Senate Cents: A Financial Wellness Blog

How to Protect Your Credit When Shopping for the Holidays

Published: December 1, 2020

The rules for protecting credit during the holidays usually don't vary much from year to year, but in 2020, COVID-19 has changed where and how we shop. And money's tight for a lot of people. About 40% of Americans said they plan to spend less on holidays this year due to the pandemic, according to a recent NerdWallet survey.

A New Set of Shopping Tips in the Pandemic

Published: November 17, 2020

"The way consumers approach shopping has understandably changed as a result of COVID-19," said Katherine Cullen, senior director for industry and consumer insights at the National Retail Federation, in an email. Here's how to shop smart in the midst of the pandemic.

How to Live for Today, Plan for Tomorrow

Published: November 10, 2020

You probably have many plans for your money. Just paying bills, eating, and keeping a roof over your head may take up a lot of your monthly income. Not to mention insurance and transportation. Then there are important longer-term goals like saving for travel or a down payment on a house and, of course, putting money away for retirement and emergencies

How to Create Financial Stability in Shaky Times

Published: November 3, 2020

Do some self-reflection to pin down what stability means for you. Maybe you don't want to feel anxious when you check your bank balance, or you hope to save enough for retirement so you won't have to worry about the future. Whatever your focus, feeling stable means you won't have to constantly worry about money.

17 Ways to Teach Kids About Money

Published: October 22, 2020

Teaching kids about money, including how to save and spend wisely, can set them up for long-term success.

7 Credit Card Tips

Published: September 23, 2020

Make credit cards work for you by maximizing rewards while avoiding debt. Credit cards are a way of life. Leaving home unburdened by cash is great and so is getting a free airline ticket or hotel stay, cash back, or other rewards just for spending money. Credit cards are just so easy and convenient to use. But that convenience has a downside: Credit cards can be the source of debt troubles too. That's why it's important to understand the role of credit cards in your financial life.

Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

- James · Locust Grove, GA

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

- Larry · Cumberland, MD

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

- Eliza · Washington, DC

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

- Charles · Upper Marlboro, MD

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

- Denise · Washington, DC

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

- David · Silver Spring, MD

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

- Manuel · Bowie, MD

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

- Misty · Brookings, OR

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

- Tamra · Denver, CO

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

- John · Fort Washington, MD

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

- Bernard · Richmond, VA

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

- Erwin · Ellicott City, MD

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

- Ruth · Takoma Park, MD

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

- Jacquelyn · Sanford, FL

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

- Jamie · Washington, DC

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

- Kathleen · Ukiah, CA

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

- Richard · Washington, DC

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

- Nicole · Alexandria, VA

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

- Angela · Alexandria, VA

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