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Local Phone Numbers:
(803) 278-4851(803) 649-5305(803) 259-2781
Toll Free:1-800-237-9829
Web Address:www.srpfcu.org
TYME Line803-278-5590803-648-9340
1-800-554-TYMEMEMBERS and Counting...
0 9 9 5 2 5
5
2011 Holiday Schedule
Monday, May 30..................................................................Memorial Day
Monday, July 4 ..............................................................Independence Day
Monday, September 5 ................................................................Labor Day
Monday, October 10............................................................Columbus Day
Friday, November 11 .............................................................Veterans Day
Thursday, November 24...................................................Thanksgiving Day
Monday, December 26.........................................Christmas Day celebrated
Spring 2011
In This IssuePage 2
Members Financial Services
Large Business of the Year
Youth Week
Page 3
Election Results
SRP Website Arrived
Heart Walk
Member Wins Big
Page 4
Five Scams Targeting Senior Citizens
Page 5
Deer Chase Opens Branch
Credit Repair Scams
Page 6
Shred Schedule
Holiday Schedule
Branch Listing
Key Financial Indicators
Key Financial Indicators3/1/2011 ($000)Assets $578,299Loans $349,652Shares $223,699Share Drafts $133,607Share Certificates $169,458
www.srpfcu.org
April 18, Mon. – Pine LogApril 19, Tues. – North AugustaApril 25, Mon. – Davis RoadApril 26, Tues. – Barnwell
July 18, Mon. – Pine LogJuly 19, Tues. – North AugustaJuly 25, Mon. – Davis Road
2011 Shred ScheduleAvailable 4:00 - 5:30 PM
For branch locations visit us at www.srpfcu.orgPlease remember shredding is available to members for personal documents only. Thank you!
Blood Drive Scheduled for SRP
The Shepeard Community Bloodmobile is scheduled to be in the Walnut Lane Branch (1070 Edgefield Road, NorthAugusta, SC) parking lot from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 15,
to take blood donations.
Give the gift of life! Be a blood donor.
Branch ListingSouth Carolina
Allendale
ARMC
Barnwell
Burnettown
Edgefield
North Augusta
North Augusta Express
Pine Log
Richland Avenue
Richland Avenue Express
Rutland Drive
Silver Bluff
Savannah River Site
Walnut Lane
GeorgiaBroad Street
Davis Road
North Belair
Peach Orchard
Tobacco Road
Start getting your monthly state-ments faster and safer from our securewebsite. No more worrying about having your statement lost or stolenfrom your mailbox. And, you canaccess your account information 24hours a day, seven days a week, free.
Every month we will notify youwhen your statement is ready to
retrieve. Your member newsletter willalso be available electronically. There’sno need to file or store paper state-ments anymore. If you need a copy ofyour statement, you can simply down-load or print from your saved file.Sign up now! Simply log on to PC
TYME and click e-statements.
E-Statements - Don’t be a target for identity theft.
Oct. 17, Mon. – Pine LogOct. 18, Tues. – North AugustaOct. 24, Mon. – Davis Road
Every day, companies promise con-sumers who have poor credit historiesthat, for a fee, they’ll clean up theircredit report so they can get a carloan, a home mortgage, insurance oreven a job. The truth is these compa-nies can’t deliver an improved creditreport using the tactics they promote.It’s illegal: No one can remove accu-rate negative information from yourcredit report. So after you pay themhundreds or thousands of dollars inup-front fees, you’re left with the
same credit report—and a lot lessmoney. Indeed, attorneys for the Federal Trade Commission, thenation’s consumer protectionagency, say they’ve never seen alegitimate credit repair operation.The fact is there’s no quick fix forbad credit. The only legitimatecredit repair starts with you—andit takes time and a consciouseffort to pay your debts.
Recognizing a Credit Repair Scam.
If you see a credit repair offer,here’s how to tell if the companybehind it is up to no good:
• The company wants you to pay forcredit repair services before they pro-vide any services. Under the CreditRepair Organizations Act, credit repaircompanies cannot require you to payuntil they have completed theirpromised services.
• The company doesn’t tell you yourrights and what you can do for your-self for free.
• The company recommends that youdo not contact any of the three majornational credit reporting companiesdirectly.
• The company tells you they can getrid of most or all the negative creditinformation in your credit report, evenif that information is accurate andcurrent.
• The company suggests that you tryto invent a “new” credit identity—andthen, a new credit report—by apply-ing for an Employer IdentificationNumber to use instead of your SocialSecurity number.
• The company advises you to disputeall the information in your creditreport, regardless of its accuracy ortimeliness. Remember, no companycan legally remove accurate andtimely information from your creditreport. Protect yourself from “creditrepair” scams and be watchful of thesigns listed in this article.
Source: Federal Trade Commission,www.ftc.gov
SRP opened another in-school branch in RichmondCounty’s Deer Chase Elementary. The branch had itsgrand opening on December 15. The in-school branchencourages students to open a Frugal Freddie savingsaccount and make deposits at their own branch! Stu-
dents are selected tobe tellers and theytake deposits, writereceipts, and bal-ance at the end ofthe day. Studentswishing to make adeposit learn how tofill out real deposit
slips and receive prizes. Community Outreach Manager Yvonne Meeks and Peach Orchard RoadBranch Manager Mary Zollicoffer oversee the branch activities.
Deer Chase Elementary Opens School Branch
Protect Yourself from Credit Repair Scams
Find a location near you! For addresses and maps, visit us online at www.srpfcu.org.
A team of SRP employeescame together for a greatcause on March 5 at theNorth Augusta Greenway. TheAmerican Heart Association’s“Heart Walk” is a walkdesigned to raise awareness about heartdisease. SRP raised money through variousfundraising activities. Many businesses,
organizations, churches, individuals, andother groups in the community participateeach year in this event.
Fraud targeting senior citizens is agrowing concern as millions havefallen victim to scammers. BetterBusiness Bureau encourages familiesto keep the lines of communicationopen with their elders regardingfinances and to recognize some com-mon cons targeting seniorcitizens.
According to a June2010 survey by InvestorProtection Trust, morethan 7.3 million senior cit-izens—roughly 20 percentof Americans aged 65 orolder—have “been takenadvantage of financially interms of an inappropriateinvestment, unreasonablyhigh fees for financial ser-vices, or outright fraud.”
BBB warns against thefollowing five scams that commonlytarget senior citizens:
Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams –Typically, the victim receives a letterin the mail stating they have won alottery or sweepstakes. The letterinstructs the victim to deposit anenclosed check and then wire a por-tion back to the company to covertaxes or administration fees. Neverwire money to someone you don’tknow. You should never have to sendmoney to receive any winnings from alottery or sweepstakes.
Medicare Scams – Navigating theMedicare system isn’t easy and somescammers will look for any opportu-nity to take advantage of the confu-sion. Commonly, a scammer willclaim to be with Medicare and ask forpersonal information such asMedicare, Medicaid, social security,credit card or bank account numbers.
Remind your elderly family membersthat Medicare will never call to askfor sensitive personal financial infor-mation. If you suspect fraud contactyour local police or the Health andHuman Services Office of InspectorGeneral at 800-HHS-TIPS.
Bereavement Scams – Scammerswill often try to take advantage of theincreased vulnerability of senior citi-zens who have recently lost a lovedone, such as a spouse. Offer help toelderly family members if they have
recently lost a loved one and are inex-perienced in managing finances. Ifyou are uncertain about owing a debtwhen collectors call, ask for writtenconfirmation.
Deceptive Professionals – Whilemany scams targetingsenior citizens might nothave a face, some scam-mers will be invited in thefront door including techni-cians, contractors, chimneysweeps, air duct cleanersand other services. Someprofessionals will lie aboutthe extent of the problemor claim safety issues andthen inflate prices forunsuspecting senior cus-tomers. Always research acompany with BBB beforeyou hand over any money
and report any deceptive services toyour BBB, local law enforcement andthe state Attorney General.
Investment and Work at HomeOpportunities – Promises of easymoney often target older adultsbecause they may be looking to sup-plement their income. The pitchmight come in the form of an invest-ment opportunity that promises bigreturns, or as a way to make money athome for an upfront cost. Regardlessof the specifics, the victim is offeredwhat sounds like a great opportunitybut the extra income never material-izes. Always research any work athome opportunity with BBB. Bewareof investment or money-making offersthat seem too good to be true or usehigh pressure sales tactics to get youto sign up immediately.
Source: Better Business Bureau of Central
Georgia & the CSRA
432
During its 93rd Annual Dinner, the Greater AikenChamber of Commerce honoredcitizens and businesses that aretruly committed to the Aikenarea. SRP Federal Credit Unionwas named this year’s “Large
Business of the Year.” Picturedleft to right are David Jameson,SRP President Ed Templeton,Greg Funk, Liz Stewart, SRPBoard Chairman Bruce Burns,and Frank Thomas.
Real World Estate PlanningContent developed by CUNA Brokerage Services, provided by Les
Branson and Clay Burckhalter
Accumulating wealth is an important goal formost investors. Not just for their own purposesduring retirement, but also for their heirs and char-ities. But estate tax laws can consume a substan-tial portion of the wealth you intend to give yourheirs and charities unless you have a proper estateplan. Estate plans may bolster the growth of yourassets while potentially reducing estate taxes.
Benefits of an Estate PlanAn estate plan can help accomplish several goals,including:• Pass property to your heirs in an orderly fashion,
so that it’s not a free-for-all.• Reduce the expenses and taxes assessed when
the surviving spouse passes on.
A Simple WillA will is the most basic estate planning tool.According to the American Bar Association,approximately 57 percent of U.S. citizens actuallyhave one*. If you don’t have a will, the state willarrange one for you after you pass. While a will isessential, if you die leaving only a will, your estatewill go to probate court, which can be expensiveand time-consuming. Having trusts that workalongside a will, to specify who gets what andwhen they get it, can help avoid this process andprotect your assets from probate court.
A Revocable TrustA revocable trust has many benefits, includingavoiding probate court. It puts safeguards in placeshould one spouse become mentally incapaci-tated, clarifies property distribution, protects assetsfrom in-laws, divorce settlements or creditors andaids tax savings.
Review RegularlyOnce you’ve drafted an estate plan, review it annu-ally to ensure that you are still meeting your goals.When it comes to estate planning, the more youplan the more you can do to ensure your goals foryour estate are achieved.
*Bankrate, Inc. Poll conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs& Media, October 26-28, 2007.
Les Branson and Clay Burckhalter are Financial Advisorswith MEMBERS Financial Services located at SRP FederalCredit Union. If you have any questions, or would like to pro-vide feedback, regarding the information presented in thisarticle, you may contact Les and Clay at 803-510-3835.
Representative is not a tax advisor or legal expert. For infor-mation regarding specific tax situations, please contact a taxprofessional. For legal advice, consult an attorney.
Representatives are registered, securities are sold, and invest-ment advisory services offered through CUNA BrokerageServices, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registeredbroker/dealer and investment advisor, 2000 Heritage Way,Waverly, Iowa 50677, toll-free (866) 512-6109. Nondepositinvestment and insurance products are not federally insured,involve investment risk, may lose value and are not obliga-tions of or guaranteed by the financial institution. CBSI isunder contract with the financial institution, through thefinancial services program, to make securities available tomembers. FR040818-D115
Five Scams Targeting Senior CitizensYour Credit Union Named LargeBusiness of the Year
SRP Member WinsBig with VisaSweepstakes
A SRP Federal Credit Union memberwas announced the winner of Visa’sSuper Bowl Trip for Life Sweepstakes.The nationally advertised contestawarded one grand prize winner andone guest with round-trip airfare,accommodations and tickets to theSuper Bowl for life or a cash prize.
The winner was Robyne Thomas ofClearwater, South Carolina. She usedher SRP Visa card to make the luckywinning purchase and opted for thecash prize. Thomas and her son, RayFutch, were able to attend this year’sSuper Bowl in Texas, featuring theGreen Bay Packers and Pittsburg Steel-ers, compliments of Visa.
Thomas came to SRP’s Annual Meet-ing in March and told the crowd shedidn’t believe she had won. “Mr. Tem-pleton kept calling saying he was thePresident of SRP and I had won thiscontest. My credit union has trained menot to fall for any scams, and I thoughtthat this was one of those! Thankfullyhe was persistent and I finally believedhim,” she said.
Visit SRP Federal Credit Union the week of April 17-23 and help uscelebrate National Credit Union Youth Week. Our theme for 2011 is“Money Rocks at my Credit Union.” Get your kids started right financiallyand show them how they canbe saving rock stars!
We will have identical jarson display at our participatingbranches* for children (12and under) to guess the num-ber of pennies it contains.The top three guesses will getFrugal Freddie gifts and a $25deposit to their account. Col-oring sheets will be availableto children who visit any ofour branches.*Participating branches include:
Allendale, Barnwell, Broad Street,Burnettown, Edgefield, DavisRoad, North Augusta, NorthBelair, Peach Orchard, Pine Log,Richland Avenue, Rutland Drive,Silver Bluff, Tobacco Road, andWalnut Lane.
National Credit Union Youth Week
American HeartAssociation’sHeart Walk
Your annual membership meeting washeld on March 10, 2011 at the USCAiken Etherredge Center. The yearly eventprovides members the opportunity to voteand elect board members who volunteertheir time to help guide and direct thecredit union in its programs and services.Chuck Goergen, Lonnie Gordon, LarryLaughlin, Mary Thomas, and Don Turno
were reelected to the Board of Directors.Melinda Brinkley and David Chostnerwere reelected to the Credit Committeand Eric Frickey was elected to the CreditCommittee. Over 650 members came toparticipate in the business meeting. Allattendees received an appreciation giftand a total of $3,000 was given away incash prizes!
51st Annual Meeting Election Results
www.srpfcu.org
New SRP Websitehas Arrived !SRP proudly launched a brand new
website in January. This new site has a fresh look and designed to be user friendly. Be sure to check it out at www.srpfcu.org!
Robyne Thomas holds her check andposes with SRP President Ed Templetonand her son Ray Futch. Templeton gaveher financial advice before the check wasdeposited into her credit union account.
A team of SRP employeescame together for a greatcause on March 5 at theNorth Augusta Greenway. TheAmerican Heart Association’s“Heart Walk” is a walkdesigned to raise awareness about heartdisease. SRP raised money through variousfundraising activities. Many businesses,
organizations, churches, individuals, andother groups in the community participateeach year in this event.
Fraud targeting senior citizens is agrowing concern as millions havefallen victim to scammers. BetterBusiness Bureau encourages familiesto keep the lines of communicationopen with their elders regardingfinances and to recognize some com-mon cons targeting seniorcitizens.
According to a June2010 survey by InvestorProtection Trust, morethan 7.3 million senior cit-izens—roughly 20 percentof Americans aged 65 orolder—have “been takenadvantage of financially interms of an inappropriateinvestment, unreasonablyhigh fees for financial ser-vices, or outright fraud.”
BBB warns against thefollowing five scams that commonlytarget senior citizens:
Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams –Typically, the victim receives a letterin the mail stating they have won alottery or sweepstakes. The letterinstructs the victim to deposit anenclosed check and then wire a por-tion back to the company to covertaxes or administration fees. Neverwire money to someone you don’tknow. You should never have to sendmoney to receive any winnings from alottery or sweepstakes.
Medicare Scams – Navigating theMedicare system isn’t easy and somescammers will look for any opportu-nity to take advantage of the confu-sion. Commonly, a scammer willclaim to be with Medicare and ask forpersonal information such asMedicare, Medicaid, social security,credit card or bank account numbers.
Remind your elderly family membersthat Medicare will never call to askfor sensitive personal financial infor-mation. If you suspect fraud contactyour local police or the Health andHuman Services Office of InspectorGeneral at 800-HHS-TIPS.
Bereavement Scams – Scammerswill often try to take advantage of theincreased vulnerability of senior citi-zens who have recently lost a lovedone, such as a spouse. Offer help toelderly family members if they have
recently lost a loved one and are inex-perienced in managing finances. Ifyou are uncertain about owing a debtwhen collectors call, ask for writtenconfirmation.
Deceptive Professionals – Whilemany scams targetingsenior citizens might nothave a face, some scam-mers will be invited in thefront door including techni-cians, contractors, chimneysweeps, air duct cleanersand other services. Someprofessionals will lie aboutthe extent of the problemor claim safety issues andthen inflate prices forunsuspecting senior cus-tomers. Always research acompany with BBB beforeyou hand over any money
and report any deceptive services toyour BBB, local law enforcement andthe state Attorney General.
Investment and Work at HomeOpportunities – Promises of easymoney often target older adultsbecause they may be looking to sup-plement their income. The pitchmight come in the form of an invest-ment opportunity that promises bigreturns, or as a way to make money athome for an upfront cost. Regardlessof the specifics, the victim is offeredwhat sounds like a great opportunitybut the extra income never material-izes. Always research any work athome opportunity with BBB. Bewareof investment or money-making offersthat seem too good to be true or usehigh pressure sales tactics to get youto sign up immediately.
Source: Better Business Bureau of Central
Georgia & the CSRA
432
During its 93rd Annual Dinner, the Greater AikenChamber of Commerce honoredcitizens and businesses that aretruly committed to the Aikenarea. SRP Federal Credit Unionwas named this year’s “Large
Business of the Year.” Picturedleft to right are David Jameson,SRP President Ed Templeton,Greg Funk, Liz Stewart, SRPBoard Chairman Bruce Burns,and Frank Thomas.
Real World Estate PlanningContent developed by CUNA Brokerage Services, provided by Les
Branson and Clay Burckhalter
Accumulating wealth is an important goal formost investors. Not just for their own purposesduring retirement, but also for their heirs and char-ities. But estate tax laws can consume a substan-tial portion of the wealth you intend to give yourheirs and charities unless you have a proper estateplan. Estate plans may bolster the growth of yourassets while potentially reducing estate taxes.
Benefits of an Estate PlanAn estate plan can help accomplish several goals,including:• Pass property to your heirs in an orderly fashion,
so that it’s not a free-for-all.• Reduce the expenses and taxes assessed when
the surviving spouse passes on.
A Simple WillA will is the most basic estate planning tool.According to the American Bar Association,approximately 57 percent of U.S. citizens actuallyhave one*. If you don’t have a will, the state willarrange one for you after you pass. While a will isessential, if you die leaving only a will, your estatewill go to probate court, which can be expensiveand time-consuming. Having trusts that workalongside a will, to specify who gets what andwhen they get it, can help avoid this process andprotect your assets from probate court.
A Revocable TrustA revocable trust has many benefits, includingavoiding probate court. It puts safeguards in placeshould one spouse become mentally incapaci-tated, clarifies property distribution, protects assetsfrom in-laws, divorce settlements or creditors andaids tax savings.
Review RegularlyOnce you’ve drafted an estate plan, review it annu-ally to ensure that you are still meeting your goals.When it comes to estate planning, the more youplan the more you can do to ensure your goals foryour estate are achieved.
*Bankrate, Inc. Poll conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs& Media, October 26-28, 2007.
Les Branson and Clay Burckhalter are Financial Advisorswith MEMBERS Financial Services located at SRP FederalCredit Union. If you have any questions, or would like to pro-vide feedback, regarding the information presented in thisarticle, you may contact Les and Clay at 803-510-3835.
Representative is not a tax advisor or legal expert. For infor-mation regarding specific tax situations, please contact a taxprofessional. For legal advice, consult an attorney.
Representatives are registered, securities are sold, and invest-ment advisory services offered through CUNA BrokerageServices, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registeredbroker/dealer and investment advisor, 2000 Heritage Way,Waverly, Iowa 50677, toll-free (866) 512-6109. Nondepositinvestment and insurance products are not federally insured,involve investment risk, may lose value and are not obliga-tions of or guaranteed by the financial institution. CBSI isunder contract with the financial institution, through thefinancial services program, to make securities available tomembers. FR040818-D115
Five Scams Targeting Senior CitizensYour Credit Union Named LargeBusiness of the Year
SRP Member WinsBig with VisaSweepstakes
A SRP Federal Credit Union memberwas announced the winner of Visa’sSuper Bowl Trip for Life Sweepstakes.The nationally advertised contestawarded one grand prize winner andone guest with round-trip airfare,accommodations and tickets to theSuper Bowl for life or a cash prize.
The winner was Robyne Thomas ofClearwater, South Carolina. She usedher SRP Visa card to make the luckywinning purchase and opted for thecash prize. Thomas and her son, RayFutch, were able to attend this year’sSuper Bowl in Texas, featuring theGreen Bay Packers and Pittsburg Steel-ers, compliments of Visa.
Thomas came to SRP’s Annual Meet-ing in March and told the crowd shedidn’t believe she had won. “Mr. Tem-pleton kept calling saying he was thePresident of SRP and I had won thiscontest. My credit union has trained menot to fall for any scams, and I thoughtthat this was one of those! Thankfullyhe was persistent and I finally believedhim,” she said.
Visit SRP Federal Credit Union the week of April 17-23 and help uscelebrate National Credit Union Youth Week. Our theme for 2011 is“Money Rocks at my Credit Union.” Get your kids started right financiallyand show them how they canbe saving rock stars!
We will have identical jarson display at our participatingbranches* for children (12and under) to guess the num-ber of pennies it contains.The top three guesses will getFrugal Freddie gifts and a $25deposit to their account. Col-oring sheets will be availableto children who visit any ofour branches.*Participating branches include:
Allendale, Barnwell, Broad Street,Burnettown, Edgefield, DavisRoad, North Augusta, NorthBelair, Peach Orchard, Pine Log,Richland Avenue, Rutland Drive,Silver Bluff, Tobacco Road, andWalnut Lane.
National Credit Union Youth Week
American HeartAssociation’sHeart Walk
Your annual membership meeting washeld on March 10, 2011 at the USCAiken Etherredge Center. The yearly eventprovides members the opportunity to voteand elect board members who volunteertheir time to help guide and direct thecredit union in its programs and services.Chuck Goergen, Lonnie Gordon, LarryLaughlin, Mary Thomas, and Don Turno
were reelected to the Board of Directors.Melinda Brinkley and David Chostnerwere reelected to the Credit Committeand Eric Frickey was elected to the CreditCommittee. Over 650 members came toparticipate in the business meeting. Allattendees received an appreciation giftand a total of $3,000 was given away incash prizes!
51st Annual Meeting Election Results
www.srpfcu.org
New SRP Websitehas Arrived !SRP proudly launched a brand new
website in January. This new site has a fresh look and designed to be user friendly. Be sure to check it out at www.srpfcu.org!
Robyne Thomas holds her check andposes with SRP President Ed Templetonand her son Ray Futch. Templeton gaveher financial advice before the check wasdeposited into her credit union account.
A team of SRP employeescame together for a greatcause on March 5 at theNorth Augusta Greenway. TheAmerican Heart Association’s“Heart Walk” is a walkdesigned to raise awareness about heartdisease. SRP raised money through variousfundraising activities. Many businesses,
organizations, churches, individuals, andother groups in the community participateeach year in this event.
Fraud targeting senior citizens is agrowing concern as millions havefallen victim to scammers. BetterBusiness Bureau encourages familiesto keep the lines of communicationopen with their elders regardingfinances and to recognize some com-mon cons targeting seniorcitizens.
According to a June2010 survey by InvestorProtection Trust, morethan 7.3 million senior cit-izens—roughly 20 percentof Americans aged 65 orolder—have “been takenadvantage of financially interms of an inappropriateinvestment, unreasonablyhigh fees for financial ser-vices, or outright fraud.”
BBB warns against thefollowing five scams that commonlytarget senior citizens:
Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams –Typically, the victim receives a letterin the mail stating they have won alottery or sweepstakes. The letterinstructs the victim to deposit anenclosed check and then wire a por-tion back to the company to covertaxes or administration fees. Neverwire money to someone you don’tknow. You should never have to sendmoney to receive any winnings from alottery or sweepstakes.
Medicare Scams – Navigating theMedicare system isn’t easy and somescammers will look for any opportu-nity to take advantage of the confu-sion. Commonly, a scammer willclaim to be with Medicare and ask forpersonal information such asMedicare, Medicaid, social security,credit card or bank account numbers.
Remind your elderly family membersthat Medicare will never call to askfor sensitive personal financial infor-mation. If you suspect fraud contactyour local police or the Health andHuman Services Office of InspectorGeneral at 800-HHS-TIPS.
Bereavement Scams – Scammerswill often try to take advantage of theincreased vulnerability of senior citi-zens who have recently lost a lovedone, such as a spouse. Offer help toelderly family members if they have
recently lost a loved one and are inex-perienced in managing finances. Ifyou are uncertain about owing a debtwhen collectors call, ask for writtenconfirmation.
Deceptive Professionals – Whilemany scams targetingsenior citizens might nothave a face, some scam-mers will be invited in thefront door including techni-cians, contractors, chimneysweeps, air duct cleanersand other services. Someprofessionals will lie aboutthe extent of the problemor claim safety issues andthen inflate prices forunsuspecting senior cus-tomers. Always research acompany with BBB beforeyou hand over any money
and report any deceptive services toyour BBB, local law enforcement andthe state Attorney General.
Investment and Work at HomeOpportunities – Promises of easymoney often target older adultsbecause they may be looking to sup-plement their income. The pitchmight come in the form of an invest-ment opportunity that promises bigreturns, or as a way to make money athome for an upfront cost. Regardlessof the specifics, the victim is offeredwhat sounds like a great opportunitybut the extra income never material-izes. Always research any work athome opportunity with BBB. Bewareof investment or money-making offersthat seem too good to be true or usehigh pressure sales tactics to get youto sign up immediately.
Source: Better Business Bureau of Central
Georgia & the CSRA
432
During its 93rd Annual Dinner, the Greater AikenChamber of Commerce honoredcitizens and businesses that aretruly committed to the Aikenarea. SRP Federal Credit Unionwas named this year’s “Large
Business of the Year.” Picturedleft to right are David Jameson,SRP President Ed Templeton,Greg Funk, Liz Stewart, SRPBoard Chairman Bruce Burns,and Frank Thomas.
Real World Estate PlanningContent developed by CUNA Brokerage Services, provided by Les
Branson and Clay Burckhalter
Accumulating wealth is an important goal formost investors. Not just for their own purposesduring retirement, but also for their heirs and char-ities. But estate tax laws can consume a substan-tial portion of the wealth you intend to give yourheirs and charities unless you have a proper estateplan. Estate plans may bolster the growth of yourassets while potentially reducing estate taxes.
Benefits of an Estate PlanAn estate plan can help accomplish several goals,including:• Pass property to your heirs in an orderly fashion,
so that it’s not a free-for-all.• Reduce the expenses and taxes assessed when
the surviving spouse passes on.
A Simple WillA will is the most basic estate planning tool.According to the American Bar Association,approximately 57 percent of U.S. citizens actuallyhave one*. If you don’t have a will, the state willarrange one for you after you pass. While a will isessential, if you die leaving only a will, your estatewill go to probate court, which can be expensiveand time-consuming. Having trusts that workalongside a will, to specify who gets what andwhen they get it, can help avoid this process andprotect your assets from probate court.
A Revocable TrustA revocable trust has many benefits, includingavoiding probate court. It puts safeguards in placeshould one spouse become mentally incapaci-tated, clarifies property distribution, protects assetsfrom in-laws, divorce settlements or creditors andaids tax savings.
Review RegularlyOnce you’ve drafted an estate plan, review it annu-ally to ensure that you are still meeting your goals.When it comes to estate planning, the more youplan the more you can do to ensure your goals foryour estate are achieved.
*Bankrate, Inc. Poll conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs& Media, October 26-28, 2007.
Les Branson and Clay Burckhalter are Financial Advisorswith MEMBERS Financial Services located at SRP FederalCredit Union. If you have any questions, or would like to pro-vide feedback, regarding the information presented in thisarticle, you may contact Les and Clay at 803-510-3835.
Representative is not a tax advisor or legal expert. For infor-mation regarding specific tax situations, please contact a taxprofessional. For legal advice, consult an attorney.
Representatives are registered, securities are sold, and invest-ment advisory services offered through CUNA BrokerageServices, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registeredbroker/dealer and investment advisor, 2000 Heritage Way,Waverly, Iowa 50677, toll-free (866) 512-6109. Nondepositinvestment and insurance products are not federally insured,involve investment risk, may lose value and are not obliga-tions of or guaranteed by the financial institution. CBSI isunder contract with the financial institution, through thefinancial services program, to make securities available tomembers. FR040818-D115
Five Scams Targeting Senior CitizensYour Credit Union Named LargeBusiness of the Year
SRP Member WinsBig with VisaSweepstakes
A SRP Federal Credit Union memberwas announced the winner of Visa’sSuper Bowl Trip for Life Sweepstakes.The nationally advertised contestawarded one grand prize winner andone guest with round-trip airfare,accommodations and tickets to theSuper Bowl for life or a cash prize.
The winner was Robyne Thomas ofClearwater, South Carolina. She usedher SRP Visa card to make the luckywinning purchase and opted for thecash prize. Thomas and her son, RayFutch, were able to attend this year’sSuper Bowl in Texas, featuring theGreen Bay Packers and Pittsburg Steel-ers, compliments of Visa.
Thomas came to SRP’s Annual Meet-ing in March and told the crowd shedidn’t believe she had won. “Mr. Tem-pleton kept calling saying he was thePresident of SRP and I had won thiscontest. My credit union has trained menot to fall for any scams, and I thoughtthat this was one of those! Thankfullyhe was persistent and I finally believedhim,” she said.
Visit SRP Federal Credit Union the week of April 17-23 and help uscelebrate National Credit Union Youth Week. Our theme for 2011 is“Money Rocks at my Credit Union.” Get your kids started right financiallyand show them how they canbe saving rock stars!
We will have identical jarson display at our participatingbranches* for children (12and under) to guess the num-ber of pennies it contains.The top three guesses will getFrugal Freddie gifts and a $25deposit to their account. Col-oring sheets will be availableto children who visit any ofour branches.*Participating branches include:
Allendale, Barnwell, Broad Street,Burnettown, Edgefield, DavisRoad, North Augusta, NorthBelair, Peach Orchard, Pine Log,Richland Avenue, Rutland Drive,Silver Bluff, Tobacco Road, andWalnut Lane.
National Credit Union Youth Week
American HeartAssociation’sHeart Walk
Your annual membership meeting washeld on March 10, 2011 at the USCAiken Etherredge Center. The yearly eventprovides members the opportunity to voteand elect board members who volunteertheir time to help guide and direct thecredit union in its programs and services.Chuck Goergen, Lonnie Gordon, LarryLaughlin, Mary Thomas, and Don Turno
were reelected to the Board of Directors.Melinda Brinkley and David Chostnerwere reelected to the Credit Committeand Eric Frickey was elected to the CreditCommittee. Over 650 members came toparticipate in the business meeting. Allattendees received an appreciation giftand a total of $3,000 was given away incash prizes!
51st Annual Meeting Election Results
www.srpfcu.org
New SRP Websitehas Arrived !SRP proudly launched a brand new
website in January. This new site has a fresh look and designed to be user friendly. Be sure to check it out at www.srpfcu.org!
Robyne Thomas holds her check andposes with SRP President Ed Templetonand her son Ray Futch. Templeton gaveher financial advice before the check wasdeposited into her credit union account.
6
Local Phone Numbers:
(803) 278-4851(803) 649-5305(803) 259-2781
Toll Free:1-800-237-9829
Web Address:www.srpfcu.org
TYME Line803-278-5590803-648-9340
1-800-554-TYMEMEMBERS and Counting...
0 9 9 5 2 5
5
2011 Holiday Schedule
Monday, May 30..................................................................Memorial Day
Monday, July 4 ..............................................................Independence Day
Monday, September 5 ................................................................Labor Day
Monday, October 10............................................................Columbus Day
Friday, November 11 .............................................................Veterans Day
Thursday, November 24...................................................Thanksgiving Day
Monday, December 26.........................................Christmas Day celebrated
Spring 2011
In This IssuePage 2
Members Financial Services
Large Business of the Year
Youth Week
Page 3
Election Results
SRP Website Arrived
Heart Walk
Member Wins Big
Page 4
Five Scams Targeting Senior Citizens
Page 5
Deer Chase Opens Branch
Credit Repair Scams
Page 6
Shred Schedule
Holiday Schedule
Branch Listing
Key Financial Indicators
Key Financial Indicators3/1/2011 ($000)Assets $578,299Loans $349,652Shares $223,699Share Drafts $133,607Share Certificates $169,458
www.srpfcu.org
April 18, Mon. – Pine LogApril 19, Tues. – North AugustaApril 25, Mon. – Davis RoadApril 26, Tues. – Barnwell
July 18, Mon. – Pine LogJuly 19, Tues. – North AugustaJuly 25, Mon. – Davis Road
2011 Shred ScheduleAvailable 4:00 - 5:30 PM
For branch locations visit us at www.srpfcu.orgPlease remember shredding is available to members for personal documents only. Thank you!
Blood Drive Scheduled for SRP
The Shepeard Community Bloodmobile is scheduled to be in the Walnut Lane Branch (1070 Edgefield Road, NorthAugusta, SC) parking lot from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 15,
to take blood donations.
Give the gift of life! Be a blood donor.
Branch ListingSouth Carolina
Allendale
ARMC
Barnwell
Burnettown
Edgefield
North Augusta
North Augusta Express
Pine Log
Richland Avenue
Richland Avenue Express
Rutland Drive
Silver Bluff
Savannah River Site
Walnut Lane
GeorgiaBroad Street
Davis Road
North Belair
Peach Orchard
Tobacco Road
Start getting your monthly state-ments faster and safer from our securewebsite. No more worrying about having your statement lost or stolenfrom your mailbox. And, you canaccess your account information 24hours a day, seven days a week, free.
Every month we will notify youwhen your statement is ready to
retrieve. Your member newsletter willalso be available electronically. There’sno need to file or store paper state-ments anymore. If you need a copy ofyour statement, you can simply down-load or print from your saved file.Sign up now! Simply log on to PC
TYME and click e-statements.
E-Statements - Don’t be a target for identity theft.
Oct. 17, Mon. – Pine LogOct. 18, Tues. – North AugustaOct. 24, Mon. – Davis Road
Every day, companies promise con-sumers who have poor credit historiesthat, for a fee, they’ll clean up theircredit report so they can get a carloan, a home mortgage, insurance oreven a job. The truth is these compa-nies can’t deliver an improved creditreport using the tactics they promote.It’s illegal: No one can remove accu-rate negative information from yourcredit report. So after you pay themhundreds or thousands of dollars inup-front fees, you’re left with the
same credit report—and a lot lessmoney. Indeed, attorneys for the Federal Trade Commission, thenation’s consumer protectionagency, say they’ve never seen alegitimate credit repair operation.The fact is there’s no quick fix forbad credit. The only legitimatecredit repair starts with you—andit takes time and a consciouseffort to pay your debts.
Recognizing a Credit Repair Scam.
If you see a credit repair offer,here’s how to tell if the companybehind it is up to no good:
• The company wants you to pay forcredit repair services before they pro-vide any services. Under the CreditRepair Organizations Act, credit repaircompanies cannot require you to payuntil they have completed theirpromised services.
• The company doesn’t tell you yourrights and what you can do for your-self for free.
• The company recommends that youdo not contact any of the three majornational credit reporting companiesdirectly.
• The company tells you they can getrid of most or all the negative creditinformation in your credit report, evenif that information is accurate andcurrent.
• The company suggests that you tryto invent a “new” credit identity—andthen, a new credit report—by apply-ing for an Employer IdentificationNumber to use instead of your SocialSecurity number.
• The company advises you to disputeall the information in your creditreport, regardless of its accuracy ortimeliness. Remember, no companycan legally remove accurate andtimely information from your creditreport. Protect yourself from “creditrepair” scams and be watchful of thesigns listed in this article.
Source: Federal Trade Commission,www.ftc.gov
SRP opened another in-school branch in RichmondCounty’s Deer Chase Elementary. The branch had itsgrand opening on December 15. The in-school branchencourages students to open a Frugal Freddie savingsaccount and make deposits at their own branch! Stu-
dents are selected tobe tellers and theytake deposits, writereceipts, and bal-ance at the end ofthe day. Studentswishing to make adeposit learn how tofill out real deposit
slips and receive prizes. Community Outreach Manager Yvonne Meeks and Peach Orchard RoadBranch Manager Mary Zollicoffer oversee the branch activities.
Deer Chase Elementary Opens School Branch
Protect Yourself from Credit Repair Scams
Find a location near you! For addresses and maps, visit us online at www.srpfcu.org.
6
Local Phone Numbers:
(803) 278-4851(803) 649-5305(803) 259-2781
Toll Free:1-800-237-9829
Web Address:www.srpfcu.org
TYME Line803-278-5590803-648-9340
1-800-554-TYMEMEMBERS and Counting...
0 9 9 5 2 5
5
2011 Holiday Schedule
Monday, May 30..................................................................Memorial Day
Monday, July 4 ..............................................................Independence Day
Monday, September 5 ................................................................Labor Day
Monday, October 10............................................................Columbus Day
Friday, November 11 .............................................................Veterans Day
Thursday, November 24...................................................Thanksgiving Day
Monday, December 26.........................................Christmas Day celebrated
Spring 2011
In This IssuePage 2
Members Financial Services
Large Business of the Year
Youth Week
Page 3
Election Results
SRP Website Arrived
Heart Walk
Member Wins Big
Page 4
Five Scams Targeting Senior Citizens
Page 5
Deer Chase Opens Branch
Credit Repair Scams
Page 6
Shred Schedule
Holiday Schedule
Branch Listing
Key Financial Indicators
Key Financial Indicators3/1/2011 ($000)Assets $578,299Loans $349,652Shares $223,699Share Drafts $133,607Share Certificates $169,458
www.srpfcu.org
April 18, Mon. – Pine LogApril 19, Tues. – North AugustaApril 25, Mon. – Davis RoadApril 26, Tues. – Barnwell
July 18, Mon. – Pine LogJuly 19, Tues. – North AugustaJuly 25, Mon. – Davis Road
2011 Shred ScheduleAvailable 4:00 - 5:30 PM
For branch locations visit us at www.srpfcu.orgPlease remember shredding is available to members for personal documents only. Thank you!
Blood Drive Scheduled for SRP
The Shepeard Community Bloodmobile is scheduled to be in the Walnut Lane Branch (1070 Edgefield Road, NorthAugusta, SC) parking lot from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 15,
to take blood donations.
Give the gift of life! Be a blood donor.
Branch ListingSouth Carolina
Allendale
ARMC
Barnwell
Burnettown
Edgefield
North Augusta
North Augusta Express
Pine Log
Richland Avenue
Richland Avenue Express
Rutland Drive
Silver Bluff
Savannah River Site
Walnut Lane
GeorgiaBroad Street
Davis Road
North Belair
Peach Orchard
Tobacco Road
Start getting your monthly state-ments faster and safer from our securewebsite. No more worrying about having your statement lost or stolenfrom your mailbox. And, you canaccess your account information 24hours a day, seven days a week, free.
Every month we will notify youwhen your statement is ready to
retrieve. Your member newsletter willalso be available electronically. There’sno need to file or store paper state-ments anymore. If you need a copy ofyour statement, you can simply down-load or print from your saved file.Sign up now! Simply log on to PC
TYME and click e-statements.
E-Statements - Don’t be a target for identity theft.
Oct. 17, Mon. – Pine LogOct. 18, Tues. – North AugustaOct. 24, Mon. – Davis Road
Every day, companies promise con-sumers who have poor credit historiesthat, for a fee, they’ll clean up theircredit report so they can get a carloan, a home mortgage, insurance oreven a job. The truth is these compa-nies can’t deliver an improved creditreport using the tactics they promote.It’s illegal: No one can remove accu-rate negative information from yourcredit report. So after you pay themhundreds or thousands of dollars inup-front fees, you’re left with the
same credit report—and a lot lessmoney. Indeed, attorneys for the Federal Trade Commission, thenation’s consumer protectionagency, say they’ve never seen alegitimate credit repair operation.The fact is there’s no quick fix forbad credit. The only legitimatecredit repair starts with you—andit takes time and a consciouseffort to pay your debts.
Recognizing a Credit Repair Scam.
If you see a credit repair offer,here’s how to tell if the companybehind it is up to no good:
• The company wants you to pay forcredit repair services before they pro-vide any services. Under the CreditRepair Organizations Act, credit repaircompanies cannot require you to payuntil they have completed theirpromised services.
• The company doesn’t tell you yourrights and what you can do for your-self for free.
• The company recommends that youdo not contact any of the three majornational credit reporting companiesdirectly.
• The company tells you they can getrid of most or all the negative creditinformation in your credit report, evenif that information is accurate andcurrent.
• The company suggests that you tryto invent a “new” credit identity—andthen, a new credit report—by apply-ing for an Employer IdentificationNumber to use instead of your SocialSecurity number.
• The company advises you to disputeall the information in your creditreport, regardless of its accuracy ortimeliness. Remember, no companycan legally remove accurate andtimely information from your creditreport. Protect yourself from “creditrepair” scams and be watchful of thesigns listed in this article.
Source: Federal Trade Commission,www.ftc.gov
SRP opened another in-school branch in RichmondCounty’s Deer Chase Elementary. The branch had itsgrand opening on December 15. The in-school branchencourages students to open a Frugal Freddie savingsaccount and make deposits at their own branch! Stu-
dents are selected tobe tellers and theytake deposits, writereceipts, and bal-ance at the end ofthe day. Studentswishing to make adeposit learn how tofill out real deposit
slips and receive prizes. Community Outreach Manager Yvonne Meeks and Peach Orchard RoadBranch Manager Mary Zollicoffer oversee the branch activities.
Deer Chase Elementary Opens School Branch
Protect Yourself from Credit Repair Scams
Find a location near you! For addresses and maps, visit us online at www.srpfcu.org.