News Blog from TTCU
Essential Vocabulary for Financial Literacy!
Achieving financial literacy requires a thorough understanding of different financial terminology. Initially, these words may appear overwhelming and foreign, but they are an essential language to learn since they are how lenders, banks, and credit card companies communicate about you. Therefore, it is crucial to study and comprehend what they are conveying. A good start is by focusing on the fundamental concepts. Discover these 20 essential terms to enhance your financial literacy vocabulary! Read More.
Building Wealth Made Easy: 5 Paths to Passive Income
Passive income refers to a continuous flow of money that doesn't rely on traditional employment, whether full-time or freelance work. As the term implies, passive income requires minimal or no effort to maintain. It can be a valuable method to generate extra cash flow, whether you're running a side hustle or simply seeking additional income each month. It also gives you an added layer of financial security. Read More.
Unleash the Hidden Potential of Your Home.
A Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, is a type of mortgage that grants you access to funds based on your home's value. If you need help financing a house renovation, paying for school tuition, or other large expenses, A HELOC could be the right option. Similar to how you would use a credit card, you can withdraw funds from a HELOC and choose to repay it in full or some of it on a monthly basis. Read More.
Renting vs. Buying- What is Right for You?
Finding a home is an exciting experience, but is it right for you? There are several factors to consider, such as how long you plan to be at your residence and what works best for your financial situation. To help you decide, visit our Buying vs. Renting Section to learn more. Read More.
That's because of the power of dividends, or "the miracle of compounding." Dividends are similar to interest. It's important to remember most credit unions call the money it pays you for keeping your money on deposit at the credit union a dividend. It's important to remember that not all accounts pay dividends or interest. So shop around and compare the types of accounts that are available. Read More.
Purchasing a car is one of the most important investments you will ever make. Remember always to do your research before you make any decisions. Click here for more car-buying tips: Read More.
Are you at risk of becoming an identity theft victim?
A simple answer to the question "Can you hear me?" could make you a victim of identity theft. If the scammer records your answer of "yes," they could authorize bogus charges on a credit card or a phone bill. Other variations of the scam include asking other yes or no questions, such as "Are you the homeowner?" Read More
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The elderly are the fastest-growing segment of our society, and they are also an important part of our country's economy. America's growing older adult population is uniquely vulnerable to a broad range of exploitation and abuse. Financial crimes, in particular, are targeted at older adults with alarming frequency and are all too often successful.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Common Fraud Schemes webpage provides tips on how you can protect yourself and your family from fraud. Read more
5 Tips to Manage Today’s Financial Challenges
While each retiree’s dream might be different, today’s senior citizen typically looks forward to making time for family, hobbies and travel. Today’s rapidly rising prices might cause seniors to put those dreams on hold.It’s understandable why seniors might feel anxious. A recent NFCC and Wells Fargo poll showed that 26% of Americans are more worried about meeting basic household expenses compared to 12 months ago.Read more
Rafael Rondon Selected as President and Chief Executive Officer of The Tennessee Credit Union
The Tennessee Credit Union Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Rafael Rondon as the next President and Chief Executive Officer of The Tennessee Credit Union.
Mr. Rondon has been in the financial services industry for over 20 years, rising through the ranks throughout his career from Branch Manager to most recently serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of Xplore Federal Credit Union in New Orleans, Louisiana. He possesses a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance from Florida International University and a Master of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Throughout his career, Rafael has been a proven leader and motivator and we are thrilled to have him on board beginning April 18, 2022, at The Tennessee Credit Union.
When asked about his new position Mr. Rondon said, “I am humbled and excited to be joining The Tennessee Credit Union as the new CEO. Mike has built an impressive legacy and I am excited to continue it and the continued growth of the credit union.”
Rafael Rondon is succeeding Michael D. Martin, who will be retiring on April 15, 2022, after almost 40 years of service to the Credit Union.
“We are beyond excited to have Rafael join us at The Tennessee Credit Union. He will be a great addition to the team, and we are thrilled to have him joining us. We are sad to lose Mike, but wish him a happy and healthy retirement,” said Mr. Gerald Martin, Chairman of the Board.
The internet has been called the information superhighway. But with scammers, hackers, and other bad guys trying to steal your personal information online, it’s a good idea to know how to lock down your devices, network, and information. That way, your passwords, Social Security number, or account numbers don’t go speeding along the superhighway to the scammers.
Secure Your Accounts
Once your computer, tablet, and phone are secure, next take steps to protect your accounts — particularly those with personal information, like your bank, email, and social media accounts.
Create and use strong passwords
That means at least 12 characters. Making a password longer is generally the easiest way to increase its strength. Consider using a passphrase of random words so that your password is more memorable, but avoid using common words or phrases. For more tips, check out this Password Checklist.
Use multi-factor authentication
Some accounts offer extra security by requiring two or more credentials to log in to your account. This is called multi-factor authentication. These additional credentials fall into two categories:
- Something you have, like a passcode you get via an authentication app or a security key.
- Something you are, like a scan of your fingerprint, your retina, or your face.
Multi-factor authentication makes it harder for scammers to log in to your accounts if they do get your username and password.
Choose security questions only you know the answer to
Many security questions ask for answers to information available in public records or online. So, when you can, avoid questions like your zip code, mother’s maiden name, and birth place. And avoid using questions with a limited number of responses that attackers can easily guess — like the color of your first car. You can even put in random answers to make guessing more difficult. If you do that, though, you’ll have to remember the answers you use.
For the full article, visit the Federal Trade Commission by CLICKING HERE. Published May 2021.
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With the start of a new year comes new resolutions. Just as we start to transition into the coming year, we get asked the question, "What is your New Year's goal for this year?" It may seem overwhelming to know where to begin. This guide will help you break down step by step what you want to accomplish and how to achieve your goals. As a way to ease your stress and worries, these five tips will help you make the commitment to your financial health possible. Read more
For questions on how to start a membership with TTCU contact us at 800-622-2535 or email us at memberservices@ttcu.org.
TTCU Waverly Flood Relief
The damage and destruction caused by the recent flooding in Dickson, Hickman, Houston, and Humphreys counties, specifically the City of Waverly, is devastating. As a credit union centered around “people helping people”, TTCU's staff jumped quickly at the opportunity to help those affected.
The employees of The Tennessee Credit Union, along with our organization, have matched funds raising $4,900 for the Waverly flood relief. Our Credit Union has a history of building relationships with educators and their communities. With their efforts, our employees have chosen to support Waverly Elementary School and Waverly Junior High School.
While we are proud of our efforts, we know there is still work to be done in our local communities. For more ways to help, click here: Waverly Efforts
5 Smart Ways to Use Your Stimulus Check
As part of the COVID-19 Relief Package, the U.S. government is issuing stimulus checks to many households in an effort to boost the economy and help individuals deal with the financial impact of the global pandemic. The third round of stimulus relief has passed providing some much-needed relief to Americans. Use this infographic to find out the five ways you can best leverage your funds. Read more
Members are encouraged to use online banking or telephone banking to monitor accounts. Members who have questions on their stimulus check current status please visit: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment
ATTENTION: Apple iPad Users
The TTCU App for iPad will be discontinued on July 1, 2020. Members will still be able to log into their TTCU accounts using their device’s mobile browser and logging into online banking through ttcu.org.
This discontinuation is due to new Apple requirements involving architectural changes in the app. If you have the TTCU App for iPad, the app will continue to work but will not perform required updates for key features and security upgrades. We encourage members using an iPad to please sign into their online banking through ttcu.org to assure the most up-to-date version of the software.
For assistance with signing into your account, please call Member Services at 800-622-2535 or email memberservices@ttcu.org.
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COVID-19 SCAMS TO AVOID
Scammers are experts at frequently shifting tactics and changing their messages to catch their victims off guard. This is especially true as they take advantage of anxieties related to the Coronavirus. Here’s are some of the ways fraudsters are trying to take advantage:
Government Check Scams
As Stimulus checks begin to arrive, scammers are taking advantage of the confusion and anxiety around this new process to trick people into handing over their bank account information. They may call pretending to be from the government or your credit union, asking you to verify your bank account for quick delivery of your check, or they might claim to have early access to the checks and offer to deposit the money into your account if you hand over your financial information. The government nor your financial institution will charge a fee to provide you with your stimulus check at a faster expectancy. Keep in mind that the government will NOT ask for personal information including SSN, your bank account information, or your credit card number. Do not share your sensitive information with anyone that you do not know and trust.
COVID-19 Testing and Treatment Scams
With disinfectant, sanitizing, and protective supplies running low, scammers are taking advantage of this industry and creating fake websites and Facebook Marketplace pages to sell fake products in hopes that you buy them. The funds are received and the products are never delivered. Some fake websites are also claiming to have access to at-home COVID-19 test kits or experimental treatment. At this time, there are NO treatments or test kits approved by the FDA for home use. Be wary of ordering supplies online from individuals and unfamiliar retailers.
Medical Emergency Scams
Medical Emergency Scammers will tell you themselves, their child, or their family member in the hospital for a life-threatening ailment and they cannot afford the treatment or bill. This scam is becoming more prevalent with the recent pandemic outbreaks. Be vigilant, confirm the caller, reach out to others who communicate with that person frequently, ask questions that are personal that only you and the loved one would know the answer to.
Fake Charity Scams
During crisis, communities are often eager to help those in need. Scammers know this and will create fake yet similar-sounding names of well-known charities and websites of real charities to steal donations. Make your donation count by doing some research before giving, and always pay with a credit card. Money taken by scammers results in fewer donations to help those in need.
Fake Emails, Texts, and Phishing Scams
The overwhelming amount of news coverage surrounding the coronavirus has created a new danger — email, text, phishing attacks looking to exploit public fears about the sometimes-deadly virus. These files are typically sent via email and often result in the download of a trojan virus that will corrupt your computer and steal sensitive information. Be cautious when opening emails – do not open attachments or links unless you were expecting to receive the message from a familiar sender. Scammers will also use texts and phishing emails to get access to your computer or network. If you click on a link, they can install ransomware or other programs that can lock you out of your data. Scammers often use familiar company names or pretend to be someone you know. Protect your computer by keeping your security software up to date, creating strong passwords, and backing up your data.
Tips to Avoid Fraud:
- Keep your account information up-to-date for your security
- Avoid answering robocalls and calls, text, and emails that seem suspicious
- Do not click on links from unknown emails and texts
- Ignore online offers for home testing kits and vaccinations
- Research before you donate
- Stay in the know about Coronavirus Scams
TTCU THE FRAUD DEPARTMENT AT THE TENNESSEE CREDIT UNION
615-242-6232 OR 800-338-1904
During our 2019 Season of Giving, The Tennessee Credit Union had tasked each of our branches with partnering with local organizations to facilitate donation drives and fundraising opportunities!
Our Bellevue Branch selected four organizations making a difference in their community to support with charitable donations!
- American Red Cross-Disaster Recovery https://www.redcross.org
- The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The Disaster Recovery Program steps in after the emergency phase of response has been completed. American Red Cross-Disaster Recovery helps people recover and address lingering community needs.
- Fifty Forward to benefit the J.L. Turner Center in Bellevue https://fiftyforward.org
- The goal of FiftyForward is to assist Adults 50+ in Middle Tennessee to live longer, more fulfilling lives through innovative programs and services. Committed and compassionate staff, volunteers and partners form a powerful leadership team positively impacting older adults, their families, and the community.
- Room In The Inn https://www.roomintheinn.org
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- The mission of Room In The Inn is to provide programs that emphasize human development and recovery through education, self-help, and work, centered in community and long term support for those who call the streets of Nashville home. Room In The Inn serves a homeless population of over 500 a day!
- Nashville Humane Association https://nashvillehumane.org
- Nashville Humane is committed to promoting humane education, controlling pet overpopulation and finding responsible homes for the homeless and adoptable pet community in Nashville and throughout Tennessee.
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On May 16th, we had the privilege of meeting with the Metropolitan Nashville Retired Teachers Association (MNRTA) as they awarded the McDonough Scholarship on behalf of TTCU for $1000.00 to Darius Adams of Whites Creek High School. Darius will be attending Tennessee State University in the fall to study Music Education. He aspires to be a music director and educator in the arts and share his love of the language of music with many. Congrats to Darius and a huge thank you to MNRTA who continue to support our Davidson and Shelby county public educations systems!
The McDonough Scholarship is a $1000.00 scholarship awarded in the name of Mr. McDonough, a former TTCU Board Member and past president of the MNRTA. This scholarship is provided to an accomplished student pursuing higher education in the field of education. The MNRTA selects a panel to judge applicant qualifications based on merit and recommendations provided by school counselors.
Photographed (from left): Mikaila Hirchert (TTCU Marketing Director), Deborah Rowland (MNRTA President),
Darius Adams (Scholarship Recipient of Whites Creek High School), and Jeanitra Anderson (Whites Creek High School Counselor)
Share on Facebook: TTCU Presents McDonough Scholarship Share on Twitter: TTCU Presents McDonough Scholarship TTCU Bellevue Branch Celebrates Teachers!
Happy Teacher Appreciation Day!
Christy Jackson, Educator Extraordinaire, with Gower Elementary is shown holding delicious doughnuts delivered to the staff by Bellevue Branch Manager, Lisa Carlisle.
Thanks to all the hardworking staff at Gower! We appreciate you all!
Share on Facebook: Teacher Appreciation Day- May 7, 2019 Share on Twitter: Teacher Appreciation Day- May 7, 2019 On March 19, members attended the TTCU annual membership meeting at its Main Branch at 1400 8th Avenue South in Nashville.
Read More »Share on Facebook: TTCU Hosts its 68th Annual Meeting Share on Twitter: TTCU Hosts its 68th Annual Meeting On Monday, Feb. 4, TTCU rolls out a new color scheme and updated logo on our mobile app. This affects no mobile banking features or functionality; it is only a cosmetic change.
Read More »AdvisoryHQ’s 2018 Ranking of the 7 Best Banks and Credit Unions in Nashville provides a roadmap of the financial institutions you should know about. It touches on what makes them worth considering.
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Share on Facebook: TTCU Ranks Among Top Nashville Banks & CUs for 2018 Share on Twitter: TTCU Ranks Among Top Nashville Banks & CUs for 2018 Mark your calendar and plan to attend! Saturday, Feb. 2-Sunday, Mar. 3, 2019 at Cheekwood (Nashville).
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Share on Facebook: TTCU to Sponsor Middle Tennessee Scholastic Art Competiton, Cheekwood Share on Twitter: TTCU to Sponsor Middle Tennessee Scholastic Art Competiton, Cheekwood TTCU members and employees responded enthusiastically and generously with monetary support for our fundraising activities to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in Tennessee.
Read More »Share on Facebook: TTCU Announces $3,300 Donation to Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Share on Twitter: TTCU Announces $3,300 Donation to Children's Miracle Network Hospitals It was a beautiful day on Saturday, Nov. 3 in Nashville to join with others to support this important and worthy American Cancer Society cause.
Read More »Share on Facebook: TTCU participates in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk Share on Twitter: TTCU participates in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk The Tennessee Credit Union hosted a Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting on October 18, 2018 to celebrate its new branch located in Bellevue, TN. Throughout the day more than 200 guests, members and local residents were greeted by TTCU employees representing each of our Middle TN locations. Delicious food stations, hourly Visa gift card drawings, a Certificate special and great giveaways created a celebratory mood.
Read More »Share on Facebook: TTCU Celebrates Grand Opening in Bellevue, Tennessee Share on Twitter: TTCU Celebrates Grand Opening in Bellevue, Tennessee TTCU wil host an all-day event on Thursday, October 18 to celebrate the grand opening of its newest branch, located at 7527 Highway 70 South, Nashville (Bellevue), TN. If you are in the neighborhood, stop by and visit with us.
Share on Facebook: Grand Opening of New Bellevue Branch on Oct. 18 Share on Twitter: Grand Opening of New Bellevue Branch on Oct. 18 On Monday, Oct. 1, TTCU will open a new branch at 7527 Highway 70 South, Nashville (Bellevue), TN 37221.
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Share on Facebook: New TTCU Branch in Bellevue to Open Oct. 1 Share on Twitter: New TTCU Branch in Bellevue to Open Oct. 1 TTCU begins an advertising campaign and sponsorship of the program, Tennessee Crossroads, which is a production of Nashville Public Television and is shown on PBS stations across the state, including all the communities near our TTCU branch locations in Middle and Eastern Tennessee. We at TTCU and PBS/NPT have similar missions in that we strongly support community involvement and education-related programs that make a difference in Tennessee.
Read More »Share on Facebook: TTCU Sponsorship of ‘Tennessee Crossroads’ Begins Sept. 10 Share on Twitter: TTCU Sponsorship of ‘Tennessee Crossroads’ Begins Sept. 10 TTCU unveils its new refreshed logo design and launches its new mobile-compatible website. Enjoy our website's new content, new features, expanded functionality and improved navigation.
Read More »Share on Facebook: TTCU Unveils New Logo and New Website Share on Twitter: TTCU Unveils New Logo and New Website Don't be surprised if you visit one of our branches on Friday, August 31 and find a gathering of enthusiastic college alumni supporting their schools. Wear your school colors on Friday and join the fun!
Read More »Share on Facebook: TTCU Celebrates National College Colors Day on August 31 Share on Twitter: TTCU Celebrates National College Colors Day on August 31 CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. and The Tennessee Credit Union are celebrating a 30-year partnership today. Todd Edlgin of CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. presented Michael Martin, TTCU’s President/CEO with an award of recognition for this milestone.
Read More »Share on Facebook: A Partnership of 30 Years: CUNA Brokerage Services & TTCU Share on Twitter: A Partnership of 30 Years: CUNA Brokerage Services & TTCU TTCU is proud to partner with Cheekwood as lead sponsor the Middle Tennessee Scholastic Art Awards, one of the oldest and most prestigious student art competitions in the country.
Read More »Share on Facebook: 'Untitled Pinecone' Now on Display at TTCU Main Branch Share on Twitter: 'Untitled Pinecone' Now on Display at TTCU Main Branch Our student interns are ready to begin work at the in-school TTCU branch at Antioch High School in Antioch, Tennessee in August. Congratulations to the talented students who just 'graduated' from five weeks of summer training at the credit union.
Read More »Share on Facebook: Congratulations to our 2018-19 TTCU Student Interns Share on Twitter: Congratulations to our 2018-19 TTCU Student Interns