Senate Cents: A Financial Wellness Blog

How to Use AnnualCreditReport.com

Published: December 1, 2017

Want to see the raw materials that go into your credit scores? Federal law gives you that right. Review a free, complete report every 12 months from each credit bureau through AnnualCreditReport.com. In between, keep tabs with a free service.

Refinancing Auto Loans 101

Published: November 17, 2017

If you're paying too much in interest for your car or truck loan, refinancing could be a great way to save some serious dough. Interest rates for vehicle loans may have dropped since you financed your auto. Or maybe you've improved your credit score, which could qualify you for a lower rate. Either way, it could be worth hundreds of dollars in savings to get a new auto loan to replace your current one.

What to Buy (and Skip) from Veterans Day to Black Friday

Published: November 9, 2017

November brings forth a cornucopia of sales: Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. But that's just the beginning of what this deal-driven month will produce. Here are the categories from which you should be buying - and a couple you should skip - over the next few weeks to get the most for your money.

Amortization Basics: How Much Home Do You Own?

Published: November 3, 2017

When you buy a home, you usually don't pay the whole price at once. Instead, you finance it with a mortgage and make monthly payments. In this context, amortization is the process of breaking down a mortgage into regular installments. Knowing how it works can help you understand how much of your home you own over time. Here's a guide to amortization during the life of a typical mortgage loan.

What Everyone Should Know About EMV Cards

Published: October 27, 2017

Americans report billions of dollars in credit and debit card fraud each year. A new technology using microprocessors called EMV chips could help curb future losses.The chips are embedded on the front of credit and debit cards and exchange information with chip-card readers. Used together, the two make it harder for fraudsters to copy card information and make bogus in-store purchases.

Ways to Cut Your Car Costs

Published: October 20, 2017

Driving is a necessity for many, but it can also be expensive, with an average annual cost of almost $8,700. Here are three easy ways to reduce your car expenses.

Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

- James · Locust Grove, GA

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

- Larry · Cumberland, MD

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

- Eliza · Washington, DC

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

- Charles · Upper Marlboro, MD

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

- Denise · Washington, DC

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

- David · Silver Spring, MD

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

- Manuel · Bowie, MD

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

- Misty · Brookings, OR

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

- Tamra · Denver, CO

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

- John · Fort Washington, MD

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

- Bernard · Richmond, VA

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

- Erwin · Ellicott City, MD

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

- Ruth · Takoma Park, MD

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

- Jacquelyn · Sanford, FL

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

- Jamie · Washington, DC

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

- Kathleen · Ukiah, CA

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

- Richard · Washington, DC

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

- Nicole · Alexandria, VA

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

- Angela · Alexandria, VA

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