Tailgating 101

Tailgating on game day has been a fun tradition for friends and families all over the nation for years, and for many, tailgating is as important as the game. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a rookie, here are a few tailgating tips to get through this year's football season.

Assign Roles

Before the tailgating begins, assign all of your friends and family a role for the day. Have someone be in charge of bringing food, bringing chairs and a tent, and someone to bring the games. This assures everyone has their own responsibility, and the pressure isn’t put on one person alone.

Pack Up the Night Before

Just like assigning roles, packing everything you need up the night before will help you stay organized and remember to bring everything to have a great day tailgating. This can also be useful to see if you’re forgetting anything, and know if you need to grab anything last minute before the game.

Over-packing is Better Than Underpacking

Packing more than you need for those just-in-case situations can be extremely helpful. For those times when someone forgets something, over-packing and being prepared can make the day run smoothly and more fun.

Get There Early

Arriving to the game early gives you more time to enjoy tailgating and not have to rush through any of your favorite tailgating activities. Getting there early ensures you have a great spot to have the best time with your friends and family.

Have Fun, But Not Too Much Fun

Tailgating should be an enjoyable time cheering on your favorite sport team and spending time with friends and family. But every now and then someone has a little too much fun, and then you run the chance of turning into that guy. Have fun while keeping it under control to ensure you and everyone around you has a great tailgating experience.

Remember the Cleanup

Stopping your tailgating fun twenty minutes before the game is a great idea if you want to make sure you pack everything up. You don’t want to run the risk of forgetting to pack something up and having someone snag it from your spot.

Fairmont Federal Credit Union is happy to cheer on the West Virginia Mountaineers and the Fairmont State Falcons, and we hope everyone has a great season. Let’s Go Mountaineers!  Go Fighting Falcons!  

How to Have a Worry Free Vacation

As summer begins, thoughts turn to the kids being out of school, warm weather and getting away for a vacation.. Preparing for a fun getaway adventure requires careful planning and preparation to ensure you enjoy happy memories for years to come.

Before you leave home

• Cover your bases – Make copies of all credit cards, travelers checks, identification and medical information that you will be bringing with you on your travels. Keep one copy with you and leave the other at home.
• Bring limited cash – Contact credit/debit card companies- So they are aware of your travel dates and possible purchases outside of your normal routine. You may even want to stash some extra cash in case of inconveniences or you lose your wallet.
• Give limited info on luggage – Don’t put your address on your luggage tags. Instead write your phone number as a method of contact.
• Check your home before you leave – Secure all windows and doors and arm your alarm system before you head out of town. Set automatic timers for your lights and turn on a radio to create the illusion that someone is home. Additionally, consider adjusting your thermostat and water heater for vacation settings.
• Don’t post on Social Media -  Post your vacation pictures when you return home. Announcing your plans on social networks can alert unwanted visitors to your home.
  

On your trip

• Use room safe – Only take the cash and credit cards you need for the day. Put your other spending money in your room safe. Additionally, do not leave any valuables such as computers, wallets or jewelry out in the open.
• Know where you are going – Before you venture out, ask the hotel staff if there are any areas you should avoid.
• Keep valuables hidden in car – Never leave souvenirs, wallets or other items that might catch the eye out in the open in your automobile. Lock them in the trunk or put them in the glove box.
• Use small denominations – Don’t display large amounts of money when making a purchase and keep the dominations to $50 or less.
  

At Fairmont Federal Credit Union, we offer our members a variety of credit and debit card options, many which offer rewards benefits. Contact us to find the right option for your needs. 

Giving Graduates the Financial Tools for Their Future

With graduation comes the promise of new beginnings, big and small. Students are planning summer trips, planning graduation parties and getting ready to go off to college. Funding this new road often requires graduates and their families to become creative with their finances. While scholarships, grants and funds from a summer job might help to ease some of the burden, often graduates need to apply for student loans to cover the remaining balance.

 

Types of Loans

While financial aid is generally lumped into the all-inclusive description “student loans,” there are actually several different options. For the most part they are divided into federal and private loans. Federal loans typically have lower interest rates and offer several repayment options; however, there is a limit to the amount of money that can be borrowed depending upon the grade level the student is in school. 

 

Many times after scholarships, grants and federal loans, students still have a deficit which requires them to apply for private loans to cover the balance. Private loans come from individual lenders and require a credit check for approval. These loans have a variety of different interest rates and limited repayment options.

 

Payment Process 

Once college graduation occurs, loan providers typically provide a six-month grace period before repayment starts. It is important to get organized during this period to ensure you are prepared to start payments. If you have several different loans, talk to your loan service providers about specific repayment options and determine the best plan for your financial picture. Additionally, consider setting-up auto payments so that you don’t have to keep track of multiple payments. Some private lenders might also lower your interest rate if you choose this option.

 

Loan Forgiveness

Depending upon your career choice, you might have a federal loan forgiveness built into your employment. This means that all or some of your loan might be canceled if you stay with the employer for a certain period of time. Volunteering for organizations such as the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, working as a non-profit attorney, or starting a career as a teacher or medical professional are some examples of post-college paths that might offer this benefit.

 

If you are a recent graduate, contact the professionals at Fairmont Federal Credit Union to discuss your student loan options.  

Youth Learn Life Lessons with Mad City Money

For most kids, money management and strategic financing happens during a game of Monopoly or stretching the $20 their parents gave them to spend at the mall. Since 2008, Fairmont Federal Credit Union has been visiting local high schools to provide a crash-course for students on the up’s, down’s, and unexpected events of real-life finances, in a safe, fun environment. The program has reached over 1,700 students and the reactions are always eye-opening.

With the life-simulating game  “Mad City Money,” students are “transported” to the future with their fellow classmates and, much like real-life, randomly given a life-situation. Some students have just graduated college. Some are married with children while others are single parents. All have bills to pay. Some have credit card debt, others have medical bills, while others must make payments on student loans.

For the next three hours, students must build a budget based on their financial situation, select necessities like housing, food, childcare, and clothing through nine different merchants. All transactions are paid through a debit card and budgets must be regularly balanced, all while navigating the financial pits and peaks typical of real-life. The “Fickle Finger of Fate” falls upon many students, introducing sudden, and unexpected financial setbacks students must address and overcome.

Following this simulation, student’s reactions were of surprise and new-found appreciation for money management. One lesson the students said they learned was the importance of saving and having backup plans, with one student saying,”you should save for emergencies.” Another concept students recognized was the importance of knowing the difference between wants and needs. One student said, “you should make wiser choices by getting what you need first, and then if you have money left over you can buy things you want.”

Finally, many students expressed respect for the financial responsibilities their parents face. “I have a new appreciation for what my parents do now,” said one student while another simply stated, “I don’t like being an adult.”

In March alone, Fairmont FCU reached nearly 200 students through the Mad City Money simulation, providing an opportunity to learn important lessons on responsible financial management and planning. With nine locations across West Virginia, Fairmont FCU is a non-for-profit financial organization that is owned and operated by our members. We offer a range of banking services including checking and savings, online and mobile banking, direct deposits, personal loans, business loans, mortgage loans, and more.

To find a Fairmont Federal Credit Union near you, visit www.fairmontfcu.com or give us a call at 304-363-5320 for more information.

2017 Morgantown Home Show

Do you have questions about mortgages and what is the best plan for you and your family? If you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend, come on down to the 2017 Morgantown Home Show at the Hazel and J.W. Ruby Community Center at Mylan Park in Morgantown, West Virginia. There will be several opportunities to connect with business owners, see new products, and enjoy the home show put on by the North Central West Virginia Home Builders Association. Last year there were 140 exhibitors occupying 198 spaces with close to 10,000 attendees, making for great connections and the opportunity for goers to discover all the latest home trends. 

Fairmont Federal Credit Union will be there, and we would love for you to stop by and chat with us. There are several things that go into making a house your home. There’s flooring, windows, furniture, and decoration, plenty of good reasons to borrow. Finances are a huge aspect of a person’s life, especially when it comes to investing in your future. There are many financing options that you as a homeowner can choose from, but at Fairmont FCU, we want to give you the best and most affordable plan possible. 

Our members are entitled to competitive rates, flexible terms, and payments that they can afford. We’re a local business, so you can expect personalized service tailored to your specific needs from start to finish. You’ll be able to choose between adjustable and fixed rate mortgages with affordable closing costs. Our member’s needs are important to us, so your personalized service from a mortgage specialist will help you make the best decision when investing in your financial future. 

Stop by booth J3 March 10-12th, we would love to speak with you about how we can help with your homeownership process. As a thank you, you’ll receive complimentary items such as Shasta Daisy seeds - the perfect perennial to plant in the garden of your new home! For more information, you can visit our website or give us a call at (304)-363-5320, ext. 6038.

Eight Reasons to Love a Credit Union

Being a part of a credit union has many benefits over large for-profit financial institutions. Credit unions are not-for-profit organizations that offer financial services to individuals who are eligible for membership. Membership provides an ownership share in the credit union and as such the member has control over the business practices of the organization. One similarity between a credit union and a bank is the fact that federal credit unions, like Fairmont Federal Credit Union (FFCU), are insured by NCUA’s National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund, which is comparable to FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund.

Perhaps you are wondering why people love credit unions so much. Here are seven reasons to consider.

1. Lifetime membership – Once an applicant meets the membership requirements for the credit union, they will always be a member. At FFCU, membership is open to individuals who live, work, worship, volunteer, goes to school or businesses in the West Virginia counties of Marion, Monongalia, Harrison or Taylor; or are employees of Valley HeathCare in Preston county.”
2. 24/7 account access – Access your account at over 55,000 surcharge-free ATM machines.
3. Electronic Banking – Mobile and online banking allows instant access to funds and account information from anywhere in the world.
4. Low or no fees – Depending upon the account you choose, credit union members enjoy considerably lower fees than those who have traditional bank accounts.
5. Family benefits – Immediate family members, including a spouse, parent, child, sibling grandparent or grandchild are qualified to join the FFCU even if the eligible family member chooses not to join.
6.  eStatements – Get your account transactions sent to your email account instead of waiting for a paper statement.
7. People first – Because credit unions are part of the communities in which they operate, they are more connected to the needs of the community, often taking time to reach out to underserved populations.
8. Discounts for other retailers – As a credit union member, one of unique benefits includes enrollment at lovemycreditunion.org. This rewards program offers credit union members valuable discounts to a variety of local and national retailers.

At Fairmont Federal Credit Union, our goal is to provide our members with valuable financial services that offer rewards based on membership. Each of our members are a valuable part of our credit union community. Contact us for more information on credit union membership as well as our reasonable lending and account products. 

New Year, New You: Financial Fitness for 2017

2017 is here, and with it, the commercials for gym memberships and fitness clubs. They all proclaim the same basic message: that the new year is the time to fashion a new you. In addition to physical fitness, this year, take the steps to creating your financially-fit self. Taking stock of just what sort of shape you’re in and toning up those areas that need attention will get you on the road to fitness in no time!

Make sure these financial “muscle groups” are given a workout:

• Check your credit report and score. Knowing how attractive your financial situation is to would-be creditors is a valuable guide for what you’re doing right, and what needs improvement. It’s also a necessary tool for making sure all accounts are legitimate and in good standing. Check for any accounts that you don’t recognize, as this could indicate you’ve been a victim of identity theft.
• Set concrete goals. Whether it’s setting aside more of your paycheck for retirement, building your emergency fund, paying down debt, and/or reducing your discretionary spending, having tangible goals to work towards will help you stay on track. Many Americans--even high earners--don’t have $1,000 in savings to cover an emergency, let alone the recommended 6 months of living expenses saved for major life events such as a job loss or health crisis. For more ideas on making New Year’s financial resolutions, check out our Resource Center or look over our "Emergency Financial First Aid Kit".
• Make sure you’re well-insured. Most people think of auto and health insurance, but what about life insurance, homeowner’s or renter’s, disability and long-term care insurance? Many of these forms of overlooked insurance are relatively affordable, and protect you in case of an emergency. To find out more information and how you can save money on insurance check out, TruStage.
• Meet with a financial planner. Despite the myriad online tools and resources, we have today, sitting down with an expert and getting a second opinion is still invaluable. Sometimes, just speaking about the state of your finances and goals  followed by  feedback from a professional puts everything in perspective.

Fairmont Federal Credit Union is here for you to reach your 2017 financial fitness goals! For more financial tips and tools, our online Resource Center contains helpful budgeting calculators, security and fraud awareness information, helpful links, and much more.

Fairmont Federal Credit Union is a non-profit financial institution in West Virginia that serves anyone living or working in Marion, Monongalia, Harrison and Taylor Counties and several select employee groups (SEGs) in Preston County. We are owned and operated by and for our members. Our services extend to savings, checking, IRAs, home mortgage loans, and more. Please visit our website or call (304) 363-5320 today for more information!

Fairmont Federal Credit Union Keeps You Sane this Holiday Season

It’s the most wonderful time of the year—the time when city sidewalks are dressed in holiday style, sleigh bells ring, and baby, it’s cold outside! Yes everyone—the holiday season has arrived! Something else that has arrived with the holiday season is holiday shopping.

For many, that means many trips to your local mall or department store, in search of the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. With plenty of people to buy for and not enough hours in the day, it is understandable to become flustered. But one aspect of holiday shopping that should not make you stressed is how you are going to pay for your gifts. Because you are a valued member of Fairmont Federal Credit Union, you know there are plenty of ways that you can pay for every gift this year.

As you begin making your list (and checking it twice), here is our own list for you, that must be used in order to maintain your sanity this holiday shopping season! This is how FFCU can keep you as stress free as possible during your one (or many) Christmas shopping trips this year!

Use your FFCU Debit Card

Your FFCU debit card is a convenient solution to pay for all of your shopping needs this season!  Choose debit or credit to pay for that sweater for Grandma and those toys for your nieces!

Take Advantage of Visa Checkout

With Visa Checkout, all you do is click, pay, and be on your merry way! Not only is your data guarded with multiple security layers, Visa Checkout is also easy for you to use. With just one password, you can securely make your payments with a single login from any device! Sounds like the gift that keeps on giving!

Monitor Your Spending On the Go with Online Banking and Mobile Banking

Online banking allows you to manage your account by viewing transactions and reviewing purchases! Not close to a computer during your holiday shopping spree? Mobile banking is the solution for you—simply download the app and get all the benefits of online banking right from your phone!

Need Cash? Visit a Surcharge Free ATM

Fairmont Federal Credit Union is pleased to offer over 55,000 ATMs where YOU don’t pay a surcharge! Our website gives you detailed information about where these ATMs can be found, check it out to find an ATM near you!   www.fairmontfcu.com/locations

Why Fairmont Federal Credit Union is Thankful for Veterans

November 11^th marks Veterans Day, an opportunity for us to honor and thank those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day was proclaimed in 1919 by President Wilson and was made a legal holiday in 1938. This year, Veterans Day takes place on Friday, November 11^th and will honor all American veterans, no matter when and where they have served.

Veterans Day is a time to pay tribute to the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces. At Fairmont Federal Credit Union, we are proud to express and show support to the veteran

s who have served or are currently serving our country. Why is Fairmont Federal Credit Union thankful for veterans? Here are just a few of the ways that we are grateful!

·      Members of the armed forces risk their lives every day for our country.

·      US citizens are free thanks to the sacrifice that veteran’s make.

·      We are kept safe thanks to those guarding American soil and beyond.

·      Those who join the military help us avoid a mandatory draft.

·      Armed forces provide both domestic and international support to those in need.

·      Very few Americans wake up with worry about our safety. This is because members of the armed forces risk their lives every day for us.

At Fairmont Federal Credit Union, we encourage everyone to express your gratitude to veterans on not just November 11^th, but every day of the year. If you yourself have served or have a family member currently serving our country, you know that the smallest gesture can go a long way. In observance of Veterans Day, Fairmont Federal Credit Union will be closed Friday, November 11^th. For a full list of holiday closures, please visit our website.

Owned and operated by our members, Fairmont Federal Credit Union is committed to being your go-to financial institution for a variety of needs. Our success has been built on our commitment to helping people in the local community. To learn more about Fairmont Federal Credit Union, visit www.fairmontfcu.com.  

Robes for Recovery

Robes for Recovery is a community service project that supports breast cancer patients. The project was started in 2013, and dozens of robes were donated to area hospitals in the first year alone.

Robes for Recovery was founded by Debbie Droppleman, Chief Financial Officer of Fairmont Federal Credit Union, after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 and subsequently underwent radiation treatment. “When I began radiation treatment several years ago at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, I was given a “dignity robe” that was made by volunteers and donated through the hospital. The robe was specially designed with Velcro closures up the center and sides for easy access. That smock has been with me for over 100 radiation treatments and every time I wear it I am grateful for the kind and considerate volunteers who support cancer patients with their love and handiwork. While dignity robes are routinely provided to cancer patients in the Pittsburgh area, they are not generally available in our area hospitals. It is for these reasons that Fairmont Federal Credit Union employees are eager to commit their time and resources to producing radiation robes for breast cancer patients in our communities,” Debbie said of her experience that inspired Robes for Recovery.

After she came up with the idea, she presented it to the Fairmont Federal Credit Union management team. They loved the idea, and Robes for Recovery began as a community service project. Robes for Recovery relies on volunteers to either sew or do fundraising to make the creation of these wonderful robes a possibility. Robes for Recovery has been a great success and has so far created more than 700 robes!

Robes for Recovery Mission Statement:

We Have Hope

Our hope is that by providing specially tailored radiation robes to breast cancer patients, we will help them maintain their pride and dignity during their journey through treatment toward recovery.

We Have Faith

We have faith that we will raise sufficient funds from donations and recruit enough volunteers to sustain our project.

We Have Commitment

We are committed to honoring and supporting breast cancer patients by giving these garments with love, kindness, hope and care.

For questions or to volunteer for this worthwhile community service project, please call Debbie Droppleman, Robes for Recovery Coordinator, at 304.363.5320 ex. 6028 or email her at ddroppleman@ma.rr.com.