6 Surprising Things a Credit Union Can Help With

Looking for the best credit union in Arizona? Desert Financial offers what banks have and more — from loans, credit cards and community giving to these six products and services you might not know about.

When you’re researching a credit union, there’s a lot to think about beyond savings and checking accounts. Credit unions often have lower loan rates and higher dividends on interest-bearing accounts than banks. Since they are member-owned, credit unions also give back to their members and community, rather than shareholders.

As the largest (and dare we say the best) credit union in Arizona, Desert Financial has a lot to offer! Check out our Free Checking & More page for some great examples of the cash, convenience and community perks you’ll get as a member.¹

Beyond loans, credit cards and savings accounts, we also have some services you might not expect from a credit union. Here are six surprising things that Desert Financial can help with:

1. Wills and Trusts

A credit union may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about making a will, but Desert Financial’s Wills & Trusts department makes estate planning easier. We have a dedicated team of knowledgeable representatives that can walk you step-by-step through the process of creating a will or trust.

Desert Financial Wills & Trusts Supervisor Matt Osborn says that while you can create a will or trust on your own, the process can be complex. “Estate Planning is not a one-size-fits-all scenario,” he explains. “Sitting down with an expert to discuss your assets, family and goals is the first step. With thorough education, you will be able to assess how a will or trust can accomplish your wishes.”

2. Legal Document Preparation

What about documents beyond a will or trust? Desert Financial can assist you in preparing other documents such as property deeds, LLC paperwork and Financial and/or Medical Powers of Attorney (POA). If you’re not familiar with the latter, a Financial POA grants someone control over your finances if you are incapacitated, while a Medical POA allows someone to make medical decisions for you if you become unable to express your wishes. Our Arizona certified legal document preparers will walk you through the process of completing your documents, and we will record them with the state or county when necessary.

3. Investments

Whether you’re a seasoned investor with a diverse portfolio or you’re just getting started investing for your future, Desert Financial Wealth Management is equipped to help. We’ve partnered with Raymond James, a global financial services firm, to provide investment services for current and prospective Desert Financial members. By working with a trusted financial services partner on a personalized investment plan tailored for your needs, you’ll not only get the products and services you need — but you’ll also be able to work one-on-one with a friendly, experienced financial advisor as you review your current plan, develop your portfolio and make new investments.

4. Insurance

Don’t love your current insurance? With all the tasks you’re juggling every day, it can be a hassle trying to find the time to look for a new insurance carrier that has the right coverage at the best price. At Desert Financial, we’ll do the shopping around to compare insurance — so you don’t have to!

Whether you’re looking for life, home, auto and/or business insurance or senior market items such as Medicare and life insurance, you can get them all through Desert Financial. Our insurance representatives are well-versed in their respective markets and have access to a wide variety of carriers. With their guidance on pricing and coverage levels, you’ll be able to select the insurance that’s right for yourself and your family. It’s easy and convenient! Once you establish your new insurance coverage, you’ll be able to make monthly payments directly from your Desert Financial accounts.

5. Financial Education

Ever find yourself Googling a finance topic for tips, instructions, ideas or just explaining something in plain words, no jargon? Most of us don’t have a financial advisor on hand, and it can be tough to find online money management info you trust. That’s where Desert Financial’s News & Knowledge Center comes in handy. Our dedicated financial education blog has articles, how-to videos, infographics and more to help you find the answers you’re looking for. We also have several other resources to help you manage your money and work toward your financial goals.

6. Fraud Protection

At Desert Financial, your Visa^® Debit Card is fraud-protected and we act quickly to resolve qualified fraud claims. To protect your debit card, review your checking account regularly, report fraudulent charges or lost/stolen cards immediately, keep your debit card in your possession at all times, protect your PIN and only use your debit card with trusted vendors. For more information about fraud, scam and identity theft protection, visit DesertFinancial.com/Security.

Your card also has a fraud protection feature in place that enables us to text you when there is suspicious activity on your account. If a potentially fraudulent transaction is detected, we will text you about the transaction asking you to verify the transaction is correct by responding YES (or typing NO if you don’t recognize it). This service is provided to you at no charge from Desert Financial; however, message and data rates may apply.

Note that we will NEVER ask you for personal information by text or email. If you do receive an email or text asking for any identifying information, don’t respond! Immediately contact us at 602-433-7000 to report the incident.

As a Desert Financial member, you’ll get access to all these great products and services, in addition to loans, credit cards, Free Checking and much more! So, if you’re looking for a credit union in Arizona that meets your needs and gives back to members and the local community, consider opening an account with Desert Financial. We’ve been helping our members reach their financial goals since 1939 — and we can’t wait to welcome you to our credit union family.