According to an Investopedia survey, American couples spent an average of about $20,000 on their weddings in 2021—a decrease of about $9,000 from the previous year, but still enough to buy a decent new car or pay for a year of tuition and board at your state’s flagship university. How to set a wedding budget and stick to it According to an Investopedia survey, American couples spent an average of about $20,000 on their weddings in 2021—a decrease of about $9,000 from the previous year, but still enough to buy a decent new car or pay for a year of tuition and board at your state’s flagship university. How much is a realistic wedding budget? According to an Investopedia survey, American couples spent an average of about $20,000 on their weddings in 2021—a decrease of about $9,000 from the previous year, but still enough to buy a decent new car or pay for a year of tuition and board at your state’s flagship university. Yet even with that five-figure budget, many brides and grooms will admit they still had to scale back their wish list to avoid spending even more—by inviting fewer people, having a cocktail reception instead of a sit-down dinner, or hosting the event in a park instead of a hotel ballroom. Many of us expect a wedding to be the most perfect day of our lives, a day when every detail is the most beautiful it can be. This is a risky way to approach wedding planning—partly because there are so many opportunities for things to go wrong, but mostly because couples can wind up spending a lot more than they planned on. The fact is, you can throw a pretty wonderful wedding for $10,000, $5,000, or even $1,000. (For that last amount, it helps if the bride already owns an appropriate dress, and you’re okay with a wedding reception that takes the form of dinner for 12 at a favorite restaurant.) Start with a dollar figure and plan your wedding accordingly Wedding planners generally advise that, no matter the size of your budget, you should plan to allocate your expenses along the following lines: 50% – venue, food, and drink (including your wedding cake) 12% – photography 9% – clothes, makeup, hair, and accessories 8% – décor 7% – entertainment 3% – wedding planner or coordinator 2% – invitations and thank-you cards 2% – officiant and license 2% – transportation 2% – wedding bands 2% – gifts for guests and attendants If you’re absolutely certain that you’ll be happy with an MP3 player and a Bluetooth speaker instead of a live band or that you won’t need a wedding planner, congratulations! That’s more money for your food and drink budget. Now it’s time to see how to get the most bang for your buck with the items you do want. Save money on your wedding venue by choosing the right date You really can get married on a day other than Saturday and in a month other than June. In fact, your venue rental could be significantly less expensive if you choose to get married in January, March, April, or November. In addition, Mondays are generally the least expensive day of the week to rent a venue, with prices rising the closer you get to the weekend. Of course, it may be difficult for your out-of-town guests to make it to a Wednesday wedding—or for locals to make it to work the day after if you do it up right. Save money at your reception by offering a limited selection of alcoholic beverages If you plan to serve alcohol at your wedding, you don’t need to resort to a cash bar to keep it affordable. Consider limiting your selection to beer and wine only. If you can’t imagine getting married without sipping a Negroni because that’s what you drank on your first date, make them your signature cocktail. Mixing just one type of drink will make it easier on your bartender and minimize your total bar bill. If you don’t plan to serve alcohol at your wedding, imagine the people who you know will grumble about the lack of booze, and then… Save money on your reception by trimming your guest list Think back on the weddings you’ve attended. Even setting aside the ceremonies where you served as someone else’s plus-one, you can probably think of a few where you were invited because your parents are friends with the couple’s parents, because you're good friends at work, or because the groom is your cousin, and your grandma would be sad if you weren’t there. Cutting your guest list can be one of the most painful negotiations you’ll ever make with your spouse, your parents, and your in-laws. It’s also a guaranteed money-saver. Finally, choose carefully now, and maybe you won’t feel a pang 10 years from now when you realize the last time you saw your old college friends was at your wedding reception—that happens more often than you’d think. Save money by skipping a fancy cake Those multi-tiered wedding cakes are expensive—and after they're sliced, there’s not a lot of difference between them and any other cake. In fact, they’re as much décor as they are food—they cost more not because they taste better than regular cake, but because it’s a practical challenge to bake a single cake large enough to serve 50 people. Still want a dessert that will look lovely on display at your reception? Consider getting a tiered stand (or a couple!) and filling it with cupcakes. Save money by understanding your priorities While the guidelines above offer a good starting point for how you’ll spend your budget, take a look at your priorities. If you’ve always looked forward to wearing a beautiful custom-fitted dress that makes you feel like a princess, but you don’t care as much about floral centerpieces on every table, go ahead and adjust accordingly. If you’ve always imagined stepping out for your first dance as a live band plays "Wouldn’t It Be Nice", but you don’t care about fancy invitations, skip the save-the-date cards and multiple envelopes and choose a design from a big-box office supply store. One more thing to keep in mind: Most couples are so busy preparing for the ceremony, posing for photos in their wedding finery, and visiting with guests that they actually have very little time to enjoy the food or the decorations. So, make sure you have a good photographer so you can enjoy the details later, remind yourself your guests aren't there for the food, and remember: You’re getting married to someone you love enough to imagine spending the rest of your lives together. Your day is already perfect. Previous Item Next Item Read more from the blog Read More > Identity Theft vs. Identity Fraud What’s the Difference (and Why It Matters) Read More > 10 Reasons to Set Up Direct Deposit Whether you're looking for a faster payday, easier money management, or a more secure way to get paid, direct deposit has benefits worth exploring. Read More > How Much Should You Actually Have in Checking vs. Savings? (And Why the Answer Isn’t the Same for Everyone) Read More > How Mobile Check Deposit Works And When It Makes Sense to Use It Read More > Is Online Banking Safe? What Really Keeps Your Money Protected Read More > 5 Smart Habits That Make Managing Your Money Easier (Not Harder) Managing money shouldn’t feel like a part-time job.

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WSJ Award-winning. Again. The Wall Street Journal recognized Vibrant Credit Union two years running. Ninety years of evolving, improving, and refusing to be just another financial institution. And now, there are receipts. Open an account High-yield accounts Say goodbye to that 0.01% APY* you're getting at your current bank. And hello to Vibrant. 24/7 mobile banking Deposit checks, pay bills, and review your balances any time—all from your own device. No hidden fees With Vibrant, you'll never be surprised by monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. Open an account from anywhere See how you can earn more with Vibrant Compare our rates with other banks, and it’s easy to see why we lead the way. Savings Checking *APY = "Annual Percentage Yield." APYs accurate as of October 1, 2026. Rates subject to change without notice. $5 Membership Share account required. Federally insured by NCUA. The example provided is for illustrative purposes only. As of December 26, 2025, NCUA reports the national average rate for interest checking accounts offered by banks is 0.20% APY, based on a $2,500 balance, and the national average rate for interest checking accounts offered by credit unions is 0.15% APY, based on a $2,500 balance. Premier Checking is a tiered account. For this account the specified Dividend Rate for a tier will apply only to the portion of the account balance that is within that tier. Limit of one Premier Checking account per member. *APY = "Annual Percentage Yield." APYs accurate as of October 1, 2026. Rates subject to change without notice. $5 Membership Share account required. Federally insured by NCUA. The example provided is for illustrative purposes only. As of December 26, 2025, NCUA reports the national average interest rate for savings accounts offered by banks is 0.32% APY, based on a $2,500 balance, and the national average interest rate for savings accounts offered by credit unions is 0.19% APY, based on a $2,500 balance. Preferred Savings is a tiered account; for this account, the specified Dividend Rate for a tier will apply only to the portion of the account balance that is within that tier. Limit of one Preferred Savings account per member. Find the right account for you Premier Checking Get a high-yield checking account with no hoops to jump through—just the high rate you deserve. 3.75% APY* on balances up to $24,999 No monthly fees No minimum balance requirements No minimum debit card transactions required No direct deposit required Get paid up to 2-days early with eligible direct deposits¹ Federally insured by NCUA See more checking account rates > Preferred Savings Build your savings fast by opening a high-yield interest account without all the restrictions or fees. 4.00% APY* on balances up to $14,999 No monthly fees No minimum balance requirements Unlimited transfers and withdrawals Dividends paid monthly Federally insured by NCUA See more savings account rates > Elite Savings Earn interest at rates comparable to a high-yield CD—without penalties when you want to make a withdrawal. 4.25% APY* on balances over $1,000,000 No monthly fees No minimum balance requirements Unlimited transfers and withdrawals Dividends paid monthly Federally insured by NCUA up to $250,000 per account holder—talk to us about strategies to maximize your deposit insurance See more savings account rates > Open an account in minutes It's not a claim, it's a receipt. The Wall Street Journal's Buy Side named Vibrant "Best for Deposit Rates" in 2025. In 2026, they came back and added "Best Credit Union" to the list. Turns out, consistently great rates, no hoops, and nationwide, digital access tends to get noticed. Open an account now Checking account rates Account Average Daily Balance APY* Premier Checking $0 - $24,999 3.75% Premier Checking $25,000+ 1.25% – 3.75% Everyday Checking Any 0.00% *APY = "Annual Percentage Yield." APYs accurate as of October 1, 2026. Rates subject to change without notice. $5 Membership Share account required. Federally insured by NCUA. Premier Checking is a tiered account. For this account the specified Dividend Rate for a tier will apply only to the portion of the account balance that is within that tier. Limit of one Premier Checking account per member. Ready to make your money work harder? Open a checking account. Savings account rates Average Daily Balance Membership Savings Everyday Savings Preferred Savings Premier Savings Elite Savings APY* APY* APY* APY* APY* $1,000,000+ 0.005% 1.00% 0.75% – 4.00% 3.00% 4.25% $250,000 - $999,999 0.005% 1.00% 0.75% – 4.00% 3.00% 3.75% $100,000 - $249,999 0.005% 1.00% 0.75% – 4.00% 3.00% 3.50% $25,000 - $99,999 0.005% 1.00% 0.75% – 4.00% 3.00% 0.50% $15,000 - $24,999 0.005% 1.00% 0.75% – 4.00% 0.10% 0.50% $10,000 - $14,999 0.005% 1.00% 4.00% 0.10% 0.50% $100 - $9,999 0.005% 0.10% 4.00% 0.10% 0.50% $0 - $99 0.00% 0.10% 4.00% 0.10% 0.50% *APY = "Annual Percentage Yield." APYs accurate as of October 1, 2026. Rates subject to change without notice. $5 Membership Share account required. Federally insured by NCUA. Everyday Savings , Premier Savings , and Elite Savings accounts are tiered accounts; if the account balance falls within the range for a particular tier, the dividend rate and APY for that tier will apply to the entire balance in the account. Preferred Savings is a tiered account; for this account, the specified Dividend Rate for a tier will apply only to the portion of the account balance that is within that tier. Limit of one Preferred Savings account per member. Ready to earn more on your money? Open a savings account. Frequently asked questions How old do I have to be to open an account? You'll need to be at least 18 years old to open an account online. If you're younger than 18, you can open an account as long as at least one of your parents or legal guardians opens the account with you. Schedule an appointment to talk with a banker or call 1-800-323-5109 for more information. Do you offer overdraft protection? All Vibrant checking accounts include Overdraft Privilege. Vibrant will automatically pay overdrafts for checks and automatic bill payments at our discretion. You can also choose Overdraft Protection and authorize Vibrant to pay overdrafts for debit card and ATM transactions when you open your account. If you'd like to add Overdraft Protection, contact us during regular business hours or send us a secure message through your online banking account. How long does it take for a mobile deposit to appear in my account? You’ll receive an email confirmation immediately after your deposit is accepted, but your funds will not appear until they’ve been processed. On business days, we post deposits at noon, 2 p.m., and 6 p.m. CT. If you make a deposit after 4 p.m. or on a holiday or weekend, your deposit will appear at noon on the next business day. How do I get a replacement debit card? Visit a branch to order a new debit card or send us a secure message through your online bank account to request a new one. You can also call our member services team at 800-323-5109 during regular business hours. How is interest calculated and how often is it paid? Interest dividends are paid monthly on your average daily balance for the month. So if you have an average daily balance of $100, you'll earn the interest listed for that product tier on that amount at the end of the month. What if I have more than $15,000 in my Preferred Savings account? Do I still earn interest? Yes! The portion of your balance under $15,000 will earn interest at the highest rate listed for Preferred Savings. The portion of your balance above $15,000 will earn interest at the lowest rate listed. Can I open more than one Preferred Savings account? Sorry, one account per member! You can open a second savings account of a different type or a Premier Checking account if you’re looking for ways to maximize your interest earnings above $15,000. How does early direct deposit work? Open a Vibrant account and set up direct deposit with your employer or benefits provider. Early access happens automatically for eligible deposits. We post your funds as soon as we receive payment instructions—which may be up to two days before your scheduled payday. Timing depends on when the payment file is received. Is early direct deposit guaranteed? No. Early access isn’t guaranteed and depends on when we receive the payment file from your employer or payer. Not all direct deposits are eligible for early access. ¹ Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from your employer or payer. Funds may be made available up to two days before the scheduled payment date but are not guaranteed. Not all direct deposits qualify.

Learn more aboutAdd external accounts instantly Add external accounts instantly Add your checking or savings account with an external financial institution to your Vibrant dashboard in a matter of minutes with our new upgrade. Scroll below to check out the desktop and mobile directions. Note: The names on the accounts you're linking must match. On Your Phone Sign in to your mobile app . Find download instructions here . Click the Transfers widget. Note: The tab bar on iOS devices may display differently on your settings. Additional widgets will display by clicking the More widget. Tap the Add Account option. Tap the External Account tab at the top. Select the Add account instantly option. Select from one of the financial institutions listed or search for yours in the search bar below the list. Log in to the external financial institution's account. Select one or more accounts to add for transfers and click the Submit button. The Verify screen will display. Click the Continue button. Once the accounts are verified, they will immediately be made available. Hitting an error message? Don't worry; you can still add your account manually ! On Your Computer Sign in to online banking. Not enrolled yet? Register for online banking here . Navigate to the Transfers widget here . Note: The widget menu may display differently based on your settings. Additional widgets will display by clicking the More... widget. Click the Classic tab on the top. Click Add an account to make a transfer link. The Add an Account window will display. Click Add an account instantly. Select from one of the financial institutions listed, or search for yours in the search bar below the list. Log in to the external financial institution's account. The Verify screen will display. Click the Continue button. Once the accounts are verified, they will immediately be made available. Hitting an error message? Don't worry; you can still add your account manually ! Previous Item Next Item How to connect external accounts Move money between your Vibrant accounts and your accounts at other financial institutions via your online banking dashboard. Learn more > How to update your password It's a good idea to change your password at least once a year—and more frequently if you use shared computers or public WiFi. Learn more > How to protect yourself against fraud Scammers are always trying new ways to gain unauthorized access to your account. Use these guidelines to better protect yourself. Learn more > Additional resources

We all start a new year with the best of intentions, but building new habits is hard. If you want to take better control of your personal finances in 2022, here are a few things you can do that won’t require a lot of time—or a lot of willpower. 5 New Years resolutions that will be easy to keep We all start a new year with the best of intentions, but building new habits is hard. If you want to take better control of your personal finances in 2022, here are a few things you can do that won’t require a lot of time—or a lot of willpower. We all start a new year with the best of intentions, but building new habits is hard. If you want to take better control of your personal finances in 2022, here are a few things you can do that won’t require a lot of time—or a lot of willpower. Resolution #1: How to save more money One reason New Year’s resolutions fail is because they are too easy to break. You can turn regular savings into a habit by automating the process. Set up an automatic transfer each pay day that transfers a small amount of cash into your savings account. It’s okay to start small—you don’t want to be tempted to cancel your transfer because you suddenly need that money for something else next month. You can always increase the amount in the future. Time required: 2 minutes to log in to online banking and set up a new automatic transfer Resolution #2: How to reduce your debt One of the fastest ways you can reduce your monthly debt expenses is by reducing your borrowing costs. With interest rates still near record lows, it’s a great time to explore refinancing your mortgage, your auto loan, or consolidating your debt into a single monthly payment. Right now, for instance, credit card rates average about 16% APR (annual percentage rate). If you have good (or better) credit, you can probably find a personal loan that charges considerably less. Time required: 60 minutes (and often far less) to fill out an application, talk with a banker, and sign documentation Resolution #3: How to reduce your spending Are you spending money right now on things you don’t even use? Take a look at your subscriptions—streaming services, magazines and newspapers, websites—and think hard about the value they provide. Do you watch enough baseball to justify a $129 subscription to MLB? Are Spotify’s ads really that annoying? Time required: 5 minutes or less to cancel an account, depending on whether it's one of those companies that makes you call instead of letting you cancel online (definitely stop giving those guys your money) Resolution #4: How to earn more money (easy mode) First, an easy thing you should check right now: Are you earning your full employer match on your retirement savings? Many employees, including Vibrant, will match your contribution dollar-for-dollar up to a certain percentage. If you’re not contributing at least that percentage of your salary to your retirement plan, you’re essentially telling your employer to keep an extra 1, 2, or even 5 percent of your annual salary for themselves. Time required: 15 minutes or less to ask your HR department what you need to do to increase your contribution Resolution #5: How to earn more money (advanced) Second, there’s never been a better time to think about changing jobs—or renegotiating your current salary. The latest economic data shows there are more than 10 million open jobs right now, while the number of Americans collecting unemployment is lower than 2 million. Lots of people are finding better jobs right now—which could mean that your current employer might be more willing to increase salaries to keep experienced workers from moving on. It’s probably a good time to mention that Vibrant is hiring—and we offer a 401(k) match up to 6 percent of your salary. Check out our current openings . Time required: As little as a couple of weeks to six months or longer, depending on your field and your location Previous Item Next Item Read more from the blog Read More > Identity Theft vs. Identity Fraud What’s the Difference (and Why It Matters) Read More > 10 Reasons to Set Up Direct Deposit Whether you're looking for a faster payday, easier money management, or a more secure way to get paid, direct deposit has benefits worth exploring. Read More > How Much Should You Actually Have in Checking vs. Savings? (And Why the Answer Isn’t the Same for Everyone) Read More > How Mobile Check Deposit Works And When It Makes Sense to Use It Read More > Is Online Banking Safe? What Really Keeps Your Money Protected Read More > 5 Smart Habits That Make Managing Your Money Easier (Not Harder) Managing money shouldn’t feel like a part-time job.

Foundation invites community organizations to apply for future funding through the Vibrant Credit Union website. Be The Good Foundation Awards Inaugural Grant to Living Lands & Waters Foundation invites community organizations to apply for future funding through the Vibrant Credit Union website. Moline, IL — February 26, 2026 Be The Good Foundation proudly presented its inaugural grant to Living Lands & Waters , marking an exciting milestone in the Foundation’s mission to strengthen and serve our communities. Living Lands & Waters, a nationally recognized environmental nonprofit dedicated to river cleanups, watershed conservation, and community engagement, was selected as the Foundation’s first grant recipient in recognition of its meaningful impact and ongoing commitment to protecting natural resources. The $500 grant was formally presented during a check ceremony with representatives from both organizations. The event celebrated a shared commitment to service, stewardship, and creating positive change. “Launching Be The Good Foundation with Living Lands & Waters as our first recipient reflects exactly what we stand for — action, impact, and community,” said Tiffany Haedt, President of Be The Good Foundation. “We are proud to support organizations that are making a tangible difference.” Be The Good Foundation was established to invest in initiatives that uplift communities, support meaningful causes, and embody the spirit of doing good in both big and small ways. Now Accepting Grant Applications Be The Good Foundation invites nonprofit organizations and community groups to submit grant requests via the Vibrant Credit Union website. Organizations with missions aligned to community improvement, service, and positive impact are encouraged to apply. To learn more or submit a grant request, visit the Be The Good Foundation page . Together, we can continue to build stronger communities — one act of good at a time. 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 Read more from the blog Read More > Identity Theft vs. Identity Fraud What’s the Difference (and Why It Matters) Read More > 10 Reasons to Set Up Direct Deposit Whether you're looking for a faster payday, easier money management, or a more secure way to get paid, direct deposit has benefits worth exploring. Read More > How Much Should You Actually Have in Checking vs. Savings? (And Why the Answer Isn’t the Same for Everyone) Read More > How Mobile Check Deposit Works And When It Makes Sense to Use It Read More > Is Online Banking Safe? What Really Keeps Your Money Protected Read More > 5 Smart Habits That Make Managing Your Money Easier (Not Harder) Managing money shouldn’t feel like a part-time job.

Learn more aboutLearn how my interest is calculated Learn how my interest is calculated Premier Checking: Interest dividends are paid monthly on your average daily balance for the month. So if you have an average daily balance of $100, you'll earn approximately 31 cents in interest at the end of the month. Interest dividends are paid to your account at the end of every month. On our Savings Accounts , interest dividends are paid monthly on your average daily balance for the month. So if you have an average daily balance of, say, $104.35 in a Preferred Savings account, you'll earn 4.00% APY on that amount. Use our calculator tool below to compare what you could be earning with a Vibrant Preferred Savings account. Just enter your balance, years to grow, and your current dividend rate to estimate your earnings—then see how it stacks up against Vibrant. Plus, with Vibrant, there are no monthly fees or hidden requirements—so more of what you earn stays yours. Not sure what to enter? Check your bank’s disclosures and look for the dividend (or interest) rate, since APY* includes compounding and can appear higher. Learn more about dividend rates vs. APYs here. You can also explore all our high-yield account rates here . *APY = "Annual Percentage Yield." APYs accurate as of August 12, 2026. Rates subject to change without notice. $5 Membership Share account required. Federally insured by NCUA. As of December 26, 2025, NCUA reports the the national average savings rate for credit unions is 0.19% APY based on a $2,500 balance. Preferred Savings is a tiered account; for this account, the specified Dividend Rate for a tier will apply only to the portion of the account balance that is within that tier. For balances up to $15,000 the account earns 4.00% APY. For balances of $15,000 or more, the account earns 0.75% - 4.00% APY. Limit of one Preferred Savings account per member. Calculator results are for illustrative purposes only and assume no additional deposits or withdrawals. Actual earnings may vary based on balance changes, rate changes, and other factors. Please consult a financial professional for more information. Previous Item Next Item How to connect external accounts Move money between your Vibrant accounts and your accounts at other financial institutions via your online banking dashboard. Learn more > How to update your password It's a good idea to change your password at least once a year—and more frequently if you use shared computers or public WiFi. Learn more > How to protect yourself against fraud Scammers are always trying new ways to gain unauthorized access to your account. Use these guidelines to better protect yourself. Learn more > Additional resources

New to McCormick Finance with Vibrant? Send us an email to set up your account and gain access to the dealer portal. Email us to get started Go to portal Questions? Reach out to your Relationship Manager. Or email us at loanprogram@vibrantcu.org . Standard Financing for New Equipment No down payment required; eligible for additional cash rebates. Rates current as of October 29, 2026. For rates with a credit score below 660 or low-rate financing options with either a consumer down payment or dealer participation, talk with your relationship manager. Credit tier 740+ 700–739 660–699 36 months 6.99% 7.99% 10.99% 48 months 6.99% 7.99% 10.99% 60 months 6.99% 7.99% 10.99% 72 months 6.99% 7.99% 10.99% 84 months 6.99% 8.99% 10.99% 96 months 6.99% 8.99% 10.99% 120 months* 6.99% 8.99% 10.99% *"APR" = "Annual Percentage Rate." The above rates assume a Loan-to-Value ratio of 80% or less (add 1.00% for LTV 80.01-110% or add 3.00% for LTV above 110%). Not all buyers will qualify. **Loan Term is determined based on the amount financed - $15,000 loan minimum/120 month. Standard Financing for Used Equipment We now offer financing for used equipment, too—annual percentage rates ("APR") are one (1) percentage higher than standard financing for new equipment. Loan terms and amounts are based in part on the age and/or total usage of the equipment being financed. Age/Hours Max Term <500 Hours 84 <5 Years 84 6–10 Years 72 501–1000 Hours 72 11+ Years 60 1001+ Hours 60 Business Hours M-F 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. CT Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. CT Note, hours adjust seasonally. Holiday Hours Veterans Day Wednesday, November 11 - CLOSED Thanksgiving Day Thursday November 26 - CLOSED Christmas Eve Day Thursday December 24 - OPEN 7:30AM-12:00PM Christmas Day Friday December 25 - CLOSED New Year's Eve Day Thursday December 31: OPEN 7:30AM-12:00PM New Year's Day & Weekend - Friday, January 1 & 2 CLOSED Loan Portal Create new applications, check on the status of applications in progress, and more. Open the Loan Portal Quick Resources Loan Portal Finance Promos Standard Rates Insurance Information ACH User Guide Video Resources Cale VanGenderen SVP, Equipment Finance Natalie Newcomb Equipment Finance Manager nnewcomb@vibrantcu.org Shawn LaBarge Dealer Success Manager 309-644-4738 slabarge@vibrantcu.org Jessica Voges Account Manager 800-479-6206 jvoges@vibrantcu.org Kari Neff Account Manager 800-479-6206 kneff@vibrantcu.org Drew Watkins Account Manager 800-479-6206 awatkins@vibrantcu.org Brayden Sechser Relationship Manager AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, LA, MT, NM, NV, OR, TX, WA, WY 971-290-1271 bsechser@vibrantcu.org Carson Thomas Relationship Manager CT, DE, IN, KY, OH, MA, MD, ME, MI, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT, WV 563-785-5771 cthomas@vibrantcu.org Marc Brown Relationship Manager AR, IA, IL, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, OK, SD, WI 563-785-5858 mpbrown@vibrantcu.org Michael Schneidermann Relationship Manager AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA 309-250-1656 mschneidermann@vibrantcu.org Cale VanGenderen SVP, Equipment Finance Natalie Newcomb Equipment Finance Manager nnewcomb@vibrantcu.org Shawn LaBarge Dealer Success Manager 309-644-4738 slabarge@vibrantcu.org Jessica Voges Account Manager 800-479-6206 jvoges@vibrantcu.org Kari Neff Account Manager 800-479-6206 kneff@vibrantcu.org Drew Watkins Account Manager 800-479-6206 awatkins@vibrantcu.org Brayden Sechser Relationship Manager AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, LA, MT, NM, NV, OR, TX, WA, WY 971-290-1271 bsechser@vibrantcu.org Carson Thomas Relationship Manager CT, DE, IN, KY, OH, MA, MD, ME, MI, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT, WV 563-785-5771 cthomas@vibrantcu.org Marc Brown Relationship Manager AR, IA, IL, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, OK, SD, WI 563-785-5858 mpbrown@vibrantcu.org Michael Schneidermann Relationship Manager AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA 309-250-1656 mschneidermann@vibrantcu.org Cale VanGenderen SVP, Equipment Finance Natalie Newcomb Equipment Finance Manager nnewcomb@vibrantcu.org Shawn LaBarge Dealer Success Manager 309-644-4738 slabarge@vibrantcu.org Jessica Voges Account Manager 800-479-6206 jvoges@vibrantcu.org Kari Neff Account Manager 800-479-6206 kneff@vibrantcu.org Drew Watkins Account Manager 800-479-6206 awatkins@vibrantcu.org Brayden Sechser Relationship Manager AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, LA, MT, NM, NV, OR, TX, WA, WY 971-290-1271 bsechser@vibrantcu.org Carson Thomas Relationship Manager CT, DE, IN, KY, OH, MA, MD, ME, MI, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT, WV 563-785-5771 cthomas@vibrantcu.org Marc Brown Relationship Manager AR, IA, IL, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, OK, SD, WI 563-785-5858 mpbrown@vibrantcu.org Michael Schneidermann Relationship Manager AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA 309-250-1656 mschneidermann@vibrantcu.org Frequently Asked Questions What’s the relationship with Vibrant Credit Union? Vibrant Credit Union is McCormick's exclusive loan processing and servicing partner for individual consumer and small business in the United States. We're here to make it faster and easier for your customers to get the financing they need to complete their purchases — and give you immediate access to funds. We worked closely with McCormick to build a secure lending platform that fits your needs, and we're continually refining that technology based on feedback from you. As a member-owned nonprofit, we're committed to offering affordable loans to our members based on a holistic appraisal of their financial situation, and we've created a portfolio of flexible financing products to fit practically any budget. What information will I need to provide to set up my dealership account? Give us a call at (309) 644-4738 or email us at dealermanagement@vibrantcu.org . How long does it take to receive a decision on a loan application? Over half of applications are auto-approved on the spot with our flexible, risk-based scoring model. On those occasions when an application is not automatically approved, our lending team individually reviews the customer's financial information before making our final decision. Most of the time, we find a way to say yes in 30 minutes or less! Do you finance purchases of used equipment? We do! Loan terms and amounts will be based on the applicant's creditworthiness as well as the age/usage of the equipment being financed. See the table above for details. Where should I direct customers to manage their loan account and make payments? Vibrant has created an online account portal for customers where they can manage their accounts. They have three options for paying their loan: Pay online with their debit card. They can pay online with an ACH transfer from another bank account. Or, they can just mail us a check! Remind them to include their account number on the memo line for faster processing. Vibrant ATTN: Payments PO Box 1550 Moline IL 61266 I need help with my account. When is your dealer services team available? We run on seasonal hours (see above). You can reach us at 1-800-479-6206 during office hours or email us any time at loanprogram@vibrantcu.org . What do I need from my customer to obtain financing? Your customer will need to provide their government-issued ID (driver's license or U.S. passport). You'll also need a sales order with the year, make, model, and SN/VIN for all equipment being financed. Complete an application in the dealer portal and get a decision within minutes. I have a question about the program, who do I contact? Give us a call at (309) 644-4738 or email us at dealermanagement@vibrantcu.org . Vibrant has a dedicated relationship management team to assist dealers with any loan program or banking needs. One will be appointed to you when you sign on. Who are the Account Managers and what do they do? Our account management team is here to work every loan application from start to finish with you. After you submit an application, one of our account managers will email or call you within a couple of minutes to update you on the initial loan decision and requirements and confirm your sales order is complete (including year, make, model, and VIN/SN for all equipment). Once we have all that information, we can issue a final approval and send documentation to your and your customer to complete online via DocuSign. Questions about insurance? REV Insurance offers simple, dependable protection for your customers' equipment. Learn more about REV Insurance

You don't need to a banker to have a fulfilling Vibrant career. Learn about our headquarters, our culture, and the benefits you can expect. Open yourself up to new possibilities If you want a job you can feel good about, you'll love working here. Search current openings Open yourself up to new possibilities If you want a job you can feel good about, you'll love working here. Search current openings Add a Title Open yourself up to new possibilities If you want a job you can feel good about, you'll love working here. Search current openings Make your career Vibrant You might be surprised by the number of Vibrant employees who never considered working in banking until they came here. What makes us different? First, we want you to find a role that makes you look forward to coming to work—and we’ll make sure you get the training and development to succeed in one that does. Second, we believe there’s no single “right” way to do most things, and we’re not afraid to try something new. That opens up a ton of opportunities to build your skills. Third, we take our members seriously, but not ourselves. Which is why there’s a closet full of inflatable cow costumes at our corporate headquarters. Get to know Vibrant HQ The majority of our team works at our corporate headquarters in Moline. Even branch and remote employees can expect to spend a few days here each year for training and team building. In keeping with our commitment to community revitalization, we transformed a former big-box outlet into a state-of-the-art workspace with plenty of room to keep growing. Vibrant HQ is also the place where we launch new technologies and initiatives like our first fully digital branch and ITMs. Check it out Our employees get great benefits The expected All the usual benefits, without the usual lengthy waiting period before they kick in Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) match up to 6 percent of your salary Paid time off The unexpected Some things you might expect from a credit union, plus a few you wouldn't Flexible schedules and locations for many positions Casual dress code Work in our new state-of-the-art corporate headquarters Learn more The extraordinary Because there's so much more to you than the hours you spend at work Paid time off for volunteering Education reimbursement Leadership development courses Named among top 50 "Best Credit Unions to Work for" Vibrant ranked #41 on American Banker's survey of the Best Credit Unions to Work for in 2022. Winners were chosen based on two employee surveys asking their assessment of their employer's leadership and planning, corporate culture, communication, and overall engagement. Read more in American Banker Frequently asked questions Are there opportunities to grow at Vibrant? Absolutely. Employees are encouraged to explore new interests, build new skills, and pursue leadership opportunities. Internal career mobility and development pathways help employees continue growing throughout their careers. Can I apply for multiple positions? Yes. We encourage candidates to apply for positions that align with their experience, interests, and career goals. What should I expect during the interview process? Our process focuses on getting to know you, your experience, and your goals—while giving you a chance to learn more about us. What makes Vibrant different? We're digital-first. People-assisted. That approach shapes how we serve members, how we embrace innovation, and how we support employees throughout their careers. When do benefits start? Your health benefits begin on the first day of the month following your hire date, and you'll start earning PTO immediately. If you participate in our 401(k) plan, eligibility begins on the first day of the second full month after you join Vibrant. Do I get PTO during my first year? Absolutely. PTO is prorated based on your start date, and you'll begin earning it right away. Following your first January 1 with Vibrant, you'll have access to the full annual PTO allotment.

(And Why the Answer Isn’t the Same for Everyone) How Much Should You Actually Have in Checking vs. Savings? (And Why the Answer Isn’t the Same for Everyone) At some point, most people end up asking the same question: “How much money should I actually keep in checking versus savings?” It feels like there should be a clean answer to this. A number you can aim for. A rule that confirms you’re doing things the right way. But money doesn’t really work like that — especially right now. If your balances don’t look like what you think they “should,” that doesn’t automatically mean you’ve messed something up. More often, it means you’re navigating higher costs, unpredictable expenses, and a lot of mixed messages about what you’re supposed to prioritize. So instead of chasing a perfect split, let’s talk about how to think about checking and savings in a way that’s actually helpful (and doesn’t make you feel behind before you even start). Why This Question Feels So Loaded Lately This used to be a pretty straightforward logistics question. Now? It feels personal. Everyday expenses are higher. Headlines are louder. Social feeds are full of people sharing “what you should have by now,” usually without much context about how different everyone’s lives actually are. So when you look at your accounts and feel like the numbers fall short, it’s easy to assume that’s on you. In reality, many people have shifted toward keeping more money accessible — not because they’re careless, but because flexibility feels safer. That’s not a failure. It’s a reasonable response to uncertainty. Before worrying about whether your checking‑to‑savings split is “correct,” it helps to ground the conversation in what those accounts are meant to do . What Checking and Savings Are Really There For At a basic level: Checking is about flow. It handles income, bills, daily spending — the money your life runs on. Savings is about flexibility. It’s there for breathing room, surprises, and things you’d rather not have collide with your weekly routine. That distinction still applies, but the line between the two has blurred. Many checking and savings accounts now earn meaningful interest, which changes the conversation. It’s no longer just about where money “sits.” It’s about where money can live comfortably while still growing . That matters when you’re deciding how much to keep where. So… How Much Should You Have in Each? Here’s the most honest answer: there’s a range, not a rule . Where people land depends on things like: How predictable their income is How variable their expenses are How much fluctuation they’re comfortable with What helps them sleep at night Some people keep more in checking to avoid timing stress. Others prefer a larger savings balance for peace of mind. Plenty of people move fluidly between the two. What matters more than hitting a textbook ratio is whether: Bills clear without anxiety Surprise expenses don’t derail everything You don’t feel like you’re constantly juggling transfers If those things are true, your split is probably doing its job — even if it doesn’t match anyone else’s formula. Why Keeping “Too Much” Accessible Isn’t Always Wrong You’ll often hear that keeping too much in checking is inefficient. But efficiency isn’t the only thing that matters. For a lot of people right now, access equals calm . Knowing you can cover something without moving money around, waiting on transfers, or second‑guessing timing has real value. This is where high ‑ yield checking and savings accounts can quietly make life easier. When money earns a strong return in either place, you’re not forced to choose between: Feeling prepared, or Letting your money grow You get flexibility without giving something up — and that’s a big deal when life doesn’t follow a neat script. A More Useful Way to Evaluate Your Setup Instead of asking, “Is this the right amount?” try asking: Can I pay what needs to be paid without stress? Do short‑term surprises feel manageable? Do I understand where my money is and what it’s doing? Is the money I keep accessible earning something reasonable? If you’re answering “yes” more often than not, your setup is functioning — even if it doesn’t look perfect on paper. Money systems that work in real life are often more forgiving than fashionable. That’s not a flaw. That’s what makes them sustainable. Making Changes Without Overreacting If you do want to adjust how much you keep in checking versus savings, it doesn’t have to be dramatic. Smaller shifts tend to be easier to live with: Let balances move gradually See how it feels over a month or two Prioritize comfort and clarity over precision Big changes, made all at once, often create more second‑guessing than progress — especially when everything else feels uncertain. The Takeaway There’s nothing inherently wrong with where your money lives if it’s supporting your life. Checking and savings aren’t competing goals — they’re complementary tools. And when both can earn competitive returns, you don’t have to contort your behavior just to feel like you’re “doing it right.” If your setup gives you flexibility, access, and the sense that you’re not constantly playing catch‑up, you’re probably in better shape than you think. Sometimes the best financial move isn’t hitting the perfect number. It’s choosing a setup that lets you breathe. Previous Item Next Item Read more from the blog Read More > Identity Theft vs. Identity Fraud What’s the Difference (and Why It Matters) Read More > 10 Reasons to Set Up Direct Deposit Whether you're looking for a faster payday, easier money management, or a more secure way to get paid, direct deposit has benefits worth exploring. Read More > How Mobile Check Deposit Works And When It Makes Sense to Use It Read More > Is Online Banking Safe? What Really Keeps Your Money Protected Read More > 5 Smart Habits That Make Managing Your Money Easier (Not Harder) Managing money shouldn’t feel like a part-time job. Read More > APY vs. Dividend Rate Why there are two numbers (and what they actually mean)

Did you know that it only takes a deposit of $5 to start a savings account at Vibrant? Go ahead and pluck that five dollar bill out of your wallet, where it’s more likely to end up spent than saved. By putting it in a savings account for safe keeping, you’re planting a seed. How quickly that seed sprouts and grows into a beautiful flower depends on where you’ve planted it. Tips for choosing a savings account Did you know that it only takes a deposit of $5 to start a savings account at Vibrant? Go ahead and pluck that five dollar bill out of your wallet, where it’s more likely to end up spent than saved. By putting it in a savings account for safe keeping, you’re planting a seed. How quickly that seed sprouts and grows into a beautiful flower depends on where you’ve planted it. Did you know that it only takes a deposit of $5 to start a savings account at Vibrant? Go ahead and pluck that five dollar bill out of your wallet, where it’s more likely to end up spent than saved. By putting it in a savings account for safe keeping, you’re planting a seed. How quickly that seed sprouts and grows into a beautiful flower depends on where you’ve planted it. To help you find the best place to grow your savings, here are four tips for choosing a savings account that is going to turn your five dollar bill into so much more. Aim high for your interest rate Opening a savings account is about growing your money, and how quickly that money grows will depend on the interest rate . The higher the interest rate, the more you’ll earn from your deposit. Most lenders will offer a basic savings account with interest rates as low as .01%, but keep an eye out for high-interest savings accounts that could help you earn more at a faster rate. Pay attention to minimum balance requirements Behind every savings account are a set of terms and conditions. You might be tempted to skim them, but do yourself a favor and give them a read. Different lenders will have different minimum deposit requirements, ranging from $1 to $10,000. You might also be expected to maintain a minimum balance to earn interest. There could even be fees for dropping below the minimum required balance. Always take the time to read the terms and conditions. Shop local for the best rates No two savings accounts are the same. Different financial institutions are going to offer different types of savings accounts with different interest rates, fees, and minimum balances. It’s up to you to look around and find the best savings account for you, and the best place to start is your local credit union or community bank. Because they’re nonprofit and member-owned , credit unions generally offer higher interest rates than banks, so be sure to give them a look. Ask about mobile banking Having a brick-and-mortar location close by is convenient, but in this day and age, most people expect to be able to handle the bulk of their financial transactions through their phone. You should be able to manage your savings account from anywhere, so be sure to ask about online and mobile banking services when kicking the tires on different financial institutions. If you’re interested in opening a savings account, get in touch with us ! Previous Item Next Item Read more from the blog Read More > Identity Theft vs. Identity Fraud What’s the Difference (and Why It Matters) Read More > 10 Reasons to Set Up Direct Deposit Whether you're looking for a faster payday, easier money management, or a more secure way to get paid, direct deposit has benefits worth exploring. Read More > How Much Should You Actually Have in Checking vs. Savings? (And Why the Answer Isn’t the Same for Everyone) Read More > How Mobile Check Deposit Works And When It Makes Sense to Use It Read More > Is Online Banking Safe? What Really Keeps Your Money Protected Read More > 5 Smart Habits That Make Managing Your Money Easier (Not Harder) Managing money shouldn’t feel like a part-time job.

Whether you're looking for a faster payday, easier money management, or a more secure way to get paid, direct deposit has benefits worth exploring. 10 Reasons to Set Up Direct Deposit Whether you're looking for a faster payday, easier money management, or a more secure way to get paid, direct deposit has benefits worth exploring. Stop Waiting on Payday Instead of receiving a paper check and taking extra steps to access your money, direct deposit automatically deposits your paycheck into your account, helping you get access to your funds faster and more conveniently. Here are 10 reasons more people are making the switch. 1. You Could Get Paid Up to 2 Days Early Eligible direct deposits may arrive in your Vibrant account up to 2 days before your scheduled payday.* That's quicker access to your money when you need it most without changing your payroll schedule. 2. Payday Happens Automatically No waiting for a paper check. No worrying about whether your paycheck is available. Your money is deposited directly into your account automatically, helping make payday one less thing to think about. 3. No Trips to the Branch With direct deposit, your paycheck goes straight into your account. That means no stopping at a branch, ATM, or mobile deposit screen before your money becomes available. Your paycheck is already where you need it. 4. It's More Secure Than a Paper Check Paper checks can be lost, damaged, delayed, or misplaced. Direct deposit reduces those risks by securely transferring funds directly into your account. 5. Budgeting Becomes Easier When your paycheck is deposited automatically, you know when your money is arriving and where it's going. That consistency can make it easier to: Pay bills on time Avoid late fees Track spending Stick to your budget 6. Put Your Money to Work Sooner When your paycheck is deposited directly into your Vibrant account, your money can immediately start working for you. Our Premier Checking account earns up award-winning rates helping you get more from every payday. 7. Building Savings Gets Easier Many employers allow you to split your paycheck between multiple accounts. That means part of your paycheck can go directly into savings, helping you build emergency funds and savings goals automatically. Sometimes the easiest way to save is to automate it. 8. Access Your Money Nearly Anywhere Some members worry that moving their paycheck means losing convenient access to their cash. Not with Vibrant. Members have access to more than 37,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide through the CO-OP Network, making it easy to access cash close to home or while traveling. 9. There Are No Fees Setting up direct deposit doesn't cost anything. It's an easy way to simplify how you get paid while taking advantage of the features already available with your Vibrant account. 10. It's Better for the Environment Direct deposit helps reduce paper waste by eliminating printed checks and reducing transportation associated with check delivery and deposits. It's a small change that can make a positive impact over time. Ready to Get Started? Setting up direct deposit only takes a few minutes. You'll need: Your Vibrant account number Vibrant's routing number ( 271183646 ) To find your account number, simply go to your account details in online banking , and select the eye button to unhide your full account number. Not enrolled? No problem. Click here to register for online banking. Then simply provide that information to your employer through your payroll system or HR department. Once your request is processed, you'll be ready to enjoy a faster, easier payday! *Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from your employer or payer. Funds may be made available up to two days before the scheduled payment date but are not guaranteed. Not all direct deposits qualify. Previous Item Next Item Read more from the blog Read More > Identity Theft vs. Identity Fraud What’s the Difference (and Why It Matters) Read More > How Much Should You Actually Have in Checking vs. Savings? (And Why the Answer Isn’t the Same for Everyone) Read More > How Mobile Check Deposit Works And When It Makes Sense to Use It Read More > Is Online Banking Safe? What Really Keeps Your Money Protected Read More > 5 Smart Habits That Make Managing Your Money Easier (Not Harder) Managing money shouldn’t feel like a part-time job. Read More > APY vs. Dividend Rate Why there are two numbers (and what they actually mean)