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When Times Are Tough We Can Help

When Times Are Tough We Can Help

In tough times, it’s more important than ever to develop and maintain good financial habits. Having a household budget and shedding high-rate credit card debt are two obvious things that could benefit most consumers. But figuring out where to start can be a daunting task—especially if you feel like you’re already in trouble. The thing to remember is that it’s never too late to ask the Louisiana USA team for help.

Manage your mortgage

If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) and are facing a rate adjustment, refinancing your home loan with us might be the break you need. If you qualify, you could:

  • Refinance into a fixed-rate 30-year (or shorter-term) mortgage.
  • Refinance into a new ARM that has terms better suited to your situation.

Even if you have a fixed-rate home loan, refinancing may free up some money you could use to:

  • Pay down more expensive debt—credit card bills, for example.
  • Build your emergency fund for unexpected expenses, such as car repairs.
Tap your home's equity

If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) and are facing a rate adjustment, refinancing your home loan with us might be the break you need. If you qualify, you could:

  • Refinance into a fixed-rate 30-year (or shorter-term) mortgage.
  • Refinance into a new ARM that has terms better suited to your situation.

Even if you have a fixed-rate home loan, refinancing may free up some money you could use to:

  • Pay down more expensive debt—credit card bills, for example.
  • Build your emergency fund for unexpected expenses, such as car repairs.
Cut credit card costs

Not all credit cards are created equal. Switch to a credit union credit card—they average more than two percentage points lower than bank credit card interest rates, and often have lower fees as well.

  • Pay on time, no exceptions
  • Whenever possible, pay the balance each month. When you have to stretch payments, pay in as few months as you can manage.
  • Avoid cash advances—the interest rate on these is higher than on straight purchases.
Pass up payday loans

Payday lenders promise to help when you’re short on cash. You’ll get the money you need, but with interest rates from 300% to 1,000%.

  •  We offer payday loan alternatives with fairer terms and lower interest rates, such as short-term signature loans and low-cost cash advances.
Use direct deposit

Direct deposit will help you to save automatically. You simply need to set  a certain amount or a percentage into your checking account and another amount into your savings. It gives you:

  • One less thing to worry about; it’s the safest way to receive your money,
  • An easier and more convenient way to contribute to IRAs (individual retirement accounts) and other savings vehicles, and
  • More control over your money and your time—it’s predictable and dependable.
Steer clear of scams

Some scammers use negative economic news to scare investors into high-risk investments. They use investor fears to promote sketchy schemes with promises of high return and no risk that leave investors with nothing but empty wallets.

  • Hang up on aggressive cold callers
  • Delete unsolicited emails promoting investment opportunities.

As a member-owned not-for-profit institution, we look out for our members’ best interests. Our rates and fees can save members hundreds of dollars annually. Don’t wait until you’re in deep trouble to ask us for a financial checkup. In fact, the earlier you ask for a review, the better the outcome can be.

We’re here to help you!

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Insured by NCUSIF

Our branch is insured by The National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), which provides deposit insurance to protect the accounts of our members.

 

 

Family Eligibility

The family of Louisiana USA members are also eligible to join the credit union and benefit from our products and services. Refer those you love to the baking institution you know will take care of them.

 

 

Additional Services

Night Deposit Box
ATMs
ART (Audio Response Teller)
Account Alerts
Drive-Thru Window
Visa Gift Cards
Notary Services
Safe Deposit Boxes

 

 

Financial Counseling & Continued Education

Our expert staff is always available to assist members with any financial issues or concerns, From designing budgets to improving credit scores, we're here to help!

 

 

Shared Branch Access

Through Shared Branching, a co-op service provided to our members, you can access branches and ATMs across the United States and beyond! Download the app to your phone or visit our Service Center & ATM locator page to find your nearest location.

 

 

Online Services

Monthly Statements
Apply for loans & mortgages
Bill Pay
Direct Deposit
Transfer Money
Mobile Banking