Newsletters
{beginAccordion}
The Current
Catch up on the latest news and updates with our quarterly newsletter.
FALL 2026
SUMMER 2026
SPRING 2026
WINTER 2026
Archives
FALL 2025
SUMMER 2025
SPRING 2025
WINTER 2025
{endAccordion}
Special Announcements
{beginAccordion}
Annual Meeting 2027
The 74th Membership Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 16, 2027, and will be held at the Tuscaloosa River Market (1900 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401). Please exercise your ownership rights and join us for the annual meeting and election of officials. A light menu will be served beginning at 6:00 p.m. followed by a business session and door prizes.
The Board of Directors has a Nominating Committee which nominates one person for each vacancy on the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee. The Nominating Committee presents the following nominees:
- Marlon Murray Board of Directors
- Nancy Terry Board of Directors
- Dennis Conner Supervisory Committee
- Jackie Hudgins Supervisory Committee
Nominations by members to fill vacancies must be made by a written nomination petition. Written nomination petitions must include the signatures and printed names of (100) RiverFall members and must be submitted to the Nominating Committee. For qualification, the Nominating Committee must receive petitions making nominations not less than (30) days before the announced date of the annual membership meeting.
Please send any nominations to:
Nominating Committee
Post Office Box 1756
Tuscaloosa, AL 35403
{endAccordion}
{beginAccordion}
Scholarships 2027
This spring, RiverFall Credit Union (RCU) will award up to three $2,500 college tuition scholarships to graduating high school seniors. To be eligible, the student or a member of his or her immediate family must be a member of the credit union in good standing. Immediate family is defined as the mother, father, brother, sister, or grandparent of the student. Applications will be available on or before Friday, January 8, 2027 at area high schools, all RiverFall branch locations, and online. No minimum GPA, ACT, or SAT score is required; however, scholarships will be awarded based on academic performance as well as leadership, community service and volunteerism, and financial need.
Completed applications are due no later than Friday, March 19, 2027. Applications must be delivered or mailed to our Downtown Office at 2520 Gary Fitts Street, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, or emailed as a PDF to [email protected].
Check back January 2027 for the official RCU Scholarship Application!
For any questions regarding RCU scholarship applications, please contact our Marketing Department at 205.759.1505, or via email at: [email protected].
Congratulations to our 2026 scholarship recipients!
- Emily Kelly - Sipsey Valley
- Rosalie Murphy - West Blocton
- Benjamin Sansing - Hale County
2025 scholarship recipients:
- Carolina Alvarez - Tuscaloosa County
- Kalea Jackson - Central
- Antonious Steele - Bibb County
2024 scholarship recipients:
- Sarah Aaron - Sipsey Valley
- Stephanie Martinez - Gordo
- Katherine Mott - West Blocton
2023 scholarship recipients:
- Violet Grace Albritton - Northridge
- Kaylin Gray - Bibb County
- Landen Westbrook - Sipsey Valley
{endAccordion}
Money Tips & More
{beginAccordion}
Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Refund
September 21, 2026
A tax refund can provide a welcome financial boost. Before deciding how to use it, take a few minutes to consider which choice can make the biggest difference for your household now and in the months ahead.
Build or Strengthen Your Emergency Savings
Unexpected expenses can happen at any time. Setting aside part of your refund can help you prepare for car repairs, medical costs, home maintenance, or a temporary loss of income without immediately relying on a credit card or loan.
Reduce High-Interest Debt
If you carry balances on credit cards or other high-interest debt, applying part of your refund may reduce the interest you pay over time. Review your balances, rates, and minimum payments, then choose an approach that fits your budget.
Prepare for a Planned Expense
Your refund can also help fund an upcoming goal, such as vehicle maintenance, school expenses, a home project, or a down payment. Keeping that money in a separate savings account may make it easier to track your progress and avoid spending it elsewhere.
Leave Room for Something Enjoyable
If your emergency savings and other priorities are in good shape, consider setting aside a reasonable portion for something you enjoy. A simple plan can help you balance today's wants with tomorrow's goals.
Whether you are saving your refund for an unexpected expense, a down payment, or another future goal, keeping the money in a separate savings account can make your progress easier to track. Stop by RiverFall Credit Union to learn more about our Member Savings Account, which offers membership benefits, no monthly maintenance fee, competitive dividends, digital banking, and more.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Accounts Online
September 21, 2026
Scammers continue to use emails, text messages, phone calls, websites, and social media to pressure people into sharing money or personal information. A few consistent habits can make your accounts much harder to compromise.
Use Strong and Unique Sign-in Credentials
Create a different password for each important account, especially your email and financial accounts. A reputable password manager can help you generate and store long passwords. Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA) whenever it is available.
Pause Before You Click
Do not use a link or phone number in an unexpected message asking you to verify an account, make a payment, or provide a one-time security code. Instead, open the official app, type the known website address yourself, or call the organization using a trusted number.
Protect Your Personal Information
RiverFall will never ask you to share your password or a one-time verification code. Be cautious when a caller creates urgency, threatens account closure, or tells you to move money to 'keep it safe.'
Monitor Your Accounts and Use Card Controls
Even when you take precautions, unauthorized activity can still occur. Review your account activity and financial statements regularly so you can identify anything unfamiliar as quickly as possible.
RiverFall debit cardholders can use MyCardRules to receive transaction alerts, manage how their card may be used, and turn the card off if it is lost, stolen, or being misused.
If you notice an unfamiliar transaction or believe your information has been compromised, contact RiverFall immediately using the number published on RiverFall's official website or the back of your card.
Additional Financial Health Tools
RiverFall members may also subscribe to Array's MyFinancialHealth, which provides tools to help monitor credit, protect identity, manage debt, and work toward financial goals. Contact one of our friendly team members to learn more about this paid subscription.
Visit RiverFall's Fraud Education Guide for more ways to recognize common scams and protect your information.
Plan Ahead for Holiday Spending
September 21, 2026
Holiday expenses can add up quickly, but a little planning can help you celebrate without carrying unnecessary financial stress into the new year.
Start With One Complete List
Write down the people you plan to shop for along with travel, meals, decorations, events, shipping, and charitable giving. Seeing the full picture makes it easier to set a realistic total.
Set Limits Before You Shop
Choose an overall holiday budget and a target amount for each category. Remember to include smaller costs such as wrapping supplies, delivery fees, tips, and last-minute purchases.
Compare the Total Cost
Before buying, compare prices and review shipping charges, return policies, and delivery dates. A discount is only helpful when the purchase fits your plan and the seller is legitimate.
Look for Meaningful Low-Cost Options
Homemade gifts (think DIY!), shared experiences, family recipes, and group gift exchanges can be memorable without stretching your budget. Talk with family members early about expectations and spending limits.
Save Throughout the Year
A separate holiday savings account can make seasonal expenses easier to manage. With a RiverFall Christmas Club Account, you can save throughout the year by making deposits whenever you would like or establishing automatic, recurring transfers from your checking or savings account.
Christmas Club Accounts have no monthly maintenance fee, and the funds are automatically deposited into your Member Savings account each October 31, just in time for holiday shopping and seasonal expenses.
Starting early gives you more time to save and enjoy the holiday season with less financial stress. Stop by any RiverFall location to speak with one of our friendly team members to open a Christmas Club Account and start saving for the season ahead.
Holiday Fraud Red Flags
September 16, 2026
Busy shopping seasons give scammers more opportunities to blend fraudulent messages and purchases into your normal activity. Watch for these common warning signs while shopping, donating, or waiting on deliveries.
Unexpected Delivery Messages
A text or email may claim that a package is delayed or that a small fee is required. Do not follow the message link. Go directly to the retailer or carrier's official website or app to check the order.
Prices That Seem Too Good to be True
Fake stores and social media ads can imitate legitimate retailers. Check the website address carefully, research unfamiliar sellers, and review return and contact information before entering payment details.
Unusual Payment Requests
Be cautious if a seller, charity, or caller insists on gift cards, cryptocurrency, a wire transfer, or another difficult-to-reverse payment method. Legitimate organizations should not pressure you to pay immediately in a specific way.
Urgent Account Alerts
Scammers may impersonate a financial institution or retailer and claim that your account has been compromised. Never provide a password or one-time security code. Contact the organization through a verified number or official app.
Unrecognized Transactions
Review your accounts regularly and enable alerts.
If you believe your RiverFall account or card information has been compromised, contact RiverFall promptly using the phone number on the official website or the back of your card.
A Practical Financial Checkup
September 16, 2026
You do not need a complicated plan to make progress with your money. A short financial checkup can help you see what is working, identify your next priority, and make a few manageable changes.
Review Where Your Money is Going
Look at recent account and card activity to identify recurring expenses, subscriptions, and spending patterns. Build a monthly plan that covers essential bills, savings, debt payments, and flexible spending.
Choose One Savings Goal
Give your savings a clear purpose, such as an emergency fund, holiday expenses, a vehicle, education, or a future home. Decide on a realistic amount to transfer each payday and automate it when possible.
Understand Your Debt
List each balance, interest rate, minimum payment, and due date. Paying more than the minimum on higher-cost debt may reduce total interest, but your plan should also leave enough room for regular expenses and emergencies.
Review Your Protection and Long-term Plans
Check beneficiary information, insurance coverage, retirement contributions, and important financial documents. Investments involve risk, and the right approach depends on your goals, time horizon, and circumstances. Consider consulting an appropriately qualified professional before making investment decisions.
Schedule the Next Checkup
Financial plans change as life changes. Put a quarterly or annual review on your calendar so you can update goals and recognize your progress.
RiverFall offers savings accounts, share certificates, IRAs, financial calculators, and access to financial planning resources. Explore the available options or contact a RiverFall team member for general product information online or in person.
Game Day on a Budget
September 16, 2026
Football Saturdays in Tuscaloosa can be memorable without becoming an expensive weekend. A little coordination can help your group enjoy the atmosphere while keeping spending under control.
Make a Game Plan for Spending
Set a total for tickets, parking or transportation, food, drinks, and any merchandise before the weekend begins. Decide which parts of the day matter most so you can spend intentionally.
Share the Tailgate
Divide food, drinks, ice, serving supplies, seating, and cleanup among the group. A shared list helps prevent duplicate purchases and keeps one person from covering everything.
Keep the Menu Simple
Choose foods that travel well and can be prepared at home. Reusable coolers, chairs, tables, and serving items can reduce the need for last-minute purchases each week.
Plan Transportation Early
Review current parking rules, road closures, shuttle information, and walking routes through official local sources. Early planning can help you compare options and avoid inflated last-minute costs.
Enjoy What's Already There
Bring games and supplies you already own, borrow items from friends, and take advantage of free traditions and activities around campus.
The best game-day budget is one that lets you enjoy the experience without regretting the spending afterward. Set your limit, share the work, and save room for the traditions you value most.
New or Used Vehicle: Which Fits Your Budget?
September 16, 2026
Choosing a vehicle is about more than the sticker price or monthly payment. Before deciding between new and used, consider the total cost, how long you expect to keep the vehicle, and what comfortably fits your budget.
Look Beyond the Monthly Payment
Estimate the purchase price, down payment, interest, loan term, taxes, registration, insurance, fuel, maintenance, and repairs. A longer loan term may reduce the monthly payment but can increase the total interest paid.
Compare New and Used Options
A new vehicle may offer current technology, warranty coverage, and fewer immediate maintenance concerns. A used vehicle may have a lower purchase price, but its history, condition, mileage, and expected repairs deserve careful review.
Know Your Trade-in and Financing Options
Research your current vehicle's value and compare the total financing terms, not only the payment. Pre-approval can help you understand your budget before visiting a dealership and may give you additional negotiating confidence.
Protect Your Purchase
Consider whether available warranty, mechanical breakdown, or GAP products fit your vehicle, loan, and risk tolerance. Review costs, exclusions, and limitations before adding optional coverage.
Leave Room in Your Budget
Choose a payment that still allows you to cover regular expenses, save for emergencies, and manage future maintenance. The right vehicle is one that meets your needs without crowding out your other financial priorities.
RiverFall offers financing for new and used vehicles, refinancing, flexible terms, and pre-approval. Learn more about RiverFall auto loans, review our current rates, or contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members.
Meaningful Ways to Give Back in West Alabama
September 16, 2026
West Alabama has a strong tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. Whether you give time, skills, supplies, or financial support, thoughtful community involvement can make a meaningful difference.
Start with a Cause that Matters to You
Consider the people, places, or issues you care about most. Local schools, food assistance programs, youth organizations, animal welfare groups, arts programs, and disaster-response organizations may all need different kinds of support.
Ask What is Actually Needed
Before organizing a collection or purchasing supplies, contact the organization. A current wish list or volunteer calendar helps ensure that your contribution is useful and arrives at the right time.
Give Your Skills as well as Your Time
Volunteers can help with tutoring, event support, financial education, communications, professional services, and many other needs. Consistent service can be especially valuable to smaller organizations.
Research Before Donating
Confirm that an organization and its donation page are legitimate. Keep records of financial contributions and consult a qualified tax professional if you have questions about whether a donation may be tax-deductible.
Invite Others to Participate
A workplace, family, civic group, or neighborhood can often accomplish more together. Choose a manageable project, communicate the goal clearly, and share the impact afterward.
RiverFall Credit Union is proud to support organizations and initiatives that strengthen the counties we serve. Follow RiverFall's latest news and social channels for current community involvement and reinvestment efforts.
Protect Your Cards and Accounts While Traveling
September 21, 2026
Whether you prefer the lake or the ocean, the mountains or the beach, exploring abroad or traveling within the United States, vacations are meant for relaxing. However, you never want your money or personal information to get away from you while you are away from home.
A few precautions before and during your trip can help protect your cards, accounts, and personal information.
Before You Leave:
Limit the Cards You Carry
You probably do not need to take every card in your wallet on vacation. Bring only the cards you expect to use and keep a backup payment method in a separate, secure location.
Carrying fewer cards makes it easier to notice when one is missing and reduces the number of accounts you must address if your wallet is lost or stolen.
Save Important Contact Information
Save RiverFall's verified contact information and the phone numbers listed on the back of your cards. Keep this information somewhere other than your wallet so you can quickly report a missing card or unfamiliar transaction.
Set Up Transaction Alerts
RiverFall debit cardholders can use MyCardRules to receive an alert each time their card is used and manage how, when, and where the card may be used. Although frequent notifications may occasionally be inconvenient, they can help you recognize suspicious activity quickly and monitor spending while you are away.
While You Travel:
Keep a Close Eye on Your Cards
Keep your wallet, phone, and cards secure and never leave them unattended in a public place. Avoid leaving a purse, wallet, or bag hanging from a beach chair or barstool, sitting on a restaurant table, or visible inside a vehicle.
When possible, keep your card within sight while completing a transaction and make sure it is returned to you before leaving.
If you leave a backup card in your hotel room, secure it in the hotel safe when one is available rather than leaving it in your luggage or out in the room.
Use ATMs and Payment Terminals Carefully
Before using an ATM or payment terminal, look for anything loose, damaged, unusually bulky, or out of place on the card reader or keypad. These may be signs of a skimming device or keypad overlay.
Cover the keypad while entering your PIN and remain aware of anyone standing unusually close or attempting to distract you. If something does not look or feel right, cancel the transaction and use another terminal.
Be Careful When Accessing Your Accounts Online
Use trusted websites and apps when checking your accounts. Avoid signing in to digital banking or entering payment information while connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi. Use a secure connection and always sign out when you are finished.
Consider How You Pay
Credit and debit cards affect your finances differently when unauthorized activity occurs. A fraudulent credit card transaction generally affects your available credit, while an unauthorized debit card transaction may temporarily remove money directly from your checking account while the issue is investigated.
Both credit and debit cards have protections, but those protections and reporting requirements may vary depending on the card, transaction, and circumstances. Reporting suspicious activity promptly is extremely important.
Consider using a credit card for travel purchases when practical while keeping your debit card secure for situations in which you need access to your checking account.
Check Your Account Activity Often
Monitor your account and card activity throughout your trip, even if your physical card is still in your possession. Card information can be compromised without the card itself being lost or stolen.
Transaction alerts can help, but they should not replace regularly reviewing your account activity. If you see a charge you do not recognize, contact RiverFall or the card issuer promptly using a verified phone number.
If a Card is Missing or Activity Looks Unfamiliar:
If your RiverFall debit card is missing or you notice suspicious activity, use MyCardRules to turn the card off immediately, then contact RiverFall promptly using a verified phone number. For other cards, contact the card issuer immediately.
Be prepared to provide information about the transaction and follow the instructions you receive for restricting the card, reporting a dispute, or requesting a replacement.
Preparation takes only a few minutes and can make an unexpected card problem much easier to manage while traveling.
Understanding and Building Your Credit
September 21, 2026
Your credit history can affect more than whether you are approved for a loan. Lenders may use information in your credit report and a credit score to help evaluate an application and determine available terms. Building healthy credit takes time, but a few consistent habits can help you make steady progress.
Know What a Credit Report and Credit Score Show
A credit report contains information about credit accounts, payment history, balances, and certain public or collection records. A credit score is calculated from information in a credit report. Different scoring models may weigh information differently, so you may see more than one score.
Reviewing your credit reports can help you understand what lenders may see and identify information that does not belong to you. You can request your reports through AnnualCreditReport.com, the federally authorized source for free credit reports. Reviewing your own report does not lower your credit score.
Pay Every Bill on Time
Payment history is an important part of many credit-scoring models. Set reminders or automatic payments for at least the minimum amount due, then confirm that the payment was processed. If you cannot make a payment, contact the creditor before the due date to ask whether assistance or a different payment arrangement is available.
Keep Credit Card Balances Manageable
Credit utilization compares the balances on revolving accounts with their credit limits. Large balances can affect a score even when payments are made on time. Paying balances down and avoiding unnecessary charges can reduce the amount of available credit you are using. Paying more than the minimum may also reduce the interest paid over time.
Apply for Credit Thoughtfully
A lender may review your credit when you apply for a new account. Several new applications within a short period can affect some credit scores and may make repayment harder if multiple accounts are opened. Compare the rate, fees, payment, and total cost before applying, and borrow only what fits comfortably within your budget.
Correct Errors and Watch for Fraud
If you find an unfamiliar account, incorrect balance, or payment reported inaccurately, follow the credit bureau's dispute process and contact the company that supplied the information. Keep copies of supporting documents and monitor your accounts for other signs of identity theft. An unexpected change in your credit report can be an early warning that someone has used your information.
Give Good Habits Time to Work
There is no legitimate shortcut that can guarantee a quick credit-score increase. Focus on accurate reports, on-time payments, manageable balances, and credit accounts you can afford. Those habits support stronger credit and a healthier overall financial picture.
RiverFall offers lending options and financial calculators that can help you compare payments and plan your next step. Explore RiverFall's loan options* or speak with a RiverFall team member for general product information. *Loan approval, rates, and terms are subject to credit evaluation and qualification.
Preparing to Buy Your First Home
September 21, 2026
Buying a first home can be exciting, but the purchase price is only one part of the decision. Preparing early can help you understand what you can comfortably afford, compare financing options, and avoid surprises between an accepted offer and closing day.
Start With a Comfortable Monthly Budget
A lender may tell you how much you qualify to borrow, but your personal budget should determine what feels manageable. Estimate the mortgage principal and interest along with property taxes, homeowners insurance, possible mortgage insurance, homeowners association dues, utilities, maintenance, and repairs. Leave room for savings and other financial goals rather than committing every available dollar to housing.
Prepare Your Credit and Documents
Review your credit reports before applying so you have time to correct errors. Avoid opening unnecessary new accounts or making major financed purchases while preparing for a mortgage. Lenders commonly request information about income, employment, assets, debts, and funds available for the transaction, so organize recent statements and other requested records early.
Plan for More Than the Down Payment
Your upfront costs may include earnest money, inspections, an appraisal, closing costs, prepaid taxes and insurance, moving expenses, and immediate repairs or purchases. Some funds paid earlier in the process may be credited at closing, but the timing still matters. Keep part of your savings available instead of using every dollar for the down payment.
Get Preapproved Before You Shop
A mortgage preapproval can help you understand a likely price range and show sellers that you have discussed financing with a lender. A preapproval is not a guarantee of final approval. Changes in income, debt, credit, the property, or the documentation provided can affect the final decision, so check with your lender before making a major financial change.
Compare the Full Loan Terms
Look beyond the interest rate and monthly payment. Ask about the loan type, whether the rate is fixed or adjustable, the loan term, estimated cash needed at closing, mortgage insurance, lender fees, and the total amount of interest over time. The best choice depends on your finances, the property, how long you expect to stay, and the terms for which you qualify.
Protect Yourself During the Purchase
An independent home inspection can reveal conditions that are not obvious during a showing. Review the purchase contract and inspection options carefully, and ask qualified professionals about issues you do not understand. Before closing, compare the final loan documents with the terms you expected, confirm how closing funds must be delivered, and independently verify wiring instructions to reduce the risk of fraud.
RiverFall offers several home mortgage options*, including fixed-rate and adjustable-rate programs, along with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional options. Contact a RiverFall lender at 205.759.1505 to discuss available programs and a free preapproval. *Rates and terms are subject to credit evaluation and qualification, and available programs may change.
When Home Equity Loans and HELOCs Make Sense
September 21, 2026
Home equity is generally the difference between a home's current value and the amount still owed on loans secured by the property. A home equity loan or home equity line of credit may allow a homeowner to borrow against part of that equity. Because the home serves as collateral, the decision deserves careful planning.
Understand the Two Common Options
A home equity loan generally provides one lump sum that is repaid over a set period. It may work well when the cost is known and the funds are needed at one time. A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is revolving credit. It may allow repeated borrowing during a draw period as principal is repaid, subject to the account's terms and credit limit. HELOC rates are often variable, so payments and borrowing costs may change.
Match the Financing to the Expense
Home equity financing may be considered for a major home project, education expense, debt consolidation, or another significant need. A fixed loan may be easier to budget when the amount is known. A line of credit may offer more flexibility when costs occur in stages or are uncertain. Compare both options with other forms of financing before deciding.
Calculate the Full Cost
Review the interest rate, whether it can change, repayment period, payment calculation, closing costs, annual or transaction fees, and any minimum draw requirements. For a HELOC, understand when the draw period ends, how repayment works afterward, and how a higher rate could affect the payment. A low initial payment does not always mean the lowest total cost.
Consider the Risk to Your Home
Unlike unsecured debt, home equity financing is backed by your property. Missing required payments can have serious consequences, including foreclosure. Before borrowing, confirm that the payment fits your budget even if other expenses rise or income changes. Avoid using home equity to support spending that cannot be repaid comfortably.
Be Careful When Consolidating Debt
Using home equity to pay off higher-rate debt can reduce the number of monthly payments or change the interest cost, but it also converts unsecured debt into debt secured by your home. Compare the total repayment cost and address the spending or cash-flow problem that created the balances. Otherwise, new balances may build while the home equity debt remains.
Ask About Taxes Instead of Assuming
The tax treatment of home equity interest depends on current law and how the funds are used. Do not assume that interest will be deductible. Consult a qualified tax professional about your circumstances.
RiverFall offers both home equity loans and HELOCs*. Review the current options and speak with a RiverFall lender at 205.759.1505 about the amount, repayment structure, and terms that may be available. *Rates and terms are subject to credit evaluation and qualification. Your home serves as collateral.
Choosing the Right Place for Your Savings
September 21, 2026
A regular savings account, money market account, and share certificate can all help you save, but they are designed for different needs. The right choice depends on when you expect to use the money, how often you need access, the balance you plan to maintain, and whether you are comfortable committing funds for a set period.
Savings Accounts for Everyday Flexibility
A savings account is often a practical home for an emergency fund, short-term goal, or money you may need without much notice. Access is generally more flexible than a certificate, though account terms and transaction limits should still be reviewed. At RiverFall, a Member Savings account establishes credit union membership and can be used for a specific goal or general savings.
Money Market Accounts for Larger Accessible Balances
A money market account may offer tiered dividends that reward higher balances while preserving some access to the funds. This can make it useful for savings that should remain available but are not needed for everyday spending. Minimum balance requirements and withdrawal limits may be higher or more restrictive than those of a regular savings account, so compare the current terms before opening one.
Share Certificates for Money You Can Set Aside
A share certificate generally pays a fixed dividend rate for a selected term. In exchange, the funds are committed for that period. Certificates may be useful for a planned future expense when you know you will not need the money immediately. Withdrawing funds before maturity may result in a penalty, so keep emergency savings elsewhere.
Choose Based on the Goal and Timeline
Start by naming the purpose of the money. Emergency savings usually needs quick access. Money for a goal within the next year may belong in a savings or money market account, depending on the balance and account terms. Funds that will not be needed until a known future date may be a better fit for a certificate. Some savers use more than one account so immediate needs and longer-term goals remain separate.
Compare More Than the Dividend Rate
Review the annual percentage yield, minimum opening deposit, minimum balance, maintenance fees, access methods, withdrawal restrictions, certificate term, early-withdrawal penalty, and renewal instructions. Also confirm how the account is insured and whether all of your deposits remain within applicable coverage limits.
RiverFall offers Member Savings, Money Market Accounts, and Share Certificates. Compare the current account requirements and rates, or speak with a RiverFall team member about which option fits your savings goal. Membership eligibility and account terms apply. Federally insured by NCUA.
Five Ways to Help Kids Learn About Money
September 16, 2026
Children learn about money through everyday choices long before they manage accounts of their own. Simple, age-appropriate conversations can help them build confidence and healthy habits.
1. Start With Everyday Moments
Use grocery shopping, restaurant choices, bills, and family activities to explain that money is limited and choices involve tradeoffs. Younger children may focus on identifying coins and saving; older children can begin comparing prices and planning purchases.
2. Talk About Needs, Wants, and Goals
Help children separate essentials from extras and choose a goal they care about. A visible savings tracker can make progress easier to understand.
3. Let Them Practice
An allowance, gift money, or earnings from age-appropriate tasks can give children a safe way to decide how much to spend, save, and share. Small mistakes can become useful lessons when the stakes are low.
For older children and teenagers, a budgeting app can provide another opportunity to practice. Tracking purchases can help them see where their money goes, recognize spending patterns, and understand how quickly smaller purchases can add up.
4. Be Honest Without Oversharing
You do not have to disclose every household financial detail. Explain decisions in a calm way and share lessons you have learned, while keeping the discussion appropriate for the child's age.
5. Learn Together
The goal is not one perfect conversation. Regular, practical discussions can help children understand that money is a tool for meeting needs, reaching goals, and helping others.
For help discussing money matters, contact one of our friendly RiverFall team members today.
Planning a Wedding Budget You Can Live With
September 16, 2026
A wedding budget should reflect your priorities and your financial situation, not someone else's expectations. Agreeing on the numbers early can reduce stress and make decisions easier throughout the planning process.
Decide Who is Contributing
Have clear conversations with anyone who plans to help pay. Confirm whether each contribution is a fixed amount, covers a specific expense, or comes with expectations that should be discussed before contracts are signed.
Set the Total Before Choosing Vendors
Start with the amount you can afford without sacrificing essential expenses or relying on debt you cannot comfortably repay. Include the ceremony, reception, attire, photography, entertainment, stationery, transportation, tips, taxes, and the honeymoon if it is part of the same plan.
Choose Your Priorities
Each partner can identify the two or three parts of the day that matter most. Spend more intentionally in those areas and simplify items that are less important to you.
Build in Breathing Room
Keep part of the budget unassigned for price changes, service charges, alterations, weather plans, or other unexpected costs. Read vendor contracts carefully and track deposits, due dates, and cancellation terms.
Save Automatically
Divide the amount you plan to contribute by the number of pay periods before the wedding, then set up a separate automatic transfer when possible. Review progress regularly and adjust the plan before adding new expenses.
A thoughtful plan will not remove every surprise, but it can help you make decisions together and begin married life with fewer financial regrets. RiverFall offers savings options that can help you organize funds for your wedding and other future goals. To learn more, visit any RiverFall location or call 205.759.1505 to speak with one of our friendly team members.
How Shared Branching Works
September 21, 2026
Shared Branching gives RiverFall members access to basic account services at participating credit union locations across the country. RiverFall's Centreville Branch also serves members of other participating credit unions. Because each location may have different hours, limits, fees, and available services, it is best to verify the details before you visit.
RiverFall Members Visiting Another Shared Branch
When you are traveling, attending college, moving, or simply away from a RiverFall branch, you may be able to complete an eligible transaction at a participating Shared Branch. Available services may include deposits, withdrawals, loan payments, transfers, and balance inquiries, depending on the location and your account.
What to Bring
Bring your RiverFall account number, a valid United States government-issued photo identification with a signature, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The location may have additional identification, transaction, or funds-availability requirements.
Guest Members Visiting RiverFall Centreville
RiverFall's Centreville Branch is a Shared Branch Acquirer location. Members of participating credit unions may visit Centreville for eligible Shared Branch transactions, which may include deposits, withdrawals, loan payments, transfers, and balance inquiries. Guest members should bring their home credit union account number, a valid United States government-issued photo identification with a signature, and the last four digits of their Social Security number.
Before You Visit
Use the Shared Branching locator to find a participating location, then contact that location directly to confirm its hours, available services, transaction limits, fees, and identification requirements. A participating location is not a RiverFall branch, and RiverFall cannot guarantee another institution's hours or services.
Questions About Your Account
RiverFall members should contact RiverFall for questions about a RiverFall account or a Shared Branch transaction involving that account. Guest members who visit Centreville should contact their home credit union for account-specific questions, holds, restrictions, or transaction disputes.
Visit RiverFall's Shared Branching page to access the Shared Branching locator and review what to bring. For questions about your RiverFall account, contact RiverFall at 205.759.1505.
{endAccordion}