Signing up is usually as simple as taking a voided check to your human resources department.  You’ll see your first paycheck appear automatically in your Coosa Pines FCU account within a few weeks.  Don't use checks?  Your CPFCU member service representative can provide a form with instructions for direct deposit to give to your employer.

2.  Step two is to set up electronic payments.

There are a few ways to do this, and you can use them all:

   ► Authorize a biller to take money directly from your checking account.  These ACH (Automated Clearing House) payments can take a bit of effort to stop, so use them for regular, uniform payments that will continue for a long time -- mortgage and car payments are a no-brainer.

   ► Pay bills online using a credit card.  Paying with your credit card is ideal for bills that only pop up twice a year -- like car insurance.  It’s also a good option for bills that change in amount, such as your cellphone bill.  Be sure to pay off the card balance each month to minimize interest charges.  (Paying with your CPFCU Visa Debit or Credit card will also earn UChoose Rewards points!)

   ► Use CPFCU’s free online bill pay service to pay bills by electronic transfer to a vendor or service provider.  If the merchant isn’t set up to accept electronic payments, the credit union will issue a paper check debiting your account.  You can set up payments 24/7, adjust payment dates to jibe with your paydays, and make optional extra payments when you can to reduce debt faster.

 

3.  E-Statements save time and the environment.  Sign up for free CPFCU e-statements to receive electronic notification that your statements are ready to be viewed, saved or printed.  Electronic billing and statements are quicker to arrive than mailed statements, cost less than mailed statements, can't be lost or stolen in the mail, and are environmentally responsible.

4.  Don’t overlook automating routine savings, too.  Set up automated transfers from checking to your credit union savings account(s) like Christmas and Vacation club accounts or IRAs, and you’ll always be financially ready for an unexpected car repair and for infrequent but larger bills like insurance premiums.

Streamlining your finances with online tools is about more than just saving time.  By helping you to avoid late fees and overdraft fees, automatic services save you money.  To make sure you’re never penalized for overdrawing your checking account, for example, set up an overdraft protection savings account or line of credit at Coosa Pines.  You can also set up cross-account transfers, such as to a spouse or child's account.

Once you’ve automated your finances, use our Virtual Branch and Mobile Money to track your accounts and transfer money between them.  Check accounts frequently to make sure your automated system is working smoothly.

If you need help automating your finances, a Coosa Pines FCU member service rep can help.  Call or stop in your favorite branch for assistance.

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