Archives

Give Yourself the Gift of Peace: How Smart Savings Can Make This Holiday Season Less Stressful

As the days grow shorter and the holiday buzz ramps up, even the most enthusiastic celebrators can feel a little overwhelmed. Between gift-giving, travel, gatherings, and year-end errands, it’s easy to see why this time of year can challenge both our budget and our sense of calm. Here’s the good news: with a little planning and the right savings habit, you can actually reduce stress this holiday season instead of adding to it. 1. Know the stress-triggers (and prepare for them) Some of the biggest financial stressors this time of year: When you recognize these triggers early, you can plan ahead and shift from reactive spending to intentional saving. 2. Build your buffer before the rush One of the simplest (yet most powerful) financial habits: putting away regularly for upcoming expenses. Rather than waiting until November or December and then scrambling, you make the cost invisible by slicing it into manageable pieces over time. For example: When the money is already set aside, your mindset shifts from “How do I afford this?” to “I planned for this.” Your sleep gets better, your stress drops, and you’re more present. 3. Let your savings do the work for you That’s where Club Accounts like our Holiday & Vacation Club come in. With features like: Because it’s separate, consistent, and automatic, you’re less tempted to dip into it. You’re less likely to blame the budget for your stress. And when the holiday season arrives, you’re not scrambling—you’re simply enjoying. 4. Stress-reduction bonus: it’s not just about money When you’ve prepaid for big expenses, you free up your headspace to focus on what really matters: time with loved ones, meaningful experiences, rest and rejuvenation. No surprise bills. No credit card anxiety. Just. … less mental load. And that’s what real wellness is about. 5. Quick action-steps (right now) This year, let your savings be a source of calm, not chaos. With a small plan in place now, you’ll walk into December ready—financially and mentally.Want help setting it up? Visit our Holiday & Vacation Club Savings page or talk to a Vicinity CU team member about how we can get you started. You’ll thank yourself in December.

Get Extra Credit with Vicinity Credit Union

Supporting Family Caregivers: Financial Tips to Lighten the Load

Every day, millions of Americans step into the role of caregiver—helping parents, spouses, children, or other loved ones with daily needs. While caregiving can be deeply rewarding, it also comes with emotional and financial challenges that aren’t always easy to plan for. At Vicinity Credit Union, we understand the balancing act caregivers face. Whether you’re navigating medical expenses, adjusting work schedules, or simply trying to stretch your budget further, here are some financial tips that can help you care for your loved ones without losing sight of your own financial well-being. 1. Create a Dedicated Caregiving Budget Keep track of all caregiving-related expenses—medications, transportation, in-home support, or even grocery extras. Setting aside a portion of your monthly budget for these costs helps you avoid surprises and see where adjustments can be made. 2. Look Into Available Benefits Explore whether your loved one qualifies for government programs, veterans’ benefits, or local community support. These resources can provide financial relief and free up funds in your budget. 3. Review Insurance and Legal Documents Make sure health insurance, long-term care policies, and legal paperwork (like power of attorney or living wills) are current and in place. Doing this early can prevent confusion and unexpected costs later. 4. Don’t Overlook Your Own Financial Health Caregivers often put their loved one’s needs first, but it’s important to continue contributing to your own savings and retirement. Even small, consistent deposits can protect your future financial stability. 5. Seek Out Financial Support Systems Many caregivers find relief through credit union products like low-interest personal loans, automatic bill pay, or specialized savings accounts. These tools can help smooth out expenses and reduce stress. 6. Lean on Community You don’t have to do this alone. Support groups, caregiver networks, and financial partners like Vicinity Credit Union are here to walk alongside you. The Bottom Line:Caregiving is an act of love, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your financial well-being. By planning ahead, using available resources, and leaning on support, you can create a more balanced approach that benefits both you and your loved one. Vicinity Credit Union is here to support caregivers with financial tools, guidance, and a compassionate approach. Visit us today to explore resources designed to make your journey a little lighter.

What’s a HELOC? And Why It Might Be Right for You

If you’re a homeowner, you’ve probably heard the term “HELOC” tossed around—but what exactly does it mean? At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re here to break it down in a way that makes sense. A HELOC, or Home Equity Line of Credit, is a revolving line of credit that lets you borrow money using the equity in your home as collateral. Think of it like a credit card—but with typically lower interest rates and much higher limits. So how does it work?Let’s say your home is worth $250,000 and you owe $150,000 on your mortgage. That means you have $100,000 in equity. With a HELOC, you may be able to borrow a portion of that equity—giving you access to funds when you need them. What can you use it for?That’s the beauty of a HELOC: it’s flexible. You, your family and your home all grow and change. A Home Equity Line of Credit can change with you. Use it for: Why choose a HELOC with Vicinity Credit Union?We keep it simple, personal, and affordable.✔️ Competitive rates✔️ Only pay interest on what you use✔️ Local decisions and personalized service✔️ No pressure—just smart borrowing The best part? You don’t need to take all the funds at once. You can borrow what you need, when you need it, and repay as you go. Still have questions?That’s what we’re here for. Whether you’re new to HELOCs or just want to learn more, our team is happy to walk you through it and help you decide if it’s a good fit for your goals.

Make the Most of Summer Without Breaking the Bank

Summer in Chicagoland is something special – block parties, backyard BBQs, lake trips, and time with the people who matter most. But all that fun can add up fast if you’re not careful. At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re here to help local families enjoy every sun-filled moment without worrying about overspending. Here’s how to plan a memorable summer that’s also financially smart. Backyard Fun Without the Big Expense You don’t need to leave town to feel like you’re on vacation. Spruce up your backyard with budget-friendly updates – think string lights, secondhand patio furniture, or a kid-friendly sprinkler setup. Check local community groups or neighborhood swaps before heading to big box stores. A cozy backyard setup brings the fun home. Shop Smart and Skip the Guilt Impulse buys love summer as much as we do. Avoid them by sticking to a list, setting a budget, and unsubscribing from “sale alert” emails that tempt you to spend on things you don’t really need. Take your time, price compare and keep your spending in line with your goals. Budget-Friendly Family Fashion Kids grow fast, and summer styles change quick – but that doesn’t mean you need to spend big. Look to consignment stores, online marketplaces, or even neighborhood swaps for gently used clothes and gear. It’s wallet-friendly, eco-friendly, and often filled with gems you can’t find in stores. Plan Ahead for Stress-Free Summer Fun Grab a calendar and map out your family’s summer plans – trips, camps, gear, outings. From there, set a realistic budget and look for early-bird deals or off-peak pricing. When you plan ahead, you get more time to enjoy the season and fewer surprises on your credit card statement. Vicinity Credit Union Is With You Every Step Whether you’re saving up for summer adventures or just trying to get more from your money, we’re here to support you. Our team is ready with friendly guidance, budgeting tools, and personalized options to help you stay on track. Let’s make this summer full of fun, family, and financial peace of mind – together.

Fresh DIY Ideas That Help Your Budget Bloom

Spring in Chicago is a time to refresh and maybe even roll up your sleeves and try something new. At Vicinity Credit Union, we believe in helping you make smart financial moves, especially when they can start right at home. From home projects to hobby-based side hustles, here are some family-friendly ways to save money and maybe even bring in a little extra. Turn Hobbies Into Income Got a knack for fixing things or creating something useful? Consider light woodworking projects, small home repairs, or restoring secondhand finds. These can turn into part-time income streams, especially when sold locally or online. It’s a great way to involve the family too – teach the kids while you build something together. Upcycle Gently-Used Gear Don’t toss out old boots, jackets, or gear just yet. A little patching or polishing can make them look new again. Whether you keep them or flip them at a resale shop, you’re saving money and reducing waste. It’s a small, smart step toward sustainable living. Breathe New Life into Old Furniture That old nightstand or wobbly chair? With a little sanding and paint, it could be your next weekend win. Refurbishing furniture is a fun and low-cost way to refresh your home or earn extra cash. List it on Facebook Marketplace or gift it to a neighbor – it’s a project with heart either way. Grow Savings Right from the Garden You don’t need acres to start gardening. Herbs on the windowsill, tomatoes on the patio, or a backyard veggie patch can all lower your grocery bills and feed your family fresh, healthy food. Got extras? Share with neighbors or local swap groups. It’s a great way to build community. DIY Energy Fixes for a Greener Home Ready to cut utility costs before summer? Here are a few ideas: Some fixes you can do yourself, others might require a pro. Either way, the savings are real. Build More Than Projects – Build Possibilities At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re all about helping local families thrive. Whether you’re trying a new side gig, refreshing your home, or setting a financial goal, we’re here to help make it happen. Have a DIY project in mind? Let’s build a budget that supports your goals.

Fraud Awareness: Protect Yourself and Your Finances

At Vicinity Credit Union, our members’ financial security is our top priority. Fraudulent activities are constantly evolving, and it’s crucial to stay informed to protect yourself and your hard-earned money. Whether you’re banking online, using your debit card, or making payments, knowing how to spot fraud and take action quickly can save you from serious financial loss. Here are some valuable tips to help you recognize and prevent fraud: 1. Recognize Phishing Scams Phishing scams are one of the most common forms of fraud. These scams involve fraudulent emails, phone calls, or text messages that appear to come from trusted organizations—like your bank, credit union, or even government agencies. They often ask for personal information such as your account number, Social Security number, or login credentials. Red Flags: What to Do: 2. Watch Out for Identity Theft Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to open accounts or make unauthorized transactions. It can happen when you least expect it—especially if you’re not keeping track of your accounts. Red Flags: What to Do: 3. Secure Your Online Banking Online banking offers convenience, but it also requires vigilance. Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to steal information online. Protecting your online banking account is a must. Tips for Secure Online Banking: 4. Protect Your Debit and Credit Cards Fraud can also happen when your debit or credit card information is compromised. Criminals may use your card details for unauthorized purchases or transactions. Red Flags: What to Do: 5. Keep an Eye Out for Impersonation Scams Impersonation scams involve someone pretending to be a representative from a legitimate company—often claiming they need to confirm your information or offer you a prize. They may ask you to send money or provide confidential details. Red Flags: What to Do: 6. Stay Informed and Report Fraud Immediately The faster you act, the less likely you are to suffer from fraud. If you suspect that you’ve been targeted or have fallen victim to fraud, immediately report it to us. Our team is ready to help you take the necessary steps to protect your accounts and resolve the issue. What to Do: Conclusion: Staying Safe with Vicinity Credit Union Fraud is a serious concern, but with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk. At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re committed to keeping your financial information safe. By staying aware of common scams, safeguarding your personal information, and acting quickly if you suspect fraud, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Your financial security is our priority. Stay informed, stay protected, and stay safe with Vicinity Credit Union!

Building Better Together

Hello, Valued Members! We hope you’ve found this page with a sense of excitement, wonder, and curiosity. At Vicinity Credit Union, our goal is to provide the exceptional financial service you need. And to achieve that, we would like to invite you to join us in Building Better Together! This page will fill you in on all the exciting updates and improvements in store for your Credit Union. We are so thrilled to share these updates with you, and we hope you’ll share in all the excitement with us. Stay tuned to this page for updates, and remember to follow us on social media! Pulaski Branch Renovation Exciting News: Our Pulaski Branch is Open and Ready to Serve You!   As part of Vicinity Credit Union’s ongoing commitment to improving our services, we’re thrilled to announce that our Pulaski Branch has been beautifully renovated! The branch is now open and ready to serve you, and our drive-thru remains available for your convenience. We’re excited to welcome you back. We look forward to assisting you! Frequently Asked Questions When will the lobby renovation start? Construction will begin Monday, July 29, 2024. The lobby will be closed starting July 29th until all renovations are completed. Will the Pulaski Branch be open during the lobby renovation? Access to the branch will be by appointment only. Members will need to call (773) 376-6000 to schedule an appointment with a representative from our Pulaski Branch. Where can members conduct transactions during the renovation? We encourage members to visit our Hyde Park Branch or Evergreen Park Branch during the renovation. Most transactions can also be performed using Online Banking or Mobile Banking. How can I apply for a loan? You can apply for a loan from the comfort of your home using our online loan application. How long is the lobby renovation expected to last? There is no completion date at this time, but it’s expected to go through the end of the year. Will the renovation impact operating hours? No. Our operating hours will not change. Will the renovation impact other services at the Pulaski Branch? Yes. Access to Safe Deposit Box will be by appointment only. The Night Deposit Box will not be available. Bank By Phone PDF United Credit Union is now Vicinity Credit Union Our name and look may have changed, but our commitment to serving our members remains the same. Click below to view a message from our president on how this change will make us a stronger credit union tomorrow and any changes that may effect you today. Message From The CEO Dear Vicinity Credit Union Members,Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, it’s thrilling to begin this journey together as Vicinity Credit Union—your Community Champion. This transformation reflects our mission and vision to better serve you and the places we call home. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to serve our members as the neighbors you are, with warmth, dedication, and a commitment to making a real difference in your lives. Our vision is to create a community where financial services are accessible to all, improving lives and strengthening connections. Over the past year, we embraced significant changes to move closer to this vision. Some, like our updated website, exceeded expectations, while others, such as our online banking upgrade, presented challenges. Despite the bumps, these experiences have made us more confident in our ability to meet your needs with innovative, reliable solutions. Beyond the digital realm, we’ve also prioritized the spaces where we meet face-to-face. For example, our Pulaski Branch is currently undergoing extensive renovations, including a new roof and lobby upgrades, aimed at making it safer, more welcoming, and better equipped to serve you. Last year was a year of transformation, and 2025 will be a year of results. Thank you for your trust, patience, and unwavering support during this exciting journey. You inspire everything we do, and we look forward to continuing to serve you and our shared community in the year ahead. We invite you to explore our new offerings and experience the difference of being part of Vicinity Credit Union. Warm regards, **Mario Aguirre**President & CEOVicinity Credit Union How will the name change impact me? While a lot is changing, we would like to outline a few items that will not be affected by our name change and rebrand. Direct Deposits/Payments — You do not need to make any changes to your direct deposit or automatic payments. Debit & Credit Cards — Your debit and credit cards will not be affected. You can continue to use your cards until they expire. When new and replacement cards are issued, then they will be updated to Vicinity Credit Union. Account Numbers — Your account numbers will not change and will remain the same. Routing Number — There is no change to our routing number. We will continue to use the routing number: 271081502. Checks — If you still have United Credit Union checks, they will be honored. There is no need to immediately order replacement checks, and we encourage you to use your United Credit Union checks until they run out. Shared Branching — When visiting our shared branching partners, you need to say that you bank with Vicinity Credit Union. Online Banking & Call24 — Until October 3rd, both our Online Banking and Call24 services will continue using the United Credit Union name. Once our new banking system launches on October 3rd, both systems will update to using Vicinity Credit Union. We understand you may have questions, and we are happy to answer them. Please contact us online or directly at 773.376.6000. Banking System Upgrade On Thursday, October 3, 2024, we underwent a banking system upgrade. This upgrade included key improvements to our existing digital services, security measures, and technology integrations. We thank you for your patience during this process. If you need assistance registering for online banking or bank by phone, please call 773-376-6000. View Important Announcement Winter 2025 Newsletter Open PDF

Hit the Gas on Savings

Finance or Refi with Vicinity CU & Get a $100 Gas Card!* Apply Now Find a Branch Save on Payments & at the Pump Financing from Vicinity Credit Union means affordable payments and getting the right vehicle at the right price. Because finding your next car or truck can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Now, when you finance a new or used auto loan, you can save extra with a $100 Gas Card!* Low Rates for New & Used Flexible Terms up to 84 Months Personalized Application Process Find your next car or truck and hit the road with even more savings from Vicinity Credit Union today. Apply Now Find a Branch Pump the Brakes on High-Interest Payments Not everything goes right the first time, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find something better down the line. Why settle for monthly auto payments that leave you stressed and your wallet empty? Refinance with Vicinity Credit Union for a $100 Gas Card!* Bringing your loan from another lender means getting all the same benefits of a Vicinity Credit Union auto loan, and you could: Lower Your Monthly Payment Save Hundred in Interest Pay off Your Loan Faster Give your wallet a break and leave your old loan payments in the dust. Refi Today Find a Branch *Members must meet loan qualifying criteria. All auto loans are subject to credit approval. The member receives the gift card after 90 days as long as they are in good standing. Rates may vary depending on each individual’s creditworthiness, history and underwriting factors. Current Vicinity Credit Union auto loans are not eligible for incentive. Membership eligibility required. Vicinity Credit Union reserves the right to extend, alter, or cancel this promotion at any time without notice. Additional terms and conditions may apply. See credit union for details. *Members must meet loan qualifying criteria. All auto loans are subject to credit approval. Borrowers whose auto loans meet qualifications can claim their $100 Gas Card once their first auto loan payment posts. Rates may vary depending on each individual’s creditworthiness, history and underwriting factors. Current Vicinity Credit Union auto loans are not eligible for incentive. Membership eligibility required. Vicinity Credit Union reserves the right to extend, alter, or cancel this promotion at any time without notice. Additional terms and conditions may apply. See credit union for details.

Financial First: Making Your First Budget Plan

How many times do we set a New Year’s Resolution with the full intention to stick to it only to have it flop a month into the year? This year, we’re starting strong and planning to be financially savvy all of 2023. And one of the first steps to a financially successful year is to create your first budget plan! We promise it’s not as stressful as it sounds, especially with Vicinity CU on your side. By creating a budget, you will be able to see where your money is going, where you will be able to save money, and how to have a clear mind when it comes to your finances. Today, we’ll explain two popular budgeting methods for you to consider: the “Zero-Sum Budget” and the “50-30-20 Method.” One of Dave Ramsey’s philosophies for financial success is the zero-sum budget. Essentially, it is your monthly income minus expenses equals zero. So, if you make $3,000 a month, that $3,000 should be allotted to food, utilities, transportation, housing, insurance, miscellaneous expenses (giving yourself a buffer), debt, etc. This way, every dollar you make is being put to good use—either by spending or saving. Follow this link to the Ramsey website and see how you can make your zero-sum budget for free. This source will take you through a series of questions asking your current financial goals, your monthly income, your monthly payments and debts and savings, and will calculate it all for you. It’s free, and it does the math for you – sounds like a win, win! Another budget plan that could work for your 2023 savings plan is the 50-30-20 method. That is, 50% on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% on savings. The “needs” department includes rent, mortgage payments, utilities, food, and transportation. The “wants” area is designated for dining out, vacations, entertainment, new electronics, and fancy coffees. And the “savings” is allotted to exactly what it is named: savings and investments. This can be your regular savings account, an IRA account, or investing in the stock market. Take the time to write down all of your expenses and categorize them within these three departments, and you will thank yourself later. With either of these budget plans, you will go from wondering where your money went over the month to where it went, when, and how. Life should be enjoyed without the looming stress of your financial status. Start the new year off right while also looking out for your future self and start your budget today! Need an extra set of eyes for your budget? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for advice or financial help! Sources:  https://savvybudgetboss.com/budgeting-tips-for-beginners https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/how-to-make-a-zero-based-budget#:~:text=Zero%2Dbased%20budgeting%20is%20when,%2C%20a%20job%2C%20a%20goal.