Opening a checking account is a big deal for a lot of people. Suddenly, you have a place to put your money besides your wallet, your piggy bank, or under your mattress. But what does a checking account mean for your credit? It may not be as important as you might think, but knowing what does and does not affect your credit score can be helpful as you start to build your credit history from scratch. Will a checking account affect your credit score? Opening a checking account is a big deal for a lot of people. Suddenly, you have a place to put your money besides your wallet, your piggy bank, or under your mattress. But what does a checking account mean for your credit? It may not be as important as you might think, but knowing what does and does not affect your credit score can be helpful as you start to build your credit history from scratch. Does opening a checking account affect my credit score? Even though opening a checking account is usually the first box you check when you first take steps into the financial world, the cold hard truth is that your credit score does not care. As far as your credit score is concerned, your deposits and withdrawals are your business. There are a handful of exceptions, though. The lender you open your account with may perform a hard inquiry on your credit report. To be clear, this isn’t the norm. Most financial institutions will only make a soft inquiry before opening a new checking account. Soft inquiries have no impact on your credit score, but a hard inquiry could drop your score a few points. Lenders have also been known to make hard inquiries if you sign up for overdraft protection. On that same note, not signing up for overdraft protection and then overdrawing your checking account could impact your credit score. Should you fail to repay the amount in a timely fashion, the lender could turn the matter over to a collections agency. The same thing could happen if you close your account with a negative balance and don’t pay the lender back. Long story short, your credit score is not as excited as you are about your new checking account, but it will be paying attention if you mismanage that account. What affects my credit score? What exactly is a credit score? And who exactly is keeping score? Two good questions that not everyone knows the answer to — even if they might pretend like they do. “Credit score” is such a common financial term today that many people never even question it, when actually understanding how it is calculated can help you boost your score. Credit bureaus are the ones who calculate your credit score. Each of them has their own unique algorithm for calculating credit scores and they are all as tight-lipped as a magician’s assistant when it comes to revealing the specific math behind their algorithms. But what we do know is that five basic financial categories are the keys to determining your score: Payment history. Your payment history accounts for 35% of your credit score. Credit utilization. The amount of credit you have available to you and the percentage of that credit you are using regularly accounts for 30% of your score. Length of credit history. The age of your accounts is 15% of your credit score. The longer your credit history, the better your score, usually. Types of credit. The different types of credit you utilize — credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, etc. — accounts for 10% of your score. New credit. The final 10% of your credit score is determined by how many new lines of credit you have applied for. Opening multiple new accounts in a short period of time can be seen as a sign of financial troubles to a lender. What is a good credit score? Your credit score is a number between 300 and 850. If your score is less than 600, you have what is considered a poor credit score. The sweet spot is between 661 and 780, which is where the good credit scores live. If you’re an overachiever, aim for 781 or higher. If ever you find yourself with a credit score higher than 781, you have done pretty well for yourself. You deserve a gold star, but you’ll have to settle for a great credit score instead. If you are interested in opening a new checking account or have questions about your credit score, please get in touch with us . Math is our specialty! Previous Item Next Item

Savings with up to $5M* in protection. Maximize NCUA insurance coverage while earning competitve returns-automatically. Are your funds fully insured? Keep every dollar safe, accessible, and working for you — all in one account. Learn More Schedule a meeting Best for Deposit Rates Used with permission. ©2025 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. A safer way to protect & access your funds. Traditional banks insure only up to $250,000 per account, leaving many organizations with uncovered funds. Vibrant’s Insured Money Market Account with Extended Share Insurance gives you expanded NCUA-backed protection — without the burden of opening multiple accounts across multiple institutions. Your funds stay in one secure, consolidated account, while our auto-sweep network works behind the scenes to maximize insurance coverage. No extra accounts, no additional paperwork, and no managing multiple statements. Whether you’re managing operating reserves, capital planning, or savings for future growth, this account delivers the safety, liquidity, and simplicity you need. Fully Insured Coverage Extend your protection will beyond standard limits with up to $15 million in fully insured deposits.* Full Liquidity of Funds Access your reserves any time (before the daily cutoff) without penalties, restrictions, or waiting periods. Competitive Earnings Earn strong, market-leading rates while keeping every dollar insured — no need to sacrifice safety for growth. One Account, One Statement No more managing multiple bank relationships; your entire balance rolls into one clean, consolidated view. No Hidden Fees — Ever Enjoy the benefits of this account without hidden fees, draw fees, or usage requirements. Designed for people and organizations that need safety, clarity, and control. This account supports anyone managing reserves above standard insurance limits — without the complexity of juggling multiple financial institutions. Faith-Based Organizations HOAs & COAs Small & Mid-Sized Businesses Schools & Educational Institutions Nonprofits & Community Organizations Municipalities & Public Agencies Foundations & Trusts High-Balance Individuals Get started Why organizations choose extended insurance and why traditional banks fall short. Many organizations unknowingly hold reserves that exceed standard insurance limits — leaving some funds exposed. Others struggle with liquidity, costly fees, or slow access to capital when needs arise. Here’s how Vibrant solves those challenges with one streamlined account. Challenge Solution Large reserves over $250,000 may exceed standard insurance limits—leaving some funds uncovered. Emergency repairs or other expenses require fast access to your funds. Unexpected building repairs or urgent expenses require more capital than you have. Transparency is needed for seasonal cash flow and fluctuating profits, donations, tuition, or offerings. High-yield accounts can be risky, restrictive, or come with hidden fees, putting your reserves at risk or limiting access. You want a financial partner who shares your values and supports your mission. Our high-yield reserve account* is fully insured and backed by the full faith of the U.S. Government through NCUA coverage , keeping your funds secure and accessible. Our insured money market account is fully liquid , giving you same-day access to funds (prior to cutoff time) without compromising safety. We offer quick, easy eligibility for lines of credit tailored to your organization with no personal guarantees, draw fees, non-usage fees, or origination fees. With 24/7 account visibility and access , you're always prepared. If bundled with a line of credit, you can draw instantly for immediate funding. With no hidden fees and full access to your funds, you can earn competitive interest rates to grow your reserves with no risks involved. Vibrant is a partner investing in your mission and the community through our Be the Good Foundation . Schedule time to talk with an expert "We invest back into communities and help organizations like yours thrive. By partnering with us, you’re choosing a financial institution that cares about purpose — not just profit." Nick Tarpein — Chief Financial Officer, Vibrant Credit Union "I've had a great experience with Vibrant. The representative I work with is most helpful and goes above and beyond to make sure all details of my account are clear and accessible." Regena C — Vibrant Member “In our mind...we have to have government backed accounts that ensure safety , so the FDIC/NCUA insurance is vital for us & it always has been.” Paul S — President, KWBTS “Vibrant combines deep knowledge with a friendly, no-rush approach that immediately puts you at ease... I’ve rarely seen this level of thoughtful and proactive service.” Dmitry F — Vibrant Member Expanded coverage without the extra effort. Our Insured Money Market account uses an auto-sweep system to maximize your insurance while keeping your experience simple. When your balance exceeds a set threshold, excess funds automatically sweep into our network of partner credit unions — each covered by the NCUA. You still see one balance, one account, and one statement . We handle the rest behind the scenes. Request more info More than insurance — a financial partner you can trust. Vibrant is a modern credit union built on relationships, transparency, and community impact. We believe managing large balances shouldn’t require complex structures or multiple banking relationships. Instead, we offer a safe, streamlined experience backed by: Dedicated relationship managers who understand your financial goals. Member-first philosophy , not driven by shareholders. Proven track record supporting nonprofits, businesses, ministries, schools, and community institutions. Award-winning deposit products — named a Best In Deposit Rates winner by The Wall Street Journal’s Buy Side. When you work with Vibrant, you're not just getting expanded coverage — you’re gaining a partner invested in your long-term stability. Learn more about us Frequently asked questions How do I open an account? Opening an Extended Insurance Account with Vibrant is simple and hassle-free. Just reach out to your account manager at 309-326-3128 or email us at relationshipmgrs@vibrantcu.org to get started. In most cases, our efficient process allows your account to be opened and funded the same day . What is ModernFi? ModernFi is a network of credit unions that Vibrant Credit Union has joined to help better protect your balances by distributing funds across partner credit unions to offer extended NCUA share insurance. How does the Extended Insurance Account work? Suppose you have $1 million that you want to safeguard and earn interest on. You can achieve this by depositing the full amount with Vibrant Credit Union through an Extended Insurance Account. The money is then distributed into smaller portions and placed in demand deposit accounts at various credit unions within the network. The first $250,000 will be allocated to Vibrant Credit Union, another $250,000 to Credit Union 2, an additional $250,000 to Credit Union 3, and the remaining $250,000 to Credit Union 4. All of these credit unions are partnered with the ModernFi Network. This allocation helps ensure that each dollar is covered by NCUA share insurance, in an amount up to the maximum of $250,000 per share owner per credit union. Using these Extended Insurance Accounts eliminate the need to keep track of multiple accounts at various credit unions. All of your deposits and activity across your allocated credit unions are consolidated into one statement. Additionally, the Extended Insurance Account interest rate is competitive, making it a compelling choice for individuals and businesses with substantial cash reserves. Who maintains my Extended Insurance Account? You control the account just like a regular transaction account. You can deposit, withdraw, or transfer funds at any time through a dedicated Member Portal. Vibrant Credit Union and ModernFi manage and oversee your allocation, ensuring funds are distributed to demand deposit accounts within the network. How secure is the Extended Insurance Account? Extended Insurance Accounts offer a high degree of security for your deposits, utilizing NCUA insurance to safeguard funds up to $250,000 per member at each participating credit union. This protection extends even in the event of a participating credit union’s failure, ensuring the continued safety of your deposits. Since the inception of the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund in 1970, no member has lost NCUA-insured funds due to a credit union's failure. All accounts at NCUA-insured credit unions are covered on a dollar-for-dollar basis, encompassing principal plus any interest accrued. In the unlikely event a credit union fails, the NCUA assumes the responsibility of closing the credit union, receives its assets, and settles all deposit claims. Vibrant Credit Union works with ModernFi to file all required materials with the NCUA to coordinate the receipt of your funds from the failed institution. Payment starts within a few business days after the credit union closure. For more information on NCUA insurance, please visit here. What qualifies a credit union’s eligibility to join ModernFi’s network? ModernFi partners with credit unions in good standing with regulators and compliant with all Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer requirements. ModernFi only places deposits at US-based NCUA-insured credit unions that are monitored by a U.S. federal or state governmental agency responsible for the supervision of financial institutions. Vibrant Credit Union maintains complete control over the credit unions that can receive your funds. Furthermore, you and Vibrant Credit Union always have full transparency into the allocation of your funds. How do I open an Extended Insurance Account? Opening an Extended Insurance Account is quick and easy with Vibrant Credit Union. Simply contact your relationship manager or visit your nearest branch to open an account and start taking advantage of the benefits offered by the Extended Insurance Account. After account opening, you will gain access to the “Member Portal” to view details on your Extended Insurance Account. You can view statements and your allocations throughout the network at any time, so you always know your money is safe with credit unions you know and trust. *APY = "Annual Percentage Yield." APYs accurate as of January 2nd, 2026. Rates subject to change without notice. The rate is tied to the daily Effective Federal Funds Rate in effect at account opening less .50%. $5 Membership Share account required. Insurance provided through program credit union. Deposits remaining with Vibrant are federally insured by the NCUA. Funds participating in the Vibrant Credit Union Extended Insurance Account are deposited into accounts at participating credit unions, which are insured by the National Credit Union Association (NCUA) for up to $250,000 for each category of legal ownership, including any other balances you may hold directly or through other intermediaries, including broker-dealers. The total amount of NCUA insurance for your account depends on the number of credit unions in the program. If the balance in your account is greater than the NCUA insurance coverage in the program, any excess funds will not be insured. Please read the Program Terms and Conditions carefully before depositing money into the program and for other important customer disclosures and information. To assure your NCUA coverage, please regularly review credit unions in which your funds have been deposited, and notify Vibrant Credit Union immediately if you do not want to allocate funds to a particular credit union or credit unions.

With the back-to-back-to-back failures of Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank, and Silvergate Bank, followed by widespread turmoil in the financial markets, it's only natural to wonder whether your own money is safe where it is. Understanding recent bank failures and what they mean for you With the back-to-back-to-back failures of Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank, and Silvergate Bank, followed by widespread turmoil in the financial markets, it's only natural to wonder whether your own money is safe where it is. With the back-to-back-to-back failures of Silicon Valley Bank , Signature Bank , and Silvergate Bank, followed by widespread turmoil in the financial markets, it's only natural to wonder whether your own money is safe where it is. The most important thing to know is that these recent bank failures were the fault of decisions made by those institutions specifically — and that they don’t necessarily reflect on the financial stability of other banks and credit unions. Nevertheless, their collapse is a timely reminder to learn more about the financial health of your own credit union or bank. Here are a few tips for evaluating how safe your money is. If you have less than $250,000 in deposits with a single NCUA- or FDIC-insured financial institution, you’re not at risk. If you have less than a total of $250,000 deposited among your accounts (including checking, savings, money market, CD, IRA, and Revocable Trust accounts), your funds are protected. If you share any of those accounts with another person, then both of you are individually insured up to $250,000 in deposits. That means that if you and your spouse share a checking account and a savings account, then you’re protected up to $500,000 of deposits. Three account owners? Then you’re protected up to $750,000. How do you find out if your financial institution is NCUA- or FDIC-insured? Deposit insurance for credit union members is provided by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). All federal credit unions and nearly all state-chartered credit unions (including Vibrant) are protected by NCUA deposit insurance. You can confirm your credit union’s NCUA status by searching the NCUA member database . You should also see notices about its NCUA insurance posted on its website and on its premises. Deposit insurance for U.S. banks is provided by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Nearly all U.S. banks are FDIC-insured. As with the NCUA, the FDIC also requires member institutions to post notices about its FDIC membership on its website and on its premises. You can also confirm a bank’s FDIC status through the FDIC website. If you DO have deposits in excess of FDIC or NCUA limits, take a closer look at your financial institution’s performance. There may be situations where you need to maintain a total balance above the deposit insurance limit of $250,000 — for instance, if you’re running a business with large cash requirements for payroll or inventory or if you're trying to maximize your interest earnings by consolidating your money in a single account with the best available rate. If that’s the case, here are some ways to assess your financial institution’s overall health. 1. Find out where your credit union or bank invests its deposits. Financial institutions generate revenue in two ways — either by lending money out and earning interest on those loans or by investing in other forms of equity — stocks, bonds, and other securities. You can look at Vibrant’s statement of financial condition to get a broad overview of where we invest deposits. In the case of Silicon Valley Bank, by comparison, more than 40 percent of its income came from investments — many in the form of long-term Treasury bonds, which have lost value as interest rates have risen in the last year. Meanwhile, Signature and Silvergate heavily invested in cryptocurrency, which has also lost significant value in the past year. 2. Look for steady deposit growth. When people and businesses continue to deposit their money with an institution, it’s a sign there’s strong confidence in how the institution manages its assets. In Vibrant’s case, total deposits have grown from about $407 million at the end of 2012 to about $774 million at the end of 2022 — a 47 percent increase in deposits over the last decade. (You can access past financial statements for Vibrant or any credit union via the NCUA website if you really want to get in the weeds.) 3. Look at the institution’s capitalization classification. Every NCUA- or FDIC-insured financial institution must meet certain capital requirements that ensure it has enough cash on hand to meet its depositors' needs. NCUA considers a credit union “well capitalized” if it has a net worth ratio above 7 and a capital ratio above 10. For reference, Vibrant’s current net worth ratio of 9.48 and capital ratio of 14.93 place it well within the "well capitalized" category. (Capitalization classifications are available for every credit union within the quarterly call reports posted on the NCUA website.) Why a credit union can be a less risky choice than a bank The bank run that led to the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank resulted from widespread panic among depositors after its financial reporting showed the bank might not have funds available to meet all its financial obligations. Rather than risk losing any deposits in excess of FDIC insurance limits, many customers decided to withdraw their funds while they could and move them elsewhere — making Silicon Valley Bank’s existing issues even worse. In general, credit unions like Vibrant are far less likely to experience bank runs because the overwhelming majority of their deposits are federally guaranteed. More than 90 percent of credit union deposits fall within deposit insurance limits, while only about 50 percent of bank deposits do. Additionally, credit unions tend to prioritize safe, sound, and fiscally responsible investments over the pursuit of the ever-higher profits expected by bank shareholders. As member-owned nonprofits, credit unions don’t answer to Wall Street — only to their members. For Vibrant, that means lending money at affordable rates and providing a fair return for members who put their savings into money market accounts and certificates of deposit. If you’re considering moving your money now, talk to us about how we can help safeguard your deposits while enabling you to meet your financial needs. Open an account today . Previous Item Next Item

Want to earn more on your savings without locking up your money? Learn how to keep your cash accessible while still earning competitive interest. How to Earn Interest on Your Money Without Locking It Up Want to earn more on your savings without locking up your money? Learn how to keep your cash accessible while still earning competitive interest. How to Earn Interest on Your Money Without Locking It Up For a long time, earning higher interest meant giving something up. Usually, that meant locking your money away in an account you couldn’t easily access. But that tradeoff isn’t as necessary as it once was. The Tradeoff People Assume Exists Many people believe: If you want higher returns, you need to lock your money up If you want access, you have to accept lower interest That used to be true—but it’s not the full picture anymore. Why You Don’t Have to Lock Your Money Away Today, there are savings options designed to give you both: Competitive interest rates Easy access to your money This means your cash can stay flexible while still working for you in the background. What to Look for Instead If your goal is to earn more without sacrificing access, focus on accounts that offer: Strong, competitive rates No unnecessary restrictions Easy transfers when you need your money A high-yield savings account is built around exactly this idea. Explore flexible savings options: High-yield savings account A Smarter Way to Think About Savings Instead of choosing between access and earnings, you can prioritize both. Your money should be: Available when you need it Growing when you don’t That balance is what makes modern savings strategies more effective. The Bottom Line You don’t have to lock your money away to earn more on it. With the right account, your savings can stay flexible while still delivering meaningful returns. See how your savings can work harder—without losing access: High-yield savings account Previous Item Next Item

Safeguard your equipment loan with coverage from REV Insurance Group. Vibrant Credit Union members financing farm, construction, or specialty equipment can protect their investment with physical damage coverage. Primary Keywords: equipment loan insurance, protect equipment loan, Vibrant Credit Union equipment loan, REV Insurance coverage Secondary Keywords: small farm equipment insurance, equipment damage protection, secure your equipment loan Protect Your Equipment Loan with Confidence Financing equipment with Vibrant Credit Union? That tractor, mower, or skid steer isn’t just a tool—it’s the backbone of your work. And while we love optimism, accidents, weather, and the occasional “oops” happen. That’s where REV Insurance Group steps in. Contact us now Protect Your Equipment Loan with Confidence Financing equipment with Vibrant Credit Union? That tractor, mower, or skid steer isn’t just a tool—it’s the backbone of your work. And while we love optimism, accidents, weather, and the occasional “oops” happen. That’s where REV Insurance Group steps in. Learn More Why Coverage With REV Makes Sense Shield your investment from damage or unexpected repair costs Keep your loan secure—no surprises if the unthinkable happens Cover gaps in your home insurance: Avoid high home insurance deductibles Protect your claim-free discount Broader coverage for: Off-premises use Commercial use Higher limits for your equipment Focus on your work, not what-ifs Who This Is For If your Vibrant Credit Union loan is for: Farm & Ag Equipment Tractors, implements, and the accessories that power your farm or acreage. Construction & Landscaping The machines that keep your jobs moving—excavators, skid steers, mowers, and more. Small Business & Specialty Gear Unique or business-specific equipment that keeps your operation running. Getting Started Is Easy Questions? Want a quick walkthrough? Reach out to us today and we will help to make sure your equipment (and peace of mind) is covered. Contact us now FAQ Do I have to get insurance to finance my equipment? You only need coverage if you don’t already have insurance through another company that covers the equipment. What kind of equipment is eligible for coverage? Most small commercial, farm, or construction equipment financed through Vibrant Credit Union—think tractors, mowers, skid steers, and more. Not sure? Aaron can walk you through it. aaron@revinsurancegroup.com. What does the coverage actually protect against? Physical damage from accidents, weather, or other unexpected mishaps. Coverage includes: Fire Flood Theft Rollovers Wind and hail And more How do I sign up? Coverage can be purchased through your local dealer and included directly in your loan Aaron will help answer questions and ensure you pick the option that fits your needs aaron@revinsurancegroup.com.

The new foundation deepens our mission to bring more good into the communities we love. Vibrant Credit Union launches the Be The Good Foundation The new foundation deepens our mission to bring more good into the communities we love. Moline, IL — January 13, 2026 Vibrant Credit Union announced the official launch of the Be The Good Foundation , a philanthropic initiative designed to power more kindness, more opportunity, and more “good stuff” in communities across the Midwest. For years, Vibrant has believed that doing good shouldn’t be a side project — it should be part of who we are. The Be The Good Foundation brings that belief to life, supporting organizations that are building brighter futures through financial literacy, youth development, and community enrichment. “Good doesn’t happen by accident,” said Tiffany Haedt, President of the Be The Good Foundation. “It happens when people roll up their sleeves, show up for each other, and decide that doing the right thing is worth the effort. This foundation lets us invest in the people and nonprofits already making that kind of magic happen.” The Foundation’s focus areas reflect Vibrant’s long-standing belief that thriving communities start with strong building blocks: Financial Literacy: Because understanding money is a superpower everyone deserves. Youth Development: Preparing the next generation of leaders, creators, helpers, and big thinkers. Community Enrichment: Supporting programs that make our neighborhoods feel safer, healthier, and more connected. Guided by values like optimism, integrity, joy, and compassion, the Foundation chooses projects that don’t just sound good on paper — they make a real difference. “We’re here for the changemakers,” said Megan Anderson, Vice President. “The people who get up every day and do the work. If we can fuel that, we’ll gladly bring the spark.” The Foundation is led by a volunteer Board of Directors — Matt McCombs, Amy Henderson, Marsha Wolff, Nick Tarpein, and Trista Beise — who believe in transparency, responsibility, and the power of small actions that become big outcomes. Nonprofits can now submit grant proposals. Application materials, eligibility details, and FAQs are available at: VibrantCreditUnion.org/BeTheGood “Communities thrive when people lift each other up,” said Marsha Wolff, Secretary/Treasurer. “The Be The Good Foundation is here to help that lift go farther.” About the Be The Good Foundation Be The Good Foundation, founded by Vibrant Credit Union, supports programs that expand financial literacy, empower young people with life and career skills, and strengthens communities. The foundation operates with a simple belief: when you put more good into the world, the world responds in kind. About Vibrant Credit Union Founded in 1935, Vibrant Credit Union is a federally insured credit union built on strong roots and a forward-looking mindset. Vibrant delivers competitive deposit rates, intuitive digital banking, and fast, flexible money movement designed to make everyday finances easier. Beyond products, Vibrant is deeply committed to giving back — supporting nonprofits, strengthening communities, and championing its call to Be The Good through meaningful partnerships and measurable impact. Because great financial tools matter, but what you do with them matters even more. Previous Item Next Item

Have high prices got you looking for ways to stretch your dollars? We’re sharing our money management best practices to help you stretch your dollars, create an inflation-proof budget, and increase your savings. Discover how you can manage your money wisely in any economy. 4 tips for better money management Have high prices got you looking for ways to stretch your dollars? We’re sharing our money management best practices to help you stretch your dollars, create an inflation-proof budget, and increase your savings. Discover how you can manage your money wisely in any economy. Want to be more financially savvy? These tips will help you skillfully manage your money Have high prices got you looking for ways to stretch your dollars? We’re sharing our money management best practices to help you stretch your dollars, create an inflation-proof budget, and increase your savings. Discover how you can manage your money wisely in any economy. Create an inflation-proof budget Rising prices can make it feel impossible to create a budget that allows you to enjoy life and still build your savings. But it is possible. Here's how to get started. Review your expenses. The first step to creating a budget is to review your bills and expenses. This is a great way to track where your money goes each month. Are you spending too much on dining out? Could you get a better deal if you switch cell phone providers? Are you paying for music and video streaming services that you don’t use anymore? Reviewing expenses gives you a better understanding of how your money is being spent and how you can modify your choices to live a more financially successful life. Increase your income. Take a look at your current salary and compare it to other people in similar roles (Glassdoor's salary index is a great place to start). Is it in line with industry averages for your role? If not, consider negotiating a higher salary with your current employer. Another option is to move to a different company. Protocol reports professionals who job-hopped in the past few years “received a 30% increase in salary.”If increasing your salary isn’t possible now, there are other ways to grow your checking account balance. Many individuals are starting side-hustles to supplement their income. If you have many years of experience in an industry, you can offer consulting or training services. If you have musical talent, you can perform at gigs or give music lessons. And, if you’re on social media all the time, consider that social media management and blogging are considered some of the most profitable side jobs. Expand your professional skills. Learning new skills can open up new job opportunities—and access to industries where you may not have experience. Start saving In addition to modifying your budget and increasing your income, saving money is a vital part of money management. Set aside a fixed amount to deposit into your savings account each month. It doesn’t have to be a large amount—you can start with 5 percent and increase that amount as your earnings increase. What’s important is to make savings a habit. Consider setting up an automatic transfer to savings every time you get paid. Invest for the future Investing can sound scary, but it doesn’t have to be. Investing is simply making your money work for you instead of having it sit in your bank account. Even if you’re not ready to invest in the stock market, putting your money in a high-yield savings account or a certificate of deposit can produce profitable results. If you’re not sure how or where to start investing your money, talk to a financial adviser for help evaluating your various investment choices. Review your retirement options Planning ahead for your golden years ensures your retirement will be enjoyable and relatively stress-free. If your employer offers a retirement plan like a 401(k), it’s a great idea to start investing in it as soon as you can, especially if they offer a matching contribution. If you don’t have access to an employer plan, or if you want to save more than your employer’s plan allows, you have two options for opening an individual retirement account (IRA). Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) A traditional individual retirement account is funded with pre-tax money. This means you have the benefit of getting a tax deduction on your contribution. Be aware: This means you may owe taxes on the money when you withdraw it. You will also not be able to withdraw funds until you reach the age of 59½. Expect your retirement savings needs to change over time, especially if you change employers. Investopedia notes, “Rolling your money over into an IRA will often reduce the management and administrative fees you've been paying.” Your financial advisor can counsel you on the best course of action to take for your retirement funds. Sign up for Vibrant Credit Union’s personal banking services Transforming into a financially savvy superstar is easy when you take advantage of Vibrant’s personal banking services. Our friendly and knowledgeable team makes banking services easy to understand so you can achieve your financial goals. Contact us to discuss all that we can help you achieve. FAQs Q: What do I need to open a Vibrant checking or savings account? A: To open an account, you’ll need to provide the following: Full name Address Social Security Number Valid, government-issued photo ID: driver’s license, passport or military ID. Minimum deposit of $5 to activate your account. Every Vibrant member must open a membership savings account with a minimum $5 deposit before they can take advantage of other products and services. Q: How much money should I keep in my checking account? A: We recommend keeping 1–2 months of living expenses in your checking account. Q: How do I open an IRA? A: Schedule an appointment with a Vibrant personal banker to review your goals. They'll set up your account and help you choose a portfolio that's the right fit. Previous Item Next Item

Read our privacy policy to see how Vibrant protects your personal information and how to restrict access to yours. Our Privacy Notice Vibrant Credit Union | P.O. Box 1550, Moline, IL, 61266-1550 | 800-323-5109 Revised October 2025 To opt out, click here . Download a PDF of our privacy policy. FACTS What does Vibrant do? How? All financial companies need to share members' personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their members' personal information; the reasons Vibrant Credit Union chooses to share, and whether you can limit this sharing. What? The types of personal information we collect and share depend upon the accounts, products, and services you have with us. This information can include: Name, address, Social Security Number, and income Account balances and payment history Credit history and credit scores Why? Financial companies choose how they use your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

If you financed a vehicle or equipment through a dealer, your loan may be financed by Vibrant Credit Union — even if you never spoke with us directly. Got a loan financed by Vibrant Credit Union? You’re in the right place! Open an account now Best for Deposit Rates Used with permission. ©2025 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. If you financed a vehicle or equipment through a dealer, your loan may be financed by Vibrant Credit Union — even if you never spoke with us directly. This page explains why you’re a member, how your account is set up, and the easiest ways to pay your loan. Yes, you’re a Vibrant member As part of your loan, a Membership Share Account was opened in your name. This account establishes your Vibrant membership and gives you access to Online Banking. What to know: The account is active and ready to use! It unlocks access to Vibrant Online Banking From there, you can manage your loan, open accounts, and take advantage of our high‑yield products How (or if) you use the account is completely up to you How to pay your loan You have three ways to make payments . The right one depends on how you want to manage your money. Option 1: Best if you’re using a debit card or another financial institution. Use the Loan Payment Portal to: Pay with a debit card Set up ACH payments from another bank View payment history and statements This option is used when you don’t have an active Vibrant checking account set up for payments. Go to Loan Payment Portal Pay through the Loan Payment Portal Option 2: The simplest option—everything in one place. Because you’re already a Vibrant member, you can pay your loan directly from Vibrant Online Banking once you have a funded Vibrant account. Here’s how it works: Log in to Online Banking using your Membership Share Account Move funds into your account or open a high-yield checking or savings account Transfer funds directly to your loan using an internal transfer Already using another bank? You can also link an external account to Online Banking and transfer funds from there. Go to Online Banking Pay Directly in Vibrant Online Banking Option 3: Prefer to keep it old‑school? That works too. Mail your check to: Vibrant Credit Union ATTN: Payments PO Box 1550 Moline, IL 61266 Remember to include your account number on the memo line for faster processing. Pay by mail with a check Online Banking = Your Control Center Vibrant Online Banking lets you: View your Membership Share Account Pay your loan directly with internal transfers Link external accounts Open new accounts online Manage everything in one place Set up online banking Get more from your membership Our high‑yield checking and savings accounts let you: Earn up to 20x more than the average credit union Pay your loan with simple internal transfers Manage everything from one dashboard You can open and fund an account right in Vibrant Online Banking — it takes about 5 minutes . Explore high-yield checking & savings Need a walkthrough? Sometimes seeing it is easier than reading about it. Watch some of our short videos below. If you’d rather talk to a real person, call 800‑323‑5109 or contact support . How to set up your online payment portal login: How to make a your loan payment online: How to update the password to your account:

Complete the form to request a donation of funds for your community project. Vibrant wants to Be the Good in the communities we serve. Get a little help from your friends We care about the communities where our members live and work Get a little help from your friends We care about the communities where our members live and work Find out what we can do for you The basics Are you looking for funding, giveaway items, or some extra helping hands? Get in touch. You must be a nonprofit or tax-exempt organization Submit a request at least 30 days in advance of your event (longer is better!) No solicitations will be allowed on Vibrant property Causes we support While we can’t help out with every request, we love to work with organizations that support these goals: Community development Civic affairs Culture Education (including booster clubs and PTAs) Environment Financial literacy Health and welfare Public safety Youth character building (including scouting, sports clubs, and other organizations) Submit a donation request

Your Vibrant deposits are insured up to $250,000 per account holder. If you keep your IRA here as well, that deposit is separately insured up to $250,000. How we protect your money Security When it comes to financial services, security is the name of the game. Our federal savings deposit insurance covers up to $250,000 for regular savings and checking accounts, even IRAs. How’s that for a little peace of mind? Government protection The National Credit Union Administration is the federal agency that insures credit unions, much in the same way that the FDIC insures banks. They cap their coverage at $250,000 per depositor, per institution, for each account ownership category. The whole thing can get a bit confusing, but the idea is there is some wiggle room. Your retirement is covered IRAs are insured separately from your other regular accounts, with the same maximum of $250,000. This means that, between your IRA and regular checking, you can trust Vibrant with half a million of your hard-earned dollars—and maybe even more. Using more accounts for more coverage For example, families can leverage their multiple accounts to increase their coverage beyond the $250,000 limit. If it seems complicated, don’t worry. We can help you set up your accounts to ensure you are getting optimum coverage.

We are Vibrant Credit Union. Our goal? To empower people to become the best financial version of themselves — and in doing so, return the greatest possible value back into their lives and their communities. We are Vibrant Credit Union. Our goal? To empower people to become the best financial version of themselves — and in doing so, return the greatest possible value back into their lives and their communities. we are vibrant. Our goal? To empower people to become the best financial version of themselves — and in doing so, return the greatest possible value back into their lives and their communities. our mission Be the best. Partner with the best. Propel people to their best selves. We exist to give back — especially to those who partner with us. We believe that your dollars should work harder for you. That value should flow back into your hands, into your health, and into your future. Be the best. Partner with the best. Propel people to their best selves. We exist to give back — especially to those who partner with us. We believe that your dollars should work harder for you. That value should flow back into your hands, into your health, and into your future. Our mission our core values our core values own every opportunity We take initiative and embrace responsibility, treating every challenge and chance as if it were ours to shape. We step up, follow through, and hold ourselves accountable for results, big or small. our core values be open, honest and authentic We speak truthfully, listen deeply, and act with integrity. We show up as our real selves, creating a culture where transparency and trust thrive — because great things grow from genuine connection. our core values bring contagious energy Our passion is palpable. We show up with enthusiasm, positivity, and purpose — lighting up the room, inspiring those around us, and turning momentum into meaningful progress. our core values be swift and relentless in the pursuit of greatness We move with urgency and focus, always striving to raise the bar. We don’t settle — we push boundaries, iterate fast, and keep going until excellence is not just reached, but redefined. our core values think, speak, act for the collective good We put the team before the ego. Every decision and action is guided by what's best for the whole — our colleagues, our members, and our community. Together, we shine brighter. our core values own every opportunity We take initiative and embrace responsibility, treating every challenge and chance as if it were ours to shape. We step up, follow through, and hold ourselves accountable for results, big or small. our core values be open, honest and authentic We speak truthfully, listen deeply, and act with integrity. We show up as our real selves, creating a culture where transparency and trust thrive — because great things grow from genuine connection. our core values bring contagious energy Our passion is palpable. We show up with enthusiasm, positivity, and purpose — lighting up the room, inspiring those around us, and turning momentum into meaningful progress. our core values be swift and relentless in the pursuit of greatness We move with urgency and focus, always striving to raise the bar. We don’t settle — we push boundaries, iterate fast, and keep going until excellence is not just reached, but redefined. our core values think, speak, act for the collective good We put the team before the ego. Every decision and action is guided by what's best for the whole — our colleagues, our members, and our community. Together, we shine brighter. Our core values What drives us Reciprocity with Purpose We’re redefining banking to be digitally-led, people-assisted — every interaction, every deposit, every moment should return value that matters. Community-Fueled We’re rooted in relationship-based health. Our community isn’t just who we serve — it’s what we build. Together. Rebalanced Returns We return the highest level of value possible — not just in rates or rewards, but in your ability to thrive over time. what drives us Reciprocity with Purpose We’re redefining banking to be digitally led-people assisted — every interaction, every deposit, every moment should return value that matters. Community-Fueled We’re rooted in relationship-based health. Our community isn’t just who we serve — it’s what we build. Together. Rebalanced Returns We return the highest level of value possible — not just in rates or rewards, but in your ability to thrive over time. Vibrant Credit Union & Be The Good Foundation Vibrant is more than just a 90-year-old credit union — we’re something new. Think of this as our rebirth. We’ve always been a place where people can count on us as a credit union and for support, but now, we’re intentionally building around a deeper purpose: total health. We see total health as having four pillars: Physical Health – Feeling strong, energetic, and cared for. Mental & Emotional Health – Feeling grounded, supported, and connected. Financial Health – Feeling confident, capable, and empowered. Foundational Health – The systems and support that make the first three possible. That’s community. That’s relationships. That’s us. Our Be The Good Foundation supports initiatives and ideas that increase these kinds of pillars within our community — because when you thrive, we all do. Vibrant Credit Union is here to help you become the best version of yourself — and then send that version back into the world. That’s how communities grow stronger. That’s how people gain balance, even when the balance in life shifts. Think of us as all that, and more. We’re not just holding your money — we’re holding space for your potential. And then giving everything we can right back to help you realize it. To make you brighter, bolder, and even more Vibrant. Smart banking made simple Flow like a pro Life moves fast—so should your money. Our fee-free checking is like the zen of banking: effortless, intuitive, and always in the moment. Tap, swipe, transfer—repeat. With tools to keep your spending in check, you’re not just tracking your money, you’re mastering the art of financial flow. Learn more Grow what matters Saving doesn’t have to be all spreadsheets and self-restraint. With a Vibrant savings account, your money does the adulting while you dream big. Stash your cash, skip the nonsense fees, and earn like a boss. It's like planting a money tree—only real, and less likely to attract squirrels. Vacations? Guitars? That inflatable hot tub you swear you’ll use? Yeah, that kind of growth. Learn more The future, sealed with certainty Think of it as a time capsule for your money. Lock it in, let it chill, and come back later to find it’s grown—no guesswork, no drama. With fixed rates and flexible terms, our CDs are a simple way to say, “Hey future me, you’re gonna love this.” Learn more Vibrant Credit Union is always looking for ways to help you get the most out of your money. While we focus on offering some of the best rates around for checking, savings, and CDs, we also want to make sure you have access to great options for your other financial needs. That’s why, after doing our homework and taking the time to find the right fit, we've teamed up with trusted companies who are experts in what they do — and who share our commitment to giving you the top-notch service you deserve. Responsible growth Extended secure account coverage From dreams to driveways Collaborating for your financial success Vibrant is always looking for ways to help you get the most out of your money. While we focus on offering some of the best rates around for checking, savings, and CDs, we also want to make sure you have access to great options for your other financial needs. That’s why, after doing our homework and taking the time to find the right fit, we've teamed up with trusted companies who are experts in what they do — and who share our commitment to giving you the top-notch service you deserve. responsible growth extended secure account coverage from dreams to driveways secure peace of mind collaborating for your financial success Vibrant Credit Union's complete offerings No gimmicks. Just smarter banking that puts you first. Discover the Vibrant difference today. Premier Checking Account learn more Everyday Checking Account learn more Everyday Savings Account learn more Preferred Savings Account learn more Premier Savings Account learn more Elite Savings Account learn more Certificate of Deposits (CDs) learn more Personal Credit Cards learn more Community Business Checking learn more Community Business Savings learn more Business Credit Cards learn more Insured Money Market Accounts learn more Home Loans learn more Skip-a-Pay learn more Life Event Loans coming soon