PLATTSBURGH, N.Y.—Credit unions aren’t leaving the holiday week special offers just to retailers.
Many CUs are encouraging members to get their holiday financial shopping done early this year with deals starting today—and the best offers going to those who show up the soonest.
Getting the jump on Black Friday are two credit unions offering Black Wednesday loan specials that return the best rates for those who rush through the CUs’ doors at 7 a.m.
UFirst FCU here is back with its second consecutive Black Wednesday event, which the credit union said drew great response from members last year.
UFirst is giving those who show up the earliest today at its Plattsburgh branch its best loan deals, as special low Black Wednesday rates increase by 25 basis points every half hour until 10 a.m.
The credit union is starting the day with auto loan rates as low as .99% APR and personal loans as low as 4.75%.
UFirst is also offering a special “all-day” low rate for those who go online Wednesday to get preapproved.
More Early Bird Loan Specials
In Erie, Penn., Erie Community CU is offering a similar deal. Those who show up today when the credit union opens early at 7 a.m. get the lowest auto loan rate, staring the day as low as at .99% on new and 1.49% on used. Rates bump up every 20 minutes. Signature loans start the day at .99%. The special runs until 9 a.m. at the CU’s main office only.
“Love the thrill of Black Friday shopping? Then you won't want to miss Black Wednesday at ECCU! Our Black Wednesday Loan Special works just like Black Friday shopping—the earlier you're here, the lower your rate will be! Get the best deal in town on auto and signature loan rates. You snooze, you lose!” the CU says.
In Plymouth, Mich., Catholic Vantage Financial CU is offering a Black Wednesday loan special that includes loan discounts, cash back and special shopping bags full of offers from local merchants. The one-day offer includes special rates for holiday loans, as well as cash back of up to $400 on financing of autos, boats, motorcycles and campers.
The credit union’s offices open at 8 a.m.
“Thanks to the overwhelming response of our members, this is our fourth year to host Black Wednesday,” said Emma Teller, vice president of marketing and business development. “It gives everyone the opportunity to get into the holiday spirit with some extra funds in their pocket.”
In addition, Catholic Vantage Financial will also assemble Shoppers Delight Bags to support local businesses during the holiday shopping season. The bags, which will be available in the credit union’s offices Wednesday, include maps, fliers and discount coupons from salons and spas, game shops, specialty stores, boutiques, candy makers and service providers, along with specials from the credit union.
3% APY CD
Public Service Employees CU, Lone Tree, Colo., is waiting two more days to grab the attention of holiday—and rate—shoppers. The CU on Friday will offer a Black Friday 24-month 3% APY CD.
The minimum opening deposit is $1,000 and the balance cap is $10,000. The offer is only good for those who stop into one of the credit union’s offices on Nov. 25. There is a limit of one 24-month CD per household.
But consumers don’t have to wait until Black Friday to pick up $100 when they open the CU’s free checking account and sign up for direct deposit and e-statements, a bonus the CU says is available for a limited time.
Holiday Sweepstakes
Members who visit any Bellco CU office on Black Friday can enter to win one of several giveaways. In addition to having refreshments on hand and giving away $100 Visa gift cards each hour at every branch throughout the day, the Greenwood Village, Colo.-based CU is also holding a sweepstakes, handing out prizes that include a Samsung 65” UHD TV, Sony PlayStation VRs and GoPro cameras. To enter consumers text “BELLCO” to 74642.
The CU is also offering deals from Friday through Dec. 3. Members can get $300 cash back on an auto loan or refinance and a $100 “Bonus Deposit” on a CD.