professional assistance to maintain a good credit score and for other financial services, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX 76542, United States. You can also visit www.gctfcu.net or connect on our social media handles on Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus and Instagram.

Member Services At GCTFCU

24. March 2023 Administrator Blog (0)


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How To Select A Savings Account

24. February 2023 Administrator Blog (0)
A savings account is one of the safest ways of depositing money, earning interest and enjoying access to your funds at the same time. The right savings account is crucial for the growth of your money. Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a number of savings accounts to provide financial freedom to its members. Its savings accounts include Share accounts, Money Market Accounts, Vacation and Christmas club accounts, Certificates of Deposit and Individual retirement Account (Roth and Traditional).

Listed below are some tips to help you choose the right savings account for your requirements:

  • Assess the Minimum Balance Requirements: This refers to the lowest amount of money that you need to have in your savings account, usually on a daily basis. Your credit union may impose a fee if the balance falls below the minimum amount required, so carefully review your choices and opt for an option that is manageable for you and in sync with your financial goals. At GCTFCU, the minimum balance requirement for a savings account is $25.00 and for Share Certificates of Deposit, the minimum deposit is $1,000.
  • Consider Liquidity: The accessibility of a savings account is another factor to consider. Check into the level of accessibility provided in terms of making deposits, transferring and withdrawing. Also, look for features like online transactions, ATM services, etc. At GCTFCU, we offer a variety of features for the convenience of members e.g. online access, direct deposit, wire transfer, ATM and more.
  • Consider Features: To make a sound choice, you need to figure out features that are important for you. For example, you may have to prioritize one feature over another from choices such as customer service, reasonable interest rates, accessibility, liquidity, statement frequency, etc. The right choice is one that meets your financial needs and goals.
  • Determine your Goals: Everyone has goals that are unique to their needs, so it is important to choose a savings account that meets these goals. Your goal may be to create an emergency fund, cater to short-term goals (vacation, major purchases, etc.), debt repayment and long-term goals like retirement, a child’s education, or a down payment for a new home. It is important to have a clear goal in mind when choosing a savings account. Interest Rate: When choosing a savings account, look for one that offers a competitive interest rate. Research on the interest rates provided by credit unions in your area. The amount of interest offered will determine how much you earn on your savings.
  • NCUA (National Credit Union Administration) Insurance: Savings accounts at GCTFCU are federally insured by the NCUA up to $250,000.

Choosing the right savings account maximizes the benefits of one’s savings and helps in easily meeting financial goals. For detailed information about different types of savings accounts offered at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, visit 3305 E Elms Rd, Killeen, TX 76542, United States or call at 254-690-2274. You can also visit www.gctfcu.net or connect on our social media handles on Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus and Instagram.

Differences Between Secured & Unsecured Loans

9. February 2023 Administrator Blog (0)


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Documents Required to Open A Savings Account At GCTFCU

24. January 2023 Administrator Blog (0)
Are you interested in opening a savings account with Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union? The process is relatively simple and convenient. As a member of the credit union, you get to enjoy higher savings rates and a host of other financial services and products. The savings accounts at the credit union include Regular Share Savings Accounts, Share Certificates of Deposit, Money Market Accounts, Individual Retirement Accounts, and Club accounts.

Every financial institution requires some documentation in order to open an account with it. Following are the documents needed to open a savings account at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union:

  • Valid Photo ID: A valid photo ID is necessary to verify one’s identity. You can produce your driver’s license, state ID, passport, and any other form of government ID. The photo ID should be government-issued.
  • Address Proof: For address verification, you should present something mailed to your address with your name. Examples of proofs of address are rental agreements not older than 30 days, utility bills for the past month (cable, phone, and energy), bank statements, etc.
  • Personal Information: This includes your Social Security Number, phone number, date of birth, and Individual Tax Identification Number.
  • Other Requirements: Apart from the above-mentioned documents, Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union requires its members to live, work and worship west of I-35. A minimum deposit of $25 is required to open a regular Share Savings Account. For Share Certificates of Deposit, a minimum of $1,000 is required. You can open a Christmas or Vacation Club account with $26 only.
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union was formed in 1957 with the aim of providing affordable and convenient financial services to its members. Every savings account in the credit union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration for up to $250,000. Apart from savings accounts, credit union members enjoy financial services and products such as payroll deduction, direct deposit, notary service, online access, ACH origination, bill pay, ATM, MasterCard gift cards, wire transfer, and lending services. The members enjoy competitive interest rates, outstanding customer care, and reduced fees and payments. Members may apply online to open a savings account with the credit union. The staff guides the members about the best forms of savings and investments as per individual needs.

To know more about how to open a savings account with the credit union, visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX - 76542. You can also visit www.gctfcu.net or call (254) 690 – 2274.

Benefits of Taking Loan From Credit Union

17. January 2023 Administrator Blog (0)



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Affordable Loan Options in Killeen, TX

28. December 2022 Administrator Blog (0)



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Important Financial Services Offered by Credit Unions

24. December 2022 Administrator Blog (0)
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

29. November 2022 Administrator Blog (0)
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
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

Reasons To Open A Savings Account

21. January 2022 Administrator Blog (0)


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Loans and Financial Services Offered by Greater Central Federal Credit Union, Killeen, TX

31. December 2021 Administrator Blog (0)
Greater Central Federal Credit Union is a member-owned cooperative that strives to provide its members with affordable and convenient financial services and products. It was formed in 1957 by a group of 9 teachers who contributed money to be used by any one of them in need of finances at affordable rates. To date, the credit union is committed to providing the best services and lending opportunities to its members. It is insured by the NCUSIF (National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund).

The credit union provides the following loans and financial services to its members:

  • Secured Loans: These loans are provided against collateral with a value that is at least 20% more than the loans value. Detailed information about the loans is available on the credit union’s website. APR and the term of secured auto loans for new and used autos is provided. The APR rates for recreation vehicles (ATVs, motorcycles and RVs) are 2% higher than those of used autos. We also provide 72-month vehicle loans. If you want a share-secured loan (one that is backed by a share account), the rate will be 2% more than that of a secured account.
  • Unsecured/Signature Loans: These loans are ideal for unexpected expenses or for projects like a vacation. We offer personal/unsecured loans at affordable rates and make quick approvals upon receiving a completed application and verifying income (loan approval within 24-48 hours). We offer payroll deduction, direct deposit and automatic transfer services for convenient loan payment.
  • Credit Builder Loan: This loan is offered to help members improve their credit score. It works by freezing the amount of money in a share account until the borrower pays off the loan. As per their nature, these loans can be offered even if the credit score is not satisfactory. It is a good choice for anyone interested in getting a loan for the first time. The best part about these loans is that a borrower gets to build credit and also save in one go.
  • Savings Accounts: We offer a range of accounts to provide banking convenience for our members. These include a share savings account, a checking account, a money market account, a Christmas Club, a Vacation Club, Certificates of Deposit, and an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). The requirements for opening a savings account are to be living, working, or worshipping west of I-35, 2 forms of ID, $5.00 for opening an account, and $20.00 to be kept in the account.
  • Other Services Offered: We offer useful financial services such as an amortization calculator (on our website), skip-a payment options, debit cards, Outgoing ACHs, Incoming ACHs, Outgoing wires, Incoming wires, bill pay, gift cards and an audio response system for checking balances, making loan payments and checking cleared drafts.
To know more about the loans and services offered by Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX 76542 or call at 254-690-2274. You can also visit www.gctfcu.net

Checklist For Loan Application

21. December 2021 Administrator Blog (0)



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Choosing The Right Auto Loan

27. November 2021 Administrator Auto Loans (0)



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Features Of A Savings Account

18. November 2021 Administrator Blog (0)

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Savings and Investment Options in Credit Unions

30. October 2021 Blog (0)
Credit unions offer a number of affordable and convenient investment and savings options to members. These options are useful for future expenses such as college education, retirement, vacations and more.

Let us take a look at the savings and investment options provided by Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union:

  • Regular Share Savings Account: A share savings account pays variable dividends on the savings of members. The account is a precursor for establishing membership in a credit union and availing other services provided. These accounts are liquid in nature and apt for day to day expenses and payments. Funds in a credit union are safe as the institutions are federally insured up to $250,000.
  • Share Certificates of Deposit: These are certificates of deposit issued by credit unions that represent a deposit for a certain span. The deposits earn dividends over a period of time usually ranging between 3 months to 5 years. The interest rates offered are usually higher than those offered on other forms of savings; a longer term of share certificate earns higher dividends.
  • Individual Retirement Account: This is a savings account with tax benefits for credit union members who are interested in savings or long-term investments. Anyone who earns income can start an Individual Retirement Account. The most common types of IRAs for individual tax payers are Traditional and Roth IRAs.
  • Club Accounts: These accounts are savings accounts offered by credit union to members interested in saving for a particular purpose and earning interest while doing so. Such an account remains open for around one year and earns higher rates of interest as compared to other forms of savings accounts. Examples of club accounts are Christmas and Vacation Club accounts. These accounts encourage investors to save for one year and resist the urge of withdrawing before the maturity date.
  • Lending Services: Credit unions offers secured and unsecured loans at affordable interest rates to members. Secured loans are issued in exchange for collateral whereas unsecured loans are issued on the basis of the borrower’s ability to pay. Secured loans are great for those who need larger amounts for the purchase of things like automobiles and even houses. Unsecured loans are in the form of credit cards, personal loans, student loans, etc.
To know more about savings and investment options, you can visit Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union at 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX 76542 or call at (254)-690-2274.

How To Be Savings Smart?

22. October 2021 Administrator Blog (0)
How-To-Be-Savings-Smart.pdf (735.5KB)

Affordable Financial Services In Killeen, TX

28. September 2021 Administrator Blog (0)
If you are looking for convenient and affordable financial services, consider availing the services of a credit union near you. Credit unions are non-profit organizations that provide a variety of financial services and products to their members. They are committed towards providing the services at the earliest and are dedicated towards customer satisfaction. Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union provides a wide array of affordable financial services to its members in Killeen, TX.

Listed below are the financial services and products that can be availed at a credit union:

  • Savings and Checking Accounts: Savings accounts are interest-bearing accounts that offer safety and reliability to fulfill short-term financial needs. Checking accounts are ideal for those in need of quick access to money for daily needs. Credit unions offer savings accounts such as share accounts, money market accounts, Vacation Club accounts, Christmas Club accounts, Certificate of Deposits and Individual Retirement Accounts.
  • Loans: You can avail affordable secured and unsecured loans at credit unions for unexpected expenses. The loans are available at lucrative rates and are approved within 24 to 48 hours upon receiving an application. For the convenience of clients, services such as direct deposit, automatic transfer services and payroll deduction are offered. Secured loans are granted against collateral whereas unsecured loans do not require collateral. Examples of unsecured loans are credit cards, student loans and personal loans.
  • Direct Deposit: A direct deposit is a payment that is directly made to a payee’s account electronically with the help of software. The service is convenient for businesses that have to pay employees and are also useful for tax refunds. Direct deposits are a convenient and safe method of transferring funds. They offer faster transactions, ensure timely payments of salaries and reduce bookkeeping.
  • IRA: Individual Retirement Accounts are for those who want to build up their retirement funds. These accounts can be opened by anyone working and below the age of 70 ½. IRAs offer tax advantages and are considered to be one of the best savings tools. IRA’s are of two types: Traditional and Roth IRAs. They are great for those starting their career, couples, growing families and those nearing retirement. Credit unions offer competitive rates to members interested in IRAs.
  • Other Services: Apart from the services mentioned above, credit unions also offer debit cards, credit cards, wire transfer, ATM services, payroll deduction, notary service, online access, skip-a-payment options, outgoing and incoming ACHs, gift cards, etc. GCTFCU strives to offer its members affordable financial services and convenient lending services.
To know about financial services and products offered at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, visit 3305 E. Elms Rd., Killeen, TX 76542, call at (254) 690-2274 or check out https://gctfcu.net