Erie FCU - 2026 Summer Newsletter

Erie Federal Credit Union

F nanc al Solut ons Summer Newsletter 2026 www.eriefcu.org

! r e m m Su o t n i g n Drifti

Insured by NCUA

FROM THE CEO MESSAGE

Making Financial Opportunity More Accessible

Happy Summer from Erie Federal Credit Union! As the sun shines and we dive deeper into the season of warm weather and community events, we want to take a moment to say thank you for being a valued member. Your trust and loyalty make everything we do possible.

This summer is especially meaningful as we continue to celebrate Erie FCU’s 90th Anniversary! Since our humble beginnings in June 1936, we have spent nine decades growing alongside you.

Credit unions deliver what Washington says it wants: For nearly 120 years, credit unions have helped Americans achieve the financial stability they deserve. Founded in the early 1900’s to provide a safe alternative to predatory lenders, credit unions were built on a simple, powerful principle: financial services should serve people, not profit. Today, that mission is more vital than ever. While credit unions serve more than 146 million Americans nationwide, and support families, small businesses, veterans, and communities in every congressional district - the true impact is felt right here in our own neighborhood.

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity;

an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty” ~Winston Churchill

As policymakers in Washington look for ways to improve affordability, strengthen competition, and expand economic opportunity, credit unions are already delivering results.

$352 billion

contributed annually to the U.S. economy.

1.3 million jobs supported nationwide.

As a local institution rooted in community care, Erie FCU celebrated a major milestone when it welcomed its 80,000th member. This rapid growth is proof that our region values a banking partner that prioritizes people over shareholders. Unlike traditional big banks, Erie FCU is a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative. Every dollar earned is reinvested straight back into our community to improve affordability and expand economic opportunity. When you choose a local credit union, you aren’t just managing your money—you are actively investing in the strength and future of your own hometown.

Cover photo courtesy of Brian Warznyak, Chief Information Officer

Protecting credit unions means protecting the American dream of Homeownership.

Small business ownership. Financial stability. Economic mobility.

For millions of Americans, these goals feel increasingly out of reach. Credit unions remain one of the few financial institutions explicitly designed to help make them attainable. This mission is driven locally by Erie FCU, which brings these opportunities to life and provides tailored, affordable financial resources to members. Without strong credit unions, the gap between aspiration and opportunity grows wider. For communities that already have the fewest options, that gap could become permanent. That is also why our team actively invest themselves back into our neighborhood, providing nearly 3,000 volunteer hours yearly to lift up local families and businesses. From neighborhood cleanups to financial literacy workshops, their hands-on involvement helps lift up families and small businesses across Erie and Crawford counties.

Protecting the credit union model means protecting affordability, competition, and opportunity for future generations of Americans.

When credit unions lose ground, consumers lose choices. America’s financial marketplace is already becoming more concentrated.

The largest 100 banks now control 75% of all depository assets, up from 41% in 1992. Over the same period, small banks and credit unions have seen their collective market share fall from 59% to just 25%. Further weakening credit unions would accelerate a consolidation trend that is already reducing competition and limiting choices for consumers and communities.

The bottom line Credit unions like us are not asking Washington for special treatment. We are asking policymakers to recognize what nearly 120 years of service have demonstrated: • When credit unions thrive, consumers benefit.

• When consumers benefit, communities grow stronger.

• And when communities grow stronger, America grows stronger.

We are proud to be your credit union and look forward to serving you this season. Have a wonderful and safe summer!

Brian J. Waugaman, CEO

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Extra! Extra!

Erie FCU Wins ‘Best Newsletter’ Award!

Erie Federal Credit Union took home a prestigious marketing award for Best Newsletter at the MIC (Market, Innovate, Create) Awards hosted by the CrossState Credit Union Association.

The MIC Awards recognize excellence in member communications and design.

Our member newsletter serves as a vital bridge to our community.

Celebrating 90 Years of People Helping People: Our Journey Through Time

This year marks an incredible milestone for our credit union family.

Erie Federal Credit Union is officially celebrating our 90th anniversary, representing nine decades of community support, financial partnership, and stable growth right here in Northwestern Pennsylvania.

Since our doors first opened in June 1936, our core mission has remained unchanged: a steadfast commitment to the philosophy of “people helping people”.

To honor this journey and celebrate the members who made it possible, we are thrilled to unveil our official 90th Anniversary Historic Timeline. This retrospective look traces our evolution from a modest, single-room operation into the region’s largest credit union.

Explore our entire nine-decade journey here: www.eriefcu.org/why-us/about-us/our-history

Our 2025 Annual Community Impact Report Erie FCU is proud to share its Community Impact Report, telling the story of our engagement initiatives in the communities we serve.

eriefcu.org

You can view the Impact Report and our 2025 Annual Report here: www.eriefcu.org/why-us/about-us/annual-report

It allows us to: • Share critical updates and upcoming credit union events • Highlight exclusive promotions and member benefits • Celebrate local initiatives and community milestones • Keep our members informed on financial wellness tips To be recognized for a publication that helps us tell our story and connect with the people we serve makes this honor incredibly special. We are deeply proud of this achievement and immensely grateful to our members who read along, support our mission, and help make Erie FCU what it is today.

2026 Spirit of Erie Award Winner!

Huge shoutout to our very own Lisa Reinhart, Director of Business Development & Services!

Erie FCU is absolutely thrilled to share that Lisa is officially taking home the prestigious Chamber Champion Award at the upcoming 2026 Spirit of Erie Awards.

Unstoppable Energy This win is a massive deal, but it is no surprise to anyone who works with her. Lisa brings non-stop energy and total dedication to everything she does.

Every single day, she goes to bat for regional businesses and neighbors. She is a major force moving both the Erie community and the credit union forward. Lisa truly lives out that “People Helping People” vibe, inspiring the rest of the team to step up and do the same.

High Fives All Around All of us at Erie FCU are incredibly proud of Lisa for crushing it and earning this well-deserved recognition. Thank you, Lisa, for keeping everyone growing together. Cheers to a huge achievement!

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Prequalify home buying process Buy The can be stressful, but one

&

thing can help make everything go smoothly: being prepared. One of the easiest things you can do to prepare for your homeownership journey is getting prequalified for your mortgage with a trusted local partner like Erie FCU Mortgage Services.

Getting prequalified means your financial institution or lender provides you with an estimate of the mortgage amount you will likely qualify for.

You’ll get an idea of what your borrowing amount, loan options, and payments would look like.

Being prequalified helps you:

• Know how much home you can afford.

This way, you won’t waste your time looking at homes out of your price range.

• Set your budget and expectations, so you can focus on finding the right home for you.

• Show sellers you are serious about buying.

Being prequalified confirms you are motivated and prepared to buy, so sellers are more likely to take you seriously.

• Improve your negotiating position. When you are prequalified, you’re already ahead on the process and have extra leverage when making an offer.

It’s a Sign...

Get Your Mortgage at Erie FCU.

New Office. New Signage. Same Local Mortgage Experts You Trust.

If you’ve driven past our Glenwood corporate office recently, you’ve likely noticed the new Mortgage Services sign out front. This new space represents much more than just a fresh sign and an extra office. It’s a sign of what’s ahead: more collaboration, more opportunity, and an even stronger future for the homebuyers, members, and communities we serve. At Erie FCU, we believe that purchasing a home is one of the biggest milestones in your financial journey.

Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or using your home’s equity, we’re here to help every step of the way. We offer a variety of mortgage options, including Conventional, FHA, VA, and adjustable rate loans so you can find the right fit for your goals.

Ready to make your move but unsure where to start? Skip the guesswork and partner with Erie’s Choice in Mortgage Lending. Our customized Member Consultation provides you with the direct answers, transparent cost breakdowns, and structural support needed for a stress-free borrowing experience.

To Schedule Your Free Consultation Online click: www.eriefcu.org/mortgage-consultation or visit your nearest branch today!

Whether you’re buying your first or next home, prequalification is an important step. Ready to get started on your homeownership journey?

You can apply online or schedule a free mortgage consultation today www.eriefcu.org/mortgage-consultation, or speak directly to a mortgage loan expert by calling (814) 825-2436.

A Home Equity Loan Special

Member Savings at

Offer Worth Celebrating!

We’re blowing out the candles and passing the savings to you. To celebrate,

from July 1 through August 31, 2026, we are taking 0.90% OFF your qualifying rate.

USE THE SAVINGS TO:

ERIE, PA

Saving our members $$ is what we do!

Sun, rides and water park fun! Save money with our Waldameer & Water World member discount.

Membership required.

Details here: https://www.eriefcu.org/Waldameer-member-discount

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Finally start that major home renovation

Consolidate debt at a significantly lower rate

Secure a flexible cushion for your family’s future

Visit eriefcu.org/90th-home-equity-offer or stop by a branch to lock in our anniversary discount.

Loans subject to credit approval. Rates, terms and conditions vary based on creditworthiness, qualifications and collateral conditions and are subject to change based on market conditions and borrower eligibility. Offer effective 07/01/2026 - 08/31/2026.

1 Special Offer of a 0.90% rate reduction applies to a New Home Equity loan, 1st and 2nd lien positions, fixed rate, closed end loan with a minimum of $10K New Money Borrowed. EFCU loans or credit card payoffs are not considered New Money. Maximum Loan to Value (LTV) 80%. Property insurance required. Certain restrictions apply.

See your credit union mortgage loan officer for details. *APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Membership eligibility required. NMLS# 414454

Insured by NCUA

(814)825-2436 eriefcu.org

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Newsletter QtrAd_HEL90 (0626).indd 1 6/12/26 9:17 AM

Sunday .is Always “Fun Day” With Erie FCU!

Erie FCU offers members great family savings at the ballpark! Every Erie SeaWolves Sunday home game, Erie FCU members can present an Erie FCU Mastercard, debit card or member ID (when purchasing tickets) at the UPMC Park ticket office to receive a free Smith’s Hot Dog and fountain drink with the purchase of a regularly priced Sunday ticket.

Limit 4 hot dog/drink vouchers per member.

Take Your Auto Loan Rate in a Different Direction!

Still love your car, but not your loan? Refinance your auto loan from another lender with Erie Federal Credit Union and get up to 2% off your qualifying rate! That’s right, rev up the savings-

Up to

2% off of your qualifying rate.

Same car. Lower payment. Means more cash in your pocket! Apply today!

Refinance your auto loan with us and keep more of your money with YOU! • 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: https://www.eriefcu.org/appt

• Can’t make it to a branch? Refinance your car online - eSign closings available!

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. Up 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.

Summer Skip-A-Pay* is Here!

*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.

2 Loans subject to credit approval. Membership eligibility required.

Have Some

Fun

at the

We are WILD about saving our members money!

As a member of Erie Federal Credit Union, you are eligible for discounts to the Erie Zoo! Simply show proof of membership (Erie FCU member, debit or credit card) at the gate or front office (check ErieZoo.org for office hours) to receive: • $2 off general admission tickets | *good throughout the season (max 4 tickets per visit) • $5 off a new or renewed membership Erie FCU is proud to support the Erie Zoo! Click here for more details: www.eriefcu.org/news/have-some-zoo-fun-with-

The Sallie Mae® Education Loan –

Whether you’re planning a summer get-a-way, facing unexpected bills, or just need a little extra room in your budget to make ends meet, you can skip a loan payment whenever you need it and up to two times per year.

Loan payments eligible to skip include a Personal, Auto, RV, Boat, or Motorcycle Loan2. The fastest and easiest way to request a payment skip is through your Erie FCU Online or Mobile Banking.

Get started 24/7! Log in to EZ Money Manager, at www.eriefcu.org, sign onto your account and choose Skip-A-Pay from the menu • Click the loan payment that you would like to skip.

• Review your information, and click Skip. It’s that easy!

Skip-A-Pay forms are also available at any office or call today at (814) 825-2436 to get the process started. Learn more: eriefcu.org/skipapay

eriefcu.org

Learn more: www.eriefcu.org/sunday-fun-day

A Smart Choice to Finance Higher Education!

Planning for college this fall? Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, or parent - choose a Student Loan option that fits your college financing needs. With a Smart Option Student Loan from Sallie Mae®, get the money you need, plus features that can help make college happen.

Features and Benefits: • Competitive interest rates • No origination fee or prepayment penalty • Cost-saving features • Multiple repayment options • Up to 100% coverage Learn more: www.eriefcu.org/student-loan-options

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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

How Will You Pay for College?

Make a Payment Anywhere, Anytime!

We know your time is valuable. Which is why we’ve made it easier for you to make your loan payments online from anywhere. Make a payment to your Erie FCU loan from an account at another Financial Institution online using Erie FCU’s Remote Payment Center. Simply navigate to the secure payment platform to complete your payment in just a few moments. If you haven’t already registered, that’s also easy to do.

For more information: www.eriefcu.org/borrow/payment-options

Money Minute

Take control of your future finances with interactive planning tools on the Erie FCU Financial Calculators Page: eriefcu.org/financial-calculators.

Whether buying a car, managing debt, or mapping out retirement, these resources help you crunch the numbers in minutes.

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With college tuition rising almost twice as fast as the inflation rate, many prospective undergrads can end up feeling lost when planning their financial future. If college students are not careful, they can graduate with a crushing amount of debt – and payments to match. Like anything in life, preparation is key. By taking the time to plan before heading to college, undergrads can keep their debt to a minimum.

Here are four essential steps to get you started: 1. Factor price into your decision: Don’t just focus on school reputation. Research specific programs, check academic ratings, and consider staying in-state to cut costs.

2. Create a realistic budget: Anticipate tuition hikes over four years and extra costs like studying abroad. Know what you can afford to repay later.

3. Maximize financial aid: Fill out your FAFSA early.

If federal aid isn’t enough, hunt for local, university, and private scholarships.

4. Save early and often: The sooner you start saving, the less you will need to borrow. Put away whatever you can afford right now.

Need More Student Loan Options?

If you still face a funding gap after exhausting federal aid and scholarships, Erie FCU is here to help bridge the difference. We partner with a trusted lender to offer flexible undergraduate loans.

Have questions? Call our team today at (814) 825-2436, stop by a local branch to chat about your options or visit our webpage: https://www.eriefcu.org/student-loan-options

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#TeamAOK Is Back At It!

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!

Earnie’s Two Cents Fun Financial Tips That Will Make Your Wallet Wag Live Well on Less Enjoy the good life without busting your budget

In the era of social media and constant connection, it can be easy to compare your life to others’ seemingly glamorous (read: expensive!) lifestyles.

This need to compare can lead to unnecessary purchases, but those don’t equate to happiness.

Happiness comes from a lifestyle that feels good to you. You can “live the good life” on a budget, you’ve just got to know what matters most to you.

Here are some tips for achieving a good balance between smart spending and splurging: • Prioritize Needs and Wants: Put essentials like food, housing, healthcare, savings, and debt payoff first. Rank your wants to see what you can compromise on or cut.

• Be Realistic: You cannot have everything at once.

Be honest about your spending habits, cut unused memberships, and understand the trade-offs of big purchases.

• Consider Long-Term Goals: Align your daily spending with big future milestones like buying a home or early retirement. Small daily savings add up over time.

Remember, too, that as your priorities change and evolve, your budget should change with them. Enjoying the good life on a budget is possible, and you’ll feel good knowing you’re saving, spending responsibly and still leaving room to splurge.

Your favorite financial watchdog,

Earnie

Financial Statistics

Financial Data as of June 30, 2026 Assets...................... $808,005,238 Deposits................... $741,358,742 Loans...................... $540,140,660 Membership............. 81,882

#ErieFCU #CommunityStrong #Volunteerism

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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

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

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

5500 Zuck Rd. Erie, PA 16506

Drive Thru Hours: Mon-Wed: 9AM-5PM • Thur-Friday: 9AM-6PM Saturday: 9AM-1PM

Important Information 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 Labor Day Monday, September 7, 2026 All branches will be closed

Columbus Day Monday, October 12, 2026 All branches will be closed