FROM THE CEO
Hello and Happy Fall!
w is a great time to reflect upon the memories made over the last several months while spending time with our friends and families vacationing, going to concerts/festivals, and camping this past summer! It’s also that time of year when we celebrate CU Kind Day on Monday, October 14th, and International Credit Union Day on October 17th
Both days highlight how credit unions place members and communities first. So why do hundreds of millions of people worldwide choose credit unions? Because credit unions have a “people-first” philosophy that impels them to consistently improve service to their valued members and the communities they serve.
Erie FCU remains steadfastly committed to service, our community, and also education.
With that said, I wanted to let you know of an exciting new Community School Corporate Partner Coalition that we are very proud to be a part!
“The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.”
~ Nelson Mandela
A new Corporate Partner Coalition was unveiled on September 24th at a press event held at Lincoln Elementary, a United Way Community School. Five leading financial institutions have joined forces to establish this partnership in support of students through the United Way Community School Model. The partners are: Erie Federal Credit Union, PNC Bank, ERIEBANK, Marquette Savings Bank, and Northwest Bank. This “unique” collaboration brings together a group of dedicated institutions, working collaboratively to support the community school initiative. Their combined effort marks a significant investment in the future of Lincoln Elementary’s students. The United Way of Erie County refocused its mission about 10 years ago to “crush poverty in our community”. A critical component of this strategy has been to improve the educational outcomes at schools across the County through the concept of a “Community School”, a model launched between 2016 and 2017. To date, seventeen schools across Erie County have been designated as a community school, one in which a four-pronged approach is instituted to drive the desired outcomes.
As the CEO of Erie FCU, I am honored to express our enthusiastic support for the newly introduced Lincoln Elementary School and Corporate Partner Coalition. Through partnership, this collaboration brings together the combined resources of a dedicated group of institutions, and aligns perfectly with our credit union’s commitment to fostering strong, vibrant communities by addressing the holistic needs of students and their families.
The United Way Community Schools Coalition transforms schools into community hubs, providing not only essential educational programs, but also vital social services, health resources, and basic needs support. By removing barriers to success, the initiative ensures that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.
From our legacy beginning as the Erie School Employees Federal Credit Union, we believe that investing in our youth is investing in our future. Through our partnership with United Way and as a member of the “Coalition”, Erie FCU is dedicated to creating an environment where every student can succeed, and every family can flourish. Together, we are building a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Please watch out for all the upcoming projects and events at Lincoln Elementary School.
We are thrilled to do our part!
Thank you for being a valued member of Erie FCU, and for your interest in better understanding the impacts your credit union is having in the local community. Stay safe, and hopes for a very enjoyable holiday season!
Brian J. Waugaman, CEO
#TeamAOK
Check Out Our #TeamAOK in Action Spreading Kindness in the Community!
Happy 1st Anniversary to our Fairview Branch!
In September, we held a month-long celebration of our Fairview branch’s 1 year of serving the amazing people of Fairview and West Erie County! Our Team Erie FCU made the rounds to thank the community for their support! Feel good about where you bank! Fairview branch info here: www.eriefcu.org/fairview-branch
Our Members Say It Best
There is nothing we love more than helping our members and it’s even better when we get to hear about our impact afterwards.
“I became a member 5-6 years ago when a local big bank left me high and dry after 45 years as their member. I filled out paperwork to increase my home equity loan and after 4 months I was denied because a local realtor didn’t do due diligence when they worked up the financial paperwork . That local bank turned my former home equity loan into a mortgage with a higher interest rate. Funny though, it took 2 weeks for the headquarters in Pittsburgh to notify me. Sooo, on a Tuesday morning I walked into Erie FCU on Zuck Rd and transferred my checking account over. While there, I asked to speak with the branch manager about securing a loan. That morning I applied, and by that afternoon I had an appraiser at my home and Thursday I had a Home equity loan for $75k! Since then, I had several encounters with the Managers/staff at Zuck Rd, with no drama, and they were handled in a professional, courteous and timely manner”.
I’m an Erie FCU for life!!!
~ C. Skellie
We saving our Members money! We know Erie loves hockey, so we have teamed up with the Erie Otters to offer Erie FCU BOGO Nights! Hockey BOGO games and info: www.eriefcu.org/BOGOnights
We supporting the Arts in Erie! Go BOGO for the Erie Playhouse production of Beauty and the Beast –The Broadway Musical Playhouse BOGO info & schedule: www.eriefcu.org/special-offers/ playhouse-member-only-bogo-nights
To receive the above BOGO discounts, Erie FCU members must use their Erie FCU Platinum Mastercard, Debit Card or show their “ member ID” (for cash purchases) at the box office to “buy one” ticket and get the 2nd ticket free! (Offer not available for online purchases.)
October
SockOctober is
As the leaves begin to change color, it’s time to start thinking about your year-end money strategy. The fall and winter holidays are closer than you think. Use the following strategies to make the rest of the year count.
1. Clean out your closet. You looked into your closet and decided you have nothing to wear. Before you start buying new clothes, pull out your cold weather clothes and give them a good look. Try them on to make sure everything still fits and donate what you no longer wish to keep.
2. Add holidays into your budget This year, with inflation still high, your dollars may not go as far, but you may still be tempted to overspend on gifts and decorations. If you haven’t already made a spending plan for them, do so now. Figure out how much you can afford to spend and stick to that amount.
3. Up your 401(k). If your budget can handle it, why not increase your retirement deductions by 1%? The more you save now, the more tax benefits you’ll get, AND the less you have to worry about the future.
4. Spend your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) dollars. Use it or lose it. You’ve already saved this money, so don’t leave it on the table. Check your FSA documentation to see what health-related expenses you can use this account for and use those dollars.
5. Plan to use your vacation days. Using your vacation days is key to living a successful, balanced life. Even if you have a staycation, it’s critical to use your well-deserved days off. If you plan now, you can even save for a weekend getaway before the end of the year. Life is all about balance.
As the weather turns colder, it’s a great time to reflect on the money progress you’ve made throughout the past year and start focusing on small wins to finish the year right.
Donate a pair and show you care!
For the month of October, Erie FCU is again reaching out to the community asking for donations of new, warm and practical, adult sized socks which will be donated to local non-profits. Along with collecting warm, winter, adult size socks to give to those in need, this year, we are asking members to kindly donate new winter hats, scarves & mittens.
We will be collecting these items at any one of our nine branch locations (during business hours) beginning October 1st through October 31st.
Get Some Re-LEAFRe-fi Your Ride!
Think you’re overpaying on your auto loan? It’s time to shift gears. Keep your car, but trade your loan and save! Refinance your auto from another lender to Erie FCU and see if you qualify for a 1% rate reduction now, a 1% cash rebate later, and 60 days with no payments! Stop into any branch to discuss or set up an in-branch appointment to see if refinancing your auto loan makes sense and can save you money!
Your road to a better auto loan begins today. But hurry! Offer ends November 30, 2024. Refi and save big! Drive Happier!
Learn more: www.eriefcu.org/1160
Loans subject to credit approval. Certain restrictions apply. Rates, terms, and conditions vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications and collateral conditions and are subject to change. Lowest rate available after discounts is 1.99% Annual Percentage Rate. *1% auto loan rate reduction is applied to qualifying interest rate and interest will accrue on the loan during the first 60 days. 1% cash back amount is based on amount refinanced and cannot exceed $500. 1% cash back amount will be paid one year after loan closing date and will be forfeited if loan is closed before one year term. Existing Erie FCU auto loans are excluded. Promotion subject to change and could end without notice. Promotion runs 6/1/24 through 11/30/24. Membership eligibility required. Insured by NCUA
Erie FCU Wins!
Two Top National Marketing Awards
The Marketing Association of Credit Unions (MAC) recently awarded Erie FCU two awards at the 2024 MAC Awards. Erie FCU won a silver award in the Newsletter category and a bronze award in the Broadcast Video category for their Better Checking Options marketing video campaign. “We humbly accept these marketing awards on behalf of our over 78,000 member-owners as they truly represent our commitment to excellence and dedication in bringing value to them and the communities we serve” said Erie FCU CEO, Brian Waugaman.
Held this year in Hollywood, California, the MAC awards occur at one of the most prestigious annual credit union marketing conferences and recognizes the best marketing campaigns in the credit union industry from the past year. Winners are selected based on strategy, creativity, design and production, copy and communications, and results. Credit unions, advertising agencies, and associations are eligible to submit marketing and branding materials for the prestigious awards.
Skip-A-Pay is Now Year-Round!
We’re excited to share some great news! Our Skip-A-Pay program is now available all year—not just during the summer and holiday season. Whether you’re planning a vacation, facing unexpected expenses, or need a little extra room in your budget, you can now skip a payment whenever you need it, up to two times per year. For more information: www.eriefcu.org/special-offers/skip-a-pay call 814-825-2436 or visit any branch.
*A $30 fee applies. See credit union for eligibility requirements and complete details. Erie FCU MasterCard® , mortgage, home equity, courtesy pay, and FreshStart loans are not eligible. Certain Restrictions Apply.
Three Community’s Choice Awards!
The votes have been counted. And, we are very pleased to announce that Erie FCU walked away with 3 Community’s Choice Awards! With your support, Erie FCU was voted Erie’s Choice in Credit Unions (12th year in a row), Erie’s Choice in Mortgage Lender (5th straight year), and Erie Advisors located at Erie FCU was a 5-peat winner as Erie’s Choice in Financial Advisory Group!
Over 122,000 votes were cast in this year’s competition! Thank you for your trust and support in voting for Erie FCU! As we have said time and time again, our biggest honor is in serving our members, their families and the Erie community!
We our members! We Erie!
Pictured receiving the Erie’s Choice award is Erie FCU CMO Tom Brennan.
We’ll Be With You Every Step of the Way.
Chuck Molloy LPL Financial Advisor
Dave Garres LPL Financial Advisor
Whether you’re saving for your children’s education, planning for your retirement or securing your family’s financial future, you can depend on Erie Advisors to help you find strategies to address your long-term financial objectives. Unlike some financial companies, our focus is on investment strategies and service. You can feel confident that you’ll receive the same level of personal service together with the knowledge you need to make sound financial decisions. Through LPL Financial, Erie Advisors offers a vast array of exceptional wealth management products and services including:
• Comprehensive financial guidance
• Retirement planning and income strategies
• 401(K) transition assistance
• Investment management
To learn more, call 814-897-2500 or contact Erie Advisors online at https://www.eriefcu.org/invest/appointment-request to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Erie Federal Credit Union and Erie Advisors are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Erie Advisors, and may also be employees of Erie Federal Credit Union. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Erie Federal Credit Union or Erie Advisors. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:
Not Insured by NCUA or Any Other Government Agency | Not Credit Union Guaranteed | Not
• Insurance needs analysis Financial capability for
Erie FCU is Pleased to Announce the Addition of Bob Langley as its Newest Board Member.
Bob joined the credit union’s Supervisory Committee in 2022 after completing the Associate Volunteer Program training. He holds an Associate’s degree in Specialized Business and is a graduate of the Disney Institute for Leadership Excellence.
Bob has over eight years of experience in the credit union industry and currently serves as a Sales Engineer at Polymer Molding, Inc.
As a member of the Board of Directors, Bob will play a crucial role in guiding the credit union’s strategic plan, setting policies, managing risk,and upholding the credit union’s core values.
The Board of Directors is comprised of seven members of Erie FCU who are guided by the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People”
Who Needs a Will? You Do!
Some people think that wills are for folks with lots of money and property. The truth is, if you want to make sure a loved one gets your assets when you die, you should make your wishes legally binding. Otherwise, your estate could be tied up in probate court for years with no guarantee your wishes will be honored.
A person who dies without a will is said to have died intestate. That means that any property and assets you had (and are not jointly owned) will be distributed per the decision of a probate court. The court’s agents will decide who will get your assets, according to your state’s laws. However, if you write a will and name a capable executor to carry out your wishes, you can streamline the process for your heirs and insure your plans are followed.
Some financial arrangements, like joint bank accounts or property held or occupied in common by married couples automatically give a survivor control of assets. In some states, it’s possible to have transfer on death provisions for accounts and properties. These provisions pass the assets to people you designate without going through probate. If you want to rely on these provisions, be sure to consult your state’s laws and an estate attorney.
Without these provisions or a will, everything is divided according to monetary value among the people your state laws designate as heirs. This means that real estate might be sold rather than passed along and your family members may end up fighting about who gets what. If you and your partner are not married or if you are a same sex married couple living in a state that still doesn’t recognize its legality, then deliberate legal provisions are necessary. Wills, trusts, and transfers protect the legacy of these relationships. They can also uphold your choice to leave part of your estate to a friend or to an organization.
A will can also structure an inheritance using trusts. Incentive trusts distribute funds when a stipulation, such as college graduation, is met. Staggered trusts distribute beneficiaries’ inheritance when they reach specific ages. You can even prevent someone from getting any part of your legacy by stating this in a will.
Possibilities for wills, transfers, and trusts vary by state, so it’s important that you seek advice from a lawyer. Veterans or people with limited incomes may be eligible for free legal help.
“Need”
Some Extra Dough for the Holidays?
How about a Holiday Personal Loan? It’s never too early to start crossing things off of your holiday list with Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year right around the corner! Find the funds for traveling, holiday gifts, family vacation or whatever your year-end needs may be. Take advantage of our Holiday Personal Loan low interest rates and flexible, affordable monthly payments. Apply online or at any office location today. *Loans subject to credit approval. Membership eligibility required.
Now, You Can Open a Certificate ONLINE!
That’s right! You can now open up a certificate via your online banking! Save valuable time and open an account from the comfort of your own home. Look for “open account” in the “menu” sidebar on the left in your online banking (EZ Money Manager). From there, click “select products” and find the certificate you’re looking to open. If you need help, just give us a call at (814) 825-2436!
Office Locations & Hours of Operation
Important Information
Routing Number: 243380927
Drive Thru Hours:
38th Street Office 1109 East 38th St. Erie, PA 16504
Lobby Hours
Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Fri: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Bayfront Office
1005 Greengarden Rd. Erie, PA 16501
Fairview Office 7141 West Ridge Rd. Fairview, Pa 16415
Lobby Hours
Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Fri: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Drive
Buffalo Road Office
2436 Buffalo Rd. Erie, PA 16510
Website: eriefcu.org
E-mail: memberservices@eriefcu.org
E-Z Phone: 814.825.2436, Option 9
Toll Free: 800.480.0494
Lost/Stolen Debt & Credit Cards
Debit Mastercard® or ATM Card: 1.866.820.2868 (After Hours)
Lobby Hours
Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM
Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Fri: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Edinboro Office 101 Washington Towne Blvd.
Edinboro, PA 16412
Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM Drive
State Street Office 518 State St. Erie, PA 16501
Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM Drive Thru
Erie FCU No Surcharge & No Fee ATMs As an Erie FCU member, you can make withdrawals and deposits at our ATMs or Fast Branch/ATMs using your Erie FCU Debit Mastercard ® and you will not be charged a surcharge or Out-of-Network Fee. For a current listing of all ERIE FCU ATMs, visit www.eriefcu.org/atms
Peach Street Office (Walmart Supercenter Peach & I-90 ) 1825 Downs Drive Erie, PA 16509
Lobby Hours
Mon-Tue: 9AM-5PM Wed-Thur: 9AM-6PM Friday: 9AM-7PM Saturday: 9AM-3PM
Zuck Road Office
Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Fri: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Glenwood Office 3503 Peach St. Erie, PA 16508
5500 Zuck Rd. Erie, PA 16506
Lobby Hours
Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Mastercard® Credit Card: 1.866.611.4864 (After Hours)
Erie FCU NMLS #414454
Privacy Policy Notice - The Erie FCU privacy policy has not changed. You may obtain a copy at www.eriefcu.org/pp or contact us at (814)-825-2436 or (800)-480-0494.
Holiday Hours & Closings
Veterans Day
Monday, November 11, 2024
All branches will be closed
Thanksgiving Day
Thursday, November 28, 2024
All branches will be closed
Christmas Eve
Tuesday, December 24, 2024
Branch lobbies & branch drivethrus are closing at 1PM.
Christmas Day
Wednesday, December 25, 2024
All branches will be closed
New Years Eve
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 Branch lobbies & branch drivethrus are closing at 1PM.