Resources - Security First Credit Union

Membership

Who is Eligible to Become a Member

Membership at Security First Credit Union is open to anyone residing, working, worshiping, or studying in the four-county Rio Grande Valley region, which includes Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, and Willacy counties.

How Do I Become a Member?

To become a member, simply make an initial membership deposit of $5.00 into a savings account (share). Once you’re a member, you’re always a member, even if you move out of the Rio Grande Valley!

Visit any of our convenient branch locations in Brownsville, Harlingen, San Benito, Weslaco, Pharr, Edinburg, McAllen, or Mission. For more information, feel free to contact us.

What's the Difference Between a Credit Union and a Bank?

Learn the key differences of what makes a Credit Union different than a Bank.

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Security First Credit Union History

Founded in 1947 in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, Security First Credit Union began with a vision to serve the local community. Over the decades, it has grown to become the largest homegrown credit union in the Valley, deeply rooted in the values and needs of the people it serves. From its humble beginnings, Security First has always prioritized the Valley, and today, it stands as a beacon of financial strength and community support.

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Security First Credit Union Annual Scholarship Program

Each year, Security First Credit Union proudly awards scholarships to support the educational dreams of our community. We offer nine scholarships to graduating high school seniors and six to members pursuing continuing education. Our commitment is to invest in the future leaders of the Rio Grande Valley, helping them achieve their academic goals and build a brighter tomorrow.

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Security First Credit Union Free Community Workshops

At Security First Credit Union, we believe in empowering our community through knowledge. Our free community workshops cover a wide range of topics, from financial wellness and fraud prevention to home buying and more. Led by experts, these sessions are designed to equip you with the tools and insights you need to make informed decisions and thrive in every aspect of life. Join us and take the next step toward your financial and personal growth!

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General

Add Security First Credit Union to Your Email Contacts

Please make sure to add [email protected] and [email protected] to your list of approved contacts for emails. This will help you receive important updates from Security First Credit Union, including our weekly newsletter and monthly account statements (you must be signed up for eStatements to receive your monthly account statements via email).

If you’re not receiving our emails in your inbox, please check your spam or junk folder as they may have been sent there by mistake. You can mark emails from [email protected] and [email protected] as “not spam” and add Security First Credit Union to your list of trusted contacts to avoid this happening in the future.

What Are Your Hours of Operation?

Please visit our contact us page for details.

What Holidays Does the Credit Union Observe?

Please visit our Holiday Hours page for details.

How Can I Make a Loan Payment?

Online Banking and Mobile App: One-time transfers, schedule future transfers, or set-up recurring transfers.
By Mail: Please send 10 days in advance of the due date to allow proper processing time. Mail to: Security First Federal Credit Union, Attn. Teller Department, P.O. Box 4829, McAllen, Texas 78502.
Pay by Phone*: Please contact our Call Center at 956-661-4000, opt. 7 (*Fee may apply)
Branch Night Drop Box: (available at all branches)

I Need to Make My SFCU Credit Card Payment

To make your Security First Credit Union Visa Platinum Credit Card payment, click here
To learn more about our SFCU Visa Platinum Credit Card, click here

How Can I Make Internal and External Account Transfers?

TransferNow

TransferNow is the fast, easy, and secure way to transfer funds between your Security First Credit Union accounts and other financial institutions! No need to enroll; access the Transfers option through online or mobile banking.

Features

Easy setup
Transfer funds between your SFFCU accounts
Receive transfers from an external financial institution to your SFFCU accounts
Transfer funds from your SFFCU account to accounts at an external financial institution*
Schedule transfers
View transfer history
Manage accounts
Assign account nicknames

Setting up TransferNow is easy!

Log into online banking
Click the “Transfer” menu option
Select the “Transfer Money” tab to transfer funds between your SFFCU accounts
For external transfers, select the “External Account Transfer” link under Services on the right side
Follow the on-screen instructions to add your accounts
You will receive emails with instructions on how to complete the process

Ready to get started? Log in to your online banking account now!

Online Banking

Security First Credit Union Debit Card, Travel Plans, and More!

Our instant-issue debit card is equipped with an EMV chip for enhanced security and contactless technology for easy, fast payments. Plus, you can sign up for uChoose Rewards to earn points on every purchase. Get the best of both security and rewards with Security First Credit Union.

Need a replacement card? Visit any SFCU branch to get your instant-issue debit card today for as low as $5.00 (replacement fee)
Manage your SFCU debit card and credit card directly in Online and Mobile Banking – track spending, see where spending occurs, set limits, turn cards “on” and “off”, add your own travel notices, and much more!

Free SFCU Member Financial & Budgeting Tools

At Security First Credit Union, we offer a suite of free tools designed to help you manage your finances effectively. Our tools include budgeting aids, spending trackers, goal-setting features, and credit score monitoring. Discover how each of these tools can support your financial journey:

– Trends Personal Finance Management: Access this free tool within Online Banking to set budgets, track spending, and create financial goals effortlessly.
– SavvyMoney Credit Score: Monitor your credit score without any impact. Available for free in both Online and Mobile Banking.
– Card Management – Card Management available in Online and Mobile Banking, puts the power to control your SFCU debit and credit card in the palm of your hands! Track spending, see where spending is occurring, turn your cards “on and “off”, add travel notices, and much more!

Explore these tools and take control of your financial health today.

How Can I Update My Contact Information?

Recently moved or changed phone numbers? Be sure to contact us immediately to update your account information.
This is important to ensure that statements and correspondence are delivered accurately.

Easily update your information directly within Online Banking. Simply log in and select Settings from the top right menu.
Visit your local branch.
Contact our Call Center during regular business hours at (956) 661-4000, opt. 7.

Does Security First Credit Union offer any type of rewards program?

Yes! At Security First Credit Union, we offer debit card rewards called uChoose Rewards! In order to earn rewards, your Security First Credit Union debit card must first be registered with uChooserewards.com. To learn more, click here

Fraud and Online Safety

Safer Internet Day

The Significance of Safer Internet Day for Promoting Online Safety and is celebrated annually on the second day of the second week of February, in over 170 countries worldwide. The event, organized by the joint Insafe/INHOPE network, with support from the European Commission, aims to raise awareness about online safety and promote responsible digital technology use. Click Read More below to access helpful guides and learn more.

Fight Fraud Tip Videos

Explore our library of Fraud Tip Videos, presented with by our very own staff!

Watch Now

Targeted Scam Types by Age

Learning about scams that target different age groups is crucial to protect ourselves and our loved ones from falling victim to fraudsters.

5 Steps to Take After Being Hacked

Finding out someone has cracked open your accounts and helped themselves to your information can be alarming, but there are ways to mitigate the damage while jump-starting your recovery process. Here are five steps to take after being hacked.

Fraud Alerts and Credit Freezes: What's the Difference?

Looking for ways to protect your identity? Here are two options to consider.

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Additional Fraud Articles and Tips

Visit our fraud page for more helpful information.

Financial Education

How Can I Save on Super Bowl Sunday?

5 tips to help you save money on Super Bowl Sunday!

The Do's and Don'ts of Filing Your Taxes

While tax season might fill you with dread, our handy checklist will make tax filing much easier, and you’ll feel like a pro!

10 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score affects a tremendous number of things in your life, so it’s best to keep it high. But how do you do that? We’ve got all the tips you need!

New Money Goals Worksheet

Sometimes we set new goals, have changes in income, or switch priorities in our lives. Making a plan is the easiest way to navigate these changes.

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SAVED: Five Steps for Making Financial Decisions

To find the best deal when you buy a financial product or service, follow the SAVED steps.

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Planning to become debt-free?

Many people get into debt because they can’t afford to make monthly debt payments on top of their daily living expenses. You’re not alone, and trustworthy help is available.

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Are you ready to buy a home?

Owning a home can give you stability and security, and protection from rising housing costs.

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Your Disaster Checklist

If you had to leave your home in an emergency, you would have only minutes to choose what stays and what goes, and your financial records may be one of the last things on your mind. Be prepared with this informational download below.

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Credit

How is my credit score calculated

FICO® Scores are determined by analyzing various credit data categories in your credit report. At Security First Credit Union, we offer a FREE Credit Monitoring tool called SavvyMoney Credit Score. With this tool you can monitor your credit score, improve it and more! Sign up for Free via Online Banking and our Free Mobile Banking app.

Understanding Your Credit Score

Financial Institutions, credit card companies and other businesses use credit scores to estimate how likely you are to pay back money you borrow.

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Fixing Your Credit FAQs

Are there any mistakes on your credit report that are accurate but unfavorable? You should be aware that anyone who promises to repair your credit cannot legally remove accurate and current information. Even though some companies may make such claims, many of them are scams. However, there are ways to correct mistakes and enhance your credit. This article will provide you with the necessary information on how to fix your credit.

Act fast if you can’t pay your credit cards

Act right away and call your credit card company if you believe you’re unable to pay the minimum payment on your credit card.

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What is my Vehicle Worth?

Get new and used car pricing and used book values.

Financing or Leasing?

Are you in the market for a car? You don’t have to pay cash. Whether you choose to finance or lease, there are a few things you should consider.

Other Resources

NCUA Resources

How Your Accounts Are Federally Insured (PDF – English)
Como El Seguro Federal Asegura Sus Cuentas (PDF – Espanol)
Your Insured Funds(PDF – English)
Sus Fondos Asegurados (PDF – Espanol)

MYCREDITUNION.GOV Resources

Making a Budget (PDF – English)
This personal budget worksheet from the FTC helps you to evaluate your expenses and savings potential.

Calculators

These free calculators from My Home by Freddie Mac® are intended to provide guidance and financial estimates only. Please speak with your lender for detailed information.
For a complete listing, visit Calculators (freddiemac.com).

Preparing for Home Ownership

Rent vs. Buy
Understand the financial differences between renting and homeownership.

Tax Savings
Learn about the potential tax savings with homeownership.

How Much Can You Afford?
Research how much house works within your budget; please be mindful of all of your expenses, including utility bills, groceries and all loan payments.

How Much Can You Borrow?
Learn how much money you might be able to borrow.

Mortgage Calculators

Fixed or Adjustable-Rate?
Understand the financial differences between the fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgage.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages
Find out how much monthly mortgage payments might be with an adjustable-rate mortgage.

Fixed-Rate Mortgages
Find out how much monthly mortgage payments might be with a fixed-rate mortgage.

15-year or 30-year Term?
Learn how a different term affects your mortgage payment and overall cost of the loan.

Am I Better off Refinancing?
Find out if you’ll benefit from refinancing.

Closing Costs
Estimate what your closing costs might be.

Down Payments
Research how much of a down payment you should consider.

Refinancing Costs
Understand what your refinancing costs might be.

Extra Payments
Learn how advantageous extra monthly mortgage payments might be.

Paying Points
Find out how paying extra points might lower your mortgage rate.

Mortgage Insurance
Understand how to possibly reduce mortgage insurance.

Additional Information

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Membership

General

TransferNow

Fraud and Online Safety

Financial Education

Credit

Other Resources

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