Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.: Financial Empowerment and the Credit Union Movement
As we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this month, we’re reminded of his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the empowerment of communities. While Dr. King is most renowned for his leadership in the civil rights movement, his vision extended beyond social equality to include economic empowerment—a principle that aligns closely with the mission of credit unions like SRI Federal Credit Union. Dr. King understood that economic opportunity was a critical component of true equality. He often spoke about the importance of addressing systemic economic disparities and creating pathways for marginalized communities to achieve financial stability and independence. In his final years, Dr. King advocated for the Poor People’s Campaign, a movement focused on economic justice, fair housing, equitable wages, and access to financial resources. His vision resonates deeply with the philosophy of credit unions, which were founded on the principles of people helping people. Like Dr. King, credit unions seek to empower individuals and communities by providing equitable access to financial services, promoting financial literacy, and prioritizing the needs of members over profits. Credit unions play a key role in fostering economic inclusion, particularly for underserved populations. Through affordable loans, low fees, and community-driven initiatives, credit unions work to ensure everyone has access to the tools they need to build a brighter financial future. This mission is rooted in the same ideals that Dr. King championed—creating systems that uplift and support all members of society, especially those who have been historically excluded. At SRI Federal Credit Union, we carry this legacy forward by offering products and services that prioritize fairness and accessibility. From financial education resources to personalized loan options, we strive to empower our members to achieve their financial goals and build stronger communities. In honoring Dr. King’s legacy, we encourage our members to reflect on their own financial journeys and take steps toward greater financial empowerment. Whether it’s setting a budget, building an emergency fund, or exploring options for a small business loan, these actions can help create lasting economic stability—not just for individuals, but for entire communities. Dr. King’s dream was not just about civil rights—it was also about ensuring everyone had the opportunity to thrive. At SRI Federal Credit Union, we remain committed to advancing that dream by being a trusted financial partner for our members and a force for good in our community. This MLK Day, let’s honor his legacy by continuing to work toward economic justice and equality. Together, we can help build a future where everyone has access to the opportunities they need to succeed. “An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.” – Martin Luther King Jr. Let’s carry forward this spirit of shared purpose, one step at a time.Dr. King’s Vision for Economic Justice
How Credit Unions Reflect Dr. King’s Legacy
Taking Action: Empowering Our Members
Join Us in Honoring Dr. King
Drive Smarter with SRI Federal Credit Union Auto Loans
Are you thinking about upgrading your ride? Whether you’re eyeing a fuel-efficient commuter car, a family-friendly SUV, or an electric vehicle (EV) to help both the planet and your wallet, SRI Federal Credit Union is here to help you hit the road with confidence. With competitive rates, flexible terms, and a commitment to our members, we’re making it easier than ever to finance your dream vehicle. At SRI Federal Credit Union, we put your financial well-being first. Here’s why our auto loans stand out: Before you make your next vehicle purchase, take a moment to check out the 2025 Fuel Economy Guide from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE). This valuable resource provides detailed information on the fuel efficiency of vehicles available for the 2025 model year, helping you make an informed decision that saves money and reduces environmental impact. Whether you’re drawn to the latest EV with cutting-edge technology or a reliable gas-powered model, we’re here to support you. SRI Federal Credit Union offers: Start your journey toward a better vehicle and smarter financial choices today. Visit our website to learn more about our auto loan options, or give us a call to speak with a friendly loan specialist. Don’t forget to check out the 2025 Fuel Economy Guide for helpful insights as you shop for your next vehicle. At SRI Federal Credit Union, we’re committed to helping you drive smarter, save more, and live better. Apply today to hit the road together! Check our most updated rates HERE. Why Choose SRI Federal Credit Union for Your Auto Loan?
Spotlight on the 2025 Fuel Economy Guide
Key Highlights from the 2025 Fuel Economy Guide:
Financing Your Dream Vehicle
Take the Next Step
New Year, New Financial Goals: Start 2025 with Confidence
As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to set new financial goals and take control of your future. At SRI Federal Credit Union, we’re here to support you every step of the way with products and services designed to help you save, grow, and manage your finances more effectively. Whether you’re looking to build a stronger savings habit, make home improvements, or lower your auto loan payments, we’ve got you covered! Let 2025 be the year you achieve your financial goals. Stop by a branch, apply online, or give us a call to learn more about how SRI Federal Credit Union can help you make this your most financially successful year yet. Together, let’s make your dreams a reality!
Give Yourself the Gift of Financial Flexibility This Holiday Season with Skip-A-Pay!
The holiday season is here—a time for joy, celebration, and giving. But with festive gatherings, gift shopping, and travel plans, the expenses can quickly pile up. At SRI Federal Credit Union, we want to make your holidays a little brighter by giving you the option to free up extra cash when you need it most with our Skip-A-Pay Program! What is Skip-A-Pay? How Does It Work? Check Eligibility: Your loan or Visa card must be current (not past due). What Loans Qualify? Why Choose Skip-A-Pay This Christmas? How to Get Started At SRI Federal Credit Union, we’re here to support you through every moment of the year. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift or making memories with family, Skip-A-Pay lets you focus on the joy of the holidays without the stress. Questions? Contact us at 650-800-5434 or lending@srifcu.org for more information. *Real Estate loans do not apply.
Skip-A-Pay is our way of helping you manage your budget during the holidays. It allows you to skip one payment every six months on most loans or Visa cards*, giving you extra breathing room to enjoy the magic of the season.
Participating in Skip-A-Pay is as easy as hanging up a stocking:
Complete the Form: Submit the Skip-A-Pay form—it’s quick and hassle-free!
Verification: A loan officer will contact you to verify your identification and confirm your new payment date.
Relax and Celebrate: Skip a payment and focus on what matters most this season—spending time with loved ones and spreading holiday cheer.
Best of all, there are no fees to participate, and you can skip one payment every six months. Keep in mind that interest will continue to accrue during the month the payment is skipped.
Most loans and Visa cards are eligible for Skip-A-Pay. Please note that real estate loans and HELOC’s are not eligible for this program.
This holiday season, treat yourself to the gift of financial flexibility. Click HERE to fill out our Skip-A-Payment loan form!
Buying a Car in December 2024: Why Financing with SRI Federal Credit Union is the Smart Move
December is one of the best months to purchase a car. Dealerships are eager to hit their year-end sales quotas, which means you can take advantage of deep discounts and special promotions. Whether you’re buying a used or new vehicle, this is the perfect time to find great deals. However, securing the right financing is just as important as finding the right car. That’s where SRI Federal Credit Union comes in. Why Buy a Car in December? While dealerships may offer tempting financing deals, credit union financing is often a smarter choice. Benefits of Financing Through SRI Federal Credit Union Ready to Start? Don’t let year-end deals pass you by. Take the first step toward owning your next car with affordable financing that puts you in the driver’s seat—literally! At SRI Federal Credit Union, we’re committed to driving your financial success forward. *APR=Annual Percentage Rate
Dealerships are motivated to clear out inventory to make room for next year’s models. This often leads to:
We offer some of the most competitive auto loan rates (currently 4.99% APR* for new or used through December 2024) in the market, ensuring you pay less over the life of your loan.
Choose a repayment plan that fits your budget, whether it’s short-term for quick payoff or longer-term for lower monthly payments.
Before stepping onto the lot, get pre-approved with us to know exactly what you can afford. Pre-approval also gives you more bargaining power with dealerships.
As a member of SRI Federal Credit Union, you’re not just another customer. We’re here to guide you through every step of the financing process with tailored advice and no-pressure service.
Unlike many dealership loans, our auto loans have transparent terms and no hidden costs plus, there is no markup on Gap or Micanical Breakdown insurance.
Financing your car through SRI Federal Credit Union is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to drive away in your dream car:
We are #1 in the Nation!
Blog post updated on 05/08/2025
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news—SRI Federal Credit Union is now ranked #1 nationwide! This recognition highlights the incredible value we provide to our members, and we couldn’t have done it without your support.
What Makes Us #1?
Credit unions are all about giving back to their members, whether it’s through competitive rates, personalized service, or community involvement. But how is value that value measured? That’s where the Return of the Member (ROM) or as we would like to say, “Return to the Member”, calculation comes in.
Over 20 years ago, Callahan & Associates developed ROM to gauge how well credit unions deliver value. ROM looks at three key areas:
- Return to Savers: How much value we provide through savings rates and dividends.
- Return to Borrowers: The benefits our members get from loan rates and fees.
- Member Participation: How actively members use our products and services.
How Does ROM Work?
ROM scores measure a credit union’s value compared to its peers by analyzing 18 metrics across those three main areas. The Return to Savers category considers things like dividends paid, average dividends, share balance growth, and the number of share accounts per member. The Return to Borrowers category looks at factors such as loan yield, loan growth, and how many loans we originate per member. Finally, the Member Service Usage category measures engagement through things like auto loan penetration, credit card usage, and member growth.
These metrics are compared to other credit unions, and the results are combined to create a final ROM percentile ranking. A score of 100 means a credit union is leading the way in delivering member value.
Our Remarkable Achievement
As of the first quarter of 2025, we’re proud to say that SRI Federal Credit Union is:
- #1 nationally among all 4,460 credit unions in the U.S.
This recognition is a huge accomplishment, and it truly reflects the effort and dedication of our entire team. We work hard every day to make sure our members have access to the best financial products and services, and we couldn’t be prouder to receive this honor.
A Team Effort
This success wouldn’t have been possible without our hardworking staff, our Asset Liability Committee that helps maintain competitive dividends, and our Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee for their ongoing support. We’re grateful for their dedication and commitment to serving you.
Thank You for Your Trust
We’re honored to be your financial partner and to continue providing you with the best value in the nation. Thank you for being part of the SRI Federal Credit Union family. We look forward to serving you with the same passion and dedication in the years to come!
Ease Holiday Stress with an SRIFCU Personal Loan at a Special Rate
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and making memories with loved ones, but it can also bring financial challenges. Whether you’re planning festive gatherings, shopping for gifts, or traveling to visit family, those extra expenses can quickly add up. To help make this season as stress-free as possible, SRIFCU is offering a Special Holiday Rate Personal Loan at 8.99% APR, fixed. Our Holiday Loan is designed to provide an affordable and flexible alternative to high-interest credit cards or dipping into your savings. Here’s why it’s a smart choice: High-interest credit cards can be tempting for quick purchases, but they often come with hefty interest rates and revolving debt that’s hard to pay off. With our Special Holiday Rate Personal Loan, you’ll enjoy a fixed repayment schedule, helping you avoid the pitfalls of growing credit card balances and extended debt. Getting started is easy! Simply apply online HERE, or contact our team to discuss your needs and see how this loan can help brighten your holidays. We’re committed to helping our members celebrate the season without unnecessary financial stress. Take advantage of this limited-time offer and make your holidays truly special. Whether it’s spreading cheer or creating lasting memories, SRIFCU is here to help you make it happen with a loan that works for you.Why Choose an SRIFCU Personal Loan?
At just 8.99% APR, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your interest rate won’t increase. This rate is highly competitive compared to typical credit card APRs, which often exceed 20%.
With fixed monthly payments, it’s easy to incorporate your loan into your budget. There are no surprises—just manageable payments that keep your finances on track.
Applying for the SRIFCU Personal Loan is simple. Whether you prefer to apply online or reach out to one of our friendly representatives, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Use your loan for whatever you need this holiday season—whether it’s gifts, travel expenses, home decorations, or even hosting the perfect holiday dinner.A Better Alternative to Credit Cards
How to Apply
Don’t Wait—This Special Rate Won’t Last!
Get Ready for the Holidays with Smart Savings!
As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the festivities, from gift-giving to family gatherings and travel plans. While it’s a time to celebrate, these activities can quickly add up and put a strain on your wallet. At SRI Federal Credit Union, we’re here to help you prepare for a joyful, stress-free holiday season by planning and making the most of your budget. Here are some practical tips to keep your finances in check, so you can enjoy all the magic of the holidays without the financial hangover. Start by identifying how much you can comfortably spend during the holidays. Your budget should include expenses like gifts, food, decorations, travel, and any additional holiday events. Once you know what you can spend, you’ll be better prepared to avoid last-minute splurges. Did you know your SRI Federal Credit Union Core Savings Account can be a powerful tool to help you save for the holidays? Every member receives a Core Savings Account when they join SRIFCU, and as of November 1, 2024, it offers a highly competitive 4.08% APYE on the first $5,000. This high rate makes it an excellent option for setting aside funds for special expenses, like holiday gifts or travel. By depositing a little each month, you’ll have a tidy holiday fund ready when the season arrives—without putting a strain on your other finances. Sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday are popular times for holiday shopping, but deals can pop up any time. By shopping early, you can spread out your expenses, avoid the holiday rush, and snag the best prices. Don’t forget to check out member-only discounts that might be available to you through your credit union’s card benefits. Impulse buying can make holiday expenses balloon quickly. Make a list of who you plan to buy for, set a spending limit for each, and stick to it. Consider meaningful, personalized gifts that don’t break the bank. Or, if you’re feeling creative, homemade gifts can be both thoughtful and cost-effective. Credit cards can be a helpful tool for managing holiday expenses, especially if they come with rewards. With SRI Federal Credit Union’s Visa® Gold card, you can earn rewards on your purchases. But remember: plan to pay off your balance each month to avoid interest charges. This way, you can enjoy the benefits without carrying debt into the new year. Don’t have an SRIFCU Visa? Click HERE to read about our three Visa credit card options or click HERE to apply. If your holiday plans involve travel, booking ahead can often save you a substantial amount. Look for off-peak travel dates, set up fare alerts, and consider alternative accommodations to find the best prices. Many credit union cards, like our Visa options, offer travel perks and protections—check with us to see how they can support your holiday travel needs. Holiday expenses can sneak up, so make it a habit to track your spending. With SRI Federal Credit Union’s mobile app and online banking features, you can easily monitor your account and keep tabs on your holiday budget. Seeing where you are with your spending can help you make adjustments before it’s too late. If you need a little extra support to make your holidays extra festive, SRIFCU is here to help with a Special Holiday Rate Personal Loan at 8.99% APR, fixed! Our holiday loan can provide an affordable, flexible option to cover seasonal expenses, and with fixed monthly payments, you can keep your budget under control and avoid high-interest credit card debt. Apply HERE or reach out to us to see how this loan can help ease your holiday finances with manageable payments. Planning and saving for the holidays might seem like a lot of work now, but come January, you’ll be glad you took these steps. SRI Federal Credit Union is here to support you every step of the way with tools, tips, and personalized financial guidance. If you’re ready to make the most of your Core Savings Account, apply for a rewards card, or simply want advice on managing your finances this season, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Let’s make this holiday season as joyful for your budget as it is for you!1. Set Your Holiday Budget Now
2. Use Your Core Savings Account to Save for Holiday Expenses
3. Shop Early and Take Advantage of Deals
4. Make a Gift List and Stick to It
5. Use Your Credit Card Wisely
6. Plan Your Travel in Advance
7. Keep Track of Your Spending
8. Consider an SRIFCU Personal Loan with a Special Holiday Rate
Enjoy a Financially Healthy Holiday Season!
Stay Spooky and Secure: Halloween Safety Tips to Protect Your Finances
1. Beware of Phishing Tricks
During Halloween, you might notice an increase in promotional emails and pop-up deals for costumes, treats, and haunted attractions. Be cautious of “too good to be true” offers, which could be phishing attempts designed to collect your personal or financial information. Look out for emails with poor grammar, misspelled URLs, or suspicious attachments. As a rule of thumb, never click on unsolicited links or enter your login details on websites unless you’re certain they’re legitimate.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, go directly to a retailer’s official website instead of clicking on email links. For added safety, SRIFCU provides fraud monitoring on all credit and debit cards. Contact us if you notice anything suspicious.
2. Watch Out for Skimmers at Haunted and Pop-Up Locations
The Halloween season brings with it many pop-up stores and temporary events like haunted houses and pumpkin patches. Be vigilant at these locations, as they can sometimes be targets for card skimming devices. Skimmers capture your card’s data, which can be used later for fraudulent charges.
Pro Tip: If you’re paying at an outdoor or temporary location, consider using a digital wallet or contactless payment, which reduces your exposure to skimmers. Many of our credit union cards support secure contactless payments for this very reason.
3. Secure Your Accounts with Strong Passwords and Alerts
Even though costumes change with each Halloween, one thing shouldn’t: your online security. Make sure your online banking account has a strong, unique password and set up alerts to notify you of any unusual activity.
Pro Tip: At SRIFCU, you can enable real-time alerts that notify you of any suspicious transactions or login attempts. It’s a simple way to stay informed and act quickly if anything looks out of place.
4. Be Wary of Social Media Scams and “Free” Halloween Deals
Social media is buzzing with Halloween-themed quizzes, costume contests, and freebies. However, some of these could be traps to steal personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive information or clicking on unfamiliar links, even if they appear to come from friends or trusted sources.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of a deal or contest, visit the official website of the company offering it. Many reputable organizations post their contests and promotions there as well. Your credit union’s fraud team is also available to answer questions about suspicious activity.
5. Protect Your Kids’ and Family’s Data
If your kids are trick-or-treating or participating in Halloween events, ensure they’re only visiting safe and trusted locations. Additionally, many Halloween apps and games aimed at kids can request excessive permissions or data.
Pro Tip: Monitor what information is being shared through apps and encourage your family to avoid downloading unknown apps without checking reviews and privacy settings. As your credit union, we take your family’s privacy seriously and can offer tips on safe digital habits.
6. Keep Your Credit Card Contact Info Handy
Halloween can be hectic, and losing track of your credit or debit card while out and about can happen to anyone. If you do lose your card, report it immediately to prevent unauthorized use.
Pro Tip: Make a note of your credit union’s card contact information and have it saved on your phone. SRIFCU offers 24/7 support for lost or stolen cards, so you can be confident that we’re here to help when you need it.
This Halloween, let’s all take a little extra care to avoid the scams that can take the fun out of the season. For any questions about account security, fraud protection, or safe online banking tips, contact us at connect@srifcu.org Stay safe, stay spooky, and remember—your credit union is here to keep the financial “tricks” away!
All You Need to Know About Overpayment Scams
Great news – you’ve just received a check, and you’ve been overpaid! But there’s a catch: the check writer wants you to send the surplus back to them. Unfortunately, though, if you follow these directions, you’ll be buying right into a scam. Overpayment scams are fairly common, and for the unaware, they can be difficult to spot. Let’s take a look at these scams and what you need to know to avoid falling victim to these ruses. What is an overpayment scam? In an overpayment scam, fraudsters target an individual who’s selling a large item online, such as a car. The scammer will reach out to the seller, offering to buy their car for more than the asking price. Then, they’ll send the seller payment in the mail. At this point, the seller is thrilled. But, when the check comes, it brings with it a surprise – they’ve been overpaid. Soon after, the alleged buyer contacts the seller to ask them to refund the surplus. The seller may think it’s strange, but they comply, not wanting to keep money that isn’t theirs. The next thing they know, the original check hasn’t cleared and they realize they’ve been scammed. Not only have they not been paid for the purchase they believed the check writer was buying, but they’ve also lost the money they’ve sent back to the scammer. Red flags When selling an item on an online platform, look out for these red flags, which can alert you to a possible overpayment scam: If you encounter any of these red flags while trying to sell an item online, do not engage with the “buyer.” Block their email address and mark it as spam to avoid further contact from the scammer. You may also want to report them to the platform you’re selling the item on to help stop them from reaching out to others. How to avoid overpayment scams The FTC offers the following tips for avoiding overpayment scams when selling online: If you’ve been targeted If you believe you’ve been targeted by an overpayment scam, there are steps you can take to mitigate the damage. First, report the scam to your financial institution, as they may be able to reverse the payment. Next, alert the FTC at ftc.gov so they can do their part in catching the criminals. Finally, you can let your local law enforcement agencies know about the scam and warn your friends and family about it as well. Don’t get caught in an overpayment scam! Use this guide to stay safe.