Are you looking for a reliable credit union that can help you achieve your financial goals? Look no further than Affinity First Credit Union. With over 80 years of experience and a commitment to helping members achieve financial success, Affinity First has become a trusted name in the credit union industry. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this credit union, from its history and services to its membership requirements and benefits.
Table of Contents
History of Affinity First Credit Union
Affinity First Credit Union was originally known as the Great Falls Teachers Federal Credit Union, which was established in 1935. Over the years, the credit union expanded its membership to include anyone who lived, worked, worshiped, or attended school in Cascade County, Montana. In 2002, the credit union changed its name to Affinity First Credit Union to better reflect its diverse membership base.
Membership Requirements
To become a member of Affinity First Credit Union, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Live, work, worship, or attend school in Cascade County, Montana
- Be related to a current member
- Be an employee of one of the credit union’s select employer groups
Select Employer Groups
Affinity First Credit Union has partnerships with several local businesses and organizations, including Benefis Health System, Great Falls Public Schools, and the City of Great Falls. If you work for one of these organizations, you may be eligible for membership in the credit union.
Services Offered
Affinity First Credit Union offers a wide range of financial services to help members achieve their goals. These services include:
Savings and Checking Accounts
Members can open a variety of savings and checking accounts to fit their needs, including regular savings accounts, youth savings accounts, and money market accounts. Checking account options include free checking, interest-bearing checking, and student checking.
Loans
Affinity First Credit Union offers a variety of loan options, including auto loans, personal loans, and home loans. Members can also apply for credit cards and lines of credit.
Online and Mobile Banking
Members can access their accounts and perform transactions online or through the credit union’s mobile app. Online banking features include account transfers, bill pay, and eStatements.
Investment and Retirement Services
Affinity First Credit Union partners with CUSO Financial Services, L.P. to offer investment and retirement services to members. These services include financial planning, portfolio management, and retirement planning.
Business Services
Affinity First Credit Union also offers a variety of financial services for businesses, including business checking accounts, business loans, and merchant services.
Benefits of Membership
As a member of Affinity First Credit Union, you can enjoy a variety of benefits, including:
- Lower interest rates on loans and credit cards
- Higher interest rates on savings accounts
- Access to free financial education resources
- Discounted rates on insurance products
- Personalized service from knowledgeable staff
Question and Answer
Q: Can I join Affinity First Credit Union if I don’t live or work in Cascade County?
A: Unfortunately, no. Affinity First Credit Union’s membership is limited to individuals who live, work, worship, or attend school in Cascade County, Montana.
Q: Does Affinity First Credit Union charge fees for using its services?
A: Affinity First Credit Union strives to keep fees to a minimum. Some accounts may have minimum balance requirements or monthly maintenance fees, but many services, such as online banking and bill pay, are offered free of charge.
Community Response
Affinity First Credit Union has received positive feedback from members and the community. Members appreciate the credit union’s personalized service and commitment to helping them achieve their financial goals. The credit union is also active in the community, sponsoring local events and supporting local organizations.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s a quick overview of Affinity First Credit Union’s “nutrition facts”:
- Founded: 1935
- Membership: Open to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Cascade County, Montana, or is related to a current member
- Services: Savings and checking accounts, loans, online and mobile banking, investment and retirement services, and business services
- Benefits: Lower interest rates on loans and credit cards, higher interest rates on savings accounts, access to free financial education resources, discounted rates on insurance products, and personalized service
Conclusion
Affinity First Credit Union is a trusted and reliable credit union that has been serving members for over 80 years. With a wide range of financial services and a commitment to helping members achieve their goals, Affinity First is a great option for individuals and businesses in Cascade County, Montana. If you’re interested in becoming a member, visit the credit union’s website or stop by one of its branches to learn more.
