Dear Credit Union of Atlanta Members,
During this coronavirus pandemic, personal finance next to staying healthy and alive is of vital importance to our entire country. Sadly, the financial fallout of this pandemic will be a reality for many people despite government intervention for numerous months and in countless cases years to come. However, as a member of the Credit Union of Atlanta, please be assured that our number one concern now and always will be your total Financial Wellbeing. If you believe that you may experience any financial issues during these difficult times, please let us know how we can assist you.
Questions and Answers about Protecting Yourself Financially from The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
- Question - What if you are not able to pay your bills on time?
- If your loan is with the credit union, as a valued credit union member please be assured, we want to work with you. Contact us if you have or anticipate financial difficulties and let us know your situation.
- Please contact the credit union at 404-658-6465 to obtain more information.
- For all types of loans or monthly bills outside the credit union, contact your creditors and immediately and let them know your situation.
- Question – What do I explain to my creditors?
- When contacting your lenders and/or creditors, be prepared to explain: Your situation, how much you can afford to pay when you’re likely to be able to restart regular payments, and in the case of mortgages, be prepared to discuss your income, expenses, and assets.
- Question – How will any missed payments affect my credit report and credit score?
- Being behind on your payments can have a lasting impact on your credit score and credit report seven to ten years from now.
- However, since all citizens are under a National Emergency as a result of COVID-19 your creditors may grant specific types of assistance like forbearance or skipped payments on mortgages, skipped payments or deferments, on car loans, credit cards, and student loans. Or in some cases, reduced or no interest payments. Contact your creditors directly for further details. If you do that promptly your credit report and credit score should not be negatively affected.
- Question –What if I need professional advice from a trained professional on my financial issue?
- First seek assistance from your credit union, and second, from an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) at (www.afcpe.org) or a (HUD) approved housing counselor if you have an issue with your mortgage or servicer at (www.hud.gov), and they can discuss financial options with you.
- Question –Do I need to Beware of Fraud?
- Be cautious of emails, texts, or social media posts that may be selling fake products or information about emerging coronavirus cases. Never give personal information out over the phone like your social security number.
- Question – Is My Money Safe?
- Credit unions that are federally insured by the NCUA offer a safe place for you to save your money, with deposits insured up to $250,000 per individual depositor. Know that your money is protected by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund. The National Credit Union Administration an independent federal agency that administers the fund. For further details, go to the www.ncua.gov website.
