Your Life Goals Are Our Life Goals
If there's ever a time that young adults need cooperatives, it's now. The last twenty years have been quite transformational for everyone. Millennials and Gen Zs just graduating college likely saw their parents lose jobs, benefits, and pensions. According to a study by Filene Research Institute, Millennials and Gen Z make about as much as previous generations, but factor in the average student loan debt of $37,000 and that take home pay is quickly eaten up. Despite that, Millennials and Gen Z are principled and remain optimistic about their financial future. They are careful with their money and save more than their older counterparts for important goals like starting a family or saving for retirement. Their life goals and financial goals are entwined.
If you're looking to firm up your goals, a credit union—which is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that offers the same services as a bank—is a smarter choice. Here are some ways ICCU can help you achieve your life goals.
If you value open membership without boundaries, ICCU is for you. When you opened your first bank account, did you have to deposit some ridiculous amount of money or risk getting hit with a $5 monthly fee? At a credit union, you usually only have to deposit a minimum of $1 to $10 ($5.00 at ICCU). That money is a "share" in the company, making you a co-owner of the credit union.
If you value cooperation instead of competition, a credit union is for you. Why should you have to pay fees to get your own money because your bank doesn't have ATMs everywhere? A $3 fee here and there really adds up. Instead, download the Co-Op ATM app and find a free ATM or shared branch to conduct your business. Voila! As everyone knows, life is a little easier when everyone works together.
If you value education, training and information, a credit union is DEFINITELY for you. Credit unions are the only financial institution that made Education one of their foundational principles. Many credit unions offer training seminars for buying a house, buying a car, rebuilding after bankruptcy, saving for college, and retirement planning. At ICCU, we have an awesome money management tool in online banking that can help you track your spending and create a budget that works for you. We even have an app that pays you in gift cards to learn! It’s called Zogo. Be sure to use ICCU’s specific code, once you download it to have access to our leaderboard!
A credit union, with its not-for-profit values, can help you improve your life and community. Whether it's an auto loan, mortgage, small business loan, or balance transfer credit card, we are simply a better choice. Set big goals in the New Year and let ICCU help you achieve them.