Introducing Financial Exploration

Earlier this month we launched Financial Exploration, a member-exclusive program designed to provide our members even greater access to expert financial guidance and additional resources.

Whatever goal a member may have, our guides are available to help our members define the roadmap to get them there — buying a home, saving for retirement, purchasing a vehicle, or any other goal, big or small. No matter where a member is in the journey to that goal, Michigan First is here to help.

Tailored Conversations

Whether the conversations start with credit score basics and how to improve or build credit, how to create a better budget or savings plan, or a detailed investment plan to get them to retirement, we meet people where they are.

Every roadmap is unique to each individual, tailored to their needs and the progress they’ve made so far on their journey.

We don’t just look at a credit score and a credit score should never define someone. We look at the whole picture, the things you don’t learn from a number on a page. The successes and the missteps, the things that are going well and things that could be improved upon, the story that everyone brings to us — their why. Why they have the goals they do and why they’ve trusted us to help them get there. The things you learn from sitting down with someone, one-on-one, and having a real and honest conversation.

Education

When we opened our doors as Detroit Teachers Credit Union, we made a life-long commitment to education. We never want our members to feel like they can’t ask for help or more information on a topic, and always want them to feel comfortable inside the walls of Michigan First. This is why our Financial Exploration guides are always available to answer any question a member may have. Similar to the goals a member may have, no question is too big or too small.

• Why is my credit score the number that it is?
• Is it better to escrow my insurance and taxes?
• Is my budget on par with my financial situation?
• Can you give me a better rate than what I’m paying on my car or boat?
• I’m exploring my investment options, should I keep my money in a Fixed Annuity or a Certificate?
• Am I financially ready to buy a home?

Financial Exploration allows us the extra time to thoroughly answer these questions, and also the opportunity to take advantage of expert knowledge from Wealth Advisors, Lending Underwriters, Mortgage Loan officers, and other experts to provide extra guidance if a member wishes.

Resources

Some members may not need the complete guided tour but may be interested in learning more on their own. Financial Exploration provides a collection of our digital resources that members can explore on their own time. It’s an extension of our in-person conversations and a continued commitment to educating members, as well as the public.

Members can join seminars dedicated to credit education or homebuying, read up on all things finance through the MoneyWise blog, or take a more in-depth look at some of our available products. Fraud prevention tips and financial calculators are just a click away. Every resource listed is complimentary and at no-cost to Michigan First members.

Every component of Financial Exploration allows us to get to know our members even better than we do, so that we can continue to provide the right products and services. This is a program that will continue to grow and evolve as our members do, as we learn even more about their needs and how to assist every member, every time.