Thursday, July 22, 2010

We want to CU Move Your Money

Many people have heard of the Move Your Money Project in the news lately; but in case you haven’t, it is a campaign that encourages people to move their primary accounts from “Too Big to Fail” banks and into local financial institutions. It has been touted by everyone from the New York Times and Suze Orman to Michael Moore; and it has led to a group of credit unions to create CU Move Your Money.

CU Move Your Money is a website that offers information and personal accounts on why people should look into their local credit unions. There is even a credit union locator on their website so you have another tool to find a credit union near you. You already know credit unions are not-for-profit, and frequently offer lower rates on loans. So what are you waiting for, visit CUMoveYourMoney.com and check it out, maybe you will join the over 5,000 people who have committed to moving their money.


-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Get more from your reunion (and your money) this summer!

It’s reunion season, and be it for high school, college, or even band camp, the big event – and the costs that come with it, can sure sneak up on you! Here are some tips to help take some of the stress and expense out of reconnecting with old friends.

Use Facebook or other social media outlets to keep in touch with the alumni center and/or reunion committee at your former school. Even if you do not receive update requests, make a point of letting someone know each time your contact information changes, so you don’t find out at the last minute.

Start a reunion savings fund. This is particularly important if attending your reunion will require travel and accommodation expenses, in addition to fees for the reunion itself. Planning and saving ahead of time will make the cost as painless as possible.

Reserve time off from work well in advance to ensure that you are covered. Although most reunions occur during the weekend, you may need an extra day for travel.

If possible, stay with friends (or your parents!) who live near where the reunion is being held. If not, ask the reunion committee about hotel room blocks. You may be able to take advantage of reunion discounts if you stay at the group hotel.

Do your homework and connect with classmates near you to carpool to the event. If you have to fly, make airline reservations well in advance to ensure the best possible rate.

Make it worth it by making the most of the opportunity to reconnect! Get yourself in the reunion spirit by browsing through old photo albums, school yearbooks and videos, and reminiscing with friends online or in person.

Happy reuniting!

-Diana D., Maine Credit Union League

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Sharing Summer Photos Could Mean More Money in Your Pocket - $300 More!

After months of piling on layers to protect against frigid temperatures, shoveling snow, and braving icy roads, these summer months are a well-deserved treat. What could be better than relaxing by a lake, lounging on the beach, or enjoying a peaceful hike in the woods? Getting cash for doing just that! This summer, Maine credit unions want to reward you for sharing your favorite summer spots with us!

We want you to help us answer the question- where in Maine is SURF Dude? The new mascot for the Surcharge Free ATM Network, when you see SURF Dude, you know you are at one of the over 200 Surcharge Free ATMs located throughout Maine!

Getting a chance to take home $300 is simple- Between July 8 and October 21, let us know where you think SURF Dude should go this summer by sharing digital photos of your favorite vacation spots, through email, on Facebook as SURF Dude, or Twitter as SURFDudeME. The most creative and original snapshot will win $300 (the total dollar amount a member can save in ATM fees by using SURF over one year) on October 21, International Credit Union Day! Click here to view contest rules, and start snapping pictures of your favorite spots today!

-Diana D., Maine Credit Union League