LINES
Fall 2021
of Communication
Business Resources When your business thrives, our community rises with you. Meet three members of your Success Team. Dan F., Shane R., and Danielle B. make your financial needs their business. See p. 7.
INSIDE Fall Car Sale is Back! October 16-23 Pay Less with Extra-Low Loan Rates Send Money: Link Family Accounts Free ATMs? 2 Ways to Avoid Fees Fresh Look for Ways You Can Save
2 President/CEO Message
THIS ISSUE 2 Calendar of Events
3 Noteworthy Information
4 Manage Your Money
5 How to Afford More
6 Resources & Support
7 Community & Business
8
President/CEO Message Fall is such a beautiful time of year. It's one of the joys of living in the Capital Region. We may not be out of the woods yet when it comes to COVID-19, but we can still enjoy the spectacular fall foliage. Focusing on the positive is how we approach serving you. We empower members with financial resources, equip local businesses so they can prosper, and support our community so people can thrive. Each time we succeed, we bring our mission to life. I witness the devotion of CAP COM financial professionals to members every day. And I want you to know that we’re here for the long haul to serve you and your family.
As we explore a potential merger with SEFCU, we’re committed to multiplying the impact of that great service while expanding benefits for members and employees. Remember, our financial experts are here to support you at every turn in your life. With rates so low, save money on a big purchase, refinance a loan, or consolidate your debt! Look for tips in this issue and consider a Fresh Look financial review for personal guidance. As autumn chills the air, we’re grateful for the warmth of credit union friends and family. Thank you for choosing CAP COM – it’s a privilege to serve you.
Christopher McKenna President/CEO
Invest in Yourself Learning Resources
BANK ANY WAY YOU LIKE CLICK Bank Online www.capcomfcu.org TAP Get our Mobile Banking App www.capcomfcu.org/mobile CALL Member Services or Automated Phone Banking (800) 634-2340 (518) 458-2195 Headquarters VISIT Neighborhood Branches plus Shared Branches Across the U.S. www.capcomfcu.org/locations Let's Be Friends Join our growing community.
CALENDAR
Blogs: www.capcomfcu.org/blog Audiocasts: www.capcomfcu.org/listen-up Medicare Webinar: www.capcomfcu.org/med Other Webinars: www.capcomfinancial.com/learn
October
November
December
Mon. Oct. 11 Columbus Day - Closed
Mon. Nov. 1 Platinum & Business Visa® Double Points Begins
Fri. Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Closing at 1:00 pm
Thur. Nov. 11 Veterans Day - Closed
Sat. Dec. 25 Christmas - Closed
Tues. Nov. 16 Webinar: Why Invest?
Fri. Dec. 31 Platinum & Business Visa® Double Points End
Sat. Oct. 9 Drawing Contest Deadline Sat. Oct. 16 - Sat. Oct. 23 Fall Car Sale, see page 5
Thur. Oct. 21 Webinar: Retiree Healthcare Wed. Nov. 17 Webinar: Medicare Options Tues. Oct. 26 Webinar: Why Invest? Thur. Nov. 18 Webinar: Retirement Bound Wed. Oct. 27 Webinar: Medicare Options Thur. Nov. 25 Thanksgiving - Closed Thur. Oct. 28 Webinar: Retirement Bound Tues. Nov. 30 Kids Reading Deadline
Federally insured by NCUA
Lines of Communication is published for CAP COM Federal Credit Union members. The Supervisory Committee is the members’ representative. Please address any situations you feel were not handled to your satisfaction by the credit union to: Supervisory Committee, P.O. Box 11279, Albany, NY 12211-0279
Noteworthy Information 3
Merger Update As many of you know, CAP COM and SEFCU are in the early stages of exploring a potential merger. The intent to merge is an agreement in principle. It’s an early step in a rigorous process that will continue over several months, well into next year. You can expect status updates as we fulfill each step, with an explanation of activities involved. We look forward to sharing progress with you! Keep the best, enhance the rest. In the rapidly changing world of financial services, we know that we must continue to innovate solutions with a personal touch. Exceptional service is a must today at CAP COM, as it would be in a newly combined organization with a new name.
3 KEY PRIORITIES The concept that a unified credit union would expand opportunities for everyone involved guides our efforts.
Members Gain Resources & Benefits
Employees Thrive In Their Careers
Communities Benefit From Added Support
RESOURCES We'll share status updates with you about the merger on CAP COM’s digital channels and in newsletters like this one. You can also view FAQs at www.capcomfcu.org/mfaq and we’ll keep adding to it as we go.
STEPS IN THE PROCESS Both credit unions are undertaking a due diligence review that will continue over several months.
HOW TO STAY INFORMED
Preliminary Discussions
Intent to Merge
Due Diligence
Regulatory Review
Member Vote
After due diligence is complete, if CAP COM and SEFCU choose to move forward, a merger application would go to industry regulators. If regulators approve the proposal, CAP COM members would have the opportunity to vote. Before the vote, we'll present the value of a unified, newly branded credit union to members. Your participation in the process is greatly valued!
Please make sure the email and mailing address we have for you are accurate, so we can share merger information with you. You can confirm your address in the settings of your mobile app or online account, or call us at (800) 634-2340 for assistance.
Qualify for Premier
Say Goodbye to ATM Fees
Did you know that withdrawals with your CAP COM Visa ® debit card are free 1 if you qualify for Premier status? Here's how. – Get CAP COM eStatements – Pay 1+ bill monthly with Bill Pay – Keep $1,000 average monthly balance in deposit accounts 1 – Have a CAP COM Visa credit card, credit line, or loan
Why pay to withdraw your own money? Here are 2 ways to avoid fees at the ATM as a CAP COM member. 1) 30,000 ATMs in the U.S. CO-OP Network are surcharge-free! Find locations at www.capcomfcu.org/locations or in the CAP COM app. 2) Every ATM is surcharge-free 2 for members with CAP COM Premier status. See how to Qualify for Premier (left) and get details at www.capcomfcu.org/premier
1) Ending balances are totaled at the end of each day for the prior 30-day period. These totals are averaged to arrive at an average daily share balance. 2) ATM surcharges up to $5 and International Service Assessments incurred when using your CAP COM debit card will be reimbursed.
4 Financial Wellness
Scam Alert Don't fall for this trending rip-off! The bad guys are at it again, calling and sending text messages, even posing as CAP COM's fraud team. Remember, DO NOT provide your PIN, account number, Social Security number, or verify a purchase you didn't make, even if the call or text appears to be "official." "Our Fraud Prevention team might contact you to validate account activity, but never to collect your personal information – especially not your PIN," says Tim O., Senior Financial Crimes Investigator at CAP COM. "Stop and listen to your instincts. And when in doubt, you can always call us." See tips to protect yourself at: www.capcomfcu.org/safe
Refinance: Yes or No? Refinancing a loan could save you money, possibly a lot. When does it make sense for you? 1) You’re paying more on your high-interest loan than if you borrowed today. 2) Interest rates dropped and your loan balance is fairly large. 3) Your credit improved, so you might qualify for a lower loan rate. Details: www.capcomfcu.org/myloan
Manage Your Money
Homebuying Pro Tips New! Experts share their insights with you. If you’re planning to buy a home within the next year, that’s fantastic! Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or already have some practice, tune in to our new Listen Up series of audio tips to prepare. Each segment in our four-part series features professionals who guide homebuyers for a living. Get the inside scoop from financial experts, mortgage officers, and real estate professionals. Episodes include: − Assemble Your Dream Team − From Application to Closing − What’s a Buyer’s Agent? − Top 10 Homebuying Tips Buying a house can be stressful, so learn all you can from experts eager to share their insights. Knowing what to expect makes it easier to prepare. You can check out Listen Up segments at www.capcomfcu.org/listen-up *Mortgage products in New York State only and offered by our Mortgage Team, Homeowners Advantage (HOA), which is a subsidiary of CAP COM FCU. HOA is a Licensed Mortgage Banker – NYS Dept. of Financial Services. HOA NMLS Identifier: 290363. Principal Address: 4 Winners Circle, Albany NY 12205. CAP COM FCU NMLS Identifier: 401261.
In Their Own Words
Fresh Air and a Fresh Look
Fresh Look participants shared feedback about their experience.
Autumn in the Capital Region treats us to cool breezes and vibrant autumn leaves as we experience the wonders of Mother Nature with our senses. We encourage you to use this time to see your finances with fresh eyes. When we debuted our Fresh Look service over the summer, we set out to save people money. And, that's exactly what we did! One couple told us it felt like they won the lottery after they learned they could save $2,000 a month. How does it work? A CAP COM associate looks for ways you can keep more cash in your wallet by reviewing your finances for money-saving opportunities. You can meet by phone, in-person, or via video call. We look for lower-rate loans, higher-yield savings, lower fees, or insurance offered by CAP COM compared to other providers you use. Book your Fresh Look at www.capcomfcu.org/look or (800) 634-2340.
"saved me money" "put me on a better path" "excellent" "left feeling very good" "truly cared" A new perspective can be eye-opening − this service is free!
How to Afford More 5
Where's Your Wallet? It's In Your Phone.
Afford More Fall Car Sale | October 16-23, 2021 15+ Dealerships, Exclusive Member Pricing, Low Loan Rates! CAP COM's popular Fall Car Sale starts Saturday, October 16 and runs through Saturday, October 23. And get this − vehicle loan rates are as low as 1.49%APR1 for model years 2016 and newer (through the end of October)!* Say "goodbye" to nerve-wracking negotiations. CAP COM works with local dealerships for their best deals for members on new and used vehicles. Before you shop, see if you’re already pre-approved for an auto loan! Log in to your account or launch the mobile app and select LoanXpress. Or when you're logged in, select Apply for a Loan. See details and low loan rates at www.capcomfcu.org/autoloan Browse vehicles with pre-negotiated member prices online. Or, you can head right to the dealerships. Get details at www.capcomfcu.org/car-sale Keep your budget happy. You could also save on insurance. Compare quotes at: www.capcomfcu.org/carinsurance
Get Paid to Shop Earn double points on credit card purchases for cash back. Shopping with your CAP COM Visa® Platinum or Business credit card is about to get doubly rewarding. You’ll rack up twice the usual points on your purchases in November and December – perfect for end-of-the-year expenses or holiday shopping! Don’t have a CAP COM credit card yet? You may already be pre-approved! Log in to your online account or mobile app and choose LoanXpress. Or select Apply for a Loan once you're logged in and choose Credit Cards. Visa Platinum cardholders love the low 9.90%APR2 and no annual fee. Just make sure you apply soon, before the holiday shopping season is in full swing. If you’re approved for a Visa Platinum, here's what you’ll get. − 5,000 bonus points on $1,500 spent in the first 90 days ($50 value). − Redeem points for cash, merchandise, a statement credit, etc. Learn more and apply at: www.capcomfcu.org/rewards 1. Annual Percentage Rate. Rates subject to change at any time without notice. Quoted rates include selection of Automatic Payment Plan, actual rate will be based on overall credit worthiness. Representative monthly Auto Loan payment based on a 5-year term at 2.34% fixed APR is $17.64 per $1,000 borrowed. 2. APR is annual percentage rate. When you apply, an application review determines which type of card you may be eligible to receive.
When you're out and about this fall, enjoy the freedom of leaving your cash or cards behind. Go ahead and use the digital wallet on your phone to pay for pumpkin spice treats, caramel apples, and other goodies. Simply add your CAP COM cards to your digital wallet and make secure, touch-free payments wherever you see the contactless transaction symbol. You only need to hover or tap your phone over the point-of-sale terminal to process a payment. A signature is not required. See steps to set up your wallet: at www.capcomfcu.org/wallet
Cash, Just in Case Would you sleep a bit easier if you knew you had access to cash if an unexpected bill arrived, or you were faced with a sudden emergency? One little-known financial solution is a personal line of credit (LOC). Unlike a loan that you receive all at once, you can draw cash from your credit line as you need it. Like a credit card, you repay what you use in monthly payments. The personal LOC is offered in three-, four-, and five-year terms. When rates are as low as they are today, some CAP COM members are using a personal line to consolidate higher-interest debt or pay for modest home improvements. Others set up an LOC but never use it at all. Once you’re approved, it’s there for you – just in case. See if a personal line of credit is right for you at: www.capcomfcu.org/ploc
6 Resources & Support
Mom, Can You Send Money? Did you know you can transfer money to a CAP COM account belonging to a family member or friend? Money is available instantly, making it a nice feature for parents with young adult children living on their own. How to set it up. Log in to your CAP COM account, select Make a Transfer, and: Choose "Add a recipient" Enter recipient’s CAP COM Account Suffix (4 digits) 0090 for primary checking 0000 for primary savings Enter recipient’s Member ID (6 digits) Verify the recipient and receive a confirmation You’ll see the recipient's account in the Transfer dropdown menu in your online account.
Boing! Wrong Email Is your email address on file with CAP COM up to date? Please make sure, so you can receive account updates and benefits information. You can confirm or change your email (and phone number) in the Settings in your online account or mobile app. Or give us a call at (800) 634-2340 and we’ll help you.
Quick Tip Credit Score Myth: Busted "Some people keep balances on their credit cards from month to month, believing it improves their credit score. But, it may do the opposite by impacting your credit limit-to-balance ratio. Better to keep balances low or paid off if you can.” Chris P. Senior Member Relationship Officer
Support BEHIND THE SCENES
Your Contact Center Team
Superior service unites us, and each team has its own vibe. When you call CAP COM during business hours, you'll reach an associate in our local Contact Center. This team overflows with personality, secret talents, and is 100% devoted to serving members − as you’ll see in these fun facts!
27 associates manage incoming calls and pride themselves on great service. 150,000 calls answered so far through early September. 15 amazing years Rebecca S. has devoted to assisting CAP COM members. 52 Filter-Free Friday "talk about anything" team discussions per year. #1 question: "What's my balance?" Tip: Ask us about overdraft protection. 12 secret talents include tap dancing, parallel parking, back flips, whistling. #2 question: "How do I set up a 'fun money' account?" 15 family pets: dogs, cats, hens, including Mary W.'s rooster named Terry. #1 most adorable pet name: Schnooks, aka Mooshie, Dan G.'s cat. #3 question: "Did you change your hold music?" #1 survival skill: Unusually good aim when throwing things (Michael S.) #1 financial tip. Way too many tips vying for #1! Here's one Candace S. shares regularly and lives by: "Pay yourself first and live within your means." Need help with a financial matter? "Reach out to us because it seems there's always a way to help," advises Sydney W. Call us at (800) 634-2340.
Tackle Money Matters Game-winning resources equip 15-25 year-olds for life. While a touchdown in a football game's final seconds can bring fans to their feet, young adults can score with their very own CAP COM account. CAP COM's Young Adult Services provide equipment and coaching for 15–25 year-olds. Gear includes a CAP COM Visa® debit card with free ATM withdrawals,* an online and mobile account, digital budgeting, and more! Our coaching playbook includes videos, resources for affording college, and blogs to help create a game plan for success in money management. For those 18 and under, get in the game for a chance to win $500 and $100 gift cards by entering the Youth Savings Challenge through December. Explore these and other resources at www.capcomfcu.org/ya *ATM surcharges up to $5 and International Service Assessments will be reimbursed.
Community & Business 7
Quick Tip Time-Saving Business Tool Jenny R., owner of A+ MediTrans, consults with Shane R. and Sheri S. of her CAP COM Success Team.
Community
Business Strategies for Success It's Q4, and if you're a business owner, you're ready to end the year strong. However, with the lingering economic effects of COVID-19, it can be difficult to decide whether to invest in a new location, a technology upgrade, fleet vehicles, or hold off on strategic initiatives until things settle down. "Peace of mind for all our business needs" is how Jenny R., owner of A+ MediTrans describes resources provided by CAP COM. Explore ways you can reduce operational costs, save time, and improve efficiencies with a qualified team member. Your Success Team at CAP COM can also help you decide whether a low-cost loan makes sense to help you manage operational costs, cover a funding gap, or support business expansion. Call (800) 468-5500, ext. 2948 or visit www.capcomfcu.org/business
"Time is critical for business owners, so why not deposit checks right from your office or mobile phone? Talk to us about how you can free up time in your busy day with remote deposit capture." Jodi M. Director of Business Operations
"More and more impressed..." "CAP COM helped me purchase my first building so I can upgrade space for my growing businesses. Big thank you to Dan and Shane for top-notch customer service. I could not have done it without the team." Michelle K., Owner Organize Senior Moves
Build, Expand, Grow
3,000+
CAP COM is ranked as a top commercial mortgage lender.
That’s how many children started their school year with backpacks full of school supplies from the CAP COM Cares Foundation − more than ever before.
We’re clearing the way for more Capital Region businesses to buy, build, or expand their bricks and mortar. CAP COM now ranks #5 among the region’s Commercial Mortgage Lenders, up from #10 within just two years! What’s behind this growth? Business owners and executives tell us our responsive team and fast approvals set us apart. That and extremely competitive rates, low commitment fees, no pre-payment penalties, terms up to 15 years, and amortization up to 25 years offer lots of advantages. If you own or run a business, turn to your CAP COM Success Team for cost-effective financial services and support. Call (800) 468-5500, ext. 2948 and get to know us at www.capcomfcu.org/bizteam
Meet 20 Local Difference Makers Learn about the innovative urban farms initiative from Melissa of Schenectady Community Ministries. Scott of Safe, Inc. discusses support for homeless youth. And Rebuilding Together helps disabled and elderly people stay in their homes with repairs and modifications, according to Michelle L. We’re showcasing the efforts of 20 awe-inspiring local nonprofits with a video about each one. These worthy organizations were awarded $5,000 each by the CAP COM Cares Foundation to help support their mission. Brighten your day by meeting the grant winners in our two-minute videos: www.capcomfcu.org/igrant
What’s up next? CAP COM Cares volunteers will pack and deliver hundreds of Thanksgiving meals, provide warm winter coats for kids, and distribute holiday gifts to seniors in our communities. More at: www.capcomfcu.org/community
BIG Benefit Raffle Thank you to all who bought BIG Benefit Raffle tickets to support this year's beneficiary, The Food Pantries of the Capital District. The $10,000 Grand Prize winner is Joseph N. of Delmar. See details and winners of eight other cash prizes at: www.capcomfcu.org/bbr
8 Financial Independence
CAP COM Financial Services 8
Basics of Medicare Do you plan to sign up for Medicare or make changes this year? The Medicare Open Enrollment period is October 15 - December 7. Attend our Basics of Medicare webinar to explore your options. www.capcomfcu.org/med
Healthcare in Retirement If you're planning to retire in the next few years, keep your health in focus. Come to our Healthcare in Retirement webinar to understand Medicare and other solutions available, so you can make informed coverage decisions. www.capcomfinancial.com/rhc
Quick Tip Factor Inflation Into Your Plan "Don't underestimate the effects of inflation on your retirement plan. As a quick example, a $50 bag of groceries today would cost $121 in 30 years at 3% inflation. Can your income keep up?" Steven M. Financial Consultant Watch Steve's 1-minute video at: https://www.capcomfinancial.com/rtip Inflation Income Calculator: https://www.capcomfinancial.com/icalc
Invest Invest in Yourself
Jim F., Financial Consultant, provides personalized guidance.
It can be fun to daydream about life's possibilities, but why stop there? Your hopes and dreams are more than fleeting thoughts. Some of them are real-life goals that deserve an action plan. Where to begin? "Our services help you take steps to invest in yourself – building wealth during your working years, managing your debt, and getting set to retire,” advises John Shartrand, Chief Investment Officer at CAP COM Financial Services. “I encourage you to use our resources to help you learn, plan, and take action to pursue Financial Independence.” If you like to seek information and apply what you learn, browse resources at www.capcomfinancial.com. For a personalized plan, you can meet with a friendly financial professional in-person, by phone, or video.
Resources Attend webinars like Why Invest? at www.capcomfinancial.com/learn Read our weekly blog at www.capcomfinancial.com/blog Listen to the Market Signals podcast at www.capcomfinancial.com/msig Meet with an advisor. Call (518) 782-0209 to make your appointment. − Build a portfolio that's tailored to your goals with regular check-ins. − Try hands-on investing using an online platform with human support. − Get a second opinion on your portfolio or 401(k) allocations. Follow CAP COM Financial Services on social media to stay in the know.
LET US HELP. Embark on your journey toward Financial Independence supported by experienced guides who can help you understand your options. Call (518) 782-0209 to schedule a phone, video, or in-person meeting.
Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. CAP COM Federal Credit Union and CAP COM Financial Services, LLC are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using CAP COM Financial Services, LLC, and may also be employees of CAP COM Federal Credit Union. These products and services being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of CAP COM Federal Credit Union or CAP COM Financial Services. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: Not Insured by NCUA or Any Other Government Agency
Not Credit Union Guaranteed
Not Credit Union Deposits or Obligations
May Lose Value