Would you like to be more involved with your credit union? Do you have a strong desire to help AGCU continue to succeed and grow? If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply for a position on the AGCU Board of Directors!
Each member of the Board of Directors is elected by the membership to serve a three-year term. These are unpaid volunteer positions. There are Three 3-year term positions up for election this year.
Applicants must be a member in good standing and at least 18 years of age. Board members are required to attend the monthly board meetings in Springfield, Missouri.
Much more than a catchphrase, our tagline is our passion, our reason why we do what we do. This is the impact of your membership with AGCU. Learn More About Banking with a Purpose
Stay safe, stay joyful, and keep your money where it belongs!
‘Tis the season for festive lights, warm gatherings… and unfortunately, for scammers hoping to cash in on the holiday rush. Before you finish your shopping list, take a moment to protect yourself from the most common holiday scams making the rounds this year.
1. Phishing Emails & Texts
Scammers love the holidays almost as much as we do—because it gives them an excuse to send fake delivery notices, order confirmations, or even “letters from Santa” designed to steal your personal information.
What to do:
Never click unfamiliar links
Don’t download attachments from unknown senders
When in doubt, sign into the retailer’s or shipper’s website directly instead of using links
2. Fake Charities
This is the time of year when generosity shines… and sadly, when fake charities try to take advantage of it.
How to stay safe:
Verify organizations on CharityNavigator.org
Give through the charity’s official website—never through a link sent via message
Be cautious of high-pressure “donate now” tactics
3. Porch Pirates & Package Theft
With millions of packages delivered in December, thieves take advantage of boxes left unattended on porches and doorsteps.
Prevention tips:
Request a signature for high-value packages
Track your deliveries and bring them inside quickly
Consider Amazon Locker locations when sending a gift
4. Bogus Shopping Sites
That too-good-to-be-true price on a popular gift? It probably is too good to be true. Fake online stores pop up every year, collecting money—and sometimes personal data—but delivering nothing.
Think before you click:
Only shop on trusted, known websites
Watch for URL lookalikes (like amaz0n.com vs amazon.com)
Make sure the site uses https://
5. Fake Freebies & Giveaways
“Win a free iPhone!” “Claim your free cruise!” “Holiday gift basket giveaway!” Scammers use social media and text messages to promise outrageous prizes that install malware or harvest your information.
If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Ignore suspicious messages, and never download unfamiliar apps or files.
6. Defunct or Tampered Gift Cards
Gift cards are a popular present—but scammers often sell empty, expired, or previously used cards.
Before buying:
Inspect the card
Make sure the protective sticker and activation code are intact
When in doubt, buy directly from the retailer’s counter or website
7. Fake Seasonal Job Offers
Scammers post “job openings” on social media that lead to fake application portals designed to steal your personal information.
To avoid job scams:
Apply only through official company websites
Avoid any job that asks for upfront fees or unnecessary personal details
Never click “apply” buttons in social media ads
Stay Alert, Stay Safe, and Don’t Get Grinched!
Enjoy the season, but keep an eye out for anything that seems off. A few extra seconds of caution can protect your money and your identity.
And remember…
AGCU will never ask for your personal information by text, email, or unsolicited phone call. If you’re ever unsure, call us directly.
Contact AGCU Member Care: 📞 866-508-AGCU (2428) | Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CT 📧 info@agcu.org 💻 Video Banking
The holiday season is a time for joy, generosity, and connection — but it’s also one of the busiest times of year for scammers. As shopping and online activity surge, so do attempts to trick consumers into sharing personal information, sending money, or clicking malicious links.
At AGCU, we want to help protect you and your family from holiday scams. Most holiday frauds are simply variations of everyday scams that take advantage of increased spending, shipping, and charitable giving. By staying alert and knowing what to look for, you can keep your information — and your holiday — safe.
🛍️ Common Holiday Scams
1. Fake Shopping Websites and “Too-Good-to-Be-True” Deals Scammers create websites or social media posts impersonating major brands. These “spoofing” sites advertise incredible discounts on popular gift items — but the products never arrive. Worse, they’re designed to steal your payment and personal information.
2. Phony Order Confirmations and Coupon Emails Fraudsters send realistic-looking “order confirmation” or “delivery update” emails containing malware links or fake tracking forms. Clicking these links can expose your account details to criminals.
3. Gift Card Fraud Gift cards remain a top holiday scam target. Thieves sometimes tamper with cards in stores or trick people into paying for purchases or donations with gift cards.
4. Fake Charity Appeals Scammers exploit the season of giving by impersonating charities or ministries and pressuring you to donate immediately.
⚠️ Red Flags to Watch For
Huge discounts on “hot” products or limited-time deals from unfamiliar websites
Spelling or formatting errors in emails or online stores
Unsolicited messages asking you to click a link, download an app, or confirm an order
High-pressure tactics urging instant donations or purchases
Any request for payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift card
🧠 How to Protect Yourself
Shop safely. Type the store’s web address directly into your browser instead of clicking email or text links. Use trusted retailers and check for “https://” in the URL.
Pay smart. Use a credit card — not a debit card — when shopping online. Credit cards offer stronger protection and make it easier to dispute fraudulent charges.
Buy gift cards wisely. Purchase directly from the issuing business rather than from retail racks. Register cards when possible and use them promptly.
Stay secure online. Avoid shopping or accessing sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi unless you use a secure VPN.
Verify before you give. If a charity pressures you to donate immediately, that’s a red flag. Legitimate organizations will let you give when you’re ready.
🔐 Smart Cybersecurity Habits for the Holidays
Use strong, unique passwords for every account, and consider a password manager.
Enable biometrics or PINs on your phone and devices to protect against theft.
Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
Watch for suspicious emails or texts — don’t click unknown links or attachments.
Monitor your accounts regularly and set up alerts for new payees or unusual activity.
Keep your software and apps updated — updates often include critical security patches.
By taking small steps now, you can enjoy a safer, stress-free holiday season and protect your financial wellness all year long.
🚨 If You Suspect Fraud
If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud or your cards are lost or stolen, contact us immediately.
Credit Cards
📞 1-800-558-3424 (24/7 assistance) Missionaries unable to dial 800 numbers may call 1-701-461-0125.
Debit Cards
If your debit card is lost or stolen, don’t wait to report it. Call us right away at 866-508-AGCU (2428)
STEP 1
Click here to file a Dispute Form or Call 833-882-0867 Use this number to call in and open a new fraud case on a closed card Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. CST Voicemail after hours and calls are returned by the next business day.
STEP 2:
ALWAYS call AGCU 866-508-2428 for a replacement card after reporting a lost or stolen card and speak with a Member Care Representative. Do not depend on email; speak to a person!
📧 Email & Text Message Safety
AGCU will never solicit you for information relating to your account in an email or over the phone.
The NCUA (National Credit Union Administration) does not have any personal information on our membership. Email posing to be from the NCUA is false and an attempt to obtain your personal financial information.
If you have moved, we may contact you to verify your current address.
If you are suspicious of an email appearing to be from AGCU, please call us to verify its validity.
Remember: The holidays should be filled with joy, not worry. Stay cautious, stay informed, and together we’ll keep “Banking with a Purpose” safe and secure.
Banking With A Purpose
Much more than a catchphrase, our tagline is our passion, our reason why we do what we do. This is the impact of your membership with AGCU. Learn More About Banking with a Purpose
Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, and gratitude — but it’s also the #1 day of the year for home cooking fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). While you’re preparing the turkey and all the trimmings, keep your loved ones (and your home) safe with these simple precautions.
🍳 Cooking and Oven Safety
The heart of every Thanksgiving celebration is the kitchen — but it’s also where most holiday fires start.
Stay in the kitchen: Never leave food unattended when frying, grilling, or broiling. If you need to step away, turn off the stove.
Use timers: Set reminders so you don’t forget what’s cooking.
Keep flammables clear: Move dish towels, food packaging, and oven mitts at least three feet away from the stove.
Turn pot handles inward: Prevent spills and burns by keeping handles turned away from the edge.
Clean before cooking: Remove built-up grease from burners and ovens.
Keep the floor clear: Avoid tripping hazards by removing clutter or stray cords.
Quick action and the right tools can make all the difference.
Smother grease fires: Keep a lid or cookie sheet nearby. Never use water!
Handle oven fires safely: Turn off the oven and keep the door closed.
Have a fire extinguisher ready: A multipurpose (ABC-rated) extinguisher should always be within reach.
Know when to call for help: If a fire gets out of control, get everyone out and call 911.
👨👩👧👦 Keeping Your Family Safe
Small habits help prevent big problems.
Create a kid-free zone: Keep children and pets at least three feet from hot surfaces.
Avoid loose clothing: Roll up sleeves or wear fitted tops while cooking.
Lock away matches and lighters: Store them high and out of reach.
Use battery candles: Flameless candles are a beautiful, safe alternative for your table or windowsills.
🏡 Protect What Matters Most
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. That’s why having the right home insurance coverage matters. AGCU Insurance offers protection for homes, condos, and renters, along with specialized coverage for weddings, valuable items, pets, and more — because peace of mind should always be part of your celebration.
Visit AGCU Insurance or talk with an agent today to review your coverage and make sure you’re fully protected this holiday season.
Building a strong credit history takes time. That’s why it makes sense to adopt good credit habits even if you aren’t planning to apply for new loans in the near future.
To help improve your credit, make sure to pay your bills on time and try to only use a portion of the total credit available to you.
Following a budget, keeping an emergency savings, and avoiding taking on too much debt in the first place can make it easier to care for your credit.
Keeping up a solid credit history and good credit score is a bit like staying in shape—you have to work at it regularly to stay at the top of your game. If you wanted to run a marathon, you wouldn’t wait to start training until it was a month away. Similarly, you don’t want to neglect your credit until you’re about to apply for a major loan.
Understanding payment processing is essential for any modern business. From credit card transactions and debit card payments to mobile wallets, digital wallets, and online payment systems, every transaction flows through a secure network of payment gateways, processors, merchant accounts, and card networks. A strong payment processing solution ensures fast, secure transactions, reduces cart abandonment, improves cash flow, and builds customer trust. At AGCU, we help businesses navigate the complexities of merchant services, PCI DSS compliance, fraud prevention tools, tokenization, and real-time payment trends so they can serve customers with confidence. Whether you run an e-commerce store, small business, ministry, or nonprofit, having the right business payment processing solutions empowers you to accept more payments, protect sensitive data, and keep up with evolving consumer expectations.
Managing debt doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right plan, you can take control of your finances, reduce high-interest balances, and build a path toward financial freedom. Our guide, 13 Steps to Manage Debt, covers everything you need to know—from creating a realistic budget and choosing the best debt payoff strategy (snowball vs. avalanche), to consolidating loans, monitoring your credit, and building an emergency fund. Whether you’re juggling credit cards, student loans, or auto loans, these practical debt management tips will help you avoid costly mistakes and stay on track. Learn how to pay down debt faster, improve your credit score, and protect your financial future with AGCU’s friendly, step-by-step advice.
Scammers are impersonating credit unions and sending fake “AGCU Alerts” text messages to trick members into giving away personal information. Learn how to spot fraudulent texts, avoid phishing links, and protect your AGCU account from identity theft. If you ever receive a suspicious message, never click links or call unknown numbers—contact AGCU directly at 866-508-AGCU or visit agcu.org
for secure account help.
Buying your first home is exciting—but the decisions and jargon can be overwhelming. This plain-English guide walks you through the major loan types AGCU offers, how they work, who they’re best for, and the trade-offs to consider. By the end, you’ll know which options to explore with an AGCU loan officer.
Fixed-Rate vs. Adjustable-Rate (ARM)
Fixed-Rate Mortgage
What it is: Your interest rate (and principal/interest payment) stays the same for the entire term—typically 30 or 15 years.
Best for: Buyers planning to stay put for several years who value payment predictability.
Pros
Monthly payment stability—easier budgeting
Protection if market rates rise
Simple and transparent
Cons
Initial rate is usually higher than an ARM’s intro rate
If rates fall later, you’d need to refinance to benefit
What it is: A lower introductory fixed rate for a set period (1, 5, 6, or 7 years), then the rate adjusts on a schedule (often every year) within caps that limit how much it can change at a time and over the life of the loan.
Best for: Buyers who expect to move, sell, or refinance before the first adjustment—or who can handle payment changes later.
Pros
Lower initial rate and payment
Can save meaningful interest during the fixed period
Cons
Payment can rise after the fixed period
More moving parts to understand (indexes, margins, caps)
Conventional vs. Government-Backed Loans
Conventional (Conforming) Loans
What they are: Mortgages that meet Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac guidelines. Down payments can start as low as 3% for qualified borrowers; Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) applies with <20% down (PMI can typically be removed once you reach ~20% equity).
Best for: Borrowers with solid credit, steady income, and at least some down payment.
Pros
Competitive rates for strong credit profiles
PMI can be canceled—potential long-term savings
Flexible property types and occupancy options
Cons
Stricter credit/income requirements than some government-backed programs
PMI adds to the monthly cost if <20% down initially
Jumbo Conventional
What it is: A conventional loan above the conforming loan limit in your area.
Pros: Can finance higher-priced homes
Cons: Tighter credit, income, and reserve requirements; potentially higher rates
FHA (Federal Housing Administration)
What it is: Government-insured mortgage with more flexible credit and down-payment requirements.
Best for: First-time buyers or those rebuilding credit.
Pros
Lower down payment options
More lenient credit guidelines
Cons
Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) required and can last for the life of the loan (depending on down payment)
Loan and property standards apply
VA (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
What it is: A benefit for eligible Veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses. Often no down payment required.
Pros
No down payment for most purchases
No monthly mortgage insurance
Competitive rates
Cons
VA funding fee may apply (exemptions exist)
VA eligibility required
USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture)
What it is: Zero-down loans for eligible properties in designated rural and some suburban areas; income limits apply.
Pros
No down payment for eligible borrowers
Competitive fixed rates
Cons
Geographic and household income restrictions
Upfront and annual guarantee fees
First Mortgages, Second Mortgages & Home Equity
First Mortgage
Your primary loan used to purchase or refinance the property. Most of the loan types above are first-lien mortgages.
Second Mortgage (Home Equity Loan)
What it is: A fixed-rate, lump-sum loan secured by your home’s equity—on top of your first mortgage.
Best for: One-time expenses (renovations, debt consolidation) when you want a fixed payment and rate.
Pros
Fixed payment and fixed term
Keep your existing first mortgage (and rate) in place
Cons
Adds a second monthly payment
Closing costs and a lien on your home
HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)
What it is: A revolving line secured by your home. Draw as needed during the draw period, then repay during the repayment period. Rates are often variable.
Best for: Ongoing or unpredictable expenses (projects in phases, tuition, emergency fund back-up).
Pros
Flexibility—borrow only what you need, when you need it
Interest may be lower than unsecured credit options
Cons
Payment can change as rates move
Requires discipline to avoid over-borrowing
Your home is collateral
HELOC vs. Second Mortgage, at a glance
Feature
HELOC
Home Equity Loan (2nd)
Funds Access
Draw as needed (like a credit line)
One-time lump sum
Interest
Typically variable
Fixed
Payment
Varies with balance/rate
Fixed for term
Best For
Ongoing/variable needs
One-time, known cost
Refinancing: Rate-and-Term vs. Cash-Out
Rate-and-Term Refinance
What it is: Replace your current mortgage to lower your rate, change your term (30→15 years), or move from ARM to fixed.
Pros
Potentially lower payment or faster payoff
Simplify budgeting with a fixed rate
Cons
Closing costs apply
Extending term can add total interest if you “reset the clock”
Cash-Out Refinance
What it is: Refinance for more than you owe and take the difference in cash, using built-up equity.
Pros
Access to larger funds at mortgage rates
One payment instead of juggling multiple debts
Cons
New, larger loan balance
Closing costs and potentially higher rate
Less equity cushion
Refi Tip: Ask your AGCU loan officer for a break-even analysis (how long it takes your monthly savings to recoup costs).
Special Structures You’ll Hear About
3-2-1 / 2-1 Temporary Buydowns: A seller/builder (or sometimes lender) funds a subsidy to temporarily lower your payment for the first 1–3 years. Your note rate doesn’t change—only your required payment during the buydown period. This can ease your early-year budget while you settle in.
Points/No-Points: You can pay points at closing to lower your rate; or choose a no-points option with a slightly higher rate and lower upfront cost. Which is better depends on how long you’ll keep the loan.
(Availability varies by program and property—your AGCU loan officer will outline current options.)
How to Choose (Simple Decision Guide)
Buying your first home is exciting, but with so many mortgage options, it’s easy to feel a little lost. The good news? You don’t have to be an expert to make the right choice. It all comes down to what fits your lifestyle—how long you think you’ll live in the home, what kind of monthly payment feels comfortable, and how much flexibility you’d like in the future. To help you sort it out, we’ve put together some simple tips on choosing the loan that works best for you.
Step 1: Think about how long you’ll live in the home.
If you’re planning to stay for many years, a fixed-rate mortgage might give you peace of mind with steady payments. If you expect to move or refinance in a few years, an adjustable-rate mortgage could make sense.
“I want absolute payment stability.” → Fixed-Rate Conventional, FHA, VA, or USDA (eligibility dependent)
“I’ll likely move or refi within ~5–7 years.” → Consider an ARM with an intro period that matches your horizon
Step 2: Decide how much flexibility you want.
Government-backed loans (like FHA, VA, or USDA) often have easier requirements, while conventional loans give you more options if you qualify
“My credit/down payment needs flexibility.” → FHA
“I’m a Veteran or eligible service member.” → VA
“The home is in an eligible rural/suburban area.” → USDA
Step 3: Look at your monthly budget.
Ask yourself: Do I want smaller payments now, or the security of knowing my payment will never change? Compare loan terms (like 15-year vs. 30-year) to see what fits your budget.
Step 4: Consider your equity goals.
Do you want to pay your home off faster, or keep your payments lower for more breathing room? Shorter terms build equity quickly, while longer terms free up cash for other needs.
Step 5: Think about future needs.
A HELOC or second mortgage can help if you want flexibility for renovations, tuition, or emergencies down the road. Refinancing later may also give you better rates or terms if life changes.
“I need funds for projects but don’t want to touch my first mortgage.” → HELOC or Home Equity Loan
“Rates dropped and I want to save or switch to fixed.” → Rate-and-Term Refinance
“I need cash for a major goal and have strong equity.” → Cash-Out Refinance (or HELOC/2nd, depending on needs)
Step 6: Ask questions and get advice.
Don’t feel like you need to know it all on your own. Our AGCU Mortgage Team is here to walk you through the options and help you match a loan to your goals and lifestyle.
Quick Pros & Cons Summary
Loan Type
Pros
Cons
Fixed-Rate
Stable payment, simple
Higher initial rate than ARMs
ARM
Lower intro rate, early savings
Payment can rise later
Conventional
PMI can end; great for strong credit
Tighter credit/down-payment needs
FHA
Lower down & flexible credit
MIP adds cost; may last long term
VA
Often $0 down; no monthly MI
VA funding fee may apply; eligibility
USDA
$0 down; competitive rate
Geography & income limits
HELOC
Flexible, draw as needed
Variable rate; discipline required
Home Equity Loan
Fixed rate & payment
Second payment; closing costs
Rate-&-Term Refi
Save money/switch rate type
Costs; may reset term
Cash-Out Refi
Access equity at mortgage rates
Bigger balance; costs; less equity
What Happens Next?
Get pre-approved. You’ll know your price range and show sellers you’re serious.
Compare scenarios. Ask us to model fixed vs. ARM, with and without points, or a buydown.
Choose confidently. We’ll align your loan with your budget, timeline, and goals.
Let’s Talk About Your Mortgage Options
At AGCU, we pair sound guidance with values-driven service. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, tapping equity, or refinancing, our team will walk with you through every step of the process so you can choose wisely.
AGCU is an Equal Housing Lender. Loan programs, terms, and eligibility are subject to change and approval. This guide is for educational purposes and not legal, tax, or financial advice.
Buying your first home is exciting—but the decisions and jargon can be overwhelming. This plain-English guide walks you through the major loan types AGCU offers, how they work, who they’re best for, and the trade-offs to consider. By the end, you’ll know which options to explore with an AGCU loan officer.