Member Newsletter -January 2026
Moving Forward into 2026
Moving forward is something many of us find harder to do than it should be. After all, to move forward, all you have to do is take the next step, putting one step in front of the other until you are moving towards the next destination, goal, or project. As we look forward to the next step in our relationship with you, we will take it one step at a time, with you, until you reach the goal you set out to accomplish.
The new year will bring some exciting changes for GKCU. First, GKCU will switch our debit and credit cards to a new system. This change will make our cards safer and let you use the tap feature. You will get your new cards when your current ones expire, and your card number will stay the same.
Along with new cards, we will keep improving our technology and security with the newest software and equipment. Keeping your account safe is very important to us, so we are adding new servers, equipment, and security programs.
Training and branch operations will remain a focus for us in 2026 as well. Our goal is to deliver the best service while getting you in and out promptly. You can make appointments, apply online, and use our website chat feature to ensure your time is not wasted waiting in our lobbies or online.
So let's take that first step forward together in 2026. We want to make your partnership with us as valuable as possible. Happy New Year from all of us at GKCU.
Get a Jump Start
A new year is a great time to make plans, get organized, and start fresh. This is the perfect chance to get ahead on your tax preparations.
You might wait until the deadline to file your taxes, but getting organized and prepared early has some big benefits.
Getting ready early saves you time. If you keep your tax documents together and easy to find, it’s simpler to share them with your tax preparer or enter them online. Filing accurately can also help you get your refund faster.
Gathering your documents ahead of time gives you a chance to review and update your information. Check your filing status, personal details, withholding, and retirement contributions. You can also choose whether to itemize deductions or use the standard deduction.
As a GKCU member, you get 20% off TurboTax®, whether you file on your own or with help from an expert. You can also save up to $25 on in-person tax prep at H&R Block. File by February 28th to get early-season pricing. Plus, you can enter to win $10,000 in the Tax Time Sweepstakes from Love My Credit Union Rewards.
Take a few minutes now to secure your discount from your phone. Just scan the QR code to get started or visit our credit union website.
Clean Up the Clutter
Now that the holidays are over and we face a new year ahead, here is your opportunity to make some real change to your personal financial system.
Start the new year by making a budget for yourself. It does not have to be anything fancy or detailed; it can even be as simple as a computer spreadsheet. Record all your income and expenses, leaving room for additions/changes throughout the year. Group expenses by categories to see where your money is going, identify potential duplicates, and find ways to save or cut costs altogether.
Stay connected to your accounts. While apps are great for day-to-day account balances, take time each month/quarter to review statements. See maturity dates on investments and loans. Adjust allocations to savings and retirement accounts. Keep all these documents in a central location for quick access in the future or for tax purposes.
Finally, set financial goals. Set up auto-transfers into savings. Give to charities that align with your passions. Allocate unexpected income (i.e., bonuses or refunds) into long-term savings like IRAs or CDs to maximize your return on investment.
Start the year off with a CLEAN financial slate to keep your savings growing all year long.
Watch your nest egg grow!
Ready, Set Grow!
You know your goal - let us help you reach it.
GKCU's Credit Sense, can help you:
Set Credit Goals: Improve Credit Scores
Save More: Refinancing High Interest Loans
Learn More: Resources for making your credit
work for you! Enroll online today.
Serving in our community can look different every day. From serving donuts as a PTO volunteer (Georgetown Middle) to donating teddy bears to the Sheriff's Dept. to teaching kids money management at a career fair (Rosemary Middle), you can be sure your credit union will be there.
