Shared Credit Union Service Centers

Sample Newsletter Article in question and answer format

 

Credit Union Service Centers mean more convenience for you!

As a credit union member, you can now use Credit Union Service Centers to conduct your credit union business when you are unable to come to our main office or branches.

 

What is a Credit Union Service Center?

The Credit Union Service Center is a "shared" facility cooperatively owned by participating credit unions in Indiana. It can also be a teller station operating in an authorized credit union’s lobby, called an outlet, to provide services for members of other credit unions. These credit unions in turn work with credit unions in other states to link Credit Union Service Centers in every region of the country—and even in a few other countries. Wherever you see the distinctive swirl logo, you can transact your business at a Credit Union Service Center.

 

What is an outlet?

An outlet is a branch of another credit union that will accept transactions for members of other credit unions. Outlets have added a special data processing link that allows transactions to be instantly posted to your credit union account.

 

What is the difference between an outlet and a shared branch?

A shared branch is owned and operated by a group of credit unions. Since these facilities are cooperatively owned, the location displays only the “Credit Union Center” name and swirl logo. Since the outlet locations are owned and operated by one credit union, the location will display the signage of the owning credit union along with the swirl logo. Both types of locations will provide you with the high level of service you have come to expect from your credit union, while posting your credit union transactions immediately and accurately to your account.

 

Why "shared" facilities?

Shared facilities are the most cost‑efficient way to provide you with not only more convenience, but also personal service. By sharing facilities, credit unions can share the operating costs, remain independent and still extend person‑to‑person service to members in outlying areas – even other states. Just as members own the credit union, credit unions together own the Credit Union Service Centers. We think it's the best way to do business.

 

Is the Credit Union Service Center a branch of my credit union?

Not exactly, but through a Credit Union Service Center you can conduct nearly all the financial transactions you would ordinarily perform at your credit union's main office and branches. No matter where the Credit Union Service Center is located, you can access your credit union account right there, when you're there, because of the data processing "switch" built into the Credit Union Service Center System. Technology has made your credit union even more personal and accessible. Credit Union Service Centers are the "Member-Friendly Financial Network."


How do I use the Credit Union Service Center?

Bring your identification and credit union account number to the teller station and tell them that you’re a member of our credit union. You can conduct as many deposits, withdrawals, transfer, or loan payment transactions as you like. It’s that easy.

 

Are Credit Union Service Centers open during convenient hours?

Most Credit Union Service Center locations are open for business six days a week, Monday through Saturday. Some of the locations are even open on Sundays. Most of the branches have extended hours beyond the normal 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. hours of other financial institutions. Check with the Credit Union Service Center location of choice for their business hours.

 

You say I can conduct most of the same transactions at a Credit Union Service Center as I can at my credit union's regular locations. Exactly what transac­tions can I make?

At Credit Union Service Centers, credit union members can make deposits, with­drawals, balance inquiries, transfers and loan payments. You can also cash checks and purchase money orders and travelers checks.

 

You say I can apply for a loan at a Credit Union Service Center. How does it work?

At the Credit Union Service Center you can conduct a loan interview, then fill out and turn in your loan application at a Credit Union Service Center. Your application will be forwarded to the credit union for approval. You can then pick up your loan funds at the Credit Union Service Center.

 

Do I pay a transaction fee for using the Credit Union Service Center?

No, members do not pay for transactions made through the tellers at the Credit Union Service Center.

 

How do I find out if there is a location near me, or close to my travel destination?

Contact the credit union. We'll be happy to provide you with a list of Credit Union Service Center locations nationwide. You can visit www.creditunion.net, or you can look for the swirl logo.