A Financial Fitness Program

TUCOEMAS Federal Credit Union wants to help you achieve your financial goals, whether that means getting out of debt, sending the kids to college, buying your first home, or retiring.

Through BALANCE, a San Francisco-based provider of financial education services, members will receive free, unbiased information and assistance. To use the services, simply call, toll-free, 1-888-456-2227. Counselors are available Monday through Thursday, 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (PST), Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

In many cases BALANCE counselors can answer your questions immediately. If you're wondering how long something stays on your credit report or whether it's better to lease or to buy a car, you'll get the answers as soon as you call. For those with more complex issues, like debt problems or budget issues, an appointment will be scheduled allowing enough time to go over your budget and discuss options.

If bill payments are an issue, simply reworking your current budget may not be enough to help you get back on track. Your counselor may be able to arrange a Debt Management Plan and negotiate with creditors to reduce payments, interest charges, and fees as you work toward paying off your debt. (As a member of TUCOEMAS Federal Credit Union, the monthly administration fee of $20 is waived.)

TUCOEMAS Federal Credit Union understands that personal finance affects all of us every day. Fortunately, everyone can achieve financial fitness with determination and a little professional guidance. Through your newest benefit of membership, we're helping you to master your money.