Erie Federal Credit Union
F nanc al Solut ons Fall Newsletter 2026 www.eriefcu.org
w o r G Gather & Insured by NCUA
FROM THE CEO MESSAGE
Celebrating 90 Years of People Helping People
As the autumn leaves begin to turn, the season provides a natural opportunity for reflection. For all of us at Erie Federal Credit Union, this year holds special significance as we enter the final months of our 90th Anniversary Celebration. For ninety years, our focus has remained on serving our members and the communities we call home. We are incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together, and even more excited about where we are headed.
The Ultimate 90th Birthday Gift!
On the evening of Thursday, October 8th, the Erie community and our members gave us the greatest celebration we could have imagined by once again making their voices heard. Thanks to your incredible support and votes, Erie Federal Credit Union was honored to receive top recognition in four of the five Erie’s Choice categories in which we were nominated. We are truly grateful for your continued confidence and support. This recognition belongs to our members, employees, and the entire community we are so very fortunate to serve. Erie FCU proudly accepted:
“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” ~Anne Frank
• Erie’s Choice in Credit Unions for the 14th consecutive year. • Erie’s Choice in Mortgage Lender for the 7th straight year. • Erie’s Choice in Financial Advisory Group for the 7th time. • Erie’s Best Place to Work! for the second year running. For nine decades, our mission has been rooted in the philosophy of “people helping people,” and there is no greater honor than receiving such meaningful recognition from our members and community. Thank you for your votes, your trust, and for celebrating 90 remarkable years of partnership with us. We are honored to be part of your financial journey and look forward to serving our communities for generations to come.
Investing in Local Classrooms
Another highlight of our milestone year, and a tribute to our roots with the Erie School District, our original chartering group, has been our continued partnership with United Way as a member of the Lincoln Elementary School and Corporate Partner Coalition. From our legacy start as the Erie School Employees Federal Credit Union, we believe that investing in our youth is investing in our future, and building a strong community starts with supporting our educators and students. This fall and into the holidays, our team will be busy volunteering in classrooms, hosting financial literacy workshops, and preparing supply donations to ensure children at Lincoln and other local schools have the tools they need to succeed.
Historic Member Lending Achievement
We are thrilled to report that our in-house mortgage and auto lending programs have achieved exceptional success this year. Whether helping members put down roots in a new home or secure dependable transportation for their daily lives, assisting our members through these important milestones is among the most rewarding work we do. Whether you are utilizing our Auto Center to finance a vehicle or working with our specialized Mortgage Center to purchase or refinance a home, we remain deeply committed to providing borrowing solutions that are accessible, competitive, and affordable.
Strengthening Community Through Business Lending
Our commitment to the local economy extends well beyond the driveway. This year also saw record-breaking production within our Member Business Lending area, allowing us to further support the local businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations that contribute to a thriving community. By providing flexible, competitive financing to local entrepreneurs and businesses, we help strengthen our communities, drive economic growth, and create opportunities for all. When a local business grows, it creates jobs, fosters economic stability, and generates new opportunities throughout our community. We are incredibly proud to serve as a financial partner to the businesses that help drive Erie forward.
We Are
Capturing the true essence of who we are and what we stand for, we are proud to unveil a new video that celebrates the shared values, meaningful connections, and partnerships that have shaped the success of your credit union. This video highlights our legacy, our vibrant community, and our vision for the future. We invite you to watch the video on our website www.eriefcu.org/90th-anniversary or social media channels and join us in celebrating the community, connections, and shared commitment that have defined our first 90 years. We hope you enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed creating it, as it truly captures the heart of who we are and what we believe.
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MORTGAGE • BUSINESS • AUTO • PERSONAL
eriefcu.org
Celebrating Our Most Valuable Asset
Being recognized as “Best Place to Work” is a reflection of the outstanding people who make Erie FCU special and the culture we have built together over the years. It is an achievement that reflects our shared commitment to one another and our mission. As a token of our gratitude for the incredible team of dedicated individuals who make Erie FCU such a special place, we recently hosted a 90th anniversary employee appreciation event at the Erie Zoo. It was a fantastic evening filled with fun, camaraderie, and celebration. Our team brings its very best each day in service to our members, and it was a privilege to recognize their hard work and dedication in such a memorable and appropriately “wild” setting.
Value of Membership
At Erie Federal Credit Union, membership means more than having a place to save, borrow, and manage your finances. As a member-owned financial cooperative, every decision we make is guided by what is in the best interest of our members and the communities we serve. From competitive rates and personalized service to local decision-making and a commitment to giving back, our focus remains on helping members achieve their financial goals at every stage of life. Whether purchasing a vehicle, buying a home, growing a business, or planning for the future, Erie FCU is more than a financial institution. We are a trusted partner dedicated to the success of our members and the communities we proudly call home. From all of us at Erie Federal Credit Union, thank you for your continued membership and support. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and your family. Wishing you all a safe, happy, and enjoyable fall season.
Brian J. Waugaman, CEO
Celebrating a Chamber Champion!
We celebrated Lisa Reinhart, our Director of Business Development & Services, who was honored with the 2026 Chamber Champion Award by the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership! Presented on September 10 at the Spirit of Erie Awards, this honor recognized Lisa for going above and beyond to connect local businesses with vital resources. Her dedication, leadership, and collaborative spirit truly embody our credit union values. We were immensely proud to see Lisa celebrate her big night surrounded by her proud family (pictured), and we thank her for building a stronger Erie business community!
Thank You!
A huge thank you to our incredible community and our members for voting Erie FCU a multi-category winner in this year’s Community’s Choice Awards! We are honored to celebrate 14 straight years as Erie’s Choice in Credit Union, in addition to winning Best Mortgage Lender, Financial Advisory Group, and Best Place to Work. Your trust drives everything we do!
Pictured from L to R: Chris Cortes, Chief Operating Officer, Valentina Buckel, VP of Mortgage Services, Ansley Husted, Erie Advisors Program Coordinator, Lisa A Reinhart, Director of Business Development and Services, Megan Holeva, Human Resources Coordinator II.
Fall Fun & Member Savings: Double the Entertainment, Half the Price!
At Erie FCU, we saving our members money! This Fall, your membership is your golden ticket to the best entertainment in town. We are thrilled to once again offer Buy One, Get One Free (BOGO) Member Nights for both the Erie Otters eriefcu.org/BOGOnights and the Erie Playhouse eriefcu.org/erie-playhouse-BOGO! Whether you want to cheer on fast-paced hockey action on the ice or lose yourself in the magic of live theater, your wallet will thank you. Membership truly has its advantages! 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.)
Your Front-Row Ticket to Savings: Broadway In Erie is Back!
Erie FCU teams up with Broadway In Erie to give you member discounts throughout their 2026-2027 season. Specific discount details for upcoming shows are currently TBD, so look for member discount announcements as they are finalized. In the meantime, you can find the Broadway In Erie series schedule here: eriefcu.org/special-offers/broadway-in-erie
eriefcu.org
MORTGAGE • BUSINESS • AUTO • PERSONAL
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How Change Has Changed
You’re probably familiar with the penny, nickel, dime and quarter. But did you know there are other coins that have fallen out of favor that were once way more commonplace?
Before paper money was popular, coins were the primary method of payment in the U.S. To account for this, there were many more coins minted than the ones you have jingling around in your pockets. The quarter eagle, half eagle and eagle coins, worth $2.50, $5.00 and $10 respectively, were the predecessors to the paper dollars! There was also a smaller coin, the half cent, which stopped being minted in 1857. Alongside these coins, there have been several coins minted solely for collector purposes, such as the American Buffalo, various bullions and two new commemorative coins each year!
Look Ahead to 2027: Welcome to Your New Home!
Are you planning to make 2027 the year you buy a new home? Know the facts before you start house hunting! Read on to discover everything you need to know about finding, buying, and financing a place you will love—with a monthly payment you can comfortably afford. Our comprehensive Home Buyer Guide is a must-read if you are shopping this coming winter and spring. It includes: • House hunting tips to narrow down your dream property. • Credit score insights and how they affect your interest rate. • Real Estate Agent basics so you know what to expect. • Mortgage guidelines and straightforward financing options. • Closing details to help you confidently finalize the deal. Click here for more details: www.eriefcu.org/borrow/loans-credit/mortgage-center
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Need Some Dough? There are times in life when we need to cover costs that don’t fit within our budget. The ideal solution is to save up for a big expense, but that’s not always possible. When this happens, a personal loan may be your best option for boosting your spending while keeping your interest rate and repayments low. If any of the following describe your situation, an Erie FCU personal loan may be right for you: • Consolidating debt: If you’re struggling to pay off high-rate credit card balances, a common solution is to pay them off with a lower-rate personal loan. Then, you simply make one low monthly repayment rather than dealing with multiple debts. • Expanding your family: There are endless upfront costs associated with a new baby, especially in situations where you need to move to a bigger home, cover large medical bills, or pay for expensive adoption fees. • Covering seasonal costs: The holidays are often a time of financial stress. Gifts, food, travel, and time off from work can all add up. Instead of turning to high-rate department store cards, a personal loan serves as a much safer budget booster. • Celebrating life events: Anniversaries, vacations, and weddings are all times that call for extra cash. Big milestones, such as starting college, are also popular reasons for members to seek out fixed-rate financing. • Managing unexpected emergencies: Big medical bills, vehicle repairs, or a leaky roof can disrupt your finances. When life doesn’t go as expected, it’s comforting to know that financial support is nearby. Stop by your nearest branch, call us, or apply online to get your application started! Learn more here: eriefcu.org/personal-loans
Loans subject to credit approval. Rates, terms and conditions vary based on creditworthiness, qualifications, and are subject to change based on market conditions and borrower eligibility. Certain Restriction apply. Membership eligibility required.
Your Fall Budget a Little Tight? Skip-A-Pay* Could Help!
Whether you’re planning a year-end vacation, getting things ready for the holidays, or need a little extra spending cash, you can now skip a qualifying Erie FCU loan** payment whenever you need it and up to two times per year. For more information eriefcu.org/skipapay call 814-825-2436 or visit any branch. *A $30 fee applies. Erie FCU MasterCard®, mortgage, home equity, courtesy pay, and FreshStart loans are not eligible. Members are permitted to skip an eligible loan payment up to two times per year, but months skipped cannot be consecutive months. Certain restrictions apply. Contact credit union for eligibility requirements and complete details. **Loans subject to credit approval. Membership eligibility required.
MORTGAGE • BUSINESS • AUTO • PERSONAL
eriefcu.org
. #TeamAOK
Check out these latest highlights of our team in action. At Erie FCU, we don’t just serve the community—we’re a part of it. By volunteering our time and resources, we aim to lift up the local charities and organizations that need it most.
Together, we’re making a difference!
Don’t Let Scammers Ruin Your Holiday Cheer
The holidays should bring cheer, not fear! As scammers ramp up this time of year, Erie FCU is here to help you protect your personal information and stay safe all season long. Check out our top tips for protecting yourself from common holiday scams: • Be cautious with unsolicited phone calls. If someone calls asking for personal information or money, even if they claim to be from a trusted company, hang up and call the organization directly using a verified phone number. Never give out personal information unless you initiate the call! • Be mindful when using public Wi-Fi. Avoid online shopping or accessing financial accounts on public Wi-Fi. Public networks are not secure and can expose your information to cybercriminals. • Create strong, unique passwords. Ensure your passwords are strong by including an uppercase and lowercase letter, numbers and a symbol. Avoid using the same password across multiple websites. • Keep an eye out for suspicious links. Be cautious when clicking on links in emails, texts or online ads. Scam messages often look convincing but can lead you to fake websites that steal your information. Hover over a link to verify where it will take you, keeping a close eye out for misspellings. A few simple precautions can go a long way toward keeping your holidays joyful and scam-free. If you ever have questions or concerns about your account, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help! For more information: www.eriefcu.org/security-tips-news
Tap‘n Go with our credit card!
#ErieFCU #CommunityStrong #Volunteerism
eriefcu.org
(814) 825-2436
APR=Annual Percentage Rate. 1.99% promotional APR is effective until the end of the April 2027 billing cycle on purchases made 10/1/26 - 12/31/26.
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Thereafter, remaining balances will accrue interest at the regular purchase annual percentage rate applicable to your account, which can range from 8.90% to 17.90% APR based on your credit worthiness. Cash advances, balance transfers, existing balances, and business Mastercard® transactions are excluded from this promotion. Certain restriction apply. Loans subject to credit approval. Membership eligibility required. Insured by NCUA
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MORTGAGE • BUSINESS • AUTO • PERSONAL 9/17/26 8:28 PM
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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 in 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.
Dave Garres Financial Advisor
Through LPL Financial, Erie Advisors offers a vast array of exceptional wealth management products and services including: • Comprehensive Financial Guidance
• 401 (K) Transition Assistance
• Retirement Planning and Income Strategies
• Investment Management • Insurance Needs Analysis
To learn more, call or contact Erie Advisors online at eriefcu.org To schedule a complimentary consultation:
www.eriefcu.org/invest/appointment-request
(814) 897-2500 • 3503 Peach Street, Erie, PA 16508
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 (EFCU) 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 EFCU. These products and services are being offered though LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of EFCU 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 Credit Union Deposits or Obligations | May Lose Value EA_Newsletter Ad (0925).indd 1
9/26/25 10:51 AM
Financial Fun Facts
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Whether you need a Will to protect your kids or a Trust to avoid probate court, an estate plan is for everyone. Learn more at rewards.lovemycreditunion.org/offers/trust-and-will.
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MORTGAGE • BUSINESS • AUTO • PERSONAL
1 Diner’s Club offered the first credit card that could be used at multiple locations in 1950. It could be used at 27 different restaurants in New York City. 2 In 1984, Mastercard® was the first to use a hologram on its cards to deter fraud. 3 Credit card numbers conform to the Luhn algorithm, which is just a simple checksum test on the number. What you do is start from the right and double each second digit (1111 becomes 2121), then add them all together, and you should end with a number evenly divisible by ten. If it doesn’t, it’s not a valid credit card number. 4 Each American household receives approximately six credit card offers per month. The typical response rate is 0.33%. 5 The U.S. prints 8 billion currency notes (bills) each year. That’s enough to wrap around the equator over 30 times! 6 You would have to double-fold a U.S. currency note approximately 4,000 times before it would tear. 7 The phrase “In God We Trust” first appeared on currency in 1864. Today, its use is required by law on both coins and paper currency. 8 The U.S. dollar was adopted in 1785. 9 If you were to stack U.S. notes one mile high, there would be over 14.5 million notes in the stack!
eriefcu.org
Earnie’s Two Cents
In Memoriam:
Fun Financial Tips That Will Make Your Wallet Wag
Remembering Susan King
Enjoy the good life without busting your budget
Plan for Your Holidays
With deep sadness and a heavy heart, we share the news of the passing of Susan King, Executive Assistant to the CEO. Susan dedicated nearly three decades of service to our credit union, joining the organization in 1998, as an Administrative Assistant. Throughout her remarkable career, she touched every corner of our credit union, also serving as a Marketing Specialist, Executive Assistant to the CEO, and Board Liaison. Her dedication and hard work truly helped build the strong organization we are today. Susan will be forever remembered for her sharp wit, wisdom, selfless dedication to others, and the genuine encouragement she brought to everyone who knew her. Many of us will fondly remember the homemade treats she generously shared over the years, including her famous mint cupcakes and chocolate no-bakes. Beyond her daily responsibilities, Susan’s impact was vast. She played a vital role in multiple credit union mergers, annual meetings, holiday celebrations, and the coordination of the Festival of Trees. She was also one of our most dedicated VITA volunteers, faithfully supporting Saturday sign-out sessions, assisting thousands of members, and personally preparing hundreds of tax returns and rent rebate applications. Susan’s legacy of care, service, and community spirit will remain with us always. She will be deeply missed.
AUTO REFINANCE SPECIAL OFFER
The holidays can put a financial burden even on the best shoppers and savers. Taking time to plan can help you avoid the stress that comes with overspending. 1 Set a budget. Add up all your typical expenses so you don’t come up short on bills or rent. Next, think about what else you may be spending money on in the coming months. Are you hosting a party at your home, or traveling to visit family or friends? Estimate what those things will cost you. Once you’ve subtracted any expenses from your usual budget, you can think about how much you have to spend on gifts. 2 Make a list. With all the excitement of the holidays, it can be easy to get carried away. Make a list of the gifts you need and cross them off as you go – and don’t buy anything not on the list! 3 Decide how you’re going to pay. Are you going to use cash or credit cards to pay for gifts? A helpful budgeting rule to set for yourself is to only bring the amount of cash you plan to spend. Otherwise, using a credit card can give you more consumer rights. Plus, some credit cards have rewards programs that may help you pay for travel or merchandise you need in the future – just don’t spend more than you can pay back. 4 Track your holiday spending. Just like you wrote down your lists to keep track of what you need to buy, you could also keep track of what you’ve spent. Periodically check to see if you are on track and sticking to your budget.
Earnie
Your favorite financial watchdog
We thought so. 1
*
Same car Lower payment Rake in the savings!
Apply online in minutes www.eriefcu.org/AutoRefi
Get up to 2% off your qualifying rate when you refinance your Auto Loan from another lender!
Apply in person
Financial Statistics Financial Data of September 30, 2026
Assets...................... $802,167,504 Deposits................... $738,620,781 Loans...................... $561,454,757 Membership............. 82,922
Schedule an appointment (814) 825-2436
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 rate reduction is 4.99%. *Annual Percentage Rate = APR. 1Up to a 2% APR auto loan rate reduction may be applied to qualifying interest rate. Existing Erie FCU auto loans are excluded. No other offers or promotions may be applied to rate reduction. Promotion subject to change and could end without notice. Membership eligibility required. Insured by NCUA
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MORTGAGE • BUSINESS • AUTO • PERSONAL 8/17/26 2:07 PM
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3503 Peach Street • Erie, PA 16508-2741
Office Locations & Hours of Operation 38th Street Office
Fairview Office
Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
1109 East 38th St. Erie, PA 16504
Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Fri: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Bayfront Office
1005 Greengarden Rd. Erie, PA 16501 Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Buffalo Road Office 2436 Buffalo Rd. Erie, PA 16510
Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM
Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Fri: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Edinboro Office
101 Washington Towne Blvd. Edinboro, PA 16412 Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM
7141 West Ridge Rd. Fairview, Pa 16415
Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Fri: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Glenwood Office 3503 Peach St. Erie, PA 16508
Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
State Street Office 518 State St. Erie, PA 16501
Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM
Routing Number: 243380927 Website: eriefcu.org
E-mail: memberservices@eriefcu.org
E-Z Phone: 814.825.2436, say, “Transfer to E-Z Phone” Toll Free: 800.480.0494
Lost/Stolen Debt & Credit Cards Debit Mastercard® or ATM Card:
1.866.820.2868 (After Hours) 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
Holiday Hours & Closings Veteran’s Day Wednesday, November 11, 2026 All branches will be closed
Peach Street Office
Thanksgiving Day Thursday, November 26, 2026
1825 Downs Drive Erie, PA 16509
Christmas Eve Thursday, December 24, 2026
Lobby Hours Mon-Tue: 9AM-5PM Wed-Thur: 9AM-6PM Friday: 9AM-7PM Saturday: 9AM-3PM
Christmas Day Friday, December 25, 2026
(Walmart Supercenter Peach & I-90 )
Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Fri: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
Zuck Road Office
Erie FCU No Surcharge & No Fee ATMs
Lobby Hours Mon-Thur: 9AM-5PM Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
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
Important Information
5500 Zuck Rd. Erie, PA 16506
Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM
All branches will be closed
Branch lobbies and drive thrus will be closed at 1PM.
All branches will be closed
New Year’s Eve Thursday, December 31, 2026 Branch lobbies and drive thrus will be closed at 1PM.