eCO Credit Union Homepage

How Can You Improve Your Credit Score?

“How do I improve my credit score?” is one of the questions we hear most frequently. While there’s no quick fix to a perfect credit score, we have a few tips to help.

Clay Member Appreciation

This year at ēCO Credit Union, we are feeling extra grateful for you, our members. To celebrate, we are proud to host Member Appreciation Days at our branches. Read more about all the fun we had at the Clay Member Appreciation Day!

Jefferson County Board of Education Appreciation

ēCO Credit Union was originally founded as Jefferson County Teachers Credit Union. Although our name has changed, we are proud to maintain strong ties with Jefferson County Schools. From working with them to make setting up direct deposit at ēCO a breeze to providing thousands of number two pencils each year, we are committed to our friends in education.

eCO Credit Union Appoints New Board Member

ēCO Credit Union is proud to introduce our newly appointed board member, Jonathan Lemsky.

August #eCOmmunity-Dawn Hughes

ēCO employees are excited to celebrate those who are working to make a difference in their communities, even amid the trying times we are all currently facing. Ana Spratlin, Branch Manager of the Alabaster Branch, nominated Dawn Hughes to be “Credit Unioned” for the month of August.

The Gardendale Branch is Temporarily Moving

We have some big news to share… we are updating our Gardendale Branch.

How to Properly Dispose of Private Personal Information

In a world that has gone digital, it is important to know how to protect your personal information online, but it is just as important to know how to protect your personal information on physical documents, bills, and mail too, especially when you are throwing that information away.

What is a Credit Union?

Credit Unions are kind of like banks… only in our humble opinion—we’re better!

Buckle your seatbelt… it’s time for a quick history lesson.

How is Your Credit Score Calculated?

In a previous blog, we defined credit score, but now, it’s time to talk about how your credit score is calculated. Your FICO® Score is calculated using a variety of data from your credit report.

Kid's Account Naming Contest!

The kid and teen accounts are getting a full makeover and need new names! This is where you come in! Get those thinking caps on, start turning those creative wheels in your head, and submit your account name suggestions below!

If your name suggestion is picked to be the new name of either the kid or teen account at ēCO, we will give you $100!

How Do You Become a Member of eCO?

ēCO Credit Union is a full-service financial institution. That’s a fancy way of saying—we offer a lot of financial products and services to meet your needs in every stage of life. Membership at ēCO Credit Union is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Jefferson, Shelby, Walker, Blount or Cullman County. Is that you? Are you ready to become a member? We’ll walk you through how to get started.

What Documents Do I Need When Applying For A Loan?

If you are in the market for a loan, being prepared and organized will help the lending process move along quicker. Most loan applications require the same types of information across the board, but each loan type also requires information specific to the type. Let’s take a look at the some of the most common types of loans and the documents you will need when applying.

July #eCOmmunity - Pastor Douglas Caddell

While there is a lot that is uncertain, ēCO employees are still choosing to celebrate those who are working to make a difference in their communities. Je’Nae Washington, Branch Manager of the McCalla Branch, nominated Pastor Douglas Caddell to be “Credit Unioned” for the month of July.

Riverchase Member Appreciation

This year at ēCO Credit Union, we are feeling extra grateful for you, our members. To celebrate, we are proud to host Member Appreciation Days at each of our six convenient branches. Read more about all the fun we had at the Riverchase Member Appreciation Day!

Understanding Your Credit

In today’s world, your credit is important. Not only can your credit history impact being able to get a loan and your loan rate, but it can also influence renting an apartment, future employment, and qualifying for insurance.

Creating A Strong Password

Having a strong password for online accounts is the first line of defense for keeping your personal information safe from intruders and hackers. Check out these tips for creating a strong password and keeping your private information safe!

Credit Card vs. Debit Card- What's the Difference?

With 16 digit card numbers, expiration dates, and PIN codes (personal identification number), Credit Cards and Debit Cards look similar, but did you know they are very different? We have outlined all of the differences for you right here!

eCO Checking Accounts

A checking account is a great product to use for daily purchases or expenses. Funds from your checking account can be withdrawn at any time. With several personal checking accounts to choose from, ēCO's Checking Accounts are designed to help simplify your life. We have designed accounts with you in mind, specific to your needs!

eServices Explained

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by all of the “banking” terms? ēCO’s Online Services are designed to help simplify your life, but with all of the options we offer, it can get confusing. Let’s walk you through what the service is, how it benefits you, and where you can access it.

What Does the Home Buying Process Look Like for a First-Time Home Buyer?

A home is often the most expensive purchase someone makes in their lifetime. The home-buying process can involve a lot of steps and a lot of confusing terms. Before you jump in with both feet, it’s important to know what to expect.

Interest Rate vs. Annual Percentage Rate

An interest rate is both simple and complex. It can work for you or against you, which sometimes makes it hard to understand. We are breaking down the similarities and difference between interest and annual percentage rate.

What is a Member?

Have you ever wondered why we call you a member or member-owner instead of a customer? Or why when you stop by one of our branches we ask for your member number instead of an account number?

June #eCOmmunity-Ashley Bailey

ēCO Credit Union has a strong commitment to the communities where our members live, work, and play. Through the #ēCOmmunity program, we are proud to recognize people and community groups who go above and beyond for their community. Each month in 2020, members of the community who embody the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People” will be nominated by ēCO employees to be “Credit Unioned.” 

What is the Co-Op Network?

Did you know that as a member of ēCO Credit Union, you have access to nearly 30,000 ATMs without a fee* and 5,600 shared branches? When you visit our locations and hours page, you’ll see our six local branches listed, but thanks to the Co-Op Network, ēCO is much larger.

eCO Credit Union and the eCO Credit Union Foundation Award Scholarships

ēCO Credit Union and the ēCO Credit Union Foundation are excited to share more about our 2020-2021 scholarship recipients.

May #eCOmmunity - Dr. Heinz Dueffer

ēCO Credit Union has a strong commitment to the communities where our members live, work and play. Through the #ēCOmmunity program, we are proud to recognize people and community groups who go above and beyond for their community. Each month in 2020, members of the community who embody the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People” will be nominated by ēCO employees to be “Credit Unioned.” 

Lobby Re-Opening Update

Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, we have closely followed updates from the Center for Disease Control and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Based on their guidance, we are excited to announce the following branch lobbies will re-open on Monday, June 1: Alabaster, Clay, Gardendale, McCalla, and Riverchase. Lobbies will be open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Drive-thrus will continue to be open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

2020 Summer Skip-A-Payment

Whether you are getting your backyard ready to be a stay-cation oasis or you need a little extra help paying for a much-needed getaway, ēCO Credit Union is excited to offer our members the opportunity to skip a loan payment this summer.

April #eCOmmunity- Roderick Watkins, Rehab Select at Shelby Ridge

For April, we asked the community to help us honor a person or group working in the medical field. We have all seen the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Those working on the frontlines are truly embodying the credit union philosophy, and we want to do our part to show our appreciation as they work tirelessly to keep us safe and healthy. After receiving several nominations, we randomly selected Roderick Watkins, the Administrator for Rehab Select at Shelby Ridge, as our #ēCOmmunity recipient for April. 

2020 IRA Required Minimum Distributions

The Coronavirus has financially impacted people in our city, state, and nation. On March 27, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law.  The CARES Act is intended to help those who have suffered economic hardship as a result of COVID-19.

April #eCOmmunity-Helping the Heroes

Through the #eCOmmunity program, we are proud to recognize people and community groups who go above and beyond for their community. In April, we hope to honor a person or group working in the medical field by sending a meal, provided by a local restaurant.

Together Loan

Wherever you find yourself, eCO is here to support you. In addition to taking measures to keep our members and employees safe, we also want to do our part to help you through tough financial times.

Helpful Tips!

During trying times, the mission of the credit union movement shines. We are people helping people. ēCO Credit Union is here to serve you in the good times and the bad times! Here is a quick guide for our members as we continue to navigate through these trying times.

Member Update

At ēCO Credit Union, we know for many this trying and uncertain time brings a number of financial concerns. It is during these times the mission of the credit union movement shines. We are people helping people. ēCO exists to serve you and help you in the good times and the bad times.

March #eCOmmunity - Jefferson County School Resource Officers

Mia Robinson, Homewood Branch Manager, nominated the Jefferson County Sherriff’s Office School Resource Officers (SROs) to be “Credit Unioned” for the month of March. Robinson nominated the Jefferson County SROs because of their commitment to ensure the safety of the students on a day-to-day basis.

Member Update

As ēCO Credit Union prioritizes the health and safety of our members and staff, we will temporarily limit our branch access to drive-thru only beginning at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16.

A Message to our Members

Amid growing concerns about Coronavirus (COVID-19), we want to reassure you that we are monitoring developments and taking the situation very seriously. The health and safety of our members and employees are of utmost importance to us. We are monitoring and will follow guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Alabama Department of Public Health.

Kids Say the Darndest Things!

Are you a parent or teacher with a funny, opinionated, talkative, passionate, or inquisitive child or student? Are you constantly finding yourself crying from laughter or in a constant state of embarrassment from what he or she said? We want to hear it! 

Alabaster Member Appreciation

This year at ēCO Credit Union, we are feeling extra grateful for you, our members. To celebrate, we are proud to host Member Appreciation Days at each of our six convenient branches. We kicked off the series of Member Appreciation Day events with the Alabaster Branch on Friday, February 21.

February #eCOmmunity- Mrs. Cindy Hughes

Kathryn Johnson, Gardendale Branch Manager, nominated Mrs. Cindy Hughes to be “Credit Unioned” for the month of February. Johnson nominated Mrs. Hughes because of her commitment to help those who are often overlooked. She has committed her professional and personal time to serving those with special needs.

January #eCOmmunity- Mr. Van Phillips, Center Point High School Principal

ēCO Credit Union has a strong commitment to the communities where our members live, work and play. Through the #eCOmmunity program, we are proud to recognize people and community groups who go above and beyond for their community. Each month in 2020, members of the community who embody the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People” will be nominated by ēCO employees to be “Credit Unioned.”

2020 Member Appreciation Days

At ēCO Credit Union, we are thankful for you, our member, each and every day! In 2020, we want to do a little extra to show you just how much we appreciate your trust in us to meet your financial needs. Throughout the year, each branch will host a Member Appreciation Day.

ēCO Credit Union Encourages Saving with the Financial Fitness Club

For many years, eCO Credit Union has prioritized providing financial education to members and the community, including encouraging saving for emergencies and future expenses. From May 2019 to December 2019, eCO gave members an even bigger reason to save.

ēCO Credit Union Dedicates Boardroom to the Late Dr. Eddie J. Pruden

On November 4, 2019, long-term ēCO Credit Union board member, Dr. Eddie J. Pruden passed away. He faithfully served on ēCO’s Board of Directors for more than forty years. During his service to the credit union, he held a variety of positions and played an important role in the growth of ēCO.

Meet Your Match with eCO Credit Union's Balance Transfer

Decision making in the age of the Internet is a strange paradox: we have more options than ever, but because we have so many options—plenty of which are less than satisfactory—it’s hard to actually choose, especially given how quickly and easily misinformation can be spread on the ol’ World Wide Web. Sometimes you don’t even know what to look out for!

eCO Raises More Than $50,000 for Children's of Alabama

eCO Credit Union prioritizes making the communities it serves even better. One way eCO supports the community each year is through the Change for Children’s fundraiser to benefit Children’s of Alabama. In its tenth year of fundraising, eCO raised more than ever before to support the only free-standing children’s hospital in the state of Alabama.

Get the Most from Your eCO Accounts

At ēCO Credit Union, we consistently think about you—our member. We want to provide products and services that meet your needs and simplify your financial life. As technology changes and adapts, we adapt with it.

Credit Card Balance Transfer Promotion

In a world full of choices, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Fine Print. High APRs. Complicated Terms. You search and search... until... eCO Credit Union enters the picture. 

One Class At A Time Classroom Grant

Each week during the 2019-2020 school year, ēCO Credit Union and CBS 42 will suprise a deserving educator with a $1,000 check. Click here to apply for a CBS 42 and ēCO Credit Union "One Class At A Time" Grant!

ēCO Credit Union Foundation Hosts the First Magic City Money Matters Financial Conference

ēCO Credit Union Foundation successfully hosts the First Magic City Money Matters Financial Conference at Regions Field on August 8. Together we learned the first steps of getting your financial life together from keynote speaker, and author of Broke Millennial, Erin Lowry.

ēCO Credit Union Recognized for Its Community Commitment in Alabama and Focus on Financial Education for All

ēCO is recognized by CardRates.com with the 2019 Editor's Choice Award^TM.

Four Tips to Help Kick Start Your Savings

Whether it’s a flat tire zapping all of your extra cash or a night out with friends turning out to be a little more expensive than planned—it’s easy for the funds you intend to save to fly off to other places. 

Are you really ready to stop renting?

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and purchase your first home. No more throwing money to the wind with a rental. No more fighting for a parking spot in your apartment’s parking deck. No more lugging groceries up two flights of concrete steps. You’re ready to own.

eCO Credit Union and the eCO Credit Union Foundation Award Scholarships

eCO Credit Union and the eCO Credit Union Foundation honored three 2019-2020 scholarship recipients at The Club on Friday, May 3.

Balance Transfer Promotion-Helping You along Your Financial Journey

Take the first step in your journey to Financial Freedom with the Balance Transfer Promotion form ēCO.

Mindful Spending

Learning how to become a mindful spender.

Budgeting Myth-Busters

Tackling some of the excuses, reasons, fears, and myths people use to talk themselves out of budgeting. Let's de-bunk the myths and find the truth behind budgeting and why it is necessary and important to your financial journey.

What is Financial Education And Why Every Millennial Needs It

Guest blogger, Nolan Sanburn, former collegiate and professional athlete, talks about his journey to financial freedom. In this post he reflects on his story and discovering the importance of financial literacy and why educating the younger generation is vitally important.