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Feb 26, 2021

Why it Pays to Switch to a Credit Union

Credit unions are the way to go if you’re looking for a great financial partner for you and your community. Credit unions are member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperatives that directly contribute to your hometown. 

Local banking makes a substantial economic impact (think loans and jobs).

A strong community requires a healthy economy. Hiring local employees is one way C.U.’s support local economies. Another is by helping local small businesses. Small businesses, the biggest job creators in the country, often turn to credit unions for loans. In addition to offering better rates and fewer fees, credit unions typically process loans locally. The process helps streamline applications and gives credit unions the ability to better understand a borrower’s unique situation before making a loan decision.

And, as local lenders, credit unions reinvest their deposit dollars back into the community. Open an account with a credit union, and you’re helping support businesses and families right near you.

Credit unions are involved in the community.

It’s not just the impact credit unions can have on the economy; it’s community development, too — the good they do for the people they serve in your community.

While many financial institutions give to charity, credit unions are unique. They primarily focus on causes and organizations that impact and are important to the members, industries, and communities they serve.

And, because no one is born knowing how to manage money, credit unions commit themselves to education. Showing and empowering you to save and manage your money wisely is a big part of what they do.

Customer service is still personal.

Personal service at a credit union isn’t just a cliché. It’s the difference between working with someone who understands your financial goals and a faceless, blanket conversation with no vision for the future. 

Local familiarity also factors into how credit unions make decisions. Sure, the math matters, but the person matters too.

Your local credit union has all the right securities.

Credit unions are insured like any other financial institution; the NCUA (National Credit Union Association) insures your deposits up to $250,000 if your C.U. faces trouble for any reason.

Credit unions are subject to federal security standards and safety protocols. Any financial institution has to meet rigorous compliance standards; we’re no exception. It’s our job and our privilege to guard and grow your money!

Credit unions like to say “thank you” in cash.

Your relationship means more, and your money goes further at a credit union. Trusted community service backed by free checking accounts, low-rate loans, and high-earning savings – you’ll be amazed at all your options. (Seriously, this list hardly scratches the surface).

Switching is easier than you think.

No doubt, switching financial institutions can be a hassle — but switching to a C.U. doesn’t have to be complicated! With personal service and a local representative to help you, the switch can be (dare we say it? Yes.) rewarding! 

If you’re ready to make the switch, getting help is as easy as picking up the phone. We’re prepared to help you get started! Let’s meet! 

(P.S. – If you’re more of a Social Media person, D.M. us on Facebook or Instagram, and we’ll personally set you up with someone perfect for you and your goals.)

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see what we’ve been up to @altana_fcu
Stop by any Altana branch in Billings or Laurel to Stop by any Altana branch in Billings or Laurel to grab your FREE family 4-pack of MontanaFair admission tickets (available for members while supplies last)!⁠
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We’re also gearing up for Altana Member Day at the fair on Saturday, August 15, featuring our VW Ice Cream Bus from 2–6 p.m. 😋⁠
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See you at the fair! 💚
Posting this throwback to say we're excited to see Posting this throwback to say we're excited to see you at Strawberry Fest this Saturday! This is one of our favorite Downtown Billings events, and we hear it's gonna be even bigger this year 👀
Happy 4th of July from all of us at Altana! 🎆 . We Happy 4th of July from all of us at Altana! 🎆
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We had a blast handing out ice cream in front of our Laurel branch (our very first branch!) where the Altana story began.
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One of the highlights of the day was getting to visit with Thelma, one of Altana’s very first tellers!! Seeing generations of Altana teammates together in one photo was such a special reminder that while a lot has changed over the years, our commitment to serving our members and community has stayed the same.
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Here’s to celebrating where we’ve been, the people who helped build us, and the community that continues to make Altana feel like home!
One of our favorite summer traditions is back!⁠ .⁠ One of our favorite summer traditions is back!⁠
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As an Altana member, you can stop by any of our Billings or Laurel branches and receive a FREE family 4-pack of MontanaFair admission tickets by showing proof of membership. Tickets are available while supplies last, so don't wait too long!⁠
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We're also excited to celebrate Altana Member Day at the fair on Saturday, August 15. Keep an eye out for our VW Ice Cream Bus from 2–6 p.m.! We'll be handing out frozen treats and sharing in all the fair fun! ⁠
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Learn more about Altana Member Day and free fair tickets for Altana Members here: https://www.montanafair.com/events/2026/altana-member-day.⁠
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We'll see you at the fair!
We had the best time supporting the Reading Rocks We had the best time supporting the Reading Rocks program with the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools at both Pioneer Park and Castle Rock Park 📚✨
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Reading Rocks is all about keeping kids engaged, excited, and confident in reading all summer long, and we’re so proud to support a mission that pours so much into local students and families!
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And don’t forget to mark your calendars: Saturday Live is coming up on Saturday, October 3 🎡🎉
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For over 30 years, the Education Foundation has hosted Saturday Live, raising over $2.7 million for our schools! And we hope to see you there 🤩
We’re incredibly proud to support our Partners in We’re incredibly proud to support our Partners in Education at @boulder_elementary_pta with an $18,000 grant to help bring their vision of a new gymnasium one step closer to reality.
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A school gym is so much more than a place for PE. It’s where students cheer each other on, celebrate milestones, build confidence, and create memories that last for generations. Every child deserves a space where their whole school community can come together and we’re honored to play a small part in making that happen. 
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This donation was made possible in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines Member Impact Fund. Together, we’re investing in the future of Boulder Elementary and the incredible students, families, and educators who make it such a special place.
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Want to learn more about the campaign or make a donation? Visit: www.bouldergymcampaign.com⁠
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Here’s to building a stronger future for Boulder together!
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