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What is a share Certificate?

A share certificate is a type of savings account available exclusively at credit unions like US #1364 Federal Credit Union. It offers a guaranteed rate of return for a set term—making it a secure, reliable way to grow your money locally.

Whether you’re saving for a short-term goal or building long-term financial stability, a share certificate lets you lock in your rate and watch your balance grow with confidence. Learn how a share certificate works, whether it’s right for your savings goals, and how to open one at US #1364 Federal Credit Union, proudly serving Lake and Porter counties since 1936.


How a Share Certificate Works

A share certificate can help you reach your savings goals—whether you plan to keep funds in the account for six months or several years. Unlike a regular savings account, your funds remain in the certificate for the entire term you select.

The advantage? You lock in your interest rate, protecting your earnings even if rates drop. Your dividend rate remains fixed for the full term, ensuring predictable growth and the peace of mind that comes with guaranteed returns.

When your certificate reaches its maturity date, you can:

  • Renew your certificate for the same term at the current rate.
  • Withdraw your funds during the grace period to access your savings.
  • Transfer your balance to a new certificate with a different term or rate.


Pros and Cons of a Share Certificate

Advantages

  • Flexible Term Options: Choose terms from six months to five years to match your savings goals.
  • Federally Insured: All US #1364 Federal Credit Union share certificates are insured by the NCUA up to $250,000.
  • Guaranteed Rate: Lock in your dividend rate for the entire term—no market fluctuation worries.
  • Local Service: Work with your hometown credit union in Merrillville, Valparaiso, or Portage for personalized support.

Considerations

  • Early Withdrawal Penalty: Withdrawing funds before maturity may result in a penalty.
  • Locked Rate: Your rate won’t increase if market rates rise during your term.


Share Certificates vs. Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

Share certificates and CDs function similarly, but the difference lies in where they’re offered.

  • Share Certificates: Offered by credit unions like US #1364 Federal Credit Union and insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).
  • Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Offered by banks and insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
    Both provide the same federal coverage—up to $250,000 per account type, per owner.


What happens when your Share Certificate matures?

When your US #1364 Federal Credit Union share certificate matures, you’ll receive a notification before the maturity date so you can decide what to do next:

  1. Do Nothing: Your certificate automatically renews for the same term at the current rate.
  2. Withdraw Funds: Withdraw your savings within the grace period if you need access to your money.
  3. Transfer to a New Term: Move your funds into a new share certificate with different terms.

If you withdraw early, a small penalty may apply, deducted from earned interest.


Why Save with US #1364 Federal Credit Union?

We offer a wide range of certificate terms—from six months to five years—so you can choose the option that fits your financial goals.

When you save with US #1364 Federal Credit Union, your money stays local and safe. Every account is insured by the NCUA up to $250,000. Plus, our share certificate rates are consistently higher than the national average, giving you more return on your hard-earned savings.

You can even decide how you get paid—receive your dividends by check or have them deposited directly into your US #1364 Federal Credit Union account.


Open a Share Certificate in Northwest Indiana

Ready to earn more on your savings? Open a Share Certificate today at US #1364 Federal Credit Union and start growing your money with guaranteed returns and trusted local service.

Call: 219-769-1700 | Serving Lake & Porter Counties Since 1936