In Maine, there’s always more reasons to give thanks

Here in Maine, we have much to be thankful for. Right now, we are thankful for the mild weather that has chosen to stick around, despite the fact that Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching. This is something truly rare, as I have many memories of putting on snow boots and ski pants to go next door to my grandmother’s house for Thanksgiving dinner. While (fingers crossed) I will not have to bundle up to make the journey to her house next week, I will have to travel much farther than next door, and make the five hour trip to Aroostook County. However, like for many in Maine, the importance of family and tradition far outweighs any distance. And thankfully, my credit union is part of the surcharge-free ATM network, SURF, so should I need access to cash at a moment’s notice, whether to buy a dog treats to pacify my dog in the back seat, or to pick up a forgotten ingredient, I know that I will be covered and my hassle-free trip and holiday will be worth many thanks.

-Diana D., Maine Credit Union League

There’s more ways to save for the holidays with Maine Credit Unions

Why start the New Year off with a pile of credit card bills left over from the holiday season? Most credit unions offer a Holiday Club account that allows you to plan for your purchases by depositing a little each week. You typically have these accounts for a year and the funds are transferred to your checking or savings account in the fall, just in time for holiday shopping.

Why spend more on the presents you are purchasing, when you could buy more presents with the interest your holiday account will earn. This way, when the holiday season rolls around you won’t have to worry about starting the New Year with credit card bills or dipping into other savings accounts. So go ahead, make your holidays a little brighter and reduce your stress by planning ahead for next year.


-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

Maine Credit Unions do More to Help You Enjoy the Outdoors

On a recent episode of “Wildfire,” a Maine-based talk show that covers environmental and sportsman’s issues, the ways that Maine credit unions support outdoor recreation were featured. Credit unions are able to help you enjoy the outdoors by providing you with small loans that can be used to help you purchase snowmobiles, ATVs and other sporting equipment. Some loans for outdoor activities can be around or below $2,000 -- a loan amount that can be difficult to obtain, but not at a credit union.

So if you want to make the most of those long winter months but aren’t sure how you can afford it, look into loans from your local credit union. This can allow you to enjoy the outdoors without breaking your budget.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League