News

Dear UKFCU Members:

You may have seen the news stories about two recent bank failures.  The federal government has stepped in to ensure customers of those two institutions have access to all their deposits, both insured and uninsured. 

Each of these banks had business models with high levels of risk.  The University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union has a very different and more conservative business model.  We position our assets in a balanced portfolio of high-quality loans to our members.  This effectively mitigates risk and protects us from market volatility.

The National Credit Union Administration, the regulator that ensures credit unions' safety and soundness, recognizes the strength and safety of UKFCU.  The NCUA requires all credit unions to maintain a net worth ratio of at least 7% of total assets to be well-capitalized.  Our net worth ratio is 10.13%.

Our strength and success continue to create tremendous value for our members.  Thank you for your membership and your belief in the credit union model.  When you do business with UKFCU, you make the cooperative stronger for all members!

Sincerely,

David Kennedy

UKFCU President and CEO

At the University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union, we take threats involving our members' credit and debit card information very seriously. That’s why we’re beefing up our security with a bigger, better fraud prevention system, launching on February 23rd.

Previously, you would have only received a personal call from a live agent if fraud was suspected. The new system will allow you to receive an automated text message that easily walks you through reviewing suspicious activity on your account. If we miss your text response, you will receive an automated call and email fraud alert to ensure you have been notified.

Enhanced Features

Our enhanced fraud alert solution includes:
• Immediate Alerts
When your account detects suspicious activity, we don't wait for an agent to dial your number - our automated system will contact you by text or phone.

• 2-Way Communication
You can take action the second you receive your alert – by texting the provided command word or interacting with the automated system on the phone; simply follow the instructions to answer questions regarding your recent card activity.

• Real-Time Support
Our live agents are ready to assist you at any time to ensure you receive the best defense exactly when you need it.

Our new, automated system will reach you faster with the tools and information you need to identify potential fraudulent activity immediately, and stop it in its tracks. To ensure that you receive these important alerts, we recommend you log into Online Banking and confirm that your contact information is updated. For questions or additional information, please call 859.264.4200 or email [email protected].

The University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union (UKFCU) presented the Bluegrass Chapter of the American Red Cross with a donation totaling $141,000.00 to aid in the Tornado Relief Fund for Western Kentucky.

On December 10th, 2021, Western Kentucky experienced devastating EF4 tornadoes. Overnight, UK Federal Credit Union began the initiative to partner with the Bluegrass Chapter of the American Red Cross, to help raise money that will provide much-needed relief to all those affected by the devastation. UK Federal Credit Union pledged to make an initial donation of $25,000.00 while matching community and member donations dollar-for-dollar up to $45,000.00 with a goal of donating $70,000.00. We are pleased to announce our goal was exceeded because of the outpouring of support from the community and members. In total, UK Federal Credit Union was able to raise $141,000.00 to help support the Tornado Relief Fund.

“Our community of members stretches far beyond Lexington. We are a major player in the financial services space, and it is our responsibility and core to our mission to help in times of need,” said David Kennedy, President/CEO. “It has been such a pleasure to see our members embody this mission to help others. These funds will be much needed as our Western Kentucky community begins to rebuild.”

star Meet Local Student Athletes Off the Bench with Host Kash Daniel

Follow Kash Daniel, former University of Kentucky Linebacker, as he gives the Blue Grass State the opportunity to meet players #OffTheBench through an exclusive weekly interview on WKYT, Presented by the University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union. Off The Bench will focus on local students to uncover who they are, how they got there, and what they do off the field, court, course, or track within their community.

This exclusive interview will allow viewers to see athletes from another angle, including hobbies, community services, and entrepreneurship.

Watch Player’s Corner, Off the Bench every Thursday on WKYT’s Everyday Kentucky from 9a-10a brought to you by The University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union. Click the button below to check out highlights and segments from Off the Bench.

If you know a student who is doing something exceptional, email us at [email protected].

Learn More

home UK Federal Credit Union Celebrates Esports Partnership with Open House

The University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union (UKFCU) is excited to announce the open house to celebrate the partnership between UKFCU and the Esports Lounge at the University of Kentucky was an immense success. UKFCU welcomed students, staff, faculty, alumni and local community members to visit the state-of-the-art facility. The open house ran from 4:30-6:30 p.m., though some determined gamers competed until almost 8 p.m. UKFCU President and CEO David Kennedy and UK’s Associate Chief Information Officer Heath Price made remarks about the space and the overall collaboration. UKFCU hosted gaming contests during the event, including Mario Kart and NBA 2K22, with contest winners receiving three hours of playtime at the Esports Lounge.

UKFCU also hosted random prize drawings every 30 minutes, where prizes included gift cards to local establishments and a grand prize of a Nintendo Switch Lite. “Investing in the Esports Lounge is a significant investment in the UK community and the Lexington community as a whole. It’s a natural fit since education is at the heart of what both of our institutions strive to achieve,” said David Kennedy. “For UK, it is academic education, and for UKFCU it is financial education. Both are aimed at preparing our students for success in life.” The partnership between the UK Federal Credit Union and the UK Esports Lounge began in 2019. The UKFCU Esports Lounge is located within the multiuse Cornerstone complex at 401 S Limestone in Lexington.

building An Update on Our New Branch Location

We broke ground on our new branch located on the corner of South Broadway and Oliver Lewis Way in April of this year, and we are thrilled to see the progress made toward this convenient new branch location for our members. Check back here and be sure to follow us on social media for more updates as we make further developments toward serving our members at this brand new location.

building We're Breaking New Ground!

We're breaking new ground! We recently broke ground on a new branch located at on the corner of South Broadway and Oliver Lewis Way. On April 27th, 2021, we hosted a ceremony to celebrate the occasion! Construction will begin shortly, and we expect doors to open in the spring of 2022. This new location will offer members more convenient access in central Lexington. We've partnered with two local vendors to complete the branch. JRA Architects is designing the new location, and Marrillia Design and Construction will be undertaking the construction of the project. JRA Architects has been creating high-quality architectural designs that reflect a dedication to the community and creativity for over 70 years. JRA maintains its high standards of craftsmanship and attention to detail, which will contribute to UKFCU’s state-of-the-art financial facility.

Marrillia Design and Construction is unique in its ability to execute a wide variety of projects traditionally completed by large overhead general contractors or specialty trade contractors. Marrillia’s ability to complete projects ranging from heavy highway to medical facilities has fueled its growth and will provide UKFCU with a facility that exceptionally meets member and employee needs. We hope to see you there!

With so many within our community facing unprecedented challenges this year, we've made it our mission to plant seeds of kindness through our #TakeCare Campaign. We have been humbled by the selfless and passionate individuals who work within local organizations and charities to take care of our community members in need. We wanted to show our gratitude and support for their work, so we started giving back. As we brought goods and supplies to each location, we had the opportunity to meet many incredible people behind these organizations. We were touched by their stories and dedication to helping folks from every corner of our community. 

All it takes is a little care, kindness, and a positive attitude to impact someone around you. Post your acts of kindness or a positive message on social media, and be sure to tag UKFCU and include the hashtag #takecare. We'll do our best to give it a share or retweet! Below are some of the organizations that we were able to support. We understand these are difficult times for many within our community, but if you are in a position to help one of these great organizations, we encourage you to donate today.

• Lexington Humane Society
• Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass
• The Nest
• Lady Veterans Connect
• Arbor Youth Services
• Believing in Forever
• Blue Grass Farms Charities
• Nursing Home Ombudsman Agency of the Bluegrass

To learn more about our #TakeCare Campaign, visit our #TakeCare Page.

Some of our members are being targeted with fraudulent text messages. Currently, the scammer indicates they are from our Fraud Department and asks the member if they authorized a certain debit card purchase. If the member replies in any way, they will receive a call which appears to come our call center, 859.264.4200. They will ask if the member made this transaction or not.

Please do not respond to these messages. If you do, and you share any account or sensitive information with the scammer, please contact us directly and cancel your debit card. Or you may need to close your account depending on which account information was given out.

Please remember, UKFCU employees will not text or call you asking for:

• Account number
• PIN number
• Debit or Credit Card number
• Online and Mobile Banking password
• Social Security Number
• Security Codes

Please also be on high alert to potential scams based around the government stimulus checks that could be coming in the future. The government will not ask you for your account number nor will they ask you to return a portion via gift cards or wires.

If you receive a call that shows it's from UKFCU and they ask you for any of this information, hang up immediately and call us at 859.264.4200 or 800.234.8528. If you receive a text of email asking for you to verify this information, please call us. 

UKFCU understands many are facing unexpected and unprecedented hardship. With our members and community in mind, we have several solutions and resources available to you.

For a full list of relief options and details please visit:

Member Relief Options

As we navigate this unprecedented time, UKFCU is dedicated to helping our members. Please stay tuned to this page as we will update it with more information as it becomes available. Below are resources to offer some financial relief during this time.

Skip-A-Pay 

Members may skip a payment on qualifying loans. If you've already skipped a payment this year, UKFCU is allowing members to skip an additional payment on loans with a due date on or before April 30, 2020. We are waiving all associated skip-a-pay fees to help provide some relief during this difficult time.

Fill out a Skip-a-Pay form. 

*Members must be in good standing. The $29.00 skip-a-pay fee will be waived for all skipped payments due by April 30, 2020. First Mortgages, Home Equity Loans, Home Equity Lines of Credit, Cash Advantage Loans, Commercial Loans, Certificate Secured Loans and Note Loans are not eligible. Deferral of the scheduled payment will result in a higher total finance charge and extend the term of the loan.

Visa Platinum and Signature Credit Cards

Members also have the option to skip a payment on their credit cards. When you receive your statement, the payment due will show as $0.00 and no payment is due this month. You may still choose to make a payment on your credit card. Finance charges will continue to accrue at the normal rate if you opt to skip your payment. 

Trinity Debt Management

UKFCU has a long standing partnership with Trinity Debt Management. Trinity is available to help families and individuals persevere through challenging economic times by providing confidential credit counseling and debt management services for those experiencing debt problems. 

Please visit the Trinity Debt Management page to speak with someone regarding your specific situation. 

UKFCU Smart Money Center

Our Smart Money Center is a completely free resource covering a wide range of topics on money management. As many are facing challenging economic times, please utilize this resource for helpful tips on budgeting, spending less, managing debt and much more.

Get started by reading the article How COVID-19 is Impacting Jobs and Where to Find Financial Support.  

Student Loans

If you currently have a student loan through UKFCU and StudentChoice, please click here for more details on your account during this time.

UKFCU is actively monitoring the coronavirus outbreak and the CDC's recommendations for public safety. The well-being of our employees and members is of the utmost importance to us, which is why we have decided to close our branch lobbies, including the UK Student Center Branch, until further notice. 

Beginning Wednesday, March 18, all UKFCU branch lobbies will close to the public upon recommendation of Governor Beshear. Our drive-thru windows will remain open and continue to operate under normal business hours. We are committed to continuing to serve our members during this difficult time, and the decision to close our branch lobbies was not made lightly. In the interest of public health and safety, we feel this is the best decision for our staff and community.
 

Below are tips on the best ways to manage your finances during this time period.

• If you haven't already, please enroll in mobile and online banking. It's quick and convenient and once enrolled, you can check account balances, transfer funds, make payments and find ATMs. Enroll here.
• You may deposit checks through the remote deposit capture feature in our Mobile Banking App.
• UKFCU ATMs accept both check and cash deposits.
• Drive-thru windows will remain open Monday - Friday from 9 am to 6 pm, and Saturday 9 am to 1 pm. We will continue as a full-service operation through our drive-thru windows. Visit our locations page to find your closest branch. 
• As our Student Center Branch does not have a drive-thru, it will be closed until further notice.
   

If you have questions about your account, please call us at 859.264.4200. You may also send us a message in online banking through the secure messaging center. Please note, standard email and LiveChat are not secure forms of communication. All secure forms of communication must go through online banking. 

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these changes together. UKFCU will continue to monitor the CDC recommendations and make changes as necessary. Please check back to this page for any additional updates. 

UKFCU is monitoring the latest news about the coronavirus. The well-being of our members and surrounding communities is our top priority. We know many of you are concerned and uncertain when it comes to this evolving situation, which is why we are doing all we can to make sure branches remain open and our call center is available to address your concerns. UKFCU is committed to being responsive to the needs of our members as the situation evolves.

We strongly encourage you to use UKFCU online banking with 24/7 account access, or you can access your account by using the UKFCU mobile banking app at your convenience. From there, you can make payments, mobile check deposits, view transactions, check balances, find ATMs and much more.

If you haven't already enrolled in online banking, it's quick and convenient. You can enroll here. Our call center is available should you need any assistance enrolling. Call us at 859.264.4200. The UKFCU Mobile Banking App is available on the App Store and Google Play.

As always, the health and well-being of our members and surrounding communities is our greatest concern. We will continue to monitor the situation and will be here to assist our members' needs. 

For additional information about COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at cdc.gov. 

UKFCU: WINNER Lexington's Favorite Credit Union, FINALIST Lexington's Favorite Bank 

Thank you, Lexington!

UK Federal Credit Union was voted #1 Credit Union in this year's Herald Leader's Readers' Choice Awards, and also placed second in Best Bank Category!

View more of Lexington's top picks HERE. 
 

LEXINGTON, KY - University Of Kentucky Federal Credit Union was recently honored with two Diamond Awards, which recognizes outstanding marketing and business development achievements in the credit union industry. The Diamond Awards is the most prestigious annual credit union industry competition that recognizes and rewards creative excellence and outstanding results.

The award was presented by the CUNA Marketing & Business Development Council, a national network comprised of over 1,300 credit union marketing and business development professionals. Awards are given in each of 36 categories ranging from advertising to community events and beyond.

UKFCU won the Video Commercial - 30 Seconds or Less Category for its entries, entitled "Where Does it Go?" and "Join a Winning Team".  These commercials creatively outline some of the products and services offered to UKFCU's members.

“The hard work displayed by these credit unions always leaves us feeling inspired and passionate about what we do,” said Amy McGraw, Chair of the CUNA Marketing & Business Development Council’s Diamond Awards Committee and VP Marketing, Tropical Financial CU. “Receiving this award further highlights the dedication they have for our movement and their members.”

Award winners were recognized at the council’s 26^th annual conference held March 20-23 in Las Vegas. For more information on the Diamond Awards or to view the entire list of winners, go to www.cunacouncils.org/news/15479/news-article

About CUNA

Credit Union National Association (CUNA) is the only national association that advocates on behalf of all of America's credit unions, which are owned by 115 million consumer members. CUNA, along with its network of affiliated state credit union leagues, delivers unwavering advocacy, continuous professional growth and operational confidence to protect the best interests of all credit unions. For more information about CUNA, visit cuna.org.
 

About CUNA Councils

CUNA Councils is a member-led, collaborative community of credit union leaders providing vibrant peer interaction, new ideas and innovation to foster professional development for our members while advocating for the overall success of the credit union movement. There are seven CUNA Councils with a network of more than 7,000 credit union professionals. For more information, visit cunacouncils.org.

14th Annual Best Places to Work in Kentucky Award Winners Announced

FRANKFORT, KY. (Jan. 18, 2019) – The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management (KYSHRM) announce the 100 companies (in alphabetical order) that made the 14th Annual Best Places to Work in Kentucky list. The winner rankings will be announced at an awards dinner on Tuesday, April 23, 2098, at Heritage Hall in the Lexington Convention Center.

Winners from across the state have been selected in three categories: small companies of 15-149 employees, medium companies of 150-499 employees and large companies consisting of more than 500 employees (categories based on number of U.S. employees, only Kentucky employees surveyed). The selection process, managed by Best Companies Group, is based on an assessment of the company’s employee policies and procedures and the results of an internal employee survey.

The competition is a multi-year initiative designed to motivate companies in the Commonwealth to focus, measure and move their workplace environments toward excellence. Numerous studies show a strong correlation between profitability and employee satisfaction and engagement.

As the state’s premier business advocate, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is a recognized and respected voice at the state Capitol. Today, the Kentucky Chamber represents the interests of member businesses throughout Kentucky – from family-owned shops to Fortune 500 companies.
Kentucky SHRM consists of 13 local chapters that provide ongoing education and leadership opportunities for over 3,000 human resource professionals throughout the Commonwealth.

For more details about Best Places to Work in Kentucky, visit www.bestplacestoworkky.com or learn about sponsor and exhibitor opportunities (PDF).

See the complete list of winners HERE.

As recent hurricanes battered the US, the University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union (UKFCU)  and its members decided to take action and helped raise money for the American Red Cross to help hurricane relief efforts. UKFCU members raised over $ 6,250, which was matched dollar for dollar by the University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union. In addition to the donation match, the credit union donated additional funds, rounding the total donation to $ 6,250 to help those impacted by the storms.

“I believe providing assistance to others in times of need such as this is very much in alignment with ‘the credit union way’.  It’s at the heart of what we are supposed to do, as the original credit union philosophy intended.” said David Kennedy, President/CEO of the University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union.