IPH, the non-profit organization formerly known as the Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless, has been serving the needs of the homeless community in Albany and surrounding areas in the Capital Region for more than 35 years.  
 
Without straying from its original mission, and with the help of supporters like SEFCU, IPH is a key organization that collaborates with community partners to provide shelter, day habilitation, access to healthcare and food for individuals struggling with homelessness, rapid rehousing, and short-term housing solutions.

To spotlight financial literacy and learning, SEFCU's Institute for Financial Well-being is challenging individuals to join a financial education session during the month of April. Those who register and attend are eligible for a chance to win a $50 gift card.* 

To celebrate National Giving Hearts Day on February 11, we shared the love virtually with an exclusive Giving for Good vote!

As temperatures plunge across the state – and across the country – the homeless population continues to utilize emergency drop-in shelters to escape the cold. Staying out of the winter elements can be a challenge, especially when the temperature drops to 32 degrees or below and a Code Blue alert has been issued.

There are a few common retirement investment mistakes to keep in mind as you seek to maximize your savings and investments.

When the Buffalo Bills started the season, little did they know that they would finish it as AFC East Champs and just one win away from the Super Bowl. The Bills captured the hearts of football fans in their hometown and across the country. Thanks to fundraising by SEFCU, Buffalo’s playoff run was able to help fill the stomachs of people across Western New York.

In February as we start to think about cupid and hearts, it’s a good time to think about our own heart health. In 2021 SEFCU will continue its support of the American Heart Association (AHA) with a $50,000 grant and partnership on a number of programs throughout the year with the goal of educating underserved populations in the Capital Region about stroke and heart attack signs, symptoms, and prevention, and supporting fundraising events.

As of 2018, about 58 million Americans had a 401(k), while around one-third of households owned an individual retirement account (IRA).^{1, 2} Yet for as commonplace as these retirement accounts can be, the nuances of contributions are a bit more complex. 

A recent survey revealed that four out of every 10 Americans don't believe they'll ever be able to afford to retire.¹ But this pervasive belief may be too pessimistic.

Earlier this week, a new stimulus package was approved granting a third Economic Impact Payment (Stimulus Check) to eligible Americans. Payments will be sent in batches and some members may begin seeing a “pending deposit” as early as today.

An overdraft occurs when (a) there is not enough money in the Available Balance in your checking account at the time a transaction is presented to SEFCU for payment or authorization OR (b) there is not enough money in the Current Balance in your checking account at the time a transaction is “posted” to your account, but in either case SEFCU pays the transaction anyway.

Click here for complete disclosure.

Our year-end program where our Management Team gets the opportunity to select charities to receive a financial donation on their behalf produced a total of $174,500 in funds distributed to 79 different organizations across SEFCU’s footprint. The largest amount of funds ($21,500) went to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY.

We have been notified that members who used H&R Block or TurboTax to file their 2019 tax returns may be experiencing a delay in receiving their second stimulus payment this week. TurboTax has notified affected clients that they began issuing payments to affected clients on January 8, 2021. Both tax preparers have issued guidance on what you can do if you were affected by this issue. We can assure you that if SEFCU is in receipt of your stimulus payment, it will be promptly credited to your account. 

On December 29, the IRS and the Treasury Department began delivering the second round of Economic Impact Payments as part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 to millions of Americans who received the first round of payments earlier this year. 

Frequently Asked Questions

The following information is from  a Treasury Department and IRS press release.

Members are being targeted by scammers sending unsolicited messages that appear to be coming from SEFCU. Remember, never provide or verify financial or confidential information when answering unsolicited calls or by clicking a link in an unsolicited email/text. Scammers use these methods to obtain your personal information. If you receive one of these calls, hang up and call the Member Solutions Center at 800-727-3328 to be certain you are speaking with SEFCU.

ALBANY, N.Y. (Dec 22, 2020) – Every week, more than 325 SEFCU employees receive COVID-19 testing as part of a new partnership between the credit union and the University at Albany.

To help keep their employees and members safe, frontline SEFCU employees who are not displaying COVID-19 symptoms are now able to participate in UAlbany’s pooled surveillance testing program which provides a simple and non-invasive way to test the presence of the virus using a saliva sample.

Donate a New, Unwrapped Toy Today!

Even more than in previous years, some families will struggle to purchase gifts for their children this holiday season. To support the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, SEFCU is accepting new, unwrapped toys through November 30. If you are able, drop off a new, unwrapped toy at one of our locations below. Thank you for your support!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Toys for Tots Collection in Branches Will End November 30

What does the word “needs” mean to you? Some people will associate needs with a desire to feel that summer grass beneath their toes, others will think of that vacation they need to go on using that hard-earned cash they saved. But for SEFCU, and the generosity of our members and employees participating in Giving for Good, evaluating needs in our community gives SEFCU an opportunity to provide essential items to organizations serving some of our most vulnerable neighbors.

SEFCU’s social media pages/platforms are public and intended to be a fun community page where you can learn about SEFCU, its mission, and events. We invite you to comment, ask questions, or share community events on our wall, however you should never post confidential or private information including, but not limited to, account numbers, addresses, Social Security Numbers, passwords, or any other information deemed private. Please note that we do not endorse, nor are we responsible for the accuracy of the information, opinions, claims, or advice shared by other users.

If you have registered for this year’s virtual Annual Meeting on March 24, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time, you will receive an email with Zoom instructions 24 hours before the meeting.

Registration has closed.

Please note that the Zoom Annual Meeting will be closed captioned.

From doing weekly grocery shopping to depositing checks, today’s environment has made people even more inclined to adopt digital ways to tackle their day-to-day. To meet the needs and expectations of mobile-first users, SEFCU is working with Google to introduce digital accounts, which will be available to its customers through Google Pay.

Members who sign-up for these accounts will be able to manage their accounts directly and securely through Google Pay, which will give them access to deeper financial insights and budgeting tools.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. MAKING A PURCHASE WILL NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.

ALL DISPUTES WILL BE RESOLVED SOLELY BY BINDING ARBITRATION AND ENTRANTS WAIVE THE ABILITY TO BRING CLAIMS IN A CLASS ACTION FORMAT.  

SWEEPSTAKES ENTRY PERIOD: The SEFCU Preferred Points ScoreBIG Sweepstakes (the “Sweepstakes”) begins at 12:00:01 AM Eastern Time (“ET”) on Saturday, August 1, 2020 and ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on Saturday, October 31, 2020 (the “Sweepstakes Period”).

This summer, SEFCU continued to support the Metropolitan Community Group with a grant for its summer youth program, a truly life changing experience for children and teens in Albany, many coming from undeserved communities receiving a safe place, an enriched experience, and healthy meals during the summer months.

"Youth today are underexposed to financial literacy information and skills needed to be financially successful adults. SEFCU's workshop was the first introduction to the world of banking for most of our girls. They became familiarized with the language necessary to better understand their banking, saving. and credit options.

SEFCU’s familiar tag line is “Changing Lives Every Day.” That phrase is more than a slogan – it is the description of our organization’s true purpose.
 
While our branches and Member Solutions Center (MSC) will remain open this year, SEFCU is making tomorrow - Friday, June 19 - a company holiday in celebration of Juneteenth, which is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. It is a day that forever changed millions of lives – and the world.
 

Instructions to set up POPMoney

Ways to Make Loan Payments 

SEFCU offers many safe and easy ways to quickly make a loan payment including:

Financial support, continuing to help non-profits acquire necessary supplies, and deploying our staff to volunteer amidst the COVID-19 crisis are some of the ways SEFCU has continued to support the community during the month of May. Our team was ready in March when we jumped in to help the community with financial grants, emergency supplies, and launching Heroes Landing, a respite center for medical staff from Albany hospitals.

Changing Lives Every Day is more than a slogan and now more than ever, SEFCU continues to support the community with necessary supplies, financial support, and volunteers during the COVID-19 crisis. In March we sprung into action quickly, providing $80,000 in financial grants as part of our SEFCU Hunger Support Package, donating emergency supplies to non-profits serving families and youth, and launching Heroes Landing, a respite center for medical staff from Albany-area hospitals.

This is a difficult time for so many in our community and with massive layoffs, many people in the Capital Region are turning to food pantries more than ever to feed themselves and their families. In the month of March, the SEFCU Freight Farm responded to this growing need. Our Freight Farm, which has been in operation since early 2018 at the corporate office at 700 Patroon Creek Blvd in Albany, regularly donates about half of its produce to organizations that have weekly pickups such as the Food Pantries for the Capital District.

Before you take that 0% financing offer let us help you calculate your best financing options. In many cases, when you take advantage of 0% financing, you lose access to valuable manufacturer rebates and incentives.

Here is an example of a 0% offer compared to SEFCU.

Albany Sheriff Craig Apple had a vision to end homelessness in the Capital Region and with guidance from HATAS (Homeless and Travelers Aid Society) and other community partners, the Sheriff’s Homeless Improvement Project (SHIP) was born. After learning about this initiative and touring the facility, SEFCU President & CEO Michael Castellana and Chief Community Officer Kathy Lanni saw this unique approach to serve and support the homeless in our community.  As a result, SEFCU enthusiastically signed on to support the program which officially opened on Monday, April 22.

SEFCU is on a mission to give back every single day of the year, and now more than ever with our communities challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are responding to the emergent needs of non-profits throughout SEFCU’s four regions (Capital Region, Southern Tier, Central NY and Western NY). Non-profits serving youth and families are experiencing higher volumes than usual due to more people visiting their shelters and support service organizations.

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded in our region, SEFCU’s Community Support program launched an application for emergency funds to help non-profits that would be serving increased needs in the community. In adhering to SEFCU’s Giving Guidelines, funds were allocated to support the quickly multiplying numbers of individuals, youth, and families as they began to serve more and more people became financially strapped due to being out of work. 

As we are all aware, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many events in the Capital Region to be postponed or cancelled to adhere to social distancing measures and in conjunction with NYS on PAUSE. Our annual Monopoly^® Tournament to benefit the Center for Disability Services which occurs each May to help raise funds for their life-changing work has been postponed.

Need to update or change your name? Please bring a driver's License or government-issued ID with your new name into one of our SEFCU locations. The ID must have a photo.

If you do not have a new driver’s license or government-issued ID yet, you may use your old driver’s license or government issued ID displaying your old name along with one of the following: 

Here are all the communications we've sent:

Extended Member Solutions Center Hours

To help more members bank from the comfort of their own home, we are extending the Member Solutions Center (MSC) hours to:

Learn more about our banking from home options:

Unfortunately, in times of crisis, scammers may attempt to take advantage of you. SEFCU will never ask you for any confidential information via non-secure email. If you receive an email from SEFCU and are unsure of its legitimacy, contact us immediately. SEFCU has not and will not be sending any communications on behalf of the CDC or WHO requesting information or to download potentially harmful applications. Beware of phone calls and/or emails claiming they are from these organizations. If you are in doubt about who has contacted you, do not provide any requested information.

Beware of fraudulent text messages saying they are from [email protected] stating that “suspicious activity” was detected on their card. These messages are followed by a case number. Messages have also been received from Burns & McDonnell Credit Union.

Giving back to our communities isn’t just something we talk about here at SEFCU; it’s a philosophy we live by. And many times, it’s the small things we all can do that really add up to make a huge impact – like Giving for Good!
 

Emergency contact numbers and tips to remember before, during, and after international travel with your SEFCU debit and credit cards.

FEBRUARY WORD SEARCH

Do our activity for February, 2020

As Cupid works his magic this month, SEFCU continues to work to raise money for, and awareness of, heart disease. You’ll notice our branches are all glowing red this month, staff wore red last week in honor of Go Red for Women, and heart discs are available for sale in memory or honor of someone who is battling cancer. Find out what else SEFCU is doing! 

Tax season is in full swing! Here is some helpful information as you prepare to file your 2020 taxes. When you file your 2020 taxes you will need to provide the date and amount of any Economic Impact (stimulus) Payments you received. This information can be found by logging into online banking or the Mobile app or reviewing previous months' statements. Search tip: Stimulus deposits were made in April/May 2020 and January 2021.

ATMs offer us convenient, easy access to cash especially during hours when banks and credits unions are closed; but it’s important to keep personal safety a priority when using them. Follow these tips to protect yourself and your card information while using ATMs.

If you are enrolled in SEFCU OnLine (online banking), you can access your tax documents via the Mobile app or by logging into SEFCU OnLine. Here’s how: 

SEFCU Mobile app

1. Log into your account using SEFCU’s award-winning app.
2. Click “more” on the bottom of the window.
3. Select "eStatements."
4. Select the “Tax Documents” option from the blue box to view your latest tax documents

SEFCU OnLine

Snowball Fight!

Do our activity for January, 2019

On December 14^th, more than 30 SEFCU employees, along with their family and friends, volunteered their time with Wreaths Across America at Saratoga National Cemetery. Every year, through Wreaths Across America, millions of Americans come together to remember and honor our fallen soldiers by placing wreaths on all of the gravestones in every national cemetery across the country. The goal of this organization and the message for this day is to remember our fallen U.S. veterans, honor those who serve, and teach our children the value of freedom.

Deposits may be dropped off at any branch for processing. For “same-day” processing, deposits must be received by 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and by noon on Saturday. Deposits received after these times will be posted the next business day, as will deposits made on Sunday.

In order to process your deposit quickly and accurately, please follow the guidelines below:

Checks:

Most smartphones and many landline phones are equipped with Caller ID. Unfortunately, scammers can now manipulate caller ID functionality to spoof calls. When a call is spoofed, a specific phone number will appear, even though the caller may be calling from a completely different number. For example, a call showing up as the IRS on your Caller ID, may be a scammer calling with the intent of fraudulently gaining personal information from you. But there are steps you can take to protect yourself.

Click here to read Money Sense  - Smarter Goals article

Keeping your accounts secure is SEFCU’s top priority, but there are also steps you can take to keep your information safe.  

Remember, SEFCU will never contact and ask you to provide: 

Winter Holidays

Do our activity for December, 2019

With just a few days left in the holiday shopping season, many people turn to online shopping to check off the remaining items on their shopping lists. Learn how to protect yourself from fraud with these helpful tips:

Please refer to this list to see what schools are included in SEFCU's school banking program.

Its effect is subtle, yet significant. In retirement, you face a quiet financial threat. Over time, inflation may erode your purchasing power. If you want to maintain your quality of life in retirement, investing to beat inflation may be essential.

As we rely more and more on our on mobile devices for business and personal use, maintaining strong security protocols should be a top priority. It’s important to understand the two main types of mobile security – physical and data – and how you can protect your devices and your data.

Physical Threats

We have been notified that several members have recently received calls and text messages alerting them to “fraudulent” transactions on their debit cards.  The originators of the calls/texts are pretending to be from SEFCU and the phone number used is our toll-free phone number 800-727-3328. These are phishing attempts.
 

Please change my SEFCU share accounts to non-dividend bearing accounts. I understand that SEFCU normally pays dividends on share accounts, as reflected in account disclosures on sefcu.com, in the SEFCU Member Benefits Guide and in the SEFCU Business Benefits Guide and I am requesting that the credit union make an exception in this case.

I understand that under this arrangement my share accounts will not earn dividends and SEFCU will not be required to provide IRS information returns, including the 1099-INT.

For the second year, the American Heart Association (AHA) held one of its signature events, known as CycleNation, at Brown’s Brewery in Troy. Nearly 40 SEFCU employees laced up their cycling sneakers and wore their SEFCU red for the event. The event itself is a two-hour relay event in which riders cycle on stationary (or spin) bikes for 15 minutes, with another team member ready to go to hop on the bike and pedal on. The event helps promotes the American Heart Association’s drive to create awareness about stroke and heart disease.

In addition to saving for retirement, there may be several other major financial goals you'll need to juggle in your lifetime.

This summer, SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being provided free financial education to teens and young adults in more than 15 summer youth programs and summer camps across 10 counties in New York State. The youth employment programs provide teens and young adults an opportunity to gain on-the-job training where they are paid to work approximately 20 hours each week.

It’s human to want each year to be better than the last, but if you’re going to achieve any major improvements – in your health, money, or family life, for instance – there’s no time like right now to lay out a plan for your New Year’s resolution goals. Here are three tips to get a head start.

Recently, SEFCU employees delivered much needed supplies to local and regional shelters and organizations that serve the homeless and those in need. This is all part of SEFCU’s Giving for Good Program.

Back-to-School coloring activity

Do our coloring activity for September, 2019

SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being provided free financial education to teens and young adults participating in summer youth employment programs across New York State. The youth employment programs provide teens and young adults an opportunity to gain on-the-job training where they work approximately 20 hours per week and are paid for those hours. SEFCU worked with participants in these programs to give them a basic understanding of saving, budgeting, and spending now that they are earning what might be their first paycheck.

In the sports world, a mental error can cost your team the big game. When you are investing, a mental error can put your retirement portfolio at risk. Mistakes often result from letting misconceptions and emotions affect your decisions.

Successful investing generally requires logic and reasoning. To avoid a fumble, you may want to guard against these four behavior patterns.

SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being engaged in a new partnership with the Heatly School in Green Island. Over the course of three days, the Institute team visited with the second, fourth, fifth, and sixth grade classes delivering financial education to nearly 60 students.

There are a lot of issues that couples need to think about when tying the knot – wedding preparations, family, and, of course, finances. Addressing personal finance and investment issues before the big day may help improve your odds of being together years later. Keep reading for some financial issues that you might consider when embarking on a matrimonial journey.

Creating a solid financial foundation can help investors stay focused no matter how the markets are performing.

When the markets and the economy are behaving badly, as they tend to do from time to time, it's easy to feel helpless. But creating a solid financial foundation can help you gain control of your investments and possibly avoid mistakes that can sabotage your portfolio.

On June 17, 2019 SEFCU joined area business leaders and the Mayor of Albany Kathy Sheehan to announce the Summer in the City movie lineup at the Palace Theatre in Downtown Albany.

“For the fifth season in a row, the Palace will provide free summer movies, open to the public every Tuesday afternoon during the months of July and August. Thanks to this program, more than 8,000 families and children participated in this program last year,” said Billy Piskutz, Managing Director for the Palace Performing Arts Center.

Researching rates? Visit our resources and rates section.

As part of SEFCU's System Upgrade, you'll notice some changes to your statements going forward. View a sample statement, learn how to access eStatements, and read FAQs below.

A few important reminders:

Looking for calculators to research loan options? Or do you just like math? Either way we have provided a list of various loan calculators to help.

It’s easy to enroll in online banking!

The SEFCU Community team is helping homeless youth get back on their feet and ready for positive steps forward. 

Last month, SEFCU presented a $25,000 grant fund Equinox’s Transitional Living Program (TLP), which provides housing and a variety of support services to homeless youth. The grant will assist with funding dinners and providing bus passes to help youth attend school, work, job interviews, and medical appointments. 

On March 4^th, SEFCU’s community team delivered a $10,000 grant to the Shelters of Saratoga (SOS), an organization that offers a full-continuum of support to those in Saratoga County experiencing homelessness. SOS is taking strides toward providing these individuals with the necessary resources to assist them in finding employment, permanent housing and ultimately building brighter futures for themselves.

In 2018, more than 5,000 individuals attended a learning event across New York State. Attendees were surveyed and reported favorably on both the classes and their instructors. Are you ready to change your financial future and attend a free session?

View 2018 impact report

View current seminars

How Can We Make Car Buying Even Easier?

By offering SEFCU auto loans right at the dealership. SEFCU has developed relationships with more than 200 auto, rv, motorcycle, boat, and sportscraft dealers. Just find make your deal, then apply for a SEFCU loan on the spot. Buying doesn't get any easier!

Check out the following list to see which dealers offer SEFCU financing right at their location. And stay tuned, SEFCU is developing relationships with even more dealers. The next time you buy a vehicle, ask if they offer SEFCU financing.

Option 1: Two People with SEFCU Accounts
Sending money between two SEFCU accounts is the quickest, easiest, and most secure way to transfer money. Funds can be transferred instantly anytime and anywhere with:

To open a Health Savings Account (HSA), an individual must be covered by a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). An HDHP generally costs less than what traditional healthcare coverage costs, so the money that you save on insurance can be put into your HSA.

This afternoon from 3:45pm to 6 pm, iTeller on-the-go will be unavailable while we perform maintenance. Please note that, as usual, any deposits made after 4 p.m. EST will be available at 12:30 p.m. EST the following business day (Standard check holds may apply). iTeller on-the-go deposits made after maintenance is completed will not experience a delay to the availability of the deposits.

If you need to deposit a check during this time, please visit one of our branch locations.

You trust SEFCU to keep your money safe, let SEFCU protect your important valuables, documents, and family heirlooms with a Safe Deposit Box.

Deposit boxes are available at the following locations:

• Patroon Creek, Albany
• SEFCU Square, Schenectady
• Wilton
• Midler Ave., Syracuse

Pricing:

• 5"x5"x18" box size -- $50 per year
• 3"x10"x18" box size -- $55 per year
• 5"x10"x18" box size -- $80per year
• 10"x10"x18" box size -- $120 per year

Looking for information on CDs or to open a CD account? At credit unions we refer to them as Share Certificates. For more information visit our Share Certificates section.

As SEFCU prepares for our System Upgrade, Quicken and QuickBooks users will need to take simple actions leading up to and after the upgrade. Select your version below to view recommended actions.

Quicken instructions:

SEFCU Insurance Agency provides affordable insurance coverage for all your personal needs. Unlike some agents, SEFCU Insurance Agency represents many leading regional and national insurance companies to offer a full range coverage options. Since they’re not limited to one company, they can do the comparison shopping for you to help you find the right insurance coverage at the lowest rate. Some of the insurance products they offer include:

Automobile Insurance

Looking for mortgage rates? SEFCU Mortgage Services provides superior quality service to its members/customers, by offering a full range of mortgage products from the best providers in the mortgage industry.

Explore current mortgage rates

See all of SEFCU's home equity products

If you're looking to deposit money at an ATM you can do so at any of our branch locations as well as certain ATMs in the regions we serve. We have provided instructions on how to identify those particular locations below.

Looking to purchase a new or used motorcycle? We can finance them at SEFCU! Visit our Auto loan pages by clicking the links below for great rates and to apply.

New Car Loan

Used Car Loan

NEW YEAR, NEW WORDS

Play our Smart Sense Game for January, 2019 - NEW YEAR, NEW WORDS

Get Together Word Game

Play our Smart Sense Game for February, 2019 - Get Together

Word Search Game

Play our Smart Sense Game for March, 2019 - Word Search

Word Scramble Game

Play our Smart Sense Game for April, 2019 - Word Scramble

Word Search Game

Play our Smart Sense Game for May, 2019 - Word Search

Coloring Page

Do our coloring activity for June, 2019 - coloring page

Coloring Page

Do our coloring activity for July, 2019 - coloring page

Back to School Trivia

Play our trivia game for August, 2019

March 2021 Statement of Condition

SEFCU will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.

OBJECTIVE/ DESCRIPTION

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) are federal laws that require employers with 15 or more employees to prohibit discrimination against applicants and individuals with disabilities and, when needed, to provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees who are qualified for a job, with or without reasonable accommodations, so that they may perform the essential duties of that job.

Do you have too many coins and not enough time? Use a SEFCU coin sorter and let us count your loose change for you. With coin sorters in many branches, just stop by and we'll do the rest. Have the funds deposited directly into your SEFCU account or exchange your coins for cash. Best of all, we have temporarily waived the 4% fee during the COVID-19 pandemic so all counted coins will be deposited right into your SEFCU account. 

Coin sorters are available at the following branches*:

Capital Region

Make sure important papers don't get in the wrong hands. Shred old bills, account statements, or anything with an account number or Social Security Number on it. Get directions to a branch

PLEASE NOTE: Due to COVID-19 restrictions and for your protection, when you arrive at the branch, park near the shredding truck. A representative from the shredding company will take items to be shred from your vehicle and place in the secure truck. 

SEFCU offers an online Defensive Driving!

• Course taken 100% online
• Up to 4 points reduced on your license
• Course approved by the New York State Department 
  of Motor Vehicles
• No final exam
• Complete the course in English or Spanish!

Get started today!

Looking for interest rates? You can compare all our associated rates in one place.

Resources and Rates

Lia Auto Group

In many cases links to forms may live on the page they are associated with, such as the Direct Deposit form appearing on the Direct Deposit page. We have also created a page with a section for forms and documents that may not appear on one particular page.

There are various pieces of information you might need about your SEFCU account that are requested by other companies, including your employer, insurance providers, or other businesses you work with. Some of this is universal to SEFCU, such as our routing number. Some is unique to you, such as your account number. The face of a check can provide a lot of information:

From time to time you probably receive phone calls from someone you don’t know, but what happens if the caller tells you your Social Security Number (SSN) has been suspended and asks you to provide confidential information to reactivate it? The Federal Trade Commission has received reports about scammers trying to trick people into providing their confidential information by calling and saying their Social Security Number has been suspended. The problem? Social Security Numbers don’t get suspended. 

Who can bank at our school on bank days?
Students who have a SEFCU Savings account can participate in scheduled banking days.

How much is needed to open a school banking account?
SEFCU is committed to our school bankers and will get them started by depositing $1 into the student's new account. You can also open a Smart Sense Share Certificate with as little as $100.

Online Banking, Login, User Login, Sign In, Log in. It's referred to in different ways but we know the most important thing for many people is signing into their online banking account. If you are having a problem finding the login box, please refer to this screenshot of our homepage below.

The local communities that our members call home are the heart and soul of SEFCU. We've dedicated ourselves and our resources to helping your community grow and thrive. At SEFCU, we back our community spirit with active support for the local causes and initiatives that matter to our members. Here you can learn more about SEFCU's community spirit - and how it makes an impact every single day for our members and their communities.

What is Mastercard® SecureCode™?

Mastercard SecureCode is a service to enhance your existing Mastercard account. A private code means added protection against unauthorized use of your card when you shop at participating online retailers.

How does Mastercard SecureCode work?

Is the fraud monitoring service 24 hours a day, or only during a certain time? 

Calls and texts are only made during certain hours so cardholders aren't disrupted late in the evening or early in the morning. Texts will be sent from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the cardholder's time zone. Calls will be made from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the cardholder's time zone. Emails will be sent 24 hours a day. Texts and voice calls pending from the night before will be triggered the following business day at the applicable time noted above. Agents are available for assistance 24/7.

The safety and security of members' information is the number one priority at SEFCU. To ensure that your account remains secure, SEFCU offers a number of ways to help reduce the possibility of fraud.

Fraud Monitoring
In cases where fraudulent credit or debit card use is suspected, SEFCU will notify members who have provided their mobile phone via text message. The message will ask members to reply “yes” or “no” to confirm if the purchase is legitimate and the text should be considered valid - not a phishing attempt.

 We all forget our credentials occasionally. Follow the simple instructions below and you'll be back online in no time!

To reset your password:

 We all forget our credentials occasionally. Follow the simple instructions below and you'll be back online in no time!

To reset your password:

Follow these simple instructions below.

1. Sign into the  Mobile app and tap  the menu next to “Accounts” on your account screen.
2. Click on “eStatements.”
3. Scroll to the bottom of the agreement and disclosure page and click “Submit.”
4. Congratulations, you’re now enrolled in eStatements!

Winter Word Scramble 

Play our Smart Sense Game for December, 2018 - Winter Word Scramble

Gift card purchased before December 24, 2016

Gift card purchased after December 24, 2016

Important credit card disclosures for your review.

Diet books. Fitness apps. Live-streamed exercise classes. They all tell you the same thing: Maintaining good physical health requires discipline and adherence to a few simple habits, such as eating wisely, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. But did you know that the same basic formula can also apply to achieving and managing financial fitness? If you're looking to shed some unwanted financial fat and build a potentially healthy financial future, all you need is a good attitude, a little bit of dedication, and a solid plan to get you on track.

Scammers are spoofing the Social Security Administration's (SSA) 1-800 customer service number to try to get your personal information. If you get a call that looks like it’s from the (SSA), think twice. Spoofing means that scammers can call from anywhere, but they make your caller ID show a different number – often one that looks credible.

Many people begin withdrawing funds from qualified retirement accounts soon after they retire in order to provide annual retirement income. These withdrawals are discretionary in terms of timing and amount until the account holder reaches age 70½. After that, failure to withdraw the required minimum amount annually may result in substantial tax penalties.

Changing jobs? What are you going to do with your retirement savings? Think about this:

Perhaps your doctor, lawyer, and accountant are trusted advisors. Through years of working with them, they have come to know your family and your particular needs. How about your investment representative? Have you built the same kind of trusting relationship with him or her?

After years of investing for retirement and other goals, you may have accumulated a substantial portfolio. If you're approaching or already enjoying retirement, there are important steps that you can take to help ensure that your investment plan – and your nest egg – is on track for your golden years. Keep reading to get tips for retirement planning. 

First the car broke down, then the dishwasher stopped working, and now the dog is sick. Sometimes the old proverb, "When it rains it pours," seems to ring a little too true. When you need money to pay large, unexpected bills, where do you turn?

SEFCU is committed to providing a website that is easy for all members and website visitors to use, including those with disabilities and those using assistive devices. We are continually working to enhance accessibility and usability based on standards recommended by World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) version 2.0 Level AA.

NOTICE: Important Update from SEFCU regarding the coronavirus impacts. Please click here for closings and other details.

Check here for all holiday closings. Visit our Branch Locator for regular hours and more information.

All Branch Locations 2021:

All SEFCU branch locations will be closed on the following 2021 national holidays

SEFCU defines charitable contributions as the donation of money to an organization recognized by the United States Internal Revenue Service as a 501(C)(3) that provides direct services to the community within our footprint. SEFCU’s area of focus for charitable giving is concentrated in the following areas:

With security being among SEFCU's top priorities, we have many features in place to protect your account. Feel confident knowing we keep your information secure on both the computer and on your mobile device.

SEFCU OnLine Security
Learn about the security features in place to keep your account information safe. 

Mobile Security
Whether at home or on the go, you'll have peace of mind knowing our security measures go with you.

You lock the front door to prevent a home robbery, but are you safe from online thieves? Get the information you need to protect yourself when on the Web.

Nowadays we rely on computers for many aspects of our lives. The Internet provides convenient access to shopping, social networking, financial accounts, and much more. Knowing how the personal information you enter is being used and where it is being stored can aid in building awareness to the risks you may be exposed to.

SEFCU's Night Depository Never Sleeps
SEFCU's night depository service gives you access to secure drop-off locations throughout our service areas. We supply you with everything you need - from bags that lock to deposit slips to next-day reconciliation.

Get Started

What can I buy with my first paycheck? Should I open a checking account? Why should I start saving for college, or a car, now? Why is everything I want to buy so expensive? Those are just some of the questions typical teenagers ask as they start thinking about a first job. The concepts of managing money through budgeting, saving, and making wise decisions on spending are often a big unknown for most youth. But, with a direct correlation between financial well-being and success in school, eventual careers, and life, it's important to start understanding these concepts early.

SEFCU's Institute for Financial Well-Being had a unique opportunity to exhibit at the Girls World Expo. Offered in partnership with iHeart Media and sponsored by SEFCU, GirlsWorld Expo is a national movement of one-day events for teenage girls. The Albany Expo was diversely designed to connect young women with their community, empowering them to discover their potential and find their best path to personal and professional success.

Recently, 50 Russell Sage College students participated in a session called "Understanding and Managing Credit" that helped them understand their attitudes about money and discover a system of prioritizing wants and needs.

How will you spend your money in the next few months, or the next year and beyond? It's a good idea to put your goals in writing and create a spending plan that will give you enough money for every day expenses, while helping you save for your goal. Check out five tips for smart spending and saving.

SEFCU's Institute for Financial Well-Being is setting the standard for financial education offered by a credit union. This year, our focus is on advancing the model across the state and nationally to assist organizations in providing credible resources to support member groups, community organizations, and individuals' access to financial education.

Through several summer youth employment programs and camps in the City of Albany, Schenectady County, Syracuse, Buffalo, and Binghamton, SEFCU's team of financial educators will help hundreds of youth understand the importance of financial responsibility and how to achieve it.

SEFCU's Institute for Financial Well-Being was honored with the New York Credit Union Association's 2018 Desjardins Youth Financial Education Award, an award created to recognize model credit union efforts to provide personal finance education concepts and skills to individuals under age 18.

With rates of homelessness going up and temperatures going down, the individuals turning to many of the shelters throughout SEFCU’s geographic footprint may be a little cozier on cold nights, thanks to the outpouring of generous support from the credit union’s employees and members. 

When you use your SEFCU Mastercard^® Credit Card you earn Preferred Points for the purchases you make. Log into SEFCU OnLine to view your Preferred Points balance and redemption options.

Earn points that can be redeemed for merchandise, gift cards, cash back*, and more! Points earned with your Mastercard never expire so you can cash them in as you go along or save up to redeem for a big reward.

Notary Public service is available at any SEFCU branch.

What you'll need:

• A current driver's license or official form of I.D.
• Complete document that requires Notary services
• Please Note: Be sure to sign the document in front of the Notary and not prior

Locate a branch near you.

In accordance with Section 326 of the USA PATRIOT Act, SEFCU is required to take reasonable steps to verify the identity of any potential new account holders, which may include existing members, and maintain records of the documentation used for verification. 

At a minimum, SEFCU is required to obtain the following information prior to account opening or adding a signatory to an account: 

International Service Assessment (ISA) Fee to Appear Separately for Foreign Transactions 

Mastercard^® 

Effective Tuesday, April 14, 2015, purchases, cash advances or ATM withdrawals made in non-U.S. dollars will be converted and billed to your account in U.S. dollars under the operating rules determined by Mastercard.*

If you do not make your deposit in person (for example, if you make your deposit by mail, at an ATM, or a POB location), that deposit will be subject to content verification and SEFCU’s Funds Availability Policy prior to releasing the funds. The first $225 of a deposit will be available on the first business day after the day of the deposit. For example, on a $300 deposit at an ATM on Monday, the first $225 of that deposit will become available on Tuesday, and the remaining $75 will be available on Wednesday. Every day is a business day except Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays. 

Our policy is to not delay the availability of funds that you deposit into your account any longer than necessary. During any required delay, you may not withdraw the funds in cash and we will not use the funds to pay checks that you have written. 

Last month, SEFCU's Institute for Financial Well-Being was honored with the New York Credit Union Association's 2018 Desjardins Youth Financial Education Award, an award created to recognize model credit union efforts to provide personal finance education concepts and skills to individuals under age 18.

How do I transfer a balance from a non-SEFCU credit card to my SEFCU Mastercard^® Credit Card?

From online banking (desktop computer)

To protect our members and fight fraud, SEFCU may limit card access in some foreign countries and states outside the continental U.S. from time to time. If you plan to travel outside the United States, please contact us at 800-727-3328 or 866-317-0335 (SEFCU Mastercard^®), or 866-544-1113 (SEFCU World™ Mastercard Credit Card) to learn where card access may not be available and so your account can be noted that you are traveling.

Wire transfers offer a fast, safe way to move money from one person (or company) to another.

Depending on your line of work or other personal circumstances, there may be a number of reasons why you need to move funds quickly. Wire transfers can help you move money without a hassle. And, with SEFCU's wire transfer process you can authorize your request electronically.

Need to wire money? Here's how!

The Supervisory Committee is responsible for ensuring that the Board and management establish practices and procedures to properly safeguard members' assets. In addition, the Committee is responsible for the annual financial statement audit from a licensed, independent auditor.

Low on Checks?

SEFCU makes it easy to order more. Just order online, contact our Member Solutions Center, or visit any SEFCU branch.

Instructions for Online Check Ordering

1. Log into your SEFCU OnLine account.
2. Click on the "Additional Services" tab from the top menu.
3. Select "Check Ordering Service" from the drop down menu.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to place your order.

Note: If you are ordering for the first time, please contact the Member Solutions Center or visit any SEFCU branch.

Offer your customers the convenience of credit or check card payments. SEFCU’s Merchant Services can make it happen.

Win Instant Customer Loyalty with Easy Payment Options
It's easier than ever to offer customers the option to pay by credit or debit card. SEFCU's Merchant Services can bring this powerful tool to your business, enabling you to accept both credit and debit card transactions, utilize Telecheck, web and wireless services, and gift and payroll cards. Equipment lease and purchase options are also available.

Banking really is a phone call away when you bank by phone with DIAL, SEFCU's automated teller. Access your accounts anytime and anywhere.

Banking From any Touchtone Phone

DIAL, SEFCU's automated teller, lets you access your accounts from any touchtone phone by calling 518-452-2874 or 800-733-2848.

To get started, gather the documents below and stop by any SEFCU branch.

Required Documentation to Open All Business Accounts

• Completed Business Membership Application
• Valid identification for all owners/authorized signers

In addition to the above requirements, further required documentation is listed below.

Sole Proprietor

Working at SEFCU means:

• A career with a focus on personal development and opportunities to help you achieve your purpose.
• Coming to work every day knowing you are making a difference in the lives of our members and communities.
• Being a part of something bigger than yourself...and it begins with YOU!

Our employees are the backbone of our success and our culture. We fulfill SEFCU's commitment to our employees, members, community, and partners by providing outstanding WOW service.

Join the SEFCU team and qualify for a wealth of benefits!

At SEFCU, we recognize and reward the dedication of our employees. That's why employment at SEFCU comes with immediate eligibility for an impressive list of benefits. If you work 20 or more hours per week, you can enjoy:

Direct Deposit Change Notice

Check Reconciliation Form

ACH Stop Payment

Checking Switch Form

Subsequent Action Form

SEFCU Online/SEFCU Banking App Agreement and Disclosure

Identity Theft Worksheet

Privacy Notice

iPay Disclosure

Affidavit of Check Forgery

DIAL Guide

Payroll Deduction Form 

Interested in becoming a SEFCU member? Get started right away by taking our eligibility quiz and completing the online application. You can also download the application form below.

Membership Application

Visit a branch near you

Call 800-727-3328

Member Benefits Guide

Mortgage Pre-Approval Application

Printable Driving Directions to SEFCU Headquarters

Transaction Form - Bank in Person

Business Membership Application

Business Benefits Guide

Transaction Form - Bank By Mail

Unauthorized ACH

Need to update or change your address? You have a few option:

Online

1. Log into SEFCU Online Banking
2. Go to the "Additional Services" tab
3. Click on "Update Personal Information" and follow the instructions.

You can also download this Change of Address form and bring it into any branch.

Visit a branch near you

Call 800-727-3328

Business Loan Application 11-2013

The best way to protect yourself from online fraud is to stay educated. Know how to recognize a scam and avoid becoming a victim.

Phishing 

If you can access the web or check email from your mobile device, you could be at risk.

Smartphone owners are more susceptible to identity theft. Many smartphone owners do not password protect their device, which can store sensitive data such as financial account information. It is also common to connect to public Wi-Fi networks when on the go with your smartphone. Hackers often use or even set up these networks in order to gain access to your device. Use these tips to protect your mobile device:

Banking with your mobile device has never been safer or easier.

Mobile banking uses the same security protocols as home banking. SSL encryption provides a secure channel for data transmission. Users are authenticated by utilizing device registration, username, and password or fingerprint.

With fraud on the rise, it is becoming increasingly more important to protect your information. You can help reduce the likelihood of having your identity stolen by following a few simple steps.

Keep your computer(s) safe by having up-to-date anti-virus and malware protection as well as installing a secure firewall. By configuring your computer to automatically check and install security updates, you'll have peace of mind knowing your computer is safe from harm.

Protect your information by:

What is Spyware? 

Spyware is a type of tracking software installed on your computer that gathers information about your browsing habits, such as websites you visit and how much time you spend there. Most spyware is installed without the user being aware. It can happen while downloading programs from the Internet or installing new software. Spyware may record private information such as usernames and passwords, or account and credit card numbers.

Signs Your Computer May be Infected with Spyware: 

You know your account best. Make it a habit to check it frequently!

Monitor your SEFCU accounts daily with SEFCU OnLine, Mobile app, and Text Banking in order to spot any unauthorized activity as soon as it occurs. The more frequently you check your account transactions, the faster any discrepancies or fraudulent transactions can be rectified. Contact SEFCU immediately if you notice an unauthorized transaction on your account.

Don’t get Fooled by Fake Credit Report Sites
You may have seen websites or received unsolicited emails offering free credit reports. Be aware that some of these online sources may not provide credit reports, but may be using these sites as a way to capture your personal information, like bank account information or Social Security Numbers. Here are some things to look for to keep your data confidential.

What to avoid:

Protect Yourself When Donating Money Online
Donating money online is a convenient way that you can lend a hand, unfortunately it’s also a simple way for scammers to divert your money to them. Here are a few easy tips to remember to make sure your gift is sent to the intended recipient.

Give to Legitimate Charities 
Ask to see the organization’s 990 IRS Form. Charities must file this document with the Internal Revenue Service.

Type the Web Address of the Charity You’d Like to Give to 

Phishing is a method scammers use to obtain confidential information via email and the practice is growing. This new favorite sport of scammers comes in a convincing disguise, making it easy for recipients of these phishing emails to be fooled.

How it Works

New Study: Identity Theft More Prevalent Offline
Did you know you are more at risk of having your identity stolen through traditional means – like loss or theft of your wallet – than online methods such as phishing or spyware?

More Common Than You Think
Although you’ve probably heard many tips about how to protect yourself from online fraud, it is equally important to be aware of common offline scams. Here are some common types of offline fraud.

Scam Artists Go "Phishing" for Financial Information

Phishing is a method scammers use to obtain confidential information via the Internet, and the practice is growing. This new favorite sport of scammers comes in a convincing disguise, making it easy for recipients of phishing emails to be fooled.

“Smishing” Scammers Turn to Text Messaging
Smishing is when fraudsters send text messages to credit union members in an attempt to get account information. The name is derived from Short Messaging Service (SMS) text messages and phishing to form “Smishing.”

The scammers send out a text message to credit union members. The message instructs them to call a number that has been provided because their debit card has been locked.

Guard Your Home Computer Against Spyware
Did you know that 9 out of 10 PCs connected to the Internet are infected with spyware*?
Answer these questions to see if you might be a victim.

Disclaimer for first-time visitors: 

Thank you for visiting SEFCU's Website. 

During your visit, you may choose certain links that can take you to a site hosted by another party. Although SEFCU has identified many of these links as reliable partner sites, please be advised that once you have left our domain, you will no longer be subject to, or under the protection of, the privacy and security policies of SEFCU's Website. We encourage you to read and evaluate the privacy and security policy on any site you may enter.

It's tax time! You can access Turbo Tax by logging into SEFCU OnLine.

1. Login into SEFCU Online
2. On the main menu go to "Manage Money"
3. Click on "My Turbo Tax"

Not Enrolled in SEFCU OnLine?

SEFCU is firmly committed to maintaining the privacy of our members and the confidentiality of their personal and financial information. We recognize your right to privacy and, in turn, accept the responsibility to keep the information you provide to us confidential.

If you think you’re a victim of fraud or may have inadvertently compromised your SEFCU account, you should contact us as soon as possible. 

If you think you've received a phishing email, please forward it to [email protected] so that it can be investigated. Do not click any links within the email. If you have clicked any of the links, please call SEFCU at 800-727-3328. 

If your SEFCU Debit Mastercard or SEFCU Mastercard Credit Card was misplaced or stolen, please call one of the numbers below.

• FOR A LOST/STOLEN SEFCU MASTERCARD DEBIT CARD: 800-727-3328

• FOR A LOST/STOLEN SEFCU MASTERCARD CREDIT CARD: 866-839-3485, OUTSIDE THE U.S. CALL COLLECT 727-570-4881

Since its inception, SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being has provided financial education opportunities for youth each summer, educating more than 1,500 students since 2016 about saving, budgeting, understanding paychecks, and other financial topics. 

SEFCU is bringing this program to life again this summer, with plans to deliver various education sessions throughout the state. Organizations and agencies in Albany, Schenectady, Saratoga, Rensselaer, Onondaga, Tioga, and Erie counties have committed to providing education to the youth they serve.

SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being recently facilitated impactful, fun, and interactive financial education workshops at Goff Middle School in East Greenbush.

This spring, SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being facilitated a four-part series of financial education sessions with the youth of Pretty Girls Rock, (PGR) operated by PGR Foundation, Incorporated in Syracuse, with young women ages 11-18. 

Developing positive habits related to saving and spending money is an ongoing process. Not understanding your habits – especially during the holiday season – can create added expenses and stress. On average it takes about 60 days to change or create a habit, so it’s important to think carefully about what you spend your money on, especially this time of year. By following some simple tips, you can keep your holiday spending in check and develop healthy financial habits.

Security freezes, also known as credit freezes, restrict access to your credit file which makes it harder for fraudsters and identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. Now, you can freeze and unfreeze your credit file for free. 

Did you receive a new computer this holiday season? It’s important to properly configure your home computer before connecting it to the internet to keep it, and your information, secure. Because we input and view so much personally identifiable information on computers, it’s very important to maintain computer security.

The following are important tips that can help to make your computer more secure. When used together, these practices will strengthen your computer’s security and help minimize threats:

Click below to view our organizational commitment to Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employment:

• Equal Opportunity Employment Statement and Reaffirmation of EEO Policy 2019

Click below to view the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s “EEO is the Law” posters and supplemental materials: 

Habits aren’t something that form overnight. It usually takes about 60 days to change a behavior and create a habit. Last month SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being provided tips for healthy holiday spending live on Facebook, but the tips can actually be used year-round to help you develop healthy spending habits.

10 Tips for Healthy Spending

Phishing scams can take many forms. Sometimes scammers use fraudulent emails or texts or mimic websites that you trust to get you to share confidential, personal information – like account numbers, Social Security Numbers, or usernames and passwords. Phishing scammers usually give their targets a false sense of security because they make the text message, email, or website look like one the victim is familiar with. Worst of all, they usually make the message seem extremely urgent or there will be negative consequences.

Protect yourself by following the tips below:

In 2018 more than 5,000 people attended one of SEFCU’s free financial education sessions covering topics like saving, budgeting, and reducing debt. If you’re struggling with one of these topics or others, we want to help you build confidence and learn practical methods for financial improvement. Individuals can click the button below to view upcoming sessions. If your organization would like to offer free sessions to your employees, complete the Financial Request Form at sefcu.com/financial-education.

To con artists, down-on-their-luck relatives, or opportunistic acquaintances, older individuals are a goldmine, and here’s why. People over the age of 50 control 70% of the country’s wealth, and seniors between the ages of 65 and 74, with an average net worth of $1.06 million, have more assets than any other age group. Dementia, disability, and decline can make it even easier for criminals to con older adults out of their money, which is also known as elder abuse. There are many types of scams, unethical businesses, and unscrupulous individuals preying on seniors all the time.

Students in kindergarten, first, and second grade at Cairo-Durham Elementary School learned about saving, budgeting, and spending through innovative programs offered by SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being. In addition to the sessions being fun and informative for the students, one teacher commented how well the content aligns with grade-level curriculum.

For many, tax season equals refund season and there is a temptation to spend the refund on something that falls into the “want” category. However, with more than $3.86 trillion in student loan, auto loan, and credit card debt combined, it’s pretty easy to see that there are more impactful ways a person can use the annual “windfall.”

Experts advise to pay down debt, begin a savings fund, or invest toward retirement as ways to use a tax refund for long-term benefit potential.

SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being recently facilitated a four-part financial education series with clients at the Women’s Opportunity Center in Syracuse where they touched on a number of financial topics. 

The clients, who were 35-70 years old, were active participants in sessions focused on creating a personal spending plan, understanding credit reports and credit scores, finding the meaning of payroll deductions and payroll forms, and developing an effective pay down strategy.

During its annual Government Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C. last week, the Credit Union National Association recognized SEFCU’s ongoing effort to deliver free, dynamic financial education to young people with its Desjardins Award for Youth Financial Education in the more than $1 billion in assets category.

Are you thinking of replacing your phone? Maybe it’s time for an upgrade, or maybe you just like having the newest technology in the palm of your hands. No matter what, you’ll need to know what to do with your old device to safeguard your personal information. 
Since we use our phones so much, there is a lot of personal data on these devices – maybe even more than you realize – including:

Summer vacations are right around the corner! Since digital threats can follow us everywhere make sure you keep your guard up so cyber criminals don’t spoil your well-deserved (and much needed) vacation!

Make sure your devices and web browsers are up-to-date 
WHY: To stay protected against all kinds of threats, make sure your laptops, smartphones, and other devices have the most current software before leaving for vacation. 

Establishing strong passwords is one of the best ways to keep your account information safe. If you aren’t sure how to create secure passwords or need help keeping track of all the different passwords you have, read these tips.

If you’re a recent graduate have you considered a career as a cybersecurity professional? There is currently a huge demand for people training in cybersecurity and you can work almost anywhere in the world. Keep reading to find out if this career is right for you.

It’s no secret that getting away can be very expensive when it involves hotel stays, meals out, theme parks, tourist attractions, and other activities. If your vacation checks some of those boxes then read these tips for reducing the financial strain of getting your summer fun in the sun and keeping it “green” with your cash.

According to Feeding America: Map the Meal Gap 2018, 10.4% of adults and 13.5% of children in the Capital Region are food insecure which means those individuals don’t know where their next meal is coming from. SEFCU is committed to not only meeting immediate food needs by making monetary donations (last year for our year end giving program $300,000 was donated to food pantries and rescue missions), but also investing in sustainable programs which will allow communities and organizations to provide food for those living right in their neighborhoods.

When using SEFCU OnLine, it is important that you feel confident that your account information is safe and secure. Because security is SEFCU’s top priority, we have many features in place to help protect your account. It is also important that you are aware of the security measures that you should follow. Below, we have identified the security features in place and provided some tips about how you can protect your account.

SEFCU Text Banking is secure and enrollment is completed behind the secure login of SEFCU OnLine. Text messages will never contain information about you and will never contain full account numbers.

Review the following information to learn how SEFCU keeps your information safe when using Text Banking:

If you receive a letter from Nationwide Biweekly Administration, please know that it is not endorsed by SEFCU. We did not provide this company with your sensitive information, including your loan number, loan amount or Social Security Number.

If you’re interested in making your mortgage payments more affordable, please call our Member Solutions Center at 800-727-3328. 

Did you know you’re more likely to have your identity stolen offline than online? Your information can be in jeopardy through:

The phone rings. You answer and someone claiming to be a jury coordinator tells you there’s a warrant out for your arrest because you didn’t show up for jury duty.

Do they have your attention?

Usually, demand drafts are perfectly legal. These checks are generated by a third party (no signature required) and can be used to pay a bill. For example, if you buy something over the phone, you may be able to authorize the seller to take the money out of your checking account through a demand draft.

So how does this affect you? Criminals have figured out how to use demand drafts to pay for their purchases on your dime.

If you’ve posted something for sale on the internet, watch out for potential “buyers” out to get your money.

Here’s the scenario: A buyer contacts you and says a friend owes him money, which he’ll use to buy your item. The “friend” sends YOU a cashier’s check worth more than the item you’re selling. You’re asked to cash the check, keep what the buyer owes you, and wire the buyer the remaining funds. Unfortunately, that cashier’s check is fake.

Romance

Scammers have entered the online dating world and chat rooms, in the hopes of sweet-talking you out of your money. Make sure you verify profiles and don’t give out any of your personal details online.

Reshipping

Scammers have come up with another way to get to your money: through your computer. This fraud usually begins with a phone call saying your computer needs to be serviced, and that their company can handle the situation by remotely accessing your computer. Once you let them in, they aren’t actually able to help you, so they offer to refund what you’ve paid them. The catch? They over-refund you, then ask you to repay that overage. Unfortunately, that “refund” never made it to your account.

Are you seeing more pop-up ads on your computer? Have your settings changed, and you can’t reset them? Does your Web browser have components you don’t remember downloading? Is your computer slower than ever? You may have unwittingly downloaded spyware.

Online donations can be an effective way to help those in need. To make sure your money is going where you intended, follow these tips:

Is your inbox full of crazy claims? Scammers have become pretty sophisticated when it comes to getting your attention - and - your sensitive information.

Keep your guard up, especially if you receive an email for:

You know what we’re going to say here: It probably is!

The odds of you having unclaimed money out there, or having won an international lottery are slim. Red flags include:

First there was phishing: scammers using emails to trick people into giving up confidential information. Now there’s also vishing (they con you into calling to verify information) and smishing (same idea, but they contact you via text).

As you start to count down the days until you hit the beach or travel abroad for your summer vacation, make sure you are taking steps to ensure that your dream vacation doesn’t become a nightmare.

Do some research

With smartphones playing a critical role in our everyday lives, personal security is becoming increasingly important. Mobile security is more advanced than ever before, but scammers are also getting smarter in their tactics. 

Print this page

An overdraft occurs when you do not have enough money in the current balance in your account to cover a transaction at the time it is presented to us and posted, but we pay it anyway. We can cover your overdrafts in two different ways:

An overdraft occurs when (a) there is not enough money in the Available Balance in your checking account at the time a transaction is presented to SEFCU for payment or authorization OR (b) there is not enough money in the Current Balance in your checking account at the time a transaction is “posted” to your account, but in either case SEFCU pays the transaction anyway.

Click here for complete disclosure.