Member Newsletter -May 2025
A NEW GKCU Era
Change is never easy, and no one knows that better than a business that has been on the same operating system for 30 years! Even though we have progressed with technology and kept our systems accurate and up-to-date, GKCU will switch to a new core processing system in June. This new system will update our payment, document, and transaction systems, as well as our online, mobile, telephone teller, statements, and bill pay services. So what does this mean for you?
First of all, be assured that this was not a decision we made lightly. We researched and compared many vendors before deciding on one that would meet our needs now and grow with us in the future, too. This system is reliable, secure, and technologyforward. It will make our service more convenient and efficient for you.
As the conversion date approaches (May 30-June 2), prepare by recording account information like balances, statements, and bill pay vendors. Have cash on hand in case you need it for the weekend (limited transactions on debit cards). Make deposits, order checks, and consider loan options before the conversion.
Lastly, be patient. Our team has trained for months to ensure a smooth transition, but your patience and understanding as we actually start working LIVE in the system will make all the difference in the world. So let's pull this conversion train into the station with happy passengers at this new destination. ~ GKCU
She’s in the Driver’s Seat
Moms run up and down the roads, from home to school, from work to ball practice, from cleaners to grocery store, and on and on. She rarely gets to control the radio station and her backseat can quickly tell you what season it is by the shoes on the floor and food in the cup holders. So, shouldn't she deserve a ride that she enjoys being in the driver's seat?
Spring is actually a great time to purchase a new car (or new to you). Dealerships are trying to empty lots to make room for new inventory and are willing to make great deals. Many are even locking in pre-tariff pricing.
When considering a new car, look at models that will grow with you, have a high satisfaction rating, and come with a good warranty. While we recommend buying from local car dealerships, if you are buying from an individual, have a mechanic check out the car before purchasing. Ask for a car fax report to ensure no 'pre-existing' conditions come with the car.
And, of course, make sure you get the highest approval from the ones you'll be driving around the most - the kids!
Before you purchase, check with your credit union to get pre-approved so you know the range of cars you can afford. This planning can save you from running around more than you already are. From all of us at GKCU, thanks, MOMs, for all you do for us!
When’s Summer Break?
We can see a light at the end of the school year, and it screams summer vacation! The last few weeks of school are filled with more activities than we think we can add to one calendar month, but we can bear all things knowing there is some R&R in our future.
So don't wait until the last minute to make those plans. While 'flying by the seats of our pants' sounds great in theory, having a solid vacation plan can help you save your wallet and sanity. Start now by agreeing on where to go. Let everyone in the family have a vote and even give reasons why they picked the location.
Find activities everyone will enjoy and check availability and pricing now (you may even get an 'early bird' discount). Nothing will spend your money faster on vacation than kids with nothing to do.
Lastly, make your time together an annual occurrence. Get a map and mark places you have already visited and the ones you want to visit. Taking time with your family will not only keep you all looking forward to something (and saving!) but also build a lifetime of memories.
Our current Online Bill Pay will stop accepting new payments on May 23. Any payments scheduled for after May 31 will not go through.
Online & Mobile Banking will go down May 30. Enrollments into new online platform can begin June 3. You must enroll for online before downloading the mobile app.
New Online & Mobile Banking:
GKCU's upgrade will include a new online platform (Banno), a new mobile app (GKCU2GO), new telephone teller (i-Talk) and a new bill pay platform (PayRailz).
All systems will go live on June 3 and will require members to enroll / download again. New features include *internal transfers to other GKCU members, * external transfers to other institutions, *auto enrollment for Credit Sense, *compatiblility with financial software, and *better communication with lost/stolen cards or transaction errors. We're excited to have you use these new services.
A busy spring! GKCU has a full month of being out and about in the community. We danced at the Rotary Shag Festival, jumped in to career fairs throughout our two counties, and ran (well cheered on the runners) at the Bridge2Bridge run. Whew, what's next? Scholarships and summer community events!
