Blog Highlights
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Banking Needs: Determine whether temporary or long-term financial solutions support your goals and lifestyle best.
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Security and Insurance: Banking with an institution with built-in security and insurance measures to protect your money and information should never be an afterthought.
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Alignment of Values: When your banking choices match your principles, your financial system feels more meaningful; not just transactional.
Choosing a new financial institution is more than just opening an account or getting a loan – it’s about finding a trusted financial partner that supports your goals, lifestyle, and values. Whether you're changing where you keep your checking, applying for a new loan, or seeking better tools and services, asking the right questions from the start can help you save time, reduce costs, and avoid unnecessary frustration in the future.
1. What Type of Account(s) and Service(s) Do I Need?
Start with the basics – think about the accounts and services you use today as well as those you may need later on. Some financial institutions mainly focus on everyday transactions such as money transfers or short-term loans. Others, like Peach State, offer a full suite of products and services designed to support you as your financial needs grow and change over time.
- Savings accounts
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
- Car loans, home loans, business loans, and more
- Digital banking
- Financial education and resources
Life changes, plans shift, and the future can be uncertain. That's why it’s essential to choose a trusted financial partner that not only meets your needs today but is also prepared to support your financial goals as they evolve over time.
2. How Much Flexibility and Convenience Do I Want?
Banking should fit seamlessly into your daily routine. A strong digital banking experience – paired with accessible, knowledgeable support – can make managing your money faster, easier, and less stressful. Consider the following:
- Do I need access to branches and ATMs?
- Do I need access to online and mobile banking?
- When help is needed, do I prefer to call, visit a branch, or chat online?
Shared Branching: Peach State members can conduct business nationwide at over 5,000 branches and over 2,000 self-service locations in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam, and military bases around the globe. To learn more, visit our locations page.
3. Is My Money and Personal Information Protected?
Security should never be an afterthought – especially when it comes to your money and personal information. Banking with an institution that insures your deposits and prioritizes the protection of your accounts and data can provide peace of mind and confidence in your financial decisions. When choosing a new place to bank, be sure to look for:
Security is our top priority. In addition to our built-in security measures, we provide real-time account alerts, secure online and mobile banking tools, and educational resources on a wide range of fraud and scam prevention topics, to help you stay informed and spot suspicious activity early. Stay proactive by reviewing your accounts regularly and contact us right away if you suspect fraud. To learn more about fraud, scams, and how to protect your personal and financial information, please visit peachstatefcu.org/blog/tag/fraud-prevention.
4. Does the Institution Provide the Tools and Education I Need?
Beyond accounts and banking services, look for resources designed to support your long-term financial success. You need a financial institution that prioritizes financial wellness and equips you with tools, education, and guidance to make informed decisions – not one that just completes transactions.
Beyond accounts and everyday banking services, be sure to look for a financial institution that treats you as a long-term partner in your financial journey. Peach State prioritizes your financial wellness by providing practical tools, clear education, and personalized guidance so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
Beyond accounts and everyday banking services, be sure to look for resources designed to support your long-term financial success. Peach State members have FREE access to financial education and more from the industry experts at Balance. From gaining clarity and confidence with coaching, to taking a self-service approach through Balance Track e-learning, if you’re a member and haven’t taken your financial check-up, you should get started today!
5. Do Their Values Align with Mine?
When choosing where to bank, one of the most important questions to consider is what the institution stands for. Your money does more than move between accounts and transactions – it supports the values and initiatives that matter to you. When your bank or credit union shares your commitment to community, integrity, and financial empowerment, your relationship can feel more meaningful and trustworthy. Value-based banking helps ensure your financial choices reflect who you are and the impact you want to have.
The Peach State FCU C.A.R.E.S. Foundation is dedicated to making a positive difference in the communities we serve. It supports local school systems, food banks, provides scholarships for high school seniors and adults continuing their education, the arts and so much more. The Foundation is supported by our C.A.R.E.S. Visa Debit Card program along with contributions from outside donors. For every purchase members make with our debit card, we’ll donate a nickel to the C.A.R.E.S. Foundation.1
Why Choose A Smart Place to Bank
Originally founded in 1961 as Gwinnett Teachers Federal Credit Union, Peach State is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperative serving members across Georgia and South Carolina. Our purpose is to provide reliable, financial services and affordable solutions that support the needs and goals of our members. Where you choose to bank is a personal decision, but why you bank there should reflect your experience, your values, and your long-term financial well-being.
At Peach State, we live out our mission through a people-first structure, are guided by our core values, and remain committed to strengthening the communities we serve. We recognize that your finances are deeply personal, and we believe your banking relationship should be built on trust, respect, and individualized support. Whether you’re just getting started, rebuilding, or preparing for the next chapter of your financial journey, we are here to help. Contact us today – we welcome the opportunity to support you in reaching your financial goals!
1 $0.05 per transaction of Peach State Federal Credit Union’s merchant interchange income from our Visa Debit Card program is used to benefit the communities we serve. We will determine where/how funds are disbursed. This does not affect members’ accounts nor will any member information be disclosed. You will not incur any additional fees or charges from this program. Merchant interchange income is derived from fees that a merchant pays to accept credit/debit card payments. The C.A.R.E.S. program may or may not apply to ATM transactions, certain commercial transactions, or other transactions not processed by Visa.
