What's New
Keep up to date on our latest news and announcements.
How to Avoid Buying an "Empty" Gift Card
December 21, 2023
Recent news headlines have been full of warnings about gift card scams, including reports of arrests in CA and AZ involving thousands of tampered gift cards. These timely reports can naturally make any of us hesitant about purchasing gift cards whether it’s for a holiday or other special occasion. Knowledge, however, is power and there are precautions you can take when shopping for gift cards.
Navigating the New Landscape of Student Loan Repayment
October 4, 2023
You may be wondering what is going on with student loans, especially if you are a federal student loan holder. Student loans have undergone many changes over the last few years. For many, student loans can be a significant financial burden, affecting not only the individual’s financial well-being but also their overall quality of life. We’ve outlined some of the changes you need to know and the steps to take to benefit from these adjustments.
Why Would a Scheduled Mortgage Payment Change?
September 20, 2023
Annual Tax and Insurance Account Disclosure Statements and Private Mortgage Insurance Disclosures can be confusing for new and seasoned homeowners alike. A mortgage escrow account is where part of your monthly loan payment is deposited to cover some of the costs associated with home ownership.
Don't Get Caught in a P2P Scam
August 16th, 2023
P2P (or Peer-to-Peer) platforms are super-convenient. But P2P scams are rampant and varied. Plus, once money is transferred, it’s usually gone forever.
Here are five P2P scams to beware of:
Three Job Interview Mindsets
June 6th, 2023
It’s the night before the interview. Your outfit is all laid out, your resumé is hot off the press and you’ve Google-Mapped your route. You’ve done your company research and you’ve practiced answering the tough questions. You are perfectly prepared—and you still feel like a nervous wreck.
That’s because, although we’re generally pretty good at anticipating and preparing for external challenges, we tend to be somewhat less great at anticipating internal challenges.
What Should Be On My Financial To-Do List This Spring?
May 5, 2023
Let's review some ways you can improve your money management this time of year. As you sift through the junk in your home, do the same for your finances. Review your budget to cut extra expenses that are cluttering it up, like subscriptions you don’t use or upgraded apps you don’t need.
Meet David Shadburne
April 11, 2023
We’re excited to introduce David Shadburne, as our new Chief Executive Officer and President of MidWest America Federal Credit Union. He has moved here from the Louisville, KY area and we asked him to share some information about himself so the membership could get to know him a little more.
Ultimate ID® Plus
April 3, 2023
On March 1st, our Identity Theft Coverage product was upgraded from Ultimate ID® to Ultimate ID® Plus at no additional cost (still $5/month) to our members. All of the existing protection services PLUS a number of upgrades are included in the new plan.
Your Money Is Safe With Us
March 14, 2023
The federal government takeover of California-based Silicon Valley Bank [SVB] ($205 billion assets) on Friday was the second largest U.S. bank failure, and Sunday’s failure of New York-based Signature Bank ($110 billion assets) was the third largest. These banks focused a lot on technology start-ups and cryptocurrency respectively. MidWest America Federal Credit Union’s members should know that we are a safe place to save money.
What Should I Look For In My Credit Report?
February 23, 2023
Now is a great time to get a copy of your credit report and go over it with a fine-toothed comb. It’ll help you keep on top of your finances, let you know if you should refinance your debt at a lower interest rate and give you an idea of how to use your upcoming tax refund (if you are getting one) this year.
The Post-Holiday Recovery Guide
January 6, 2023
The holidays are over, and if you’ve gone over budget with your spending, it’s time to deal with the aftermath. Instead of living in a financial deficit, take steps to repair your budget as soon as the last guest leaves.
Here’s
how you can get your budget back on track for the new year.
Avoid Gift Card Scams
December 13, 2022
Everyone loves a gift card for their favorite retailer or restaurant. It’s like getting money to spend in any way you please! Unfortunately, scammers also love gift cards, but for all the wrong reasons: They often use gift cards to pull off scams. Here’s what you need to know about gift card scams and how to avoid them.
How to Budget in Times of Inflation
November 8, 2022
With inflation at record highs, many Americans are finding it difficult to stick to a budget. After all, when groceries have leapt in price and household staples can be double, or even triple, what they cost just a year ago, how can the same amount of money get you through the month?
Sticking to a budget during times of high inflation is challenging – but not impossible. Here are five ways to budget while in times of inflation.
Rising Interest Rates
August 25, 2022
Let’s take a deeper look at what the current economic circumstances mean for the average consumer as well as steps you can take to protect your investments and manage your money in the most optimal manner.
It's A Money Thing - Financial Education For All Ages
July 7, 2022
When our Growing Up MidWest club began we looked for content for our oldest youths in the program and came across It’s A Money Thing. In this series of short videos, viewers join main character Jen on her journey to understand everything there is to know about money.
Summer Budgeting
June 16, 2022
Ahh…summer! The season of flip-flops and sunscreen, of lemonade and baseball games. What’s not to love about summer? Unfortunately, though, this time of year is also the season of overspending for many.
4 Home Improvement Projects with High ROI
June 10, 2022
Being a homeowner can be an extremely rewarding experience and adding your own personal touch to your home gives you a sense of pride and individuality. By making updates to your home, you’re not just making your life better in the short term. You’re also making an investment in your future.
Spotting Bad Links
June 2, 2022
Phishing and other forms of online fraud are becoming more and more prevalent in daily life. Recently, one of our very own members came across a phishing attempt that almost cost a sizeable amount of money.
Senior Scams
April 27, 2022
Door-to-door scams are among the most common crimes against people 60 and older. Why so? Retirement-age folks are more likely to be home to answer the door during the day. Usually raised to be polite, they're less likely to slam the door. And when scammed, they're less likely to report it to police or other authorities.
"Thank You For Your Payment" Scams
March 31, 2022
We’ve all heard the term Phishing before. Phishing typically occurs in an email or text where a scammer tries to get you to give them your information. They may ask you to click a link that seems legitimate and enter account information. Sometimes the page contains other security risks. However, now, we’re seeing scammers with a new type of phishing: the “Thank You for Your Payment” Scam.
Romance Scams
February 14, 2022
The way to your heart is not through your wallet. Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love, but it’s also a good time to remind you about Romance Scams.
Wintertime Scams
January 5, 2022
Tis the season for scams during the holidays, but the wintertime also brings its own set of scams and fraud to watch out for.
Tips for Tracking Stimulus Deposits
By: Emily Vannette
January 28, 2021
At the end of 2020, the US government approved a second round of stimulus deposits, which many of us received at the beginning of this year. Some haven’t received their funds yet due to various delays and with the possibility of yet another round of stimulus deposits still ahead, we wanted to take the opportunity to educate you about how to track those stimulus deposits.
True Tales from the Credit Union - Unexpected Protection
By: Kristi Hart
December 28, 2020
When sorting through my weekly stack of mail on Saturday, I found myself shredding solicitation after solicitation. The last envelope in my stack stopped me in my tracks. It was an actual debit card issued in my name. The debit card was issued by a national bank and was the result of an unemployment claim filed in Ohio in my name.
True Tales from the Credit Union - At My Door
By: Susan Goree
December 11, 2020
Recently, a member called with a mortgage question and I felt our discussion may be helpful to other members who have closed mortgages with MidWest America. When we close a 1st mortgage, other companies use the basic public information of the loan and try to send mail offers for life insurance coverage on the mortgage loan (see Fraud Blog – Part 4 for more details). They use our name and/or logo to make it appear to the member that it is something WE are offering.
International Credit Union Day in 2020
By: Emily Jones
October 13, 2020
2020 has been a year unlike any other for most of us. It’s been a year where steady industries have stopped altogether, where millions have lost jobs and/or wages and where people have lost loved ones to a disease that has made the whole world stop and take notice. In 2020, we’ve had to change the way we serve you.
Know Fraud to Stop Fraud - Part 7
By: Emily Jones
July 16, 2020
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, scammers are finding new ways to reach out to potential victims. We’d like you to be informed and on-guard against those seeking to obtain your personally identifiable information. The Office of Inspector General has recently published information alerting small business owners of fraud attempts during these economically difficult times.
Know Fraud to Stop Fraud - Part 6
By: Laura Byerly and Freddie Mac
March 31, 2020
Freddie Mac recently contacted us about a scam where homeowners get a phone call that appears to be coming from “Freddie Mac” – but the caller is an impostor as Freddie Mac does not directly contact homeowners. This scam is known as spoofing.
Know Fraud to Stop Fraud - Part 5
By: Emily Jones
March 18, 2020
Scammers are known for taking advantage of people by using fear and the recent pandemic of Coronavirus (COVID-19) is no different. The outbreak is an unprecedented global event that is inspiring all sorts of people to cash in on the fraud. Here are some examples we’ve found and ways you can protect yourself.
Know Fraud to Stop Fraud - Part 4
By: Eric Bendes
March 6, 2020
Congratulations!!! You have recently closed a mortgage. Maybe it is on your first home? Maybe it was a refinance to save you interest or get cash out for that remodel project? Whichever your reason for a mortgage, it can open you up for solicitation from other companies.
Electric Legacy: The Story of General Electric in Fort Wayne
By: Greg Mohr
February 21, 2020
On behalf of our members, MidWest America FCU is proud to be the title sponsor of the upcoming PBS special "Electric Legacy: The Story of General Electric in Fort Wayne." This new documentary production from PBS Fort Wayne, will take the viewer on a journey through 140 years of Fort Wayne history, connecting people, places, and events in American history.
Let Us Give You an Umbrella in Troubling Times
By: Jim Melvin
September 27, 2019
One of our goals as a Credit Union is to help any and all members who may need assistance during troubling times. MidWest America wants to be there for you, our members, and we have unique assistance programs in place that can be individualized for each member in need depending on the circumstance.
An Alternative to a Debit Card
By: Debby Bloom
May 16, 2019
Have you ever found yourself wanting to use a Debit Card for an online purchase, but were unsure of the seller and afraid to give out your full card number? Or you’ve already had your identity stolen and you’re leery of giving out your new card number?
4 Questions to Answer Before Using Equity to Fund Home Improvements
By: Kristi Hart
April 25, 2019
Being a homeowner comes with a constant need for repairs and maintenance on your home and sometimes funding these repairs can leave you looking for another way to pay for them. I see offers all the time using creative financing to use the value of your home to pay for a new pool or new kitchen, but is it really a good idea? Using the equity in your home to fund home improvements is generally a great idea as long as you keep these 4 things in mind.
Know Fraud to Stop Fraud - Part 3
By: Robb Roehrman
March 21, 2019
You hear about all kinds of scams on the news. The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) says that the number of fraudulent wire transfer scams reported to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center increased by 480% in 2016 and was reported in all 50 states.
Important Tax Time Reminders
By: Emily Jones
January 18, 2019
It’s tax refund time again. Whether you’re planning to take a special vacation, paying off bills or just saving for a rainy day, here are a few tips to remember regarding refunds that are direct deposited.
We are More Than Just a Bank
By: Emily Jones
October 1, 2018
It’s a bold statement we are making in our newest ads, but to really understand what that means you have to understand what a credit union is and why the difference is important.
8 Things to Consider Before Opening a Checking Account
By: Emily Jones
July 19, 2018
When the time comes to open a new checking account the best thing you can do is research. These questions will get you thinking about what you want from your financial institution and what they can offer you.
Know Fraud to Stop Fraud - Part 2
By: Michelle Purcell
July 7, 2018
Fraud is a constant risk and increasing in frequency. Odds are you or someone you know has had someone attempt to scam them or may have even succeeded. There are many types of fraudulent activity but today I’ll be discussing two types of fraudulent scams: Sweetheart Scams and Phishing Attacks.
Know Fraud to Stop Fraud - Part 1
By: Emily Jones
May 18, 2018
This is the first part in a new multi-part series of blog posts about fraud. We want to arm you with the knowledge to prevent it because the more people that are aware of fraud, the less they will fall victim to it.
Good Things to Come to Those Who Rate
By: Michael Buchmeier
April 3, 2018
There has been a lot of criticism in recent years over savings interest rates. Some of us remember when 1% was low for a savings account. Unfortunately, even as the economy slowly improves, rates are unlikely to rise very high. A better understanding of rates will help you be more financially successful.
Invalid Account Numbers
By: Robin Biddle
February 8, 2018
February is here and that means most people are getting a start on their taxes or at least starting to think about it. Did you know, according to the IRS, 8 out of 10 taxpayers get their income tax refunds via direct deposit? Which makes now a great time to confirm your account number with MidWest America to make sure your refund is going into the right share and account.
Goals for 2018
By: Lacey Andrews-Norvell
December 27, 2017
With the New Year a couple of days away, now is a great time to start thinking about what goals you want to accomplish in 2018. There is no question that having goals is important. Without them, what would we have to strive for? But what comes before the flag on top of the mountain—the journey.
Statement of Fact
By: Michael Buchmeier
December 13, 2017
As the end of 2017 approaches, it’s a wonderful time to start organizing your financial paperwork and to reconcile your statements for tax season and beyond. Are you a little lost about what to do with your statements or how to reconcile them? We’re here to help get you organized for 2018!
Skip for Santa
By: Caleb Herring
November 30, 2017
For many, spending extra money during the holiday season is as inevitable as paying taxes. For me personally, I get much more excited about giving gifts than I do about receiving them. While there is a lot of joy in giving gifts, it is not as much fun if you're spending more than your normal budget allows.
Gratefulness & Giving Back
By: Emily Jones
November 22, 2017
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” Charles Dickens
Sometimes I have days when the hustle and bustle of life gets to me and makes the efforts I put in feel insignificant or useless as Dickens puts it. The daily routine starts to feel draining, like I’m just going through the motions only to start over the next day and do it all again.
Here Comes the Holidays & The Stress
By: Austin Fox
November 9, 2017
It’s here! Christmas Season! Okay, we all know that Christmas season shouldn’t technically start until after Thanksgiving, but as consumers, we are already out looking for those good deals to get our family and friends come December 25th.
Wrestling with Financial Discipline
By: Michael Buchmeier
October 26, 2017
Over my years of working at the credit union I’ve had numerous people say they don’t keep money is their checking account because if it is there they will spend it. I once had a friend ask me how I stay disciplined. A lot of it I can draw comparisons to when I wrestled in high school. It’s a lifestyle.
What is International Credit Union Day?
By: Emily Jones
October 13, 2017
The theme for International Credit Union Day 2017 is “Dreams Thrive Here,” and MidWest America wants to be the bridge that allows people to achieve their biggest dreams in life. Whether that’s a new car, your own business, a college education, a retirement RV, your own home or anything really.
The Credit Union
By: Greg Mohr
October 4, 2017
My name is Greg Mohr and as President/CEO of MidWest America Federal Credit Union, I am very pleased to be writing the first post for our new blog. It gives me a chance to give the first impression of the great things to come from MidWest America both in our blog and our Credit Union.
