Thrive by Five!
Parents, it's important to teach your children how to save money and to make wise purchases. Visit Thrive by Five for ideas on how to teach your pre-schoolers the value of money.

What’s the Difference Between a Credit Union and a Bank?

Members, not Customers. Credit Unions serve Members – like you! – not customers. Money you deposit in a Credit Union is considered a share of membership. Members of a Credit Union have a say in how their Credit Union operates. Bank customers have no say in how their bank operates. Banks are owned by groups of investors who expect a return on their investment.

Members Have a Say. A volunteer Board of Directors, Members who are elected by the membership, run a Credit Union. Investors who have voting power, not customers, run banks. Ordinary customers of a bank can’t vote and can’t be elected to the Board.

Credit Unions are Not-for Profit. After the costs of running the Credit Union are paid and a reserve is set aside to keep the Credit Union strong, earnings are returned to Members. How? Many times the extra is returned through higher dividends paid, lower loan rates for Members, and free or low-cost services.

Build Your Stash of Cash
If you want to see your money grow, ask your parents to help you put together your own saving and spending plan. Talk about your current needs (including things your parents expect you to pay for), items you may want, and long-term goals you may have for a larger purchase. Set aside some of your cash for spending, some of it for savings, and some for charity. List your goals and put your savings plan in writing.

If you don’t have a savings account, open one up, and add a percent of any money you receive. Weekly savings can add up fast, and as your money grows, it will earn more money through dividends.

Student Membership

If you are a High School or College student, Touchstone FCU has a membership package designed exclusively for you. The package includes:

• Share Savings Account
• Share Draft Checking*
• Debit Card*
• Home Banking and Bill Payer Service*
• E-Statements
• $300 Visa Credit Card*

*Student/Member must be 18 years old or have a Joint Account Holder. Student/Member with a prior credit history could be approved up to $750.00 if they can establish income satisfactory for extended credit privileges. Credit request in excess of $300.00 must be submitted in writing and is subject to approval. Student/Member with negative credit history must have a co-signer.

Open Up a Youth Club Account

Touchstone FCU wants to help you to learn to save. Open up a Youth Club Account today with a $5.00 deposit, and Touchstone FCU will match it. You’ll have $10.00 to start you on what we hope will be a lifetime of savings, and you’ll be able to watch your savings grow as your money earns dividends.

You’ll also receive a FREE Touchstone Youth Club Piggy Bank. When the bank is full, bring it by and deposit the money into your account. Earn rewards! As your deposits grow, Touchstone FCU will reward you with a variety of prize give-aways!*

*Rewards Program will vary to be timely and sensitive to age and sex of member.