Member Newsletter -November 2026
Different Stories.
If we gave 10 members the same markers and the same instructions to draw a house with a yard, a sun with birds in the sky, and a tree with a swing, we would get 10 different pictures from 10 different perspectives. Even with the same offerings, no two pictures would be the same because of differences in experiences, backgrounds, priorities, and viewpoints.
We recently did this as an exercise to remind us that every GKCU member has a different story too. Each one of you has goals, priorities, and dreams, but how you achieve them and the timeline in which you reach them are different. As your credit union and financial partner, we need to remember that when offering you products and services that fit your needs and wallets.
We want you to take advantage of all of the savings available to you, but also understand that your picture may not need it right now.
So during this month of Thanksgiving, we thank you for allowing us to be a part of your story, adding to it in the unique ways you need at the time you need it. After all, we are not just here for one car or one paycheck; we are here for you today, tomorrow, and for your future. ~GKCU
You Jump Around Enough During the Holidays
So add a pep to your step and Skip your December loan payments.
Skip A Pay - Due Friday, November 27
Applications are available at all branches or via our website.
*Certain loans not applicable. Applications must be accompanied with processing fee per loan by Nov. 27 in order to skip December payments. See GKCU for details.
Watch Your Dough Rise
Sitting in Grandma's kitchen, watching her cut, peel, roll, and stir. The wonderful smells that came from her kitchen and the excitement as she asked you to help and maybe even taste-test! She read off a special recipe card sprinkled with remnants of meals past to ensure that the dish turned out exactly as she planned, time and time again. Just like those recipe cards gave her direction and saved her time and money, your financial plan should do the same.
Keep your options open, and your allocations varied when creating a financial recipe. Basic savings accounts are great for emergencies and rainy days, while long-term planning should include certificates of deposit, IRAs, and money market accounts. Each offers a slightly different rate advantage, so compare options based on your needs. Withdrawal limits may also apply, so consider those if you think you will need access to the money sooner rather than later.
Accessing your money for day-to-day needs can mean affordable checking accounts with debit cards and online services. Monthly fees can quickly cut into your earnings if you don't plan for them. Adding overdraft protection and auto-transfers can help avoid embarrassing letdowns.
As economic climates heat up and cool off, remember to stay flexible and able to adjust. And just like Grandma's recipe, be willing to change up ingredients to give it a different flavor every once in a while. Even if you don't like it, you can always write a new recipe for future tastings.
Family Financial Recipe
· Start with an idea of what you want to make. Most financial plans have the same base ingredients: savings, spending, and investing.
· Have a basic savings account with regular deposits. This helps with emergencies, vacations, or 'fun money' for celebrations. As your income increases, increase your savings allocations.
· Put bonuses or unexpected cash into savings until you know what you want to do with it. Once you've earmarked it, put it in checking for spending or into long-term savings for the future.
· Contribute as much as you can to retirement accounts, especially if your employer matches.
· If 'taste-testing' new financial products, start with small amounts and adjust once you've seen at least 3-6 months of results.
*Be flexible. Make goals realistic and attainable. Celebrate the small successes along the way.
Follow Where the Weather Leads You
One of the great things about where we live? We get to enjoy the outdoors well past the summer months. That means beach walks, car rides with the windows down, and sunset cruises on the water. So why not follow the weather's lead and take advantage of great offers from local car and boat dealers?
Why is now a great time to buy? Many dealers are trying to make room for new inventory arriving at the beginning of the year. Special pricing, additional incentives, and add-ons can make this the perfect time to buy. In addition to manufacturer incentives, many local dealers can save you money by helping with sales tax, tags, or warranties.
Trading In? November and December are typically the best months to trade in your current boat or car because dealers need pre-owned inventory. Dealers may be more flexible with trade-in allowances, giving you more purchasing power for your new vehicle.
Finally, purchasing in the last few months gives you time to work your new payments into your family's budget as the new year approaches. You can factor in expenses such as taxes, gas, and maintenance for your annual financial plan.
So let's follow where the weather is leading us. Roll down the windows or cast out your net because the weather is perfect for outdoor adventures this fall.
Set Sail for Warmer Payments
· Do your homework. Research holiday incentives online before going to the dealership. Print out or screenshot offers so you will know where you want to start your buying experience.
· Get pre-approved. Stop by GKCU and talk with a loan officer to get the best rate available to you. This will help when dealing with sales associates at the dealership.
· Don't buy on the spot. Shop. Wait. Negotiate. If the deal isn't what you want or doesn't fit your budget, be okay with walking away.
Ask about warranties and debt protection at the credit union to compare what the dealership offers. Often, they're compatible and affordable when added to your monthly payment.
Stop by GKCU’s Fraser and Pawleys Island branches during November to see boat selections from our friends at The Boat Shed.
TAP! You’re It!
After a slight set back with scheduling, we will begin mailing new debit and credit cards November 18-December 16. They will be mailed in batches, so not all members will receive at the same time. Your current card will remain active until you receive and activate your new TAP cards. (If you have received a new card in the branch, you will not be issued a new card).
(L Top): GKCU's D continues to serves up his community at the WTC's Taste of Williamsburg County. (R Top): All treats for our Andrews staff welcoming kids from Little Smurf's on Halloween. (Middle): Learning the basics at Carvers Bay Middle to brighten their futures. (Bottom L): GKCU's Teena with her Kiwanis friends challenging our friends at Kensington to a reading challenge. (Bottom R): Bunnelle Service Days helping our neighbors with a paintbrush of kindness.
