It happens to most of us. You are shopping at the grocery store and picked up a few more items than planned. You make a rough dollar assessment of your merchandise before you check out but wonder if you have enough money in your account to be able to use your debit card. Wouldn't it be nice to have the information you need at your fingertips within moments?

At VyStar we have a service that can help. Welcome to VyStar's free Text Message Banking.

You use a cell phone for so many other things, why not use it to get a quick text message from your credit union letting you know your VyStar account balance and more. Simply dial a number and within moments, your account balance will be sent to your phone.

With Text Message Banking you can get VyStar account balance alerts and/or request the last three transactions performed on your VyStar account via a text message or email on your cell phone or wireless device. It's a great way to keep up with activity on your VyStar account.

What types of devices can access Text Message Banking?

Any cell phone or wireless device that can receive text messages or email can be used for Text Message Banking.* It requires an active mobile device which is validated during the registration process.

Your device does not have to be Internet-capable but you will need to be enrolled in VyStar Internet Banking from your personal computer.

To register your device, you will need to create a PIN and select your option to receive on your device: account balances, last three transactions or both.

For your added security, VyStar will not send account information through Alerts or Text Message Banking unless you make the request. VyStar never asks for your personal information or sends notifications or requests via text messaging or email.

*If you have questions about your mobile device and its capabilities, speak with your carrier/service provider.

VyStar does not charge fees for banking wireless. If you do not have a device to access text message banking, there may be a cost to purchase or rent one. There can be monthly service fees and other charges by the carrier for text messaging, email and wireless Internet access. Certain restrictions apply. VyStar is not responsible for usage, services or charges incurred on any device. You can remove your mobile device from this service at any time.

How to Register for Text Message Banking.

1. Check to make sure your device has text messaging or can receive email. This can be arranged with your carrier/service provider.

2. Do you use VyStar Internet Banking? Then, you are ready to register for Text Message Banking from your computer. If you have not used Internet Banking before, you will need to enroll from VyStar's home page to use this service.

3. From your personal computer, go to our website at www.vystarcu.org. Under the "Internet & e-Services Center", select Mobile Site/Wireless Banking and Register for Text Message Banking from the menu.

Easy Registration Process:

On the Text Messaging Access Set Up screen: Perform your normal Internet Banking Login procedure (Login ID, Password and Computer Recognition Security).

Register for Text Message Banking: Add a device. Complete the easy registration: Choose your settings and create your Text Message PIN.

Once registered: Go back to the Registration site at any time to add or delete a device; change your set up; view your PIN.

When you're ready to receive your first Text Message on your VyStar Account, call: (866) 439-4229 – type in your PIN and you will receive the option you have preset.

The Nominating Committee will be accepting applications beginning July 27, 2010 to fill three positions on VyStar Credit Union's Board of Directors. Each position is for a three-year term, announced at the Annual Meeting, which will be held at VyStar's Corporate Headquarters on March 30, 2011. Members first named on the account, who are at least 21 years of age and with $5 or more in their VyStar savings account are eligible to apply to serve on the Board of Directors. Board Members serve as unpaid volunteers and must be available for monthly Board and assigned Committee meetings, held in Jacksonville, Florida.

The "2011 Application for Nomination to the Board of Directors" can be obtained at any branch location, from our website at www.vystarcu.org, or by calling 908-2475 or 800-445-6289, ext. 2475. Completed applications must be mailed to VyStar Credit Union, Supervisory Committee, P.O. Box 7417, Jacksonville, Florida 32238-0417 and received by 5:00 p.m. (EDT) on September 3, 2010 for consideration by the Nominating Committee.

All properly completed applications will be reviewed on a number of factors. Past credit union and career experience as well as educational background and the applicant's ability to maintain their financial accounts in a responsible manner will be evaluated. The Nominating Committee will select three (3) applicants, whose names will appear in the October 2010 issue of VyStar Facts, be posted in the branches, and on the VyStar Credit Union website at www.vystarcu.org.

People across the nation continue to discuss the nation's economic recovery and its impact on protecting assets. When considering the alternatives, many people generally know credit unions are a good choice, but they typically tell us they are not fully aware of the value of belonging to a credit union.

What makes us better? First and foremost — you, our members. VyStar's valued members have made their credit union the success it has become today. By using all our products and services and encouraging your family, friends, neighbors and coworkers to join VyStar, we grow stronger and will be able to offer even more to benefit our members and the communities we serve.

It is important to use the services where you have ownership. Our members own VyStar where we hope they come to save, borrow and obtain all their financial services. As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, we pool our members' savings and then lend to one another at a favorable rate of interest. Rates on consumer loans are some of the lowest they have been in decades. All of our deposit accounts earn a competitive rate of interest.

The size of your credit union is a significant member benefit and makes us better. Because of our size, we are able to offer a broader array of financial services while maintaining our fees at a minimum. Even through a tough economy and changes in federal laws that affect our financial services industry, VyStar has performed well and demonstrated it is strong, stable and reliable.

VyStar is one of the larger credit unions nationally with over $4.1 billion in assets and serving over 363,000 members. We are the largest credit union headquartered in Northeast Florida and sixteenth largest credit union in the nation. Our staff of over 1,000 employees, 27 full-service and 3 high school branches, two drive-thru centers, a large Call Center, and 154 no surcharge fee ATMs throughout our seventeen-county VyStar area provide convenience and ease in accessing services and your VyStar accounts.

There are a variety of reasons why people join VyStar. Some people may be drawn to us because they heard we have decent auto or business loan rates, maybe they learned at work about our free direct deposit service, or possibly saw one of our televised phone banks where callers can get answers to their financial questions. No matter what the reason is for joining, our new members are often pleasantly surprised when they find out just how much we have to offer in financial programs and services.

It doesn't take long for our members to discover what makes us better than others. They find out we have free checking with a points-earning debit card, lower-rate credit cards that can be used without paying fees, and free Internet, Mobile and Text Message Banking where their VyStar account information can be accessed from a computer or cell phone any time of the day. They learn they have a variety of savings programs and investment options to help them get the most from their money and plan for retirement. They find out about our low rate mortgage loans, first mortgages with no closing costs, and the ability to refinance their existing home to lower their interest rate, consolidate debt and build equity. Through other comprehensive programs, they can even get assistance with the buying and selling of real estate as well as closing on a loan — and the list goes on.

The way we place emphasis on how we treat our members is also noticeable and sets us apart from others. When a member first walks into a branch or phones our Call Center, they often tell us they sense they are with people who are ready to listen and happy to help with any situation. We help our members with information to get them into the best products possible. We help them make comparisons, explain our programs and processes, answer their questions, and give sound advice so they can make the best financial decisions. Whenever needed, we also help our members find solutions and a better way to manage their money.

Money Makeover for the second year in a row has been helping members get the help they need to reduce their debt, increase their savings and improve their financial outlook. Our money makeover assesses your financial condition, helps determine where your money is going, and shows you how to make a budget — all keys to good financial health. We can also help you find out if you are getting the most value for your money and how best to use your money to your benefit. For instance, we can show you ways to appraise and modify your debt. We can help you consolidate debt and refinance a loan from another creditor at a lower rate to save money. We can sometimes extend the term on a loan to lower monthly payments or give a cash advance on a credit card to help pay off debt. We work with people every day to help improve their financial situations and be able to live comfortably and get the things they need and want. Be sure to track the progress of this year's Money Makeover TV contestants as they are challenged by real-life situations and, with the help of their VyStar Money Coaches, learn how to meet and exceed expectations to reach their financial goals. We encourage you to get a free Money Coach of your own at one of our branches. Members who participate say they have a completely different perspective on how their money can work for them.

At VyStar, we keep the cost of our services to a minimum so you can work on what's important — achieving your financial goals. We want to help you live a more balanced financial life, have some money set aside for those unexpected turns, and in later years be able to enjoy a happy retirement. Credit Unions have a mission to help their members prosper financially. Because you own us, we hope to satisfy your expectations of a much higher level of service.

We strive to provide you improved convenience and efficiency in service. For over a year, management and employees have been diligently working to meet new mandatory regulations that influence some of our processes at VyStar and ultimately our service delivery to benefit our members.

Beginning July 1st, a new streamlined borrowing process went into effect called the ZipLINE Lending Program. With ZipLINE, borrowing money from us is made easier. With a one-time signature on a ZipLINE Lending Plan (usually the first time you come to us for a consumer loan), you will establish a borrowing relationship, or plan, with VyStar that could last a lifetime. Once in the ZipLINE lending plan, members will enjoy a quick and convenient process the next time they need to borrow. Just call us or stop by a branch, verify your financial information and the approved funds will be deposited directly into your account for immediate access.

There's never been a better time to be a VyStar member than now. As your primary financial institution, you don't have to look elsewhere for dependable financial products and services that are consistently low in cost and in many cases, free. By choosing VyStar and using all our low-cost financial programs and services, you could save and earn literally thousands of dollars over your lifetime. Our programs are better than most and long-lasting in nature. They are a result of over 58 years of planning, sound decisions and conservative practices implemented on your behalf by a team of dedicated and experienced Board of Directors and VyStar's management and staff.

Whether you are an individual who needs a car loan and some advice on how to balance your debt; a young family who is shopping for a first home and would like a better understanding of the mortgage and closing process; a business member looking for more affordable financial services to expand your small business; or in your retirement years and want to make sure your finances are in good shape — let us explain all the advantages and benefits of your VyStar membership. We want our members to enjoy a long-term relationship with VyStar that is not only profitable for them, but also all our members. Together we can help build a stronger financial future.

Thank you for being a valued member of VyStar – we never forget that it's your money.


Terry R. West,
President/CEO
VyStar Credit Union

When making summer travel plans, be sure to pack your low rate VyStar Platinum Rewards Visa® card with great benefits for travel and for every day. Your credit card is accepted worldwide, everywhere Visa is accepted.

Fewer fees: Our card costs you less — some of our members don't pay any fees at all. At VyStar, there's no annual fee, no cash advance fee, no transaction fee, or rate increases because of an advance or late or missed payment.

Earn points: With every dollar you charge, you'll earn one rewards point for free travel and merchandise. Why not earn points to redeem for your next trip, while you're enjoying the vacation you're on.

Coverage: With our Platinum card you receive $500,000 travel accident insurance, free of charge.

ESP: Free Electronic Security Protection (ESP) will monitor your card activity as you travel from place to place. You'll be contacted if a purchase or transaction appears suspicious. ESP is automatic — you don't have to do a thing but relax and enjoy.

Travel assistance: If you tell us when you are leaving town (travel dates to places you don't normally visit) we can anticipate a change in your card activity, monitor your transactions, and be mindful of your needs while you're away.

Dispute questionable charges: It happens sometimes. If you notice a double-charge on a purchase or a bill with unfamiliar fees, you can dispute those charges and resolve it.

Zero liability: You'll have an easier time resolving unauthorized charges. Should your card be lost or stolen, you will not be held responsible.

24-hour card services: If you have any questions about your card or card services, you can reach someone around the clock, whether you are 500 miles away or 5,000.

Free and safe electronic payment services: Before you leave town you can arrangement payments for your card. Easy-pay is a payment system you can set up before you leave – you tell us how much and your payment will be automatic each month. From just about anywhere, use our free electronic payment services via computer in Internet Banking or by phone with Magic*Touch.

Don't have a VyStar credit card or would like to increase your credit limit? Call us today at (904) 777-6000 or 800-445-6289 or stop by any VyStar Branch.

VyStar just introduced its new KIDS CLUB giving kids 12 and under a head start in saving money and learning about financial matters. It's fun, it's free and it's just for kids. With Kids Club we also installed Coin Counting Machines for all our members to use (including Kids Club and Business members). Bring your spare change into any VyStar Branch and run it through our coin machine for deposit into your account. Another great service, free of charge.

A VyStar Visa® Gift Card is the perfect choice for any occasion. It's convenient and can be used wherever Visa® debit is accepted. That means you aren't limited to one retail store or mall. Place an order online at www.vystarcu.org (under Internet and e-Services). Customize your Gift Card with a name and personalized message. VyStar's Gift Cards can be activated from our website or by using the phone number provided. To save time, purchase a standard Gift Card at any VyStar branch. They come in denominations of $25, $50, $75, $100 and $200. Gift Cards are safe and can be used for any purpose. Be sure to pick one up for someone you know today!

You can stop by any VyStar Branch to get your own Money Coach and free Money Makeover. It's for everyone! Find out how you can reduce debt while increasing your savings. A good way to begin is by getting a copy of our free "Money Makeover At Home Guide" — available at any VyStar Branch or online at www.vystarcu.org. Then, let us show you some ways to save. We help members every day learn and put into practice ways to improve their financial health. At VyStar, we never forget that it's your money.

VyStar is introducing new screen options to improve ATM service to members. Toward the end of July, ATM users will begin to notice several changes when they visit our VyStar ATMs. The new enhancements allow members to customize transactions. This new service will be available at a few ATMs at a time with completion scheduled the end of November.

Soon members will have an option to select Member Preferences from their ATM's main transaction screen/menu. (The customized settings for your transactions will apply to the ATM you are using but will eventually apply to all ATMs by the end of November.)

• Choose a Fast Cash Amount: ATM users can select their own fast cash amount. Instead of the standard $60 – choose $20, $40, $60, $80, $100, $200, or ‘Other' and choose the amount you would like in multiples of 20 up to your ATM daily withdrawal limit. You'll also be able to designate whether it comes from your savings or checking account each time fast cash is selected.
  
  
• Select a language: Users can elect to see everything in English or Spanish each time they swipe their card and enter their PIN. Note: If you select Spanish, most of your receipt will be in Spanish.
  
  
• Receipt option: Decide if you want a receipt every time or not, or if you would like to be asked each time.

Improved Check Deposit – members will no longer have to enter the amount of their check for deposit into the ATM. Our enhanced service will display the amount read and simply ask if it is correct (yes or no). Only if you disagree with the amount read, will it be necessary to enter the amount of the check.

Coming Later this Year! Once the new services are installed at all VyStar ATMs, members can look forward to the ability to change their ATM PIN and activate their debit card just by using it at a VyStar ATM or any PIN point of sale keypad.

All VyStar offices will be closed on: JULY 5th — in observance of INDEPENDENCE DAY

Using VyStar's electronic and automated services will be a big help when you are on the go. You can have access to your accounts anytime, day or night. Set up these services today!

• Internet/Mobile Banking (account information, funds transfers, free Bill Payer, e-Statements)
• Text Message Banking from your cell phone
• Free Magic*Touch voice response service (funds transfers, monitor transactions and balance)
• ATM Service with your ATM or Check Card
• Free Direct Deposit of pay and retirement checks
• Free Easy-Pay automatic credit card payment service

© 2010 VyStar Credit Union