Information Center
Established in Whatcom County, Washington in 1967
Pacific NWCU membership is open to anyone who lives or works in Washington State, and has been proudly serving employees of Alcoa Intalco Works in Ferndale, Washington and their families since 1967.
Things You Should Know
- Consumer Protection
- Your Deposits Are Safe
- Statement of Commitment to Our Members
- It's Me 247 - Online Banking
- CU*Talk - Computer Voice Response System
- Important Information About Phishing
- Important Information About Skimming
- ATM Safety
- Homeowner Assistance
- USA Foreclosure
- Contact Us
- Disclosures
Consumer Protection:
Protect yourself from Identity Theft. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your name or personal information, such as your Social Security number, driver's license number, credit card number, telephone number or other account numbers, without your permission. Identity thieves use this information to open credit accounts, bank accounts, telephone service accounts or to open new accounts. Identity theft can result in damage to your credit rating and denials of credit and job offers.
Additional fraud prevention resources can be found at http://www.cuestnet.com/liberty/fraud_series.htm.
Get a free copy of your credit report. annualcreditreport.com offers consumers a convenient way to request their credit reports in a secure environment. The site is for exclusive use of consumers requesting their free credit report every 12 months under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACT Act).
By phone: 1.877.322.8228
Or write to: Annual Credit Report Request Service
P O Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281
Consumers should be prepared to provide the following information in their request: Name, address, social security number, date of birth and other information to confirm their identity. The report will be mailed within 15 days.
(Back to Top)
Your Deposits Are Safe
All insured shares at the credit union are safe and secure.
You see, while credit union and banks are both full-service financial institutions, credit unions differ from banks in that credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives who are in business only to serve our members' needs. Unlike other financial providers, we're interested in our members' long term financial health and want to be sure we help them make good long-term financial decisions. We exist to serve our members - not to profit from them.
Pacific NWCU has steered clear of the controversies and issues surrounding the subprime lending market because we lend responsibly.
Pacific NWCU went into 2008 with a very strong balance sheet, and we expect to be in very strong shape when the economy starts to recover. In fact, in recent months we've become a safe harbor for consumer savings.
Pacific NWCU is federally insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF). The NCUSIF is administered by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), an agency of the federal government that recently reported that, at mid-year, the NCUSIF remained strong and was projected to become even stronger by the end of the year.
Congress recently passed major legislation referred to as the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. Included in this law is the increase of depository insurance coverage by the NCUA, a federal government agency, from $100,000 to $250,000 for credit unions. The increase went into effect immediately until December 31, 2009 and will be reviewed again at that time.
For more information on federal share insurance you can download a pamphlet created by the NCUA titled "Your Insured Funds", and available at: http://www.ncua.gov/NewsPublications/Publications/PDF/brochures/insured_funds/funds.pdf .
You should know that, while many banks have failed recently, no one has ever lost a single penny in an NCUA federally insured credit union. So, while we are all concerned about current economic conditions, rest assured one thing you do not have to worry about is your money when it is in the credit union. Pacific NWCU is safe and strong!
(Back to Top)
Statement of Commitment to our Members
Vision: Growing valued relationships through personal service
Pacific NWCU is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution committed to offering its member-owners the highest quality financial products and services available. As a credit union, we strive to serve our member’s financial needs by delivering our products and services in a convenient and timely manner. We will look for better ways to reach the unserved and underserved in our field of membership and continually demonstrate the value of membership in the credit union.
• We will treat all members with respect and dignity at all times.
• We will look for better ways to reach out to everyone in our field of membership.
• We will strive to become our member’s Primary Financial Institution.
• We will communicate our service to members in a meaningful way so that member, potential members, legislators, regulators, and the community at large will understand and appreciate the unique role that member-owned financial cooperatives play in their lives.
• We use sound business practices to maintain financial strength and inspire the complete trust and confidence of our members.
• We strive to become a vital part of the community and its concerns.
Professional Service
Pacific NWCU conducts business in a manner that requires integrity, trust, accountability and mutual respect.
Safety and Soundness
Pacific NWCU maximizes performance and growth through personal education, performance standards and strategic planning. We are an ever-learning organization that pursues innovation and reinvention to meet tomorrow’s challenges.
Ethical
Pacific NWCU respects and protects the privacy of its members and the security of their financial information.
Member Service
Pacific NWCU provides every member with timely, accurate and friendly service – our members come first! Pacific NWCU strives to offer services designed to improve the economic and social well being of its members from all economic backgrounds, and return financial value to all those who participate in our member-owned financial cooperative.
Services Available:
• Gold Advantage Checking Accounts designed especially for our retired members
• Free Checking Accounts without minimum balance requirements
• Kids Club Accounts
• Free Online Banking
• Free Bill Pay
• Free E-Statements
• Certificates of Deposit
• Money Market Savings Accounts
• IRA’s (Traditional, Roth, and Coverdell Educational)
• Direct Deposit
• Payroll Deduction
• Cashier’s Checks
• Money Orders
• Prepaid Reloadable Visa Cards
• Wire Transfers
• Check Copies
• Counter Checks
• Loans (Auto, Signature, Home Equity, RV’s, Motorcycles, Visa)
• Visa Cash Advance
• Notary Service
• ATM on location
Member Education
Pacific NWCU is committed to financial education for our members and others in our communities. In addition, we are committed to educating members and consumers alike about credit union uniqueness, philosophy and values.
Current programs that support member education:
• Website
• Member resource area with a computer in the lobby
• Brochures
• Advertising-print, radio & other media
• Annual meeting
• Credit Union Day
• CU National Youth Week
(Back to Top)
It's Me 247 Online Banking:
With It's Me 247 Online Banking, you can keep in touch with your credit union accounts any time, from any place life takes you! If you have a computer and a connection to the Internet, you can use It's Me 247 Online Banking to check balances, transfer money, and stay connected with your credit union accounts around the clock.
With built-in security and personalization features, It's Me 247 Online Banking lets you access your accounts your way!
All you need to use It's Me 247 Online Banking is...
- Connection to the Internet through an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
- Internet browser software, such as the latest version of Internet Explorer or Firefox. (WebTV is not supported by It's Me 247.)
- The browser must use 128-bit encryption. To check the encryption level, from the Help menu of your browser, choose About....and look for a cipher strength of 128-bit strength.
- The browser must have JavaScript enabled, and the privacy settings must allow session cookies.
Click here for an Introduction to It's Me 247 Features
Contact the credit union for more information.
(Back to Top)
CU*TALK Computer Voice Response System:
Convenience at your fingertips! CU*TALK makes it possible for you to have direct contact to your credit union accounts with just one phone call.
CU*TALK, our computer voice response system makes taking care of your credit union business faster, easier and safer! Because you can now get around-the-clock access to your accounts, this service is perfect for today's busy lifestyles.
All you need to make contact with CU*TALK is a touch-tone phone, your account number and your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
CU*TALK lets you perform numerous transactions like these:
- Review account balances
- Verify the date and amount of your transactions, including deposits, withdrawals, transfers and payments
- Verify whether certain checks have cleared
- Transfer funds between accounts
- Make loan payments
- Check current interest rates
Contact the credit union for more information.
(Back to Top)
Important Information About Phishing:
There's a new type of Internet piracy called "phishing". It's pronounced "fishing", and that's exactly what these thieves are doing; "fishing" for your personal financial information. What they want are account numbers, passwords, Social Security numbers, and other confidential information that they can use to loot your checking account or run up bills on your credit cards.
In the worst case, you could find yourself a victim of identity theft. With the sensitive information obtained from a successful phishing scam, these thieves can take out loans or obtain credit cards and even driver's licenses in your name. They can do damage to your financial history and personal reputation that can take years to unravel. But if you understand how phishing works and how to protect yourself, you can help stop this crime.
Here's how phishing works:
In a typical case, you'll receive an email that appears to come from a reputable company that you recognize and do business with, such as your financial institution. In some cases, the email may appear to come from a government agency, including one of the federal financial institution regulatory agencies.
The email will probably warn you of a serious problem that requires your immediate attention. It may use phrases such as, "Immediate attention required" or "Please contact us immediately about your account". The email will then encourage you to click on a button to go to the institution's web site.
In a phishing scam, you could be redirected to a phony web site that may look exactly like the real thing. Sometimes, in fact, it may be the company's actual web site. In those cases, a pop-up window will quickly appear for the purpose of harvesting your financial information.
In either case, you may be asked to update your account information or to provide information for verification purposes: your Social Security number, your account number, your password, or the information you use to verify your identity when speaking to a real financial institution such as your mother's maiden name or your place of birth.
If you provide the requested information, you may find yourself the victim of identity theft.
How to Protect Yourself
- Never provide your personal information in response to an unsolicited request, whether it is over the phone or over the Internet. Email and Internet pages created by phishers may look exactly like the real thing. They may even have a fake padlock icon that ordinarily is used to denote a secure site. If you do not initiate the communication, you should not provide any information.
- If you believe the contact may be legitimate, contact the financial institution yourself. You can find phone numbers and web sites on the monthly statements you receive from your financial institution. The key is that you should be the one to initiate contact, using contact information you have verified yourself.
- Never provide your password over the phone or in response to an unsolicited Internet request. A financial institution would never ask you to verify your account information online. Thieves armed with this information and your account number can help themselves to your savings.
- Review your account statements regularly to ensure all charges are correct. If your account statement is late in arriving, call your financial institution to find out why. If your financial institution offers electronic account access, periodically review activity online to catch anything suspicious.
What To Do If You Fall Victim:
Contact your financial institution immediately and alert it to the situation.
If you have disclosed sensitive information in a phishing attack, you should also contact one of the three major credit bureaus and discuss whether you need to place a fraud alert on your file, which will help prevent thieves from opening a new account in your name. Here is the contact information for each bureau's fraud division:
Equifax
www.equifax.com
1.800.658.1111
Experian
www.experian.com
1.800.397.3742
Trans Union
www.transunion.com
1.800.916.8800
Report all suspicious contacts to the Federal Trade Commission through the Federal Trade Commission through the Internet at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/consumers/about-identity-theft.html or by calling 1.877.IDTHEFT.
(Back to Top)
Important Information About Skimming:
Beware of Skimming. Skimming occurs when thieves set up a device that captures the magnetic stripe and keyboard information from ATM machines and gas pumps. These thieves can then use this information to program their own card with your information.
Do not use an ATM or gas pump if it looks at all suspicious.
Review your account balances often. Contact us IMMEDIATELY if you suspect fraud at 360.647.0560 if you suspect fraud. After hours please use the following numbers: Visa Debit - 1.800.554.8969 or Visa Credit - 1.800.442.4757.
(Back to Top)
ATM Safety:
Memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN) and do not share it with anyone. Don't write it on your card.
Make sure no one can see you enter your PIN onto the ATM keypad. Shield the keypad with your body and hand.
Never tell anyone your PIN over the telephone. Even if a caller claims to work for the police, Pacific Northwest Credit Union, Visa or any other organization, do not share your PIN. No one needs to know it but you.
Be aware of your surroundings - especially at night. If you notice anything suspicious, consider using another ATM or returning later.
Have someone accompany you to the ATM if possible.
Park nearby in a well-lit area.
Do not display your cash. Instead, pocket the money and count it later in the safety of your car or home.
Cancel your transaction if necessary. If you notice anything suspicious nearby after you begin your transaction, cancel it, pocket your card and leave.
At a drive-up ATM, keep your car running and doors locked. Be ready to exit quickly if a stranger approaches your car.
If you are followed from an ATM, go to a busy are where people are or to the nearest police or fire station.
Report all crimes and suspicious activities to the ATM owner and local law enforcement agency immediately.
(Back to Top)
Free E-Statements:
Free E-Statements are available to members who are signed up for It's Me 247online banking. Contact the credit union for more information.
(Back to Top)
Free Online Bill Pay:
Say good-bye to writing checks, buying stamps, and mailing off bills. Pay your bills in minutes at your convenience with Bill Pay! Contact the credit union for more information.
(Back to Top)
Homeowner Assistance:
If you are having difficulties with home refinancing due to depreciation in the value of your home or the prospect of foreclosure is on the horizon, the website links below offer a wealth of information.
Refinancing Information: http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov
Foreclosure Assistance: http://www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/homeownership
(Back to Top)
USA Foreclosure.com
USA Foreclosure.com offers foreclosure listings in your area along with helpful information on how to bid on and purchase a foreclosed property . USA Foreclousre.com also offers information on foreclosure law in your state to help those who are currently facing foreclosure.
For more information go to: USA Foreclosure.com
(Back to Top)
Contact Us
Pacific NWCU
3250 Northwest Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: 360.647.0560 or 1.800.737.4945
Fax: 360.647.0713
Hours: (Lobby & Drive-Up)
Monday - Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday & Friday
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
After Hours
Lost or Stolen Visa Debit Cards: 1.866.333.9337
Lost or Stolen Visa Credit Cards: 1.800.442.4757
(Back to Top)
Current Fraud Alerts
Visa Breach (03/30/2012)
Recent discovery of a potential data breach by a major card processor that could affect millions of both credit and debit cardholders.
Pacific NWCU makes it a priority to protect members funds, thus, if Pacific NWCU receives notice of a possible compromise it is our policy to contact the member immediately and block any further transactions.
How to protect your account:
Monitor your account for suspicious transactions or activity, and notify Pacific NWCU immediately at 360.647.0560 if you see anything you suspect.
For after hours notification contact;
Visa Credit: 1.800.442.4757
Visa Debit: 1.800.472.3272
NACHA Email Phishing Scam Alert (05/25/2011)
We have received notification that some of our members have received a fraudulent email that has the appearance of being sent from NACHA. This email claims to be from the "Electronic Payments Association" and appears to be coming from the email address "payments@nacha.org". This email is NOT from NACHA.
NACHA does not process nor do they touch ACH transactions for financial institutions. They do not send communications to individuals or organizations about individual ACH transactions that they originate or receive.
Be aware that phishing emails frequently have attachments and/or links to web pages that host malicious code and software. DO NOT OPEN ATTACHMENTS OR FOLLOW WEB LINKS in emails from unkonwn parties or appear unusual.
Automated Phone Message Attack (12/2010)
Pre-recorded phone messages are being delivered to random consumers with the warning that their debit cards have been closed. When the consumers call the telephone number provided by the fraudsters they hear a recording that requests a 16-digit card number and PIN. Please do not call these numbers! This matter is under investigation. Once again, we remind you NEVER provide your card number and/or PIN to anyone calling you. If you receive a call like this, please contact the credit union at 360.647.0560 immediately!
New Visa Phishing Scam (07/16/2010)
There are reports that a new configuration of the data stealing trojan Zeus is targeting credit and debit cardholders across the country with a phishing exploit that spoofs Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode. Additionally, the phishing page reportedly allows the attackers to obtain all the necessary information to carry out credit card fraud and even make online transactions with retailers that participate in the Verified by Visa or MasterCard SecureCode programs.
Members would never be asked for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and/or social security number. If you feel too much information is being requested, or if you are suspicious about a website, do NOT enter any personal information. Instead, contact the credit union at 360.647.0560 or the number on the back of your card to verify the request.
SMiShing (Text Message) Scam
We have recently received reports of SMiShing attacks - also known as text phishing. Scammers are sending fraudulent text messages to cardholders in an attempt to obtain their personal information. The fraudulent text messages inform cardholders that their card has been closed by their financial institution and provides them with a phone number to call that connects the cardholders to an automated voice response system. This automated voice system asks for their personal information such as card number, CVV2, expiration date and PIN.
Pacific NWCU will NEVER ask for your card information via text message or email. If you have received one of these text messages or any communication in which you are asked to provide your personal information (card number, CVV2, expiration date, PIN), please contact the credit union at 360.647.0560 immediately.
Attention All Debit and Credit Cardholders!
Please contact the credit union before traveling out of state. We ask that you notify us of your travel plans so that we may provide you with information about the card limitations that are in place to protect all of our members due to the increase in Debit and Credit card fraud.
Blocked Countries
(Back to Top)
Scams
Scammers are once again targeting people to get their credit card/debit card information over the phone. Remember - Pacific NWCU will NEVER call and ask you for your account number, expiration date, CVV code or ANY of your sensitive information over the phone!
(Back to Top)
ABA Routing Number
Our ABA Routing number is 325180618
(Back to Top)