What’s New

Check Out our Newest Online Banking Service

  • Improved Account Interface ~ View all of your PFCU accounts, including Credit Cards.  Have access to check images, check reordering and more.
  • Customizable Account Alerts ~ Chose from 15 alerts to let you know important account information.
  • Account to Account Transfer ~ Securely transfer funds from your account at PFCU to your account at another financial institution.
  • E-statement Services ~ Sign up to receive an online copy of your PFCU Account Statement.
  • Wireless Access ~ Using a PDA, cell phone or mobile device, you can handle PFCU business.
  • Multifactor Authentication ~ Federal regulation mandates that all banks and credit unions utilize multifactor authentication.  Our system upgrades give us the opportunity to deploy a new layer of Online Banking security.
  • Improved Service ~ Should questions arise or when you need help, there is a dedicated toll-free phone number with extended support hours. An “email chat” link is also available.
  • Quicken & Quick Book Connectivity

Back to School Loans Available

Remember when back to school meant some new clothes, a couple of #2 pencils, a box of crayons, and a ruled tablet? As ready as you may be to see your kids go back to school after the summer break, you may well be dreading back-to-school expenses.  If bulging backpacks mean empty wallets, contact PFCU for a Back-to-School loan. Borrow up to $2,500 with a current interest rate as low as 8.99% APR and one year to repay.

Whether for clothing or a new computer, our low-cost loans have payments that fit your budget without the long-term burden of credit card debt. And most loans can be approved within 24 hours. Do the math and you'll see that a loan from PFCU is in your best interest!

Skip a Loan Payment for Summer FUN

Wish you had some extra cash for vacation plans, gift giving or another worthwhile purpose?  Back by popular demand, qualified Putnam FCU borrowers can skip their July and/or August payments.  The following conditions apply:

  • Loans must have been established by December 31, 2008.
  • Payments must be current.  No prior loan delinquencies are allowed.
  • Real estate loans and overdraft protection accounts are not eligible.

Contact the Credit Union for a Skip-a-Payment form, if you'd like to participate.  Keep in mind, your loan repayment schedule will be extended and the interest will accrue during the deferment period.  If you have questions about the program or your eligibility to participate, please call our Loan Department.

 

4 New PFCU ATMs in Putnam County

Putnam FCU is pleased to announce the opening of four new convenient PFCU Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in Putnam County.  These new ATMs offer convenient cash access to PFCU members and other area residents who visit the following public buildings during building hours:

  • Kent Shopping Mall — 1100 Route 52, Kent (Lobby: near liquor store & Kent Comics)
  • Putnam County Office Building — 40 Gleneida Avenue, Carmel — Lobby
  • Putnam County Department of Motor Vehicles — 1 Geneva Road, Brewster — Lobby
  • Putnam National Golf Club — 187 Hill Street, Mahopac — Near Pro Shop

With the addition of these 4 new ATMs, PFCU members now have access to their accounts through 6 Credit Union ATMs plus hundreds of thousands of other ATMs in the NYCE, Cirrus and Plus networks worldwide.   Cash access has never been more convenient!

 

2008 Annual Reports Available

Copies of the Credit Union's 2008 Annual Report are now available at either branch or as a downloadable PDF file from our website (click here).

 

Vacation Loans Available

The last thing you need to take on your vacation is the burden of a high-interest Vacation Loan.  If you're planning a trip and need some extra money, make Putnam Federal Credit Union your first stop. Take out a loan before you go and you'll know exactly how much money you have to spend.

Stop by the Credit Union or call (845) 225-8962 and you'll have the vacation money you need, peace of mind while you're away, and no concerns about big bills awaiting you when you get home.

 

Tempting Time for a Car Purchase

Many PFCU members have been asking if this is a good time to get a good deal on a car?  We think it could be a VERY good time!  Local dealers are eager to make sales to reduce their inventory.  Additional “deals” to keep in mind:

  • Employee Pricing ~ Some automakers are offering employee pricing on their vehicles, which can save you as much as 10%.  There may even be additional incentives and rebates available.
  • Tax Breaks ~ The federal stimulus package signed into law by President Obama includes a tax break for new vehicle buyers that could save you money.  The tax deduction will cover the purchase of any new car, domestic or foreign, through the end of 2009.  Additionally, there is a tax credit for those who buy an electronic vehicle before 2012.
  • Invest in America ~ Members can get great discounts on new GM and Chrysler vehicles. Depending on which vehicle you choose, you can save up to thousands of dollars.  To find out more about GM and Chrysler’s individual discount offers, visit www.lovemycreditunion.org.

And when you finance your vehicle through PFCU, you’ll save even more with low vehicle loan rates (currently as low as 5.95% APR)!

 

Stop In For a Car Loan....Before you Visit the Car Dealer

A pre-approved loan will help you purchase a car that fits your lifestyle with payments that fit your pocketbook. And because of our low loan rates on new and used vehicles, you'll get more car for your money.  While you're at Putnam FCU, our loan officers can steer you to car-buying information to help you -- not the dealer -- drive your deal. With that kind of ammunition and our great vehicle rates, nothing can stop you from driving the best deal around.

FREE Financial or Portfolio Check Up

Spring and summer are traditionally a time for fun, family vacations and a more relaxed pace of life.  But between the baseball games and barbecues, it's a good idea to consult our Financial Services Group for a mid-year portfolio review to ensure that your investment strategies are still on track to help you achieve your long-term goals.  Schedule your FREE mid-year portfolio consultation in one of the PFCU offices by calling (845) 225-8962, x1113.

Don't wait until you're in deep financial trouble to ask for a FREE financial checkup at Putnam FCU.  The earlier you ask for a review, the better the outcome can be!  Keep in mind that we're here to try to help you.

 

Invest in America -- Discount Vehicle Pricing

Investing in America!

The philosophy of credit unions is simple - "People Helping People."  If there was ever a time for credit unions to practice that philosophy, it's now.  As credit unions, our goal is to help you, your community and our country during these tough times.  So we developed the Invest in America program.

When you purchase a product or service from a U.S. - based company, that money is re-invested in America.  From schools to roads to our police and fire departments, the money you spent on that purchase directly impacts the community services we all depend on.  Invest in America is designed to offer you incentives to buy American products - and finance them (when necessary) with a low loan rate from your credit union.

Receive discounts on vehicles from General Motors and Chrysler

General Motors and Chrysler are offering new and existing credit union members special pricing on select vehicles through the Invest in America program. Plus, these programs can be combined with most current dealer incentives to add to your savings.

General Motors

With the Credit Union Discount From GM, GM is offering all current and eligible credit union members their Supplier Pricing on top of their most current incentives (through December 31, 2009). Get started on your road to extra savings with the Credit Union Discount From General Motors by click the link above and following the instructions to register with GM. You’ll need to specify Putnam FCU on the applicable drop down menu when registering.

Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep Credit Union Member Cash Program

Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep are offering credit union members up to an additional $1,000 on top of all current incentives. Before you head out to your local Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep dealer, review the list of vehicles available for the incentive. Once at the dealer, just let them know you are financing your new vehicle through Putnam FCU.

Participating Local Dealers

Get your special pricing at the following local dealers:

Putnam County

  • Brady Stannard Chevrolet Cadillac, Brewster
  • Meadowland Chrysler Dodge GMC Pontiac, Carmel
  • Smith Cairns Jeep, Brewster

Westchester County

  • Bill Volz Chrysler Dodge Jeep, Cortlandt Manor
  • Taconic Chevrolet, Yorktown Heights

Dutchess County

  • Amenia Motors, Amenia
  • Audia Motors, Millbrook
  • Brownell Motors, Fishkill
  • Dutchess Dodge Chrysler Jeep, Poughkeepsie
  • Galleria Cadillac Chevrolet, Poughkeepsie
  • Healey Chevrolet, Beacon
  • Healey Chrysler Dodge Jeep, Beacon
  • Hudson Pontiac Buick GMC, Poughkeepsie
  • Hyde Park Motors, Hyde Park
  • Ketcham Motors, Fishkill
  • M & S of Pawling, Pawling
  • Ruges Chrysler Dodge Jeep, Rhinebeck
  • Saturn of Poughkeepsie, Poughkeepsie

Orange County

  • Barton Birks Chevrolet, Newburgh
  • Bernicker Dodge, Cornwall
  • Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Warwick, Warwick
  • Colandrea Pontiac Buick GMC, Newburgh
  • Collier Motors, Ellenville
  • Country Chevrolet, Warwick
  • Country Saab, Florida
  • DG Pontiac, Port Jervis
  • Fulton Chevrolet Cadillac, Middletown
  • LJ Marchese Chevrolet, Fort Montgomery
  • Newburgh Park Motors, Newburgh
  • Port Jervis Auto Mall, Port Jervis
  • Rallye Auto Plaza, Monroe
  • WS Healey Chevrolet Buick, Goshen

Ulster County

  • Heart Chevrolet, Kingston
  • Kingston Pontiac Buick GMC, Kingston
  • LT Begnal Motors, Kingston
  • Sawyer Motors, Saugerties
  • Young’s Motors, Milton

Sullivan County

  • M & M Pontiac Buick Cadillac Chrysler Dodge Jeep, Liberty

Invest in America Program Approaching 90,000 Vehicles Sold

Since going nationwide in January 2009, the “Invest in America” program has seen more than 86,000 vehicles sold.  "In President Obama’s comments regarding Chrysler, the President encouraged people to buy American,” said David Adams, CUcorp CEO.  “This is a time for consumers to take advantage of the incentives, support American companies, if they’re thinking about buying a car, and finance through a local credit union."

Home Loan Rates Have PLUNGED!
Our LOW Home Loan rates should put a smile on your house! Best of all, Putnam FCU has money to loan. 

  • Refinance your existing mortgage ~ PFCU offers a wide variety of mortgage programs, including 15 and 30-year fixed rate plans. There’s no application fee, 5-day approvals, and easy online pre-qualification. Our professional staff is available to help you choose the perfect loan.
  • Home Equity ~ Borrow against the equity in your home. Choose between an adjustable rate Line-of-Credit and a fixed-rate loan. Financing is available up to 80% of the current appraised value (less the first mortgage balance). Interest may be tax deductible, so consult your tax advisor. 

Use a lender you can trust, and get a home loan that you can live with for years to come. Act now to refinance or borrow for improvements! Call (845) 225-8962.

 

Financial Planning Now Available

Putnam FCU has partnered with Integrated Financial Partners, Inc. (IFP) to offer comprehensive financial, investment and retirement planning services, as well as insurance and investment products. 
 
John M. Smoot Jr., JD is the IFP representative who will provide our members with personal and confidential service. Call to set an appointment to meet with Mr. Smoot at a PFCU branch.
 
Individual planning may involve retirement accounts, asset allocation, education funding and tax saving strategies, as well as wealth accumulation, management and transfer. Business owner planning may include exit strategies, continuation plans and executive benefits.  Additional services include account aggregation and more extensive product choices.
 
Integrated Financial Partners, Inc. is the local office of Lincoln Financial Advisors (LFA), a broker/dealer and registered investment advisor who has partnered with Putnam FCU to provide Financial Planning services in PFCU branches (see the other side for further details).  LFA is one of the largest independent broker-dealers in the country and was recently named in Forbes Magazine as one of the most dependable wealth managers in the northeast.  With over 75 registered representatives, IFP offices are located in New Hampshire, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Virginia.

Call PFCU at (845) 225-8962
to set an appointment.
 

Quick Links

Financial Tips for Turbulent Times

Whether you're an older worker with seemingly few options to recoup significant investment losses, or a younger worker with minimal or no investment savings at all, don't let the financial crisis scare you into not taking any action at all.

Take stock of your situation, learn from others' mistakes, and don't panic or pull all your money out of the stock market. Formulate a plan by starting with the basics:

    * Rebalance your portfolio. Do your investment choices reflect your risk tolerance and investment strategy?

    * Keep some liquidity. Consider stashing some cash--perhaps three to six months' of living expenses--in a money market account at [name of credit union]-- which is insured to at least $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration.

    * Increase your contributions. Most stock prices are at low, bargain-basement levels. If possible, bump up your contribution.

    * Diversify. Spread your wealth among a variety of investments: domestic, international, financial services, technology, health care, and so on.

    * Use dollar-cost averaging. By having just $50 each paycheck automatically directed to a mutual fund, your contributions will purchase more shares when the price is low, and fewer shares when the price is high.

    * Pay down debt. Reduce the choke-hold that credit cards have on your budget. Use the PowerPay principle: Pay off the highest interest-rate card first, and then apply that payment to the next-highest interest-rate card. Stop charging.

    * Spend less. Identify needs vs. wants, and then set priorities. Many so-called needs actually are wants in disguise.

    * Work longer. If you're close to retirement, consider hanging on to your current job longer than planned, if you can. Or, secure part-time work after retirement. This reduces the number of years you'll dip into your investments and helps build additional savings.

Putnam FCU is ready to help during these tough times. Call our Financial Services Group at (845) 225-8962, x1113.
 

How to Order a FREE Copy of Your Credit Report

We recommend that you review a copy of your credit report each year to look for inaccuracies, detect identity theft, and reduce delays in loan qualification.  If you find erroneous information, contact the appropriate reporting bureau to make corrections immediately.  Here are a few ways to check your report:

1) www.annualcreditreport.com

2) Call 877-322-8228.

3) Contact the "Big 3" credit bureaus: Equifax (www.equifax.com) 800-685-1111; Experian (www.experian.com) 888-397-3742; or TransUnion (www.transunion.com) 800-888-4213.

 
Lean on PFCU During this Difficult Economy
 
In lean times, the benefits of membership in Putnam FCU are greater than ever. The current economic climate has each of us performing our own personal "stress test"—because of threats of job loss, gyrating stock prices, escalating prices, and uncertainty in the global economy.

But there's one thing you can be sure of: Your credit union stands by you in both good and lean times. That's because you're part of a not-for-profit financial cooperative that cares about your financial future. At PFCU, you earn top returns on your savings and investment dollars, and you help fellow members achieve their dreams through low-cost loans.

While some financial institutions have made it more difficult to borrow, your Credit Union stands ready to provide both the dollars and the confidence you deserve as a member/owner.  And you'll find a wide variety of loan products. Whether you're planning a college education, a new car, or a home remodeling project, we can help.

As a membership organization, PFCU puts people before profit. Tough times call for toughminded individuals, and credit union people have always risen to the occasion. The American credit union movement was born out of the turmoil of the Great Depression. Many credit unions were formed during the 1930s, as a way for working men and women to weather the storm and improve their financial lives.

Better days are ahead. Meanwhile, you can rely on partners who have earned your trust—the people at Putnam FCU. During these lean times, you can lean on us!

 

Privacy Notice 

Putnam FCU, your member-owned financial institution, is committed to providing financial products and services to meet your needs and help you reach your financial goals. We are equally committed to protecting your privacy - be assured that your financial privacy is a priority of this credit union. Each year, we are required by law to provide this privacy notice to explain how we collect, use and safeguard your personal financial information.

Information We Collect and Disclose About You

We collect nonpublic personal information about you. This information comes from the following sources:

  • Applications and other forms.
  • Credit union transactions.
  • Consumer reporting agencies.
  • Current or past employers, or other institutions where you conduct financial transactions when we verify the information you provide to us in an application or other form.

We may disclose all of the information we collect, as described previously and as permitted by law, to companies that perform marketing services on our behalf or other financial institutions with whom we have joint marketing agreements. To protect our members' privacy, we only work with companies that agree to maintain strong confidentiality protections and limit the use of information that we provide. We do not permit these companies to sell the information that we provide to other third parties.

To conduct credit union business, we may also disclose nonpublic personal information about you under other circumstances as permitted or required by law. These disclosures typically include information to: process transactions on your behalf, conduct the operations of our credit union, follow instructions you have authorized, or protect the security of our financial records.

If you terminate your membership with Putnam FCU, we will not share information we have collected about you, except as permitted or required by law.

How We Protect Your Information

We restrict access to nonpublic personal information about you to those employees who have a specific business purpose in utilizing your data. Our employees are trained in the importance of maintaining confidentiality and member privacy. We maintain physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards that comply with federal regulations and leading industry practices to safeguard your nonpublic personal information.

What You Can Do to Help Protect Your Privacy

Putnam FCU is committed to protecting the privacy of its members. You can help by following these simple guidelines:

Protect your account numbers, card numbers, PINs (personal identification numbers) and passwords. Never keep your PIN with your debit or credit card - it can provide free access to your accounts if your card is lost or stolen.

Use caution when disclosing your account numbers, social security numbers, etc. to other persons. If someone calls you, explains the call is on behalf of the credit union and asks for your account number, you should beware. Official credit union staff will have access to your information and will not need to ask for it.

Keep your information with us current. It is important that we have current information on how to reach you. If we detect potentially fraudulent or unauthorized activity or use of an account, we will attempt to contact you immediately. If your address or phone number changes, please let us know.

Should you have any questions about Putnam FCU's Privacy Policy as described above, please call a Member Service Representative at (845) 225-8962.

Start an Energy Diet: Save Money Around Home

The typical American family spends $1,600 per year on energy at home. Here are some "biggest-bang-for-your-buck" techniques for saving money on energy:

1. Maximize the use of daylight. Use "task lights" to illuminate only the area you need to light. Install motion detectors in the garage, basement, or bathroom. Shut off unneeded incandescent lights immediately after use. Shut off fluorescent bulbs when they will not be needed for 15 minutes. Shut off your computer and monitor when they will be idle for more than two hours (computer) or 20 minutes (monitor).

Compact fluorescents bulbs (CFLs) screw into the same fixtures as incandescents, but are three to four times more efficient. A CFL comparable to a 100-watt incandescent would save $63 during the bulb's 4.5-year lifetime.

2. Check wattage. The wattage label on the bottom or back of an appliance describes its electricity consumption, but high-wattage equipment that runs only briefly—for example, a hairdryer—will use fewer kilowatt hours than products like space heaters, which run for long periods.

A refrigerator built before 1993 is ripe for replacement with a newer, higher-efficiency model. The federal Energy Star label identifies high-efficiency appliances and electronics. Air-dry dishes instead of using the heated drying cycle, and run dishwashers and clothes washing machines only when full. Save hot water by substituting short showers for baths.

3. Perform basic maintenance.
Install an insulating blanket on older water heaters, and insulate all accessible air ducts and hot-water pipes. Replace furnace filters, and get a tune-up on your furnace or boiler every couple of years.

4. Set back the thermostat. If you set a programmable thermostat "back" (cooler in winter and warmer in summer) for eight hours, you can save around 10% on your annual heating and cooling bills.

5. Get the tax credit.
High-efficiency furnaces and boilers are among many energy improvements on existing homes that are eligible for a federal tax credit through the end of 2007. Other qualified improvements include insulation, windows, exterior doors, circulating fans, and solar heating and photovoltaic systems.

6. Schedule an audit. During a home energy audit, an expert examines your house with a thermographic scanner and a blower door, which detect leaks through different methods. Visit the Department of Energy's Web site at energy.gov for more information about energy audits.

Putnam FCU is ready to help with all of your home improvement needs. Give us a call today at (845) 225-8962.