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

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.

Secured Loan vs Unsecured Loan



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Benefits of Being a Member of a Credit Union

Credit Unions are community based, non - profit financial institutions which provide services to the members-owners. They manage to take great care of the financial wellbeing of their members. As non-profit and member centric cooperatives, credit unions have multiple economic benefits. They strive to offer various saving options, lower fees & loan rates, and high dividends on the deposits. 

Community Involvement - Volunteerism & community involvement are the two pillars of credit unions. They welcome people from various walks of society to build a strong community bond. Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union is committed to set a spirit of solidarity within the institution and provides financial solutions at feasible prices.

Better Rates on Loans and Saving Accounts - Credit Union offer higher yields on the savings to help you achieve personal financial goals.  Since they're not focused on churning profits, they provide satisfactory returns in the form of higher interest rates on savings accounts, lower fees, lower rates on loan and credit cards.

Easily Accessible - Credit unions are tailored to meet the expectations and interests of their members. Their easy accessibility allows a member to gain economic support in a brief period of time. They pay attention on every loan application individually and try to give best possible financial solution. It is often easier to get approval for a credit from a credit union.

Democratic Voting - As a member & part-owner of credit union, you have a say in the decisions, including the selection of board members and new proposals. There are several ways one can participate & volunteer to influence the strategic management of a credit union. A credit union preserves its integrity by allowing each member to vote and participate in the elections.

Personalized Financial Service - Credit unions tend to focus on providing excellent customer service. Members of credit unions enjoy the perks of personalize attention and service. 

Financial Counselling - Credit unions often provide financial counselling led by local experts. They offer valuable advices and support to assess financial priorities of an individual and impart better understanding & knowledge of a particular service or product. A financial counsellor helps a client to take good investment decisions, thereby maximising the probability of higher returns.  

Insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union offers a wide array of services. We have been serving our community with financial needs since 1957.  With various types of saving accounts like Share Account, Money Market Accounts, Christmas Club, Vacation Club, Certificates of Deposits and Individual Retirement Account, we try to cater different financial needs and interests of our members. We grant Secured and Unsecured loans at reasonable rates. Services like Direct deposit, Payroll deduction, Notary Service, MasterCard Cash Advance, On-line access, MasterCard Gift Cards, Wire Transfer, ACH Origination, Bill Pay, ATM and automatic transfer services are available. Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union works within the area of Bell County, Texas, west of Interstate 35.

Contact us by filling up the contact form available on our website.

Reasons To Open A Savings Account



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

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. Till date, the credit union is committed towards 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 variety of accounts for the banking convenience of our members. These include share savings account, checking account, money market accounts, Christmas Club, Vacation Club, Certificates of Deposit and Individual Retirement Account (IRA). The requirements for opening a savings account are, to be living, working or worshipping west of 1-35, 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 by Greater Central 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




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Choosing The Right Auto Loan




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Features Of A Savings Account


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Savings and Investment Options in Credit Unions

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.

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


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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.

Benefits Of Opening A Checking Account With The Credit Union




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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.