Your Complete Year-End Financial Checklist
Is your monthly budget still working well for you? Are you stretching some spending categories or finishing each month in the red? Take some time to review your budget and make any necessary changes.
Insurance Check-up New Year Resolution
Make An Insurance Check-Up Your New Year’s Resolution!
Insurance is not a “buy it and forget it” product. An annual check-up on your current insurance policies can result in a healthier policy and a healthier pocketbook.
Regardless of which types of insurance you own now, your coverage will probably need some adjusting over the years. You may even have to purchase new types of insurance that you didn’t need before.
An annual insurance checkup is a smart idea! Considering what new types of coverage you might need and reviewing your current coverage once a year, even if you don’t think there have been any significant changes in your circumstances, will help ensure that you stay adequately protected and avoid any unpleasant surprises if you ever have to file a claim.
To stay on track, do your annual review around the same time each year.
In addition to your routine annual insurance review, you should re-evaluate your coverage any time there is a life event or significant change in your circumstances that either increases or decreases your risk—and, therefore, your need for protection.
Home, Auto, and Property Insurance:
This area of insurance changes frequently which means there could be opportunities to get more coverage and perhaps save money. It isn’t unrealistic to consider getting new bids for all your non-life policies every year to be certain you’re not spending too much or getting too little for your dollar. It is also a good time to make sure your home policy covers any upgrades or additions you’ve made to your home since its original purchase.
Life Insurance:
You might think you already did an in-depth review of your needs when you originally purchased your life insurance policy. At that time, you considered your family’s financial needs, took inflation into consideration, and decided on a coverage amount and term. Yet, every new year brings changes into our lives, such as weddings, births, divorces, new jobs, new roles, variations in salary, etc. These important events should be reflected in your life insurance policy to ensure it is keeping up with your expectations.
Available Insurance Offers and Products
AGCU Insurance offers over 20 different types of insurance. This includes traditional home and auto insurance but also includes other policies like pet and wedding insurance. Here are some of the most popular insurance policies currently offered:
- Auto, Motorcycle, and Scooter
- Boat, ATV, and Recreational Vehicle
- Life
- Home, Condo, and Vacation Homes
- Wedding
- Landlord Policies
- Renters
- Pet
- Valuable Items
- Flood, Sinkhole, and Disaster-related
- Home Warranties
Reviewing your life insurance is not as complicated as you might think. All you have to do is consider the following points:
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- What’s changed in your life since the policy was purchased? Have you gotten married, divorced, or expanded your family? Does the original need the life insurance policy was intended to meet still hold true today?
- Relationships and obligations change over time. Does your beneficiary selection need to be revisited? If so, call 866-508-2428 or 417-447-9356 or Email: insurance@agcu.org, and we will send you the appropriate form.
- Have you changed addresses?
- Your financial circumstances or lifestyle may have changed over the years. Have you acquired more debt or increased your income? For your loved ones’ sake, be sure your policy is keeping track with these changes.
- Have you lost a significant amount of weight or quit smoking? Improving your health is not only good for your life, it might be good for your life insurance coverage. Call us to find out.
- Check the expiration date on your term policy. It’s important to keep track of this so you can extend it if necessary.
Your AGCU insurance professional will be familiar with your current coverage and can provide valuable guidance regarding what you need to stay adequately protected and even how to save money on premiums.
Block out an hour, call an insurance agent, and get answers to these important questions.
What Type of Coverage Do I Have?
How Much Coverage Do I Really Need?
How Can I Lower My Premiums?
What are my deductibles and discounts?
The Best Coverage at the Right Price
In order to ensure that you’re getting the most bang for your buck, AGCU Insurance is dedicated to minimizing fees, loading on discounts, and offering competitive policies. There are a variety of discounts available. These include multi-car, multi-driver, new car, paperless, multi-policy, good student, and many others.
Additionally, AGCU Insurance offers free coverage checkups.
If you live in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, or Texas, Fill out the Quote Request Form at the top of the page, or contact Sherrie and Dee today to obtain a quote!
Phone: 866-508-2428 or 417-447-9356
Email: insurance@agcu.org
If you live outside of those five states, visit the AGCU InsuranceAisle website or call 866-397-4086 for more information.
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
Holiday Skip-a-Pay
Holiday Skip-a-Pay
Need some extra cash this holiday season? You may be eligible to skip your consumer loan payment in November or December!*
Consumer Loans include:
- Auto Loans
- Boat Loans
- Motorcycle Loans
- RV Loans
- Personal Lines of Credit
- Signature Loans
Simply download and fill out the “Holiday Skip-a-Pay” form. Then send it to one of the following:
Email: skipapay@agcu.org
Fax: 417.831.4420
Mail: AGCU (Attn: Skip-a-Pay), PO Box 2328, Springfield, MO 65801
Click here to download the form.
Loans financed elsewhere? You may be able to lower your rate and payment by refinancing with us, and you can delay your first payment up to 30 days.
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
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*CONSUMER CREDIT CARDS, REAL ESTATE LOANS, HELOC LOANS, BUSINESS LOANS, AND BUSINESS CREDIT CARDS ARE EXCLUDED FROM THIS OFFER. Skip-a-Pay Processing fee of $25.00 or 10% of the monthly payment – up to $50.00 (whichever is the greater amount). Maximum of two (2) payments may be skipped per loan, per calendar year. Maximum of four (4) payments may be skipped over the life of the loan. Interest will continue to accumulate on the loan during the month the payment is skipped. All loans must be current to qualify and must have been opened at least 60 days prior to the month of loan payment skipped. Only loans that have had the first monthly payment since origination are eligible for the Holiday Skip-A-Payment program.
If the processing fee is not paid, this offer is void. Offer expires 12/31/2024
Saving for Real Estate Taxes and Insurance Without an Escrow Account
Many homeowners rely on escrow accounts to manage real estate tax and homeowners insurance payments. These accounts allow mortgage servicers to collect a portion of your taxes and insurance along with your monthly mortgage payment, ensuring those big bills are handled on time. However, not all members choose this option—either because they’ve paid off their mortgage, or they’ve received an escrow waiver. If you’re in this situation, here’s how to manage these payments on your own and make the most of your money in the process.
What Is an Escrow Account?
An escrow account is typically required by mortgage lenders to ensure real estate taxes and homeowners insurance are paid on time. Each month, part of your mortgage payment goes into this account, and your lender pays those bills on your behalf when they’re due. It’s a convenient way to break large, annual bills into smaller, more manageable amounts.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Escrow Accounts
Benefits:
- Convenience: With an escrow account, your servicer handles the payments for you. This reduces the number of bills you have to track and ensures you don’t miss a due date.
- Budgeting Help: Breaking large bills into smaller monthly amounts can make it easier to budget and avoid hefty lump sum payments at the end of the year.
Drawbacks:
- No Interest: Most escrow accounts don’t pay interest on the funds sitting there waiting to be used. This means you miss out on potential earnings that your money could generate in a savings account.
- Less Control: Since the lender controls the funds and when payments are made, you have less flexibility with how and when your money is used.
How to Save Without an Escrow Account
If you’ve opted out of escrow, you’ll be responsible for paying your real estate taxes and insurance on your own. Here’s a disciplined approach to make sure you have the money when you need it:
- Open a Dedicated Savings Account: Set up a separate, interest-bearing savings account specifically for real estate taxes and insurance. This way, your money is working for you while it sits, waiting to be used. Click here to see our current interest rates on Hight Yield Checking, CDs, and Money Market Accounts.
- Calculate Your Annual Payments: Estimate your total yearly payments for real estate taxes and homeowners insurance. You can typically get this information from your local tax authority or insurance provider.
- Set Up Automatic Transfers: Divide your total yearly payment by 12, and set up monthly automatic transfers into your dedicated account. This makes saving easier and ensures you’re consistently putting money away.
- Monitor Your Balance: Regularly check your savings account with AGCU Mobile and Online Banking to make sure you’re on track. If there are any changes to your tax or insurance rates, adjust your savings plan accordingly.
- Maximize Interest: Choose an account with a higher interest rate so your savings can grow. While it might not generate huge returns, every little bit helps when preparing for large expenses. Click here to see rates!
- Lower Your Insurance Payment: If you haven’t compared rates in a while, contact AGCU Insurance to see if you can lower your homeowner’s insurance costs.
Discipline Is Key
One of the main challenges of managing these payments without an escrow account is the discipline required to save consistently. If you’re not careful, it can be easy to fall behind on saving and face a large, unexpected bill at the end of the year. A separate savings account with automatic transfers can help avoid this issue.
If you don’t have an escrow account, we highly recommend opening an interest-bearing savings account today. Not only will this help you prepare for your annual real estate tax and insurance bills, but it also allows you to earn interest in the meantime. Talk to one of our Member Services Representatives today about setting up an account that works for you.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a lawyer or accountant for professional advice on managing real estate taxes and insurance.
6 Ways to Enjoy a Budget-Friendly Summer
It’s time for summer vacation, but you don’t want to lose sight of your budget completely. What do you do? Fortunately, we’ve got plenty of tips to help!
2024 AGCU Scholarship Recipients
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – AGCU announced the recipients of our 2024 Scholarships, Thursday, May 2, during the Annual Business Meeting held at AGCU Operations Center.
Every year we award scholarships to a number of Youth Account Members who are graduating from high school and plan to attend an accredited college or university in the fall of their graduation year. It’s just our way of thanking our New Attitudes members who have chosen AGCU as their banking institution. If you would like to learn if you or a loved one qualify for an AGCU Scholarship, contact your local branch!
Meet This Year’s Recipients
Josiah Bonin
$3000 Scholarship
Josiah is graduating from Bonin Homeschool in Namur, Belgium, and plans to attend Southwestern Assemblies of God/Nelson University as a worship arts and jazz major. He is a member of the Conservatory of Namur Jazz Ensemble. Josiah has volunteered in community disaster relief efforts in both Verviers, Belgium, and Lake Charles, Louisiana. He serves on the worship team at his church and will be the worship leader at the upcoming AGWM Western Europe Youth Retreat.
Lauren Melton
$3000 Scholarship
Lauren is graduating from Hillcrest High School in Springfield, Missouri, and plans to attend Southeastern University as a finance major. She is salutatorian of her class, president of National Honor Society, and student body president. Lauren is also a member of her school’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Future Business Leaders of America, and she has qualified for FBLA state. Additionally, she serves on the youth leadership and worship teams at her church.
Truman Griessel
$3000 Scholarship
Truman is graduating from Ozark High School in Ozark, Missouri, and plans to attend Lindenwood University as a communications major with an emphasis in sports broadcasting and media production. He is a member of National Honor Society, DECA, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, as well as Ozark High School’s marching band, jazz band, and wind symphony. Truman serves in the children’s program at his church.
Elyse Rogers
$3000 Scholarship
Elyse is graduating from Classical Conversations Educational Homeschool Cooperative in Springfield, Missouri, and plans to attend Harding University as a pre-medicine/biochemistry major. She is student government treasurer and captain of her speech and debate team. Elyse serves in the children’s ministry at her church, as well as a member of her church choir. She has participated in and won awards in numerous speech and debate tournaments.
James Letterman
$3000 Scholarship
James is graduating from Glendale High School in Springfield, Missouri, and plans to attend Evangel University and study pre-dentistry. He has been on the cross country and track teams throughout his high school career and has obtained leadership positions on the teams. James has been part of the Royal Ranger program at his church for most of his life and earned the Gold Medal of Achievement. He has also participated in various community and church volunteer projects.
Alexander Worthley
$1000 Scholarship
Merrell K. Cooper Memorial Scholarship
Alexander is graduating from Nixa High School in Nixa, Missouri, and plans to attend Evangel University as a pre-medical biology major. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta – Mathematics Honor Society. Alexander is on his school’s cross country and track teams and participates in Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He has earned the Gold Medal of Achievement with Honors in Royal Rangers and serves on the youth worship team at his church.
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
The more you use AGCU for your day-to-day banking needs, the more you help support worthy causes – both locally and worldwide. We donate 10% of our annual earnings to support churches and ministries, educational scholarships and programs, and humanitarian efforts. Every day, we provide financial services to people across the United States and missionaries in 190 countries around the world.
In 2023, together, we donated a total of $379,035
- $104,500 to educational scholarships and programs
- $123,200 to humanitarian efforts
- $147,510 to churches and ministries
- $3,825 to other community needs
5 Reasons To Open A Money Market Account
When you’re trying to save and manage your money, it can be tough to decide the right account to use. Savings accounts are ideal for funds you want to put away for emergency or special purposes, while checking accounts are the way to go for money you’ll spend. But what if you’re looking for something that will help you save with the flexibility to spend?
Look no further than a money market savings account. These are perfect for funds you don’t need immediate access to but may need to withdraw from in the future. Typically, you’ll earn a higher return without the risk of the stock market or the restrictions of a CD.
Here’s a look at the top five reasons to open a money market account
Accessibility of Funds
One of the most attractive features of money market savings accounts is how your funds are “liquid” — they don’t have a maturity date or term requirements. This means you can access money in your account anytime, usually without penalty*
The level of security combined with the ease of accessibility can be ideal if you have occasional, large expenses such as tuition payments, household repairs, or even unexpected medical fess. You’ll simply earn your dividend while waiting for a need to spend.
*withdraw funds up to six times a month with no fees. $10 fee for each withdrawal in excess of six per calendar month
You are in Control
Premier Money Market accounts offer flexibility in how you access funds. In fact, you can make deposits, Write Checks, make withdrawals, and transfer funds into your checking account, so you’re free to use your money in a pinch without any major effort at all!
Whatever purpose you have for your money — whether saving or spending — a money market savings account is an ideal place to keep your funds.
High-Interest Rates
Money market savings accounts offer a rate of return that surpasses your typical savings account. In most cases, the more money you keep in your account, the higher your interest rate is. This is especially beneficial in a rising-rate environment when rates are expected to increase — giving your money the best chance to grow!
Our Premier Money Market Account takes this concept to the next level with a tiered system designed to reward your commitment to saving.
Here’s a breakdown of the four tiers:
Minimum Balance |
Rate |
APY |
| $50,000-$74,999 | 3.50% | 3.56% |
| $75,000-$99,999 | 3.75% | 3.82% |
| $100,000 + | 4.00% | 4.07% |
Security
Funds in your Money Market account are insured by the NCUA up to $250,000. This means you can keep a large sum of money in your account without the risk of losing it to a market crash or a poor choice of investment. It’s a great opportunity to start saving with confidence!
Banking With A Purpose
AGCU shares your values and faith. We provide individuals, ministries, and businesses with the financial tools and knowledge they need to grow and thrive financially so they can transform our world through their generosity.
The money you deposit in AGCU helps churches grow, ministries expand, businesses succeed, and individuals thrive. Whether it’s constructing or remodeling a new church building or funding a home loan, your money is working in the Assemblies of God community.
How to Get Started
Click below to open a Premier Money Market Account or become a member of AGCU!
Speak face-to-face with an AGCU Video Banking Representative from anywhere.
Give it a try today! Video Banking Hours (CST): Mon – Fri: 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Apply through online application.
Do you have questions regarding becoming a member or opening an account? Call (417) 831-4398 or fill out our contact form and we will contact you!
APY=Annual Percentage Yield. APR= Annual Percentage Rate. Offer effective 9/25/23. Up to 6 withdrawals with no fees per calendar month, $10 fee for each withdrawal in excess of six per month. Rate may change at any time. The minimum balance required to open this account is $50,000.00. Minimum average daily balance of $50,000. If, during any month, your average daily balance is below the required minimum, your account will be subject to a minimum balance fee of $10.00 monthly. You must maintain a minimum average daily balance of $50,000.00 in your account to obtain the disclosed annual percentage yield.
Your Membership Matters
12 Days of Impact
At the Assemblies of God Credit Union, your membership actively supports ministry, education, and humanitarian causes. It’s more than just banking; it’s a faith-driven financial partnership we call Banking With A Purpose.
In the spirit of the holidays, let’s celebrate “12 Days of Impact” as we reflect on the incredible contributions your membership at AGCU makes to these and many more initiatives. Your membership truly matters, creating ripples of positive change that resonate far beyond the realms of traditional banking. As we step into the new year, let’s continue to make a difference together.
Convoy of Hope
A humanitarian, faith-based organization on a mission to feed the hungry and bring help and hope to communities in need. Through Disaster Services, Community Events, Agriculture, Women’s Empowerment, and Rural Initiatives, Convoy of Hope impacts lives globally, offering a helping hand where it’s needed the most.
Learn more about Convoy of Hope
AG World Missions
Assemblies of God World Missions (AGWM) finds strength in your commitment to global missions. Your membership supports AGWM in reaching, planting, training, and serving worldwide. Together, we’ve seen countless lives transformed and churches planted, fulfilling the core values of the AG Fellowship. Every 54 seconds, someone comes to Christ, a testament to the impact your faith has globally.
Learn more about Assemblies of God World Missions (AGWM)
AG U.S. Missions
Your commitment to AGCU extends beyond borders, reaching communities within the United States through AG U.S. Missions. By supporting windows like Adult and Teen Challenge, Chaplaincy Ministries, and Intercultural Ministries, your membership becomes a beacon of hope, providing resources and encouragement where it’s needed most.
Learn more about Assemblies of God U.S. Missions
Education: Nurturing Minds, Building Futures
Through AGCU, you’ve empowered educational initiatives, contributing to dozens of colleges, universities, public schools, and private Christian education. Your commitment to scholarship programs, educational materials, and financial education reflects a dedication to nurturing minds and shaping future leaders.
Project Rescue
Your membership takes a stand against human trafficking through support for Project Rescue. This multinational network fights to restore hope to survivors, and your involvement makes a significant impact in the ongoing battle against this global scourge.
Learn more about Project Rescue
YiPoA – Youth in Pursuit of Awakening
Your commitment to the Youth in Pursuit of Awakening (YiPoA) movement is a testament to your dedication to raising a generation that loves Jesus and lives out the gospel. Through events and programs, you’re actively participating in shaping future leaders who will impact the Kingdom.
Learn more about Youth in Pursuit of Awakening (YiPoA)
Fellowship of Christian Athletes
With your membership, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) has the power to use the platform of sport to reach coaches and athletes with the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Your commitment to integrity, serving, teamwork, and excellence resonates through FCA’s mission to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
Learn more about Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
REVFresh
Your benevolence through REVFresh refreshes ministry leaders, addressing personal needs and encouraging generous living. Your partnership supports a culture of support and care, reflecting the values of integrity, accountability, responsibility, and dedication.
Learn more about REVFresh
Springfield Giants
Your support of Springfield Giants Inc. signifies your commitment to character development through competition. The attributes of a Giant—character, accountability, responsibility, and dedication—are instilled in the youth, shaping them into confident future leaders.
Learn more about Springfield Giants
Simply Loved Orphan Care
Through Simply Loved Orphan Care, your membership contributes to projects and funding for orphanages in Eastern Europe. Your support ensures better care and preparation for life after the orphanage, reflecting your commitment to making a difference in the lives of these children.
Learn more about Simply Loved Orphan Care
Light The Way Ministry
Your membership supports Light The Way Ministry, spreading the light and hope of Jesus Christ beyond the church walls. Through gatherings, events, and year-round efforts, your involvement becomes a source of transformation, bringing healings, deliverances, baptisms, salvations, and breakthroughs.
Learn more about Light The Way Ministry
The Young Entrepreneurs Showcase
Your commitment to the Young Entrepreneurs Showcase provides a platform for young people to showcase their talents and entrepreneurial spirit. Through your support, you’re actively nurturing young minds and fostering a culture of innovation.
Learn more about Young Entrepreneurs Showcase
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
Loyalty CD
AGCU Loyalty CD
Your Rates Deserve A Raise!
AGCU’s Loyalty CD offers members a great opportunity to earn high-interest rates! As a member, the longer you have been with AGCU, the higher your interest rate will be.
Member Length |
Minimum Deposit |
Term |
*APR |
*APY |
| 0-9 Years | $2,500.00 | 12 Months | 4.95% | 5.06% |
| 10-19 Years | $2,500.00 | 12 Months | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| 20+ Years | $2,500.00 | 12 Months | 5.35% | 5.48% |
Open an AGCU Certificate of Deposit and lock in a fixed interest rate so you can enjoy the peace of mind of a guaranteed interest rate on the money you save.
Hurry! Offer available for a limited time!
By choosing the Loyalty CD, you not only secure competitive rates but also benefit from the stability and reliability of AGCU. We’re committed to your financial well-being, and this exclusive offering is one of the ways we express our appreciation.
Your Rates Deserve a Raise! Invest in AGCU’s Loyalty CD and watch your CD earnings grow. At AGCU, we value your loyalty and strive to provide you with the best financial solutions. Start maximizing your money’s potential with our Loyalty CD today.
