As a not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperative, Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU) invests every dollar back into member benefits, financial empowerment, and local community giveback programs. Unlike traditional banks, GLCU puts people first, ensuring members have access to fair, transparent financial tools that help them thrive. It’s all part of our mission of “Banking for a Greater Good.” 

Two of GLCU’s mission-aligned products—the Credit Builder Loan and the Fast Cash Loan—are designed to meet members where they are, providing equitable solutions for building credit, managing unexpected costs, and growing long-term financial stability. 

Building Credit and Confidence with the Credit Builder Loan 

Good credit opens the door to opportunity, yet many people struggle to access the tools needed to build or repair their credit history. GLCU’s Credit Builder Loan removes those barriers with a solution built for financial empowerment. 

Unlike traditional loans, the Credit Builder Loan allows members to build credit safely with no upfront cost. Once approved, GLCU places $1,000 into a savings account, where it remains while the member makes affordable monthly payments. Each on-time payment is reported to help establish or rebuild positive credit history. After the loan is paid in full, the $1,000 is released back to the member, helping them build their savings and their credit.  

Key Features: 

This loan embodies GLCU’s mission to expand financial access for all, providing a structured, supportive path toward -term credit health. 

Fast, Fair Support When Life Happens: The Fast Cash Loan 

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. From medical bills to emergency repairs, unexpected expenses can create financial stress—especially for those who lack access to traditional lending options. 

GLCU’s Fast Cash Loan is a responsible alternative to high-interest payday loans, giving members fast, affordable access to the funds they need without predatory terms. Designed around GLCU’s relational approach, approvals are based on a member’s relationship with the credit union, not a credit score.  

Key Features: 

Repaying the Fast Cash Loan on time can even help improve credit, reinforcing GLCU’s commitment to -term financial wellness. 

A Financial Partner Committed to You 

Whether you’re building credit from scratch, repairing past challenges, or navigating unexpected life events, GLCU is here to support your journey. With mission-driven products like the Credit Builder Loan and Fast Cash Loan, GLCU continues to ensure members have the resources, guidance, and confidence to achieve -term financial wellbeing. 

Because at GLCU, when you succeed, we succeed. 

*APR=Annual Percentage Rate of 29.99% includes Auto-Pay discount. Rate without Auto-Pay discount is 33.99%. APR may change at any time. 

The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.   

Financial empowerment begins with access — access to safe accounts, trustworthy information, and equitable opportunities. At Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU), we believe that everyone deserves the tools and support needed to build a stable financial future.  

That’s why we collaborate with mission‑aligned organizations that share our commitment to financial inclusion. Together, we’re creating pathways that help individuals and families gain confidence, build skills, and take control of their financial lives. It’s all part of our mission of banking for a greater good.  

BankOn: A Fresh Start Checking Account 

For many people, traditional banking can feel out of reach. Whether a member has never had a checking account before or needs to establish a positive banking history, our partnership with BankOn helps break down those barriers. 

Our BankOn‑certified Fresh Checking account is designed to support long‑term financial stability with features such as: 

By meeting BankOn national standards, Fresh Checking provides a secure foundation for individuals who want a fresh start. This partnership ensures that more people have access to reliable banking — a critical first step toward financial empowerment. 

One Summer Chicago and the Economic Awareness Council 

Empowering young people with financial knowledge early in life can change the trajectory of their futures. We proudly support the Economic Awareness Council (EAC) and its youth workforce development initiatives, including One Summer Chicago. 

These partnerships allow us to reach students across the city with hands‑on financial tools and education. As part of this collaboration: 

By combining financial access with financial education, we help young people develop healthy habits that will serve them throughout adulthood. These early experiences lay the groundwork for lifelong financial well‑being. 

A Complete, Empowering Financial Experience with LetMeDoIt 

At GLCU, our mission of Banking for a Greater Good means ensuring that every member — regardless of background, ability, or financial starting point — can thrive. 

Our partnership with LetMeDoIt, a platform designed to support individuals with disabilities in building life skills and managing daily tasks, strengthens that mission. Together, we are working on aligning our products, tools, and support systems to help members in the disability community understand, plan, and achieve their financial goals. 

The goal is to create a pathway to long‑term economic and financial independence. Together, GLCU and LetMeDoIt are helping individuals take control of their financial lives and move confidently toward independence.  

Financial empowerment is possible through connection, partnerships, and innovative products and services that expand access, remove barriers, and provide people with the tools they need to succeed.  

Making a Difference Through Collaboration 

Whether it’s helping someone open their first checking account, guiding a young adult through their first budgeting experience, or supporting individuals with disabilities as they build financial confidence, our partnerships make a meaningful difference. 

The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.     

College is an exciting time of transition and growth. Along with new classes, roommates, and responsibilities, you also have the opportunity to lay the foundation for your financial life.  

But where should you start? Read on to learn more about key financial topics such as how to pay for your education, manage debt, and build your savings. 

How to Pay for College 

The cost of college can feel overwhelming, but there are a few avenues you can explore to help fund your education. A key step each year is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible. This helps determine your eligibility for grants, federal student loans, work‑study, and state and school aid. 

Once you know your eligibility, consider applying for grants and scholarships. Grants are usually based on financial need and don’t need to be repaid. Scholarships can be awarded for academics, activities, community service, background, or specific interests, and also don’t need to be repaid. 

Look beyond your college’s financial aid page. Community organizations, local foundations, nonprofits, and professional associations often offer scholarships. Great Lakes Credit Union, for example, runs an annual scholarship program for its members.  

Work and savings can also lower your total cost. Part‑time jobs, internships, and work‑study programs can help cover everyday expenses. Even small amounts set aside for books, housing, or transportation can add up and help you avoid last‑minute borrowing. 

If you need to borrow, review federal student loans before assessing private loans. Federal loans often have fixed interest rates, income‑driven repayment options, and hardship protections like deferment or forbearance.  

Private loans from banks or other lenders can fill gaps but are generally best used after you’ve explored grants, scholarships, work, savings, and federal aid. 

To keep borrowing in check, consider your future earning potential. A common guideline is to keep your total student loan balance at or below what you reasonably expect to earn in your first year after graduation. 

How to Start Building Credit 

Think of your credit report as a financial report card. Lenders, landlords, and sometimes employers use it to see how reliably you handle money. Key factors include: 

In college, beginner‑friendly tools can help you build credit. A secured credit card, where you put down a deposit that becomes your credit limit, can help you build a record of on‑time payments. A credit builder loan can help you achieve something similar while also allowing you to save. 

Whatever method you use, an important habit to build is paying your balance on time.  In the case of a credit card, paying off your balance in full each month saves you from having to pay interest on your purchases. 

Try to keep your balances low relative to your limit — ideally using no more than 30% of your available credit. Additionally, avoid opening too many new accounts in a short period.  

Bank Accounts 101: Checking vs. Savings 

Building a solid banking foundation is a key step to achieving financial success and stability. Checking and savings accounts are two common bank accounts that you can use to establish yourself financially. 

A checking account is for everyday money management.  You can use your checking account to pay for everyday expenses with your debit card, such as rent, groceries, and gas. 

A savings account is for money you want to keep and grow, not spend right away. It typically earns interest and is useful for an emergency fund or short‑term goals like books, travel, or security deposits.  

During college, consider depositing money into your checking account to cover regular expenses, and then set up automatic transfers to your savings account. 

Paying Off Debt 

Managing and paying off debt are important skills to learn. The key is to stay organized and intentional. Start by creating a list of each debt with its balance, interest rate, minimum payment, and due date. 

Adopting a payoff strategy can help you pay off debt faster. Here are a few popular payoff strategies: 

Avoid taking on new high‑cost debt while you’re paying down what you owe. Be especially careful with credit card spending, buy‑now‑pay‑later offers, and high‑interest loans, as these options can be expensive. 

Bringing It All Together 

As a college student, you’re already investing in your future. Building healthy financial habits now — using checking and savings accounts wisely, establishing credit slowly and responsibly, managing debt with a clear plan, and approaching the cost of college strategically — can reduce stress later and give you more choices after graduation. 

You don’t need to master everything at once. Take your journey one step at a time, like opening a savings account or creating a simple payoff plan. Small, consistent actions now can make a big difference over time. 

Looking to get some extra funds to pay for college? Check out GLCU’s scholarship program.  

The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.   

At Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU), “Banking for a Greater Good” means making financial tools, resources, and guidance accessible to more members in the communities we serve. One important way we do this is by removing barriers that can stand between our members and their financial goals. That’s why we’re proud to share that our website is now available in Spanish! 

Members and visitors can now view key information about our products, services, and resources in Spanish simply by clicking the “Español” link in the upper right-hand corner of glcu.org. With this new feature, Spanish speakers can more easily explore accounts, loans, educational resources, and more. 

Our website, however, is just one part of our commitment to serving the Spanish-speaking community. Read on to learn more about the additional Spanish-language resources available through GLCU. 

Juntos Avanzamos: A Commitment to Serving Hispanic and Immigrant Communities 

GLCU is honored to hold the Juntos Avanzamos (“Together We Advance”) designation, a national recognition awarded to credit unions that demonstrate a strong commitment to serving Hispanic and immigrant communities. Over 15% of GLCU’s membership identifies as Hispanic. To better serve our diverse membership base, GLCU employs 50 certified bilingual staff members across the organization. 

The Juntos Avanzamos designation represents GLCU’s commitment to: 

This recognition underscores GLCU’s ongoing work to meet members where they are —linguistically, culturally, and financially. 

Olive Offers Support in Spanish 

Our digital tools are also evolving to better support Spanish-speaking members. Olive, GLCU’s AI assistant, has become even smarter and more accessible by offering support in Spanish. 

Spanish-speaking members can use Olive to: 

Whether a member is looking for branch hours, account information, or guidance on how to get started with a new product, Olive can provide quick, convenient help in their preferred language.  

New ATMs with Spanish-Language Options 

GLCU’s new fleet of ATMs includes a range of enhanced features, including the option to complete transactions in Spanish. When using one of our updated ATMs, members can select Spanish on-screen and navigate: 

This added language option helps ensure that more members can bank confidently and independently. 

Moving Forward — Together 

Making our website available in Spanish is an important step in our broader mission to support financial stability and inclusion in our communities. From our Juntos Avanzamos designation, to Olive’s bilingual support, to Spanish-language options at our ATMs, GLCU is committed to offering resources that reflect the diversity of the members we serve. 

To explore our new Spanish-language website experience, visit glcu.org and click the language toggle in the upper right-hand corner. For online banking members, our desktop and mobile online banking experiences will be translated to Spanish at a later date. 

En Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU), “Banca para un bien mayor” significa hacer que las herramientas, los recursos y la orientación financiera sean accesibles para más miembros en las comunidades a las que servimos. Una forma importante en que lo logramos es eliminando las barreras que pueden interponerse entre nuestros miembros y sus metas financieras. ¡Es por eso por lo que nos enorgullece compartir que nuestro sitio web ya está disponible en español! 

Los miembros y visitantes ahora pueden ver información clave sobre nuestros productos, servicios y recursos en español simplemente haciendo clic en el enlace “español” en la esquina superior derecha de glcu.org. Con esta nueva función, las personas que hablan español pueden explorar con mayor facilidad cuentas, préstamos, recursos educativos y más. 

Sin embargo, nuestro sitio web es solo una parte de nuestro compromiso de servir a la comunidad de habla hispana. Siga leyendo para conocer más sobre los recursos adicionales en español disponibles a través de GLCU. 

Juntos Avanzamos: Un compromiso de servir a las comunidades hispanas e inmigrantes 

GLCU tiene el honor de contar con la designación Juntos Avanzamos, un reconocimiento nacional otorgado a las cooperativas de crédito que demuestran un sólido compromiso con el servicio a las comunidades hispanas e inmigrantes. Más del 15% de la membresía de GLCU se identifica como hispana. Para servir mejor a nuestra diversa base de miembros, GLCU cuenta con 50 empleados bilingües certificados en toda la organización. 

La designación Juntos Avanzamos representa el compromiso de GLCU para: 

Este reconocimiento subraya el trabajo continuo de GLCU para encontrarse con los miembros dondequiera que estén: lingüística, cultural y financieramente. 

Olive ofrece apoyo en español

Nuestras herramientas digitales también están evolucionando para apoyar mejor a los miembros de habla hispana. Olive, la asistente de IA de GLCU, se ha vuelto aún más inteligente y accesible al ofrecer soporte en español. 

Los miembros de habla hispana pueden usar a Olive para: 

Ya sea que un miembro busque el horario de las sucursales, información de su cuenta o guía sobre cómo empezar con un nuevo producto, Olive puede brindar ayuda rápida y conveniente en su idioma de preferencia.

Nuevos cajeros automáticos (ATM) con opciones en español 

La nueva flota de cajeros automáticos de GLCU incluye una gama de funciones mejoradas, incluida la opción de realizar transacciones en español. Al utilizar uno de nuestros cajeros actualizados, los miembros pueden seleccionar español en la pantalla y navegar por:

Esta opción de idioma adicional ayuda a garantizar que más miembros puedan realizar sus operaciones bancarias con confianza e independencia. 

Avanzando juntos

Poner nuestro sitio web a disposición en español es un paso importante en nuestra misión más amplia de apoyar la estabilidad financiera y la inclusión en nuestras comunidades. Desde nuestra designación Juntos Avanzamos y el soporte bilingüe de Olive, hasta las opciones en español en nuestros cajeros automáticos, GLCU se compromete a ofrecer recursos que reflejen la diversidad de los miembros a los que servimos.

Para explorar nuestra nueva experiencia de sitio web en español, visite glcu.org y haga clic en el selector de idioma en la esquina superior derecha. Para los miembros de la banca en línea, nuestras experiencias de banca electrónica tanto en versión de escritorio como móvil se traducirán al español en una fecha posterior. 

The holiday season brings festive cheer—and unfortunately, an increase in scams and fraud. With the holiday shopping season in full swing, it’s important to protect yourself and your finances wherever you shop, whether in store or online.  

Check out this video from GLCU President and CEO, Steve Bugg, to learn more about how to stay safe while shopping this holiday season: 

Read on to learn some safety tips to help keep yourself and your wallet secure this year. 

  1. Safeguard Your Personal Information 

Only provide personal and payment information on official, secure websites. Look for “https” in the web address and a lock symbol in your browser. Avoid clicking links in emails or texts. Instead, navigate directly to the retailer’s site or use official apps. 

  1. Strengthen Your Online Security 

Another way to protect yourself while shopping is to ensure that your accounts and devices are secure.  

Here are some online security tips: 

  1. Watch Out for Scams and Phishing 

Scammers are always coming up with new ways to steal your money and personal information. Be wary of: 

 4. Saving and Managing Your Card Info 

There are extra layers of security you can take advantage of when shopping.  

Here are a few things to consider: 

The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service. 

Every year on International Credit Union Day, credit unions across the globe celebrate their unique role in the financial world. International Credit Union Day highlights the decades of progress, resilience, and people-centered missions that the worldwide credit union movement has fostered.  

As we celebrate International Credit Union Day on October 16th, 2025, let’s explore the defining moments that have shaped the credit union landscape across the globe. 

1850s: The Birth of a Movement 

The credit union movement began in the 1850s in Germany. Farmers and workers sought ways to pool their resources, support each other, and gain financial independence. This foundational concept—people helping people—remains at the heart of credit unions worldwide. 

1909: Credit Unions Arrive in the U.S. 

The first American credit union—St. Mary’s Cooperative Credit Association—was established in 1909. St. Mary’s Cooperative Credit Association set the standard for cooperative financial services in America, opening the doors for millions to receive fair, community-focused access to financial services. 

1934: The Federal Credit Union Act 

Recognizing the value and impact of credit unions, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Federal Credit Union Act in 1934. This legislation enabled the creation of federal credit unions, allowing credit unions to flourish and provide financial empowerment across the nation. 

1938: Local Milestones—Great Lakes Credit Union 

Great Lakes Credit Union was founded in 1938. Over the past 87 years, GLCU has grown from a single location on the Naval Station Great Lakes in North Chicago, to 23 branches across Illinois and Indiana. GLCU has lived out the credit union movement’s “people helping people” philosophy through our “banking for a greater good” mission, with a dedication to financial empowerment and community giveback. 

1948: The First International Credit Union Day 

In 1948, members across the globe came together to celebrate the first International Credit Union Day, marking a tradition that unites credit union members in recognition of shared values, achievements, and a vision for the future. 

1970: Building Global Connections 

The momentum continued with the establishment of the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and the World Council of Credit Unions in 1970. These organizations foster greater collaboration, ensuring safer, stronger, and more inclusive financial services for people everywhere. 

2025: A Global Movement 

Today, there are more than 411 million credit union members worldwide—evidence of the movement’s enduring appeal and positive impact. Credit unions empower individuals to achieve financial wellbeing and strengthen communities through inclusion, education, and support. 

Join the Celebration 

As we honor International Credit Union Day, let’s remember the milestones that brought us here. Credit unions—no matter where they’re located—have always been about people working together, lifting each other up, and building a better future for all. Whether you’re a lifelong member or new to the community, take a moment to celebrate the difference credit unions make, today and every day. 

Happy International Credit Union Day from Great Lakes Credit Union! 

Saving money can be a challenge. Life gets busy, routines take over, and setting money aside often falls off the to-do list. 

But saving for the future doesn’t have to be hard; GLCU’s Spend and Save Program makes it simple by automating the process. It’s an easy, hands-off way to build savings for emergencies, major purchases, or future goals.

How Does the Spend and Save Program Work?

The Spend and Save Program is simple by design — that’s why it’s so effective. It’s a hassle-free way to set money aside while you go about your day.

Every time you use your GLCU debit card for any purchase — whether you’re buying groceries, filling up your gas tank, dining out, or purchasing anything else — the amount is automatically rounded up to the nearest dollar. The “spare change” from each transaction is then transferred from your GLCU checking account into your GLCU savings account. Your savings grow quietly in the background without you doing anything to make it happen.

Let’s say you grab lunch at your favorite cafe for $9.45. With GLCU’s automatic savings program, your purchase is rounded to $10.00, and the extra $0.55 is transferred to your savings account. With no extra effort, your routine purchase helped you take a step toward your savings goals.

Although the amounts may seem small, they can add up over time, especially with frequent purchases. Just think about your daily routine and how many transactions you make. Maybe your typical day includes morning coffee, lunch, gas, groceries, and a quick stop at the dry cleaner. Over a month, those small amounts can potentially grow into $20, $30, or even $50 in additional savings.

Spend and Save Fits into Your RoutineWorks for Everyone

Do you often forget to add to your savings? There’s no need to change your spending habits with the Spend and Save Program—everything happens automatically. Just use your debit card, and the extra change will be deposited into your savings account.

The Spend and Save Program is also a good option for those with tight budgets. Because the round-up amounts of up to $0.99 per transaction are small, they’re unlikely to strain your finances. There are no enrollment or ongoing fees, and no withdrawal fees when you need access to your funds. It’s a simple, flexible way to save for your goals—on your terms.

Busy with work, family, or life in general? Spend and Save works automatically once it’s set up, helping you grow your savings without any extra effort. You can go about your day while your balance steadily increases, no extra steps, no stress.

What You Need to Get Started

To get started with the Spend and Save Program, you’ll need both a GLCU checking account and savings account. The two accounts work together in the program. When you make purchases with your Visa® debit card, money is drawn from your checking account. The extra change is then transferred to your savings account.

GLCU’s checking account simplifies your everyday banking. Features include:

GLCU offers four savings accounts that can be used with the debit card savings program:

Share Savings: Enjoy no monthly fees with our basic savings option and gain flexible access to your funds when you need them.

Special Savings: Ideal for emergency funds, paying for college, rainy days, and other needs.

Holiday Savings: Save for the holidays all year long so you can celebrate with friends and family, without the financial stress.

Youth Savings: Young members learn the value of saving with a simple, rewarding youth savings account built just for them.

An essential key to the Spend and Save Program is using your Visa® debit card for your everyday purchases. The program activates every time you use your card while shopping in-store or online. Each transaction is an opportunity to save money with your debit card to bring you one step closer to your financial goals.

How to Open an Account and Enroll

Opening GLCU checking and savings accounts and enrolling in the Spend and Save Program is quick and easy. It just takes a few minutes to set everything up.

Members can open accounts and enroll by following these steps:

  1. Open a GLCU checking account: This will be your primary spending account. It comes with a free Visa® debit card for your everyday transactions. You can apply online, visit a branch, or call by phone.
  2. Open a GLCU savings account: When you make purchases, the extra change will be transferred to this account. You can open a savings account at the same time you open a checking account.
  3. Enroll in Spend and Save: Once both accounts are active, enroll in Spend and Save online, at a branch, or by phone.
  4. Start using your Visa® debit card: Every time you make a debit card purchase, the amount will be rounded up, and the “change” will be transferred to your savings account.

There are no fees to enroll in the Spend and Save Program, and there is no complicated setup process. You’re also not locked into anything. You can cancel or pause the program at any time.

Make Every Purchase Work for Your Future

Saving money doesn’t require a lot of planning, a detailed spreadsheet, or sacrificing the things you enjoy in life. Enroll in the Spend and Save Program today so every debit card purchase you make helps you achieve your savings goals — without any extra effort on your part.

New to GLCU? 

Open a Checking Account

Already a member?

Start Saving With Every Purchase

The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.

A debit card is a convenient way to manage your daily spending needs. Whether you need to grab lunch, fill up your gas tank, pay for groceries, or handle unexpected expenses, a debit card gives you instant access to your money when you need it. There’s no need to carry a lot of cash around — just swipe or tap your card to complete transactions quickly so you can be on your way or focus on the next thing on your to-do list.

Debit cards have features that make spending easier and more secure. Not all debit cards are the same, however. Some have more or fewer features than others. That’s why it’s important to compare debit cards to find the best option for your needs.

Here are the top five best debit card features you should look for to help you save time, protect your money, and get the most out of your day-to-day banking.

1. 24/7 Access to Your Money

With a debit card, you’ll have immediate access to the funds in your checking account, whenever and wherever you need them. You don’t have to wait for business hours to get cash. You can conveniently use your debit card with any merchant that accepts card payments—buying groceries in the evening, filling up your gas tank early in the morning on the way to work, or grabbing a late-night meal.

You can also use your debit card to withdraw cash at ATMs. Most banks and credit unions allow you to make withdrawals from their ATM network without incurring fees. Many also partner with nationwide ATM networks, which gives you access to thousands of ATMs across the country without additional charges.

2. Real-Time Fraud Protection and Alerts

The best debit cards feature security measures that operate continuously to safeguard your funds. Be sure to look for a debit card that has real-time alerts and zero-liability protection for unauthorized purchases to protect you from fraud.

With real-time alerts, you will receive a text message, email, or mobile app notification every time a transaction occurs. This offers an important layer of protection in case your card information falls into the wrong hands. If you receive an alert for a purchase you don’t recognize, you can take quick action to protect your hard-earned money.

If a fraudulent purchase does occur, zero-liability protection ensures you won’t be held financially responsible. You can contact your card issuer right away if you detect suspicious account activity to stop the fraud and begin the dispute process. Your card issuer will most likely cancel your card immediately to prevent additional unauthorized transactions and will issue you a replacement card with a new number.

3. Convenient Contactless Payments

Another important debit card feature to look for is contactless payment technology. This allows you to complete transactions by simply holding your debit card—or even your smartphone or smartwatch with a digital wallet—near a payment terminal. Payments are fast, secure, and don’t require inserting your card or handing it to a cashier., making the process more hygienic as well.

Contactless debit cards are equipped with modern EMV chips—tiny, embedded microchips. that offer stronger security than traditional magnetic strips. Unlike strips that can be easily skimmed, EMV chips generate a unique, one-time code for each transaction, making it much harder for criminals to clone your card or use it fraudulently.

4. Spending Controls and Budgeting Tools

With the right features, a debit card can help you manage your spending. This enables you to take control of your finances, monitor where your money is going, and help you save for a short- or long-term goal.

Debit cards with spending controls let you set spending limits, which helps you control how much you spend per day or in certain categories. You can also access your account online or with mobile banking anytime to check your balance. This helps to prevent overdraft fees, and it also ensures your transactions go through without a hitch.

Some banking platforms automatically categorize your debit card purchases into groups like groceries, dining, entertainment, and transportation. This simplifies expense tracking to help you stay on budget. Instead of wondering where your money went at the end of each month, you can see exactly how much you’ve spent in each category and make adjustments as needed.

The Right Tool for Everyday Spending

Because of the many benefits that a debit card can offer, it’s much more than a replacement for cash. It’s a tool you can use to manage your finances. It can help you stay within budget, earn rewards, and make your everyday spending safer and easier.

Ready to experience the convenience and control that comes with a feature-rich debit card?

Discover GLCU Debit Card Features

The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.

A digital wallet offers a fast, secure way to pay—no physical wallet required. Even if you leave your wallet at home, you can still make purchases using your mobile device or smartwatch. Adding your GLCU debit card to your digital wallet makes it easier to manage your money when you’re on the go. It works with all major digital wallet platforms, so you can quickly check out at stores, shop online, or make in-app purchases.

What Is a Digital Wallet?

A digital wallet is when your smartphone or smartwatch acts as your wallet. Instead of carrying cards, your payment information is securely stored on your device, which allows you to make purchases by tapping or holding your device near a payment terminal.

The three contactless payment platforms include:

Getting started is easy. Just add your GLCU debit card to your preferred platform, and it becomes your mobile wallet debit card. Once added, your card details are encrypted and securely stored, giving you a fast, convenient way to pay wherever contactless payments are accepted.

Digital Wallet Benefits

Digital wallets let you pay in seconds, which saves valuable time. You no longer have to dig through your wallet or purse, look for exact change, or insert your card in a payment terminal. Digital wallet payments are accepted by many retailers that take debit or credit cards, including grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and online shops.

Digital wallets are secure. When you make a purchase, your card number isn’t used. Instead, a unique encrypted token is used for each transaction. This makes it nearly impossible for anyone to steal your information. Plus, if you ever lose your smartphone or smartwatch, you can remotely lock or wipe it clean to protect your account from unauthorized purchases.

Digital wallets also eliminate the need to carry multiple cards, which prevents them from being lost or stolen. You’ll receive instant notifications for every transaction, which makes it easy to spot suspicious activity. Digital wallets aren’t just for payment cards — they can also store loyalty cards, gift cards, membership cards, event tickets, coupons, plane tickets, transit passes, and more.

A Debit Card That’s Built for the Way You Bank Today

GLCU’s Visa® debit card is designed to work seamlessly with modern digital wallets. Adding it to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay just takes minutes. Once set up, you can enjoy secure, contactless payments with many retailers, both in person and online.

Security is our top priority. Your Visa debit card includes continuous fraud monitoring to check for suspicious activity. If anything is discovered, you’ll be alerted right away with Visa Fraud Text Alerts.

If your card is lost or stolen, you can get a replacement quickly. And if your information does fall into the wrong hands, you’re protected with Visa’s Zero Liability Policy. You won’t be held responsible for any unauthorized transactions.

The Account That Connects You to Modern Banking

It’s easy to get started with a GLCU Visa debit card and digital wallet payments. When you open a GLCU checking account, you’ll receive a debit card packed with features that you can link to your digital wallet. The account is more than a place to store your money. It offers a variety of features that simplify money management and support your everyday financial needs.

GLCU’s checking account features include:

With so many features, a GLCU checking account is more than a way to access your money. It’s a smart way to manage your finances, providing real-time information to help you make informed financial decisions.

Make the Switch to Fast, Secure Payments

Digital wallets aren’t the future of payment—they’re already here. From your morning coffee to a stop at the gas station, a digital wallet offers a fast, safe, and convenient way to pay.

Ready to take advantage of a digital wallet? Open a GLCU checking account today to get a Visa debit card that works with all major digital wallet platforms, including — Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. It just takes a few minutes to set up your card with your preferred digital wallet to start making fast, secure payments with your mobile device.

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The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.

Most people use their debit card for their daily spending needs without giving it a second thought. They usually see their debit card as little more than a tool for spending. But what if your debit card could do more? What if it could help you grow your account balance?

The right debit card, when paired with the right checking account, becomes a powerful way to earn interest. With GLCU’s Free High-Yield Checking Account, you can earn up to 5.00% APY* on your balance when you use your Visa® debit card. You’re already buying the things you need, so why not get rewarded for it?

Let’s break it down so you can make the most of your debit card—and stop leaving money on the table each month.

A Debit Card that Earns Interest

GLCU’s Visa® debit card is perfect for all of your daily spending needs. You can use it for anything, including in-person retail purchases, online transactions, and ATM cash withdrawals. You’ll receive a debit card when you open a GLCU checking account, so you can start using it right away. It’s also compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay for added convenience.

Do you enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations? Maybe you need to travel for work. If so, our Visa® debit card can be used to access ATMs anywhere in the U.S. without incurring a fee. You can conveniently make withdrawals, deposits, and more while on the go.

You can also rest easy knowing your debit card comes with several built-in security features, including data encryption and fraud text alerts. Your account will be continuously monitored for suspicious activity, and you will be notified immediately if anything turns up. If your account information does fall into the wrong hands, you’ll also be protected with our zero liability policy, which means you won’t be responsible for unauthorized transactions.

Perhaps the one benefit that truly sets our debit card apart is its ability to earn interest. When paired with our Free High-Yield Checking Account, your everyday purchases work to grow your balance. It’s a smart way to get more value from the spending you’re already doing.

The Free High-Yield Checking Account

Most checking accounts are little more than places to store your money. They may come with a free debit card and access to online banking, but not much else. Accounts typically earn little or no interest.

GLCU’s Free High-Yield Checking Account stands out by making your regular spending more rewarding. Instead of sitting idle, your money can earn up to 5.00% APY* when you use your Visa® debit card for common purchases.

The APY you earn depends on your balance and the number of monthly debit card transactions:

The more purchases you make each month, the more interest you can potentially earn on balances up to $10,000. Even if you have fewer transactions in a month, you’ll still earn interest, but at a lower rate.

Additional Account Benefits

Earning up to 5.00% APY* is a powerful way to grow your balance without locking your money away in a CD. Your funds are available when you need them, which means you never have to sacrifice convenience for growth. But the benefits don’t stop there — the Free High-Yield Checking Account offers even more features to help you manage your money:

How to Start Earning a Great Rate

Getting started with a Free High-Yield Checking Account and Visa® debit card is quick and easy for members:

1. Get Started Online: Conveniently open a Free High-Yield Checking Account online or drop by a branch. The process is simple and just takes a few minutes to complete. We’ll reach out and let you know when your account is ready if you’re getting started online, typically within one business day.

2. Receive Your Debit Card: You’ll receive a Visa® debit card right away if you open an account in a branch. If you open an account online, you’ll receive a debit card in the mail within five business days.

3. Fund Your Account: Deposit funds into your account by transferring money online or at a branch. You can also set up direct deposit to ensure your paycheck is automatically added to your account to save time and give you quicker access to your money.

4. Earn Interest: Start using your debit card for your daily spending needs to earn a great rate on your account balance.

Get the Most from Your Everyday Spending

Your debit card isn’t just a way to pay—it’s a powerful tool to boost your savings. With GLCU, every swipe, whether it’s your morning coffee or weekly groceries, works hard to grow your account balance.

Why settle for ordinary when you can earn up to 5.00% APY* on your spending? Open a Free High-Yield Checking Account today and start turning routine purchases into real rewards that add up fast.

Start Earning 5%

* APY = Annual Percentage Yield. All dividend rates and APY may change at any time, as determined by the GLCU Board of Directors. The APYs shown above assume that all principal and dividends remain on deposit for the entire term. Fees could reduce earnings on the above accounts. The dividend rate may be calculated using two different rates. The dividend rate will appear as a blended APY on your monthly statement.

Tier 1: Accounts with 0-19 debit card transactions per month balances of $1.00 and over, will earn 0.05% APY.
Tier 2: Accounts with 20-39 debit card transactions per month and enrolled in e-statements will earn 2.75% APY on balances between $0-$10,000. Balances $10,001 and above will earn .05% APY.
Tier 3: Accounts with 40 or more transactions per month and e-statements will earn 5.00% APY on balances between $0-$10,000. Balances $10,001 and above will earn .05% APY. 

The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or financial advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.