Spring Into Savings: Building a Financial Safety Net

(3 Minute Read) — Spring is a season of renewal—a time to declutter, refresh, and set new goals. It’s also the perfect opportunity to take a fresh look at your finances and start building a stronger financial foundation, or better yet…building a financial safety net.

Life has a way of throwing surprises our way—some exciting, some expensive. Whether it’s an unexpected car repair, a medical bill, or a last-minute travel need, having an emergency fund can turn a financial crisis into a manageable inconvenience. 

At Unitus Community Credit Union, we’re committed to helping our members build financial resilience. That’s why we’ve set a bold goal: By the end of 2027, we want 10,000 members to have at least $400 saved in their Rewards Share Account. And with Unitus Rewards, you can make progress toward your savings goal just by using your debit card for everyday purchases. 

Why $400? 

Research shows that having even a few hundred dollars in emergency savings can make a big difference when unexpected expenses arise. While financial experts often recommend saving three to six months’ worth of expenses, getting to your first $400 is a strong start that can help you handle common financial surprises without relying on high-interest credit cards or loans. 

How to Build Your Emergency Fund with Unitus Rewards 

Traditional savings plans rely on you setting aside money manually each month, which can be tough when budgets are tight. With Unitus Rewards, saving happens automatically—without adding extra strain to your wallet. Here’s how it works: 

• Use Your Unitus Debit Card – Every time you make a purchase of $5.00¹ or more, we put a nickel in your Unitus Rewards account! 

• Watch Your Rewards Add Up – The more purchases of $5.00 or more, the more you earn. You can track your rewards in Digital Banking. 

• Save Without Lifting a Finger – Your rewards are automatically transferred into your Rewards Share Account, helping you build savings effortlessly. 

• Opt-In to Rounding Up – You can opt-in to round up¹ your purchases to the next dollar – we’ll transfer that extra change into your Unitus Rewards account, right from your checking account! 

• Cash Back on Credit Purchases – Consider the Unitus Cash Back Credit Card. You earn 1.5% cash back on purchases, automatically deposited into your Unitus Rewards account. 

• Low Effort, High Yield – Unitus Rewards accounts earn 5.00% APY^* – making it easier to reach that $400 balance even faster.

Other Practical Steps to Reach $400 in Savings 

While Unitus Rewards makes the process simple, here are a few additional ways to reach your first $400 faster: 

• Set a Micro-Savings Goal – Aim to save just $10-$15 per week. Even small, consistent deposits can add up quickly. 

• Use Your Debit Card for Everyday Expenses – From groceries to gas, using your Unitus debit card regularly will maximize your rewards. Pay your subscriptions with your debit card for more automatic savings. 

• Automate Your Savings – Set up direct deposits into a dedicated savings account so you’re not tempted to spend it. 

Take the First Step Today to Building Your Financial Safety Net

Unitus Community Credit Union is more than just a place to keep your money—it’s a partner in your financial well-being. By using Unitus Rewards, you’re already on your way to building a solid financial foundation. 

Ready to start? If you’re not enrolled in Unitus Rewards, what are you waiting for? You can enroll in just minutes in Digital Banking! Let’s work together to help 10,000 Unitus members reach their $400 savings goal by 2027—because financial peace of mind starts with small, smart steps. 

^*APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Unitus Rewards is only available with Unitus Checking. Rate effective as of 3/1/25. Rate is variable and can change. Fees could reduce earnings. Restrictions may apply. 

¹Funds from cash back and round up are deposited into a high-yield Rewards Savings Account that’s automatically opened when you enroll.