Teachers credit union widens membership
Most Long Islanders now have access to a third credit union, courtesy of a charter change at Teachers Federal Credit Union that allows anyone who lives or works in Nassau or most of Suffolk to join.
"We've had extremely steady growth for a good number of years," president and chief executive Robert Allen said.
Until now, as its name suggests, Teachers - based in Farmingville - has served school employees and their families in Suffolk. With the change, it joins Bethpage Federal Credit Union and Island Federal Credit Union as nonprofit financial institutions available to most Long Islanders.
Allen said that with the turmoil affecting many banks, the lower interest rates on loans and higher rates on accounts make credit unions more attractive options than ever.
Teachers has more than 200,000 members and assets of $3.6 billion. In 2009 deposits grew by 40 percent and loans by 23 percent, according to the credit union.
"Our growth in 2009 was extraordinary, even for us," Allen said.
Teachers has 20 branches, all in Suffolk, although Allen said the union hopes to open some in Nassau.
Things to do now on LI Rock climbing? Indoor beach volleyball? Water parks? Arts and crafts? NewsdayTV's Elisa DiStefano and Newsday deputy lifestyle editor Meghan Giannotta have your look at ways to spend your winter break.
Things to do now on LI Rock climbing? Indoor beach volleyball? Water parks? Arts and crafts? NewsdayTV's Elisa DiStefano and Newsday deputy lifestyle editor Meghan Giannotta have your look at ways to spend your winter break.
