July/August Onthe Money

Transcription

1 July/August 2015 Onthe Money

2 A Letter from the President/CEO You have a choice of many financial institutions, and we thank you for choosing First New York to be your financial partner. We are always looking for new ways to serve the membership. We are excited to announce the transformation of our Colonie Office. During the months of June and July, the Colonie lobby is being transformed into a Community Room. With the transformation of the lobby, we have also extended the Drive-through Service hours to 8 am 6 pm each week day and 9 am 1 pm each Saturday. We anticipate the Community Room will open during mid-july and be available to local groups and our members for meetings and gatherings. The transactions previously handled by the lobby staff members will be handled by the Drive-through Service. The Community Room is located on the first floor of our Headquarters at 2 Wall Street in Colonie; located at the intersection of Watervliet-Shaker Road and New Karner Road (Route 155). The Community Room is convenient and has plenty of parking. It will be available from 7.30 am to 9 pm each weekday. You can easily reserve this 48 person meeting room by calling our Coordinator, at x 1803, to reserve the room for your next meeting. Our e-services, including First OnLine Internet banking, text banking, Call 24-telephone banking and our FNY mobile apps, continue to grow in popularity. We meet our members needs for convenience with online account opening and online loan applications. Our Call Center services will be expanded to ensure that your questions and needs are met each day from 8 am 6 pm and 9 am 1 pm on Saturdays. Enjoy the summer season, remember we are here to service you, our member. Happy Summer, Lucy Gottung Halstead, President/CEO Free Wi-Fi Access. First New York is proud to host free Wi-Fi access from all of its six branch locations. Shred Days July 11 Albany Branch 818 Central Ave. August 15 Cobleskill Branch 795 East Main Street Membership Drive Pass It On -refer your family and friends and earn $25 July 1 through August 31 $ Defensive Driving Course Tuesday, July 28 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Thursday, July 30 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm NY Defensive Driving Course $ 22 First New York Community Room 2 Wall Street, Colonie Solar Seminar Wednesday, July 29 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm First New York Community Room 2 Wall Street, Colonie We know you re a member but are you a fan? Like us on facebook.

3 Take Your Visa Everywhere This Summer Our First New York Visa credit card can do so much more than help you shop. It can be invaluable for planning a well-deserved vacation. Shop the best vacation deal, then use your card to reserve and pay for your travel accommodations, transportation, dining, entertainment, souvenirs whatever your vacation needs. So before you pack the swimsuit and sunscreen, be sure to include your First New York Visa credit card. During the months of July and August, we are offering our members a Visa credit card promotional fixed rate of 3.99% APR*. This offer is good for all purchases made from July 1, 2015 until August 31, First New York credit cards have many benefits: No Annual Fee No Balance Transfer Fee Free Online access ScoreCard -Don t Miss Out on These Rewards. Your First New York Visa credit card earns ScoreCard Bonus Reward Points for every purchase you make. Your Visa credit card earns one point for every dollar you charge. You can use your points toward travel rewards such as airline tickets, vacation packages, cruises, hotel stays, rental cars and more. Destinations are available worldwide. Hundreds of Choices If you haven t redeemed your ScoreCard points yet, you re missing out on a great opportunity. Points are easily redeemed through the ScoreCard site at You ll find hundreds of items to choose from for your home, office, or to give as gifts. Plus, shipping is always free! Accepted worldwide ScoreCard Bonus Point Program accumulate points and redeem for gifts, products and travel rewards on every purchase 25 day grace period on purchases Competitive variable interest rates after the promotional period After this promotional period, you will still enjoy a low variable rate based on the prime rate. As of 5/31/15 the variable APR was 9.90% on Visa Gold and 14.90% on Visa Classic Cards. Promotional Fixed Annual Percentage Rate 3.99 APR %* You will receive this great rate until December 31, 2015 on all purchases from July 1, 2015 through August 31, *Fixed annual percentage rate (APR). Must be credit qualified. First New York Visa credit card holders who are currently in a purchase promotional rate with First New York must be excluded from this promotion. 3

4 Take Us With You - Wherever You Go! While basking in the sun or admiring the view from the Adirondacks, the last thing you want to think about is your finances. However, when you do, it s nice to know that your First New York accounts are just a touch away. With Wi-Fi access, you can connect your laptop for a quick peek at your checking account via First OnLine or pay a forgotten bill through Bill Pay. Or you might use our convenient Mobile Banking app First New York to view account information and transfer funds between your accounts with your smartphone or tablet. With our e-services, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you can keep tabs on your accounts online, anytime and anywhere. Need help setting up your e-services? Call us at and press 2 to speak with a Member Service Specialist. Membership is Even Better When it s Shared! One good turn deserves another, as they say. If you enjoy everything that First New York Federal Credit Union has to offer, why not extend the benefits of membership to your friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues? Tell them that First New York strives to offer the most affordable options available to help them save, borrow, and manage their finances throughout life. Whether it s getting married, buying a home, going to college, starting their first job or retiring, let them know we re always here to help. During the months of July and August, we are inviting our members to share the great benefits of credit union membership. Refer your family, neighbors and co-workers and pass on the great deals and personal service you receive at First New York. Tell them about the First New York difference and how it has helped you meet your financial milestones. Membership at the credit union is more than a place to have your savings account. It s a relationship that lasts a lifetime. As a token of our appreciation for every member you refer, we ll deposit $25* in to your account and $25 in to your friends account when the membership is opened. Simply fill out the form below, pick one up at any First New York branch or go to and select the Pass it On link under news and events. #Membership Referral Card First New York member: Daytime phone: I referred: New member s name: *The $25 incentive will be reported as dividends. New member referral incentive will be deposited into your account at new member account opening. Offer ends August 31,

5 Business Services Personal. Professional. Perfect for Your Business. From a small start-up to a thriving company, we ll help you guide your business every step of the way. With your very own Commercial Development Officer, you'll have a trusted partner who's looking out for your best interests. Check out the great business services First New York offers: Business Checking We offer free business checking accounts with no minimum balance required. 250 free check deposits per month 250 free checks paid per month Per-item charge of only $0.20 for each transaction after you reach the 250 item limit Free Instant Issue Visa Debit Cards Overdraft protection available Investment Property Financing Programs for non-owner occupied properties Loan programs 5/5 ARM, 10 year balloon, up to 25 year amortization Purchase or refinance your property up to 80% LTV Cash out refinance available for investment properties No pre-payment penalties Real Estate Loans Use a real estate loan for the purchase of a new commercial property or refinance your existing real estate loan. We offer competitive financing for commercial real estate including combination mixed-use properties. Vehicle /Equipment Loans Use a fixed term loan to purchase equipment, machinery or vehicles. Free Online Services Internet banking with bill pay Mobile and Text Banking Mobile Remote Deposit (Deposit checks right from your phone or tablet) To find out more about our Business Services, call Bill Chow, Commercial Business Development Officer at and press #1008 or william.chow@firstnewyork.org. Community Shred Days = Your Protection In this day and age of identity theft, safeguarding your personal information is more important than ever. First New York is committed to providing safe, secure ways to manage your finances and sometimes that means helping with your summer cleaning. That s why we re offering free Shred events. Bring any documents that you d like to shred and we ll take care of them, for free. Just another way First New York is In Your Corner. Remember, this event is FREE to the community. While we shred, enjoy complimentary hot dogs and drinks and watch all those unwanted papers safely shred away. Shred Days will take place at the following branches from 9:00 am - Noon on the following Saturdays: July 11 August 15 Albany Branch 818 Central Avenue Cobleskill Branch 795 East Main Street Do We Have Your Current Address? ? Phone Number? Have you moved recently? If you haven t given us your latest mailing address, address or phone number, be sure to call us or log in to First OnLine to update it. Members Without Online Banking Please contact us at and press 2 or visit any branch. Members With Online Banking 1. Log in to First OnLine. 2. Select the "My Settings tab. 3. Make your changes and submit. There is a 100lb. maximum of shredding per person. 5

6 Congratulations, Scholarship Winners! For the Environment. And for the Savings. SOLAR LOANS First New York recently awarded three members with college scholarships. These high school seniors were chosen by our scholarship committee for their outstanding performance in academics, extra-curricular achievements and dedication to their community. This year s scholarships were awarded to Erica Harrell, South Colonie Central High School, Carolyn Corcoran, Mechanicville High School and Jane Clayton, Jefferson High School. We are pleased to recognize these outstanding students in our community for their academic accomplishments and commitment to community service, said Lucy G. Halstead, President/CEO. Congratulations to Erica, Carolyn and Jane. We wish them and all graduating seniors the best of luck in the future. Applications for next year s First New York Scholarships will be available in January, Making energy efficient improvements to your home is a great way to help conserve energy and reduce your monthly energy costs. Although making certain energy-savings improvements can be costly, you add value to your home while conserving energy and protecting the environment. Incentives The Federal Tax Credit, available until the end of 2016, allows you to claim 30% of the total cost of your solar system and has no limit in terms of dollar amount. The sunset date of 2016 is important in the solar industry, because at the end of 2016, the Federal Tax Credit may decrease greatly, or even potentially disappear for good. This tax credit is a major reason why people are trying to go solar as soon as possible. The New York State Tax Credit allows for up to 25% of the total cost of the system (up to $5,000) to be claimed. The systems are exempt from state and local sales tax and some local governments allow for property tax exemptions, as well. Financing: Here s how we can help The best option for going solar right now, is financing with your credit union. There are many ways to finance a solar installation. Oftentimes financing payments will be equal to or less than your current electric bill. First New York has solar loans, which offer homeowners a fixed, 20-year term loan with rates as low as 6.00% APR. To discuss your financing, call us at and press 2 to speak to a Member Service Specialist. Holiday Closings Independence Day Saturday, July 4, 2015 Labor Day Monday, September 7, 2015 Free Solar Seminar Wednesday, July 29, :00 pm 7:00 pm First New York Community Room 2 Wall Street, Colonie Register by July 24, You ll learn how solar systems work on your home and how solar can save you money and help preserve our environment. We will also be covering financing, state incentives, site assessments and tax credits. This seminar is presented by a full service solar installer in the Capital Region. To reserve your spot, please call and press #1803 by July 24, A minimum amount of attendees required to hold seminar. 6 On the Money

7 How Much Will My Next Car Payment Be? Applying for an auto loan is quick and easy! Whether you are looking for a new or used auto, First New York offers financing that will put you in the driver s seat of your dream car for less. We understand that everyone s story is different and you may need some help. We listen to your story and find you an auto loan and payment structure that fits your life. We have competitive rates and a variety of terms on new and used cars, trucks and RVs. Have us pre-approve your loan and help you get the financing you need. Call a Member Service Specialist at and press 2 Apply online at Visit any local branch Already have a loan with another financial institution? Consider refinancing with us. You could reduce your monthly payment and save more over the term of the loan. First New York Member Perks Regal and Bow Tie Movie Tickets are sold at all branches for a discounted price of $8.50. Great Escape and Splash Water Kingdom discount tickets Discount tickets are available at all branch locations for $38. NY Defensive Driving Course $ 22 First New York FCU and Liberty Mutual are pleased to offer a Defensive Driving Course on: Tuesday, July 28 and Thursday, July 30 First New York Community Room 2 Wall Street, Colonie at the intersection of Watervliet-Shaker Road and New Karner Road (Route 155) The course is offered from 6pm to 9pm on both evenings. Upon completion of this 6-hour course you will: Receive a 10% insurance discount on the collision and liability premium for the principal driver on the policy, valid for 3 years. Reduce the total points on your driving record up to 4 points for violations occurring within the past 18 months. Refresh your driving skills and learn techniques for collision prevention. The cost of the course is offered at a discounted price of $22. But hurry we have a limit of 24 participants. Call and press #1803 to reserve your spot. If you can t attend the class, look to and sign up for our online defensive driving course. A minimum number of attendees are required to hold the seminar. Postage stamps are available at all branches in books of 20. Price is $9.80. Visa Gift Cards and PrePaid EMV Travel Cards All First New York branches offer Visa gift cards and EMV Mastercard travel cards. No matter what the amount, it is only $3.00 per card. Auto/Home Insurance Liberty Mutual Auto & Home Insurance Program As a member of First New York Federal Credit Union, you could save hundreds of dollars a year on auto and home insurance with Liberty Mutual. You will enjoy a 10% discount on premium rates combined with online convenience and 24/7 claims service. Multi-Car Discount New Car Discount Vehicle Safety Discount 7

8 2 Wall Street, Albany, NY Refinance Your Mortgage On Your Terms with No Closing Costs! * APR 2.74% 2.79% 2.84% 2.89% 2.94% 2.99% 3.05% 3.10% ** Term 5 YRS 6 YRS 7 YRS 8 YRS 9 YRS 10 YRS 11 YRS 12 YRS Refinance with our Easy Street Flex-Mortgage so you can do the things you want to do. You choose from a 5 to 12 year term designed to help you pay off your mortgage early. By refinancing at a lower rate and a shorter term, you can reduce your principle more quickly and potentially save thousands of dollars. Our Flex-Term Mortgage has these unbeatable features: Choice of 5-12 year term Competitive fixed rates No prepayment penalties No Title Insurance To apply, just call and press 2 or visit any branch No Attorney Fee No Appraisal Fee No Recording Fee No Points * No closing costs except New York State Mortgage Tax. ** Fixed Annual Percentage Rate (APR). Primary residence only. First lien only. Loan-to-Value (LTV) must be 50% or less to receive listed APR. This offer is good for refinance only. Existing First New York real estate loans are eligible with $50,000 of new money. Must be credit qualified. Available for a limited time. Rate offered is subject to change without notice. Other terms and conditions may apply. Other rates and terms available up to 80% LTV. $50,000 minimum loan amount/$417,000 maximum loan amount. Mobile: m.firstnewyork.org Text: Main Number (518) Locations Niskayuna ATM 1776 Union Street Cobleskill ATM 795 East Main Street Glenville ATM 19 Glenridge Road Albany ATM 818 Central Avenue Rotterdam ATM 1879 Altamont Avenue Saratoga Springs Drive-up ATM 424 Maple Avenue (Route 9) Colonie Drive-through Service 2 Wall Street (at New Karner Rd) & Community Room Website member.services@firstnewyork.org First New York banking app available on: Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the NCUA full faith and credit of the United States Government National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency On the Money is a newsletter published for the benefit of First New York Federal Credit Union members First New York FCU mobile