03 Jul

Back-to-School Supply Drive for Moss Point City Schools

Back-to-School Supply Drive for Moss Point City Schools

A Back-to-School Supply Drive is benefitting Moss Point City Schools

The devastating impact of natural disasters is felt long after the storm has passed, especially in the lives of children. In the wake of a powerful EF-2 tornado that struck the city of Moss Point, the need to rebuild and support the affected community is paramount. As the 2023-2024 school year looms, Navigator Credit Union continues supporting the city by partnering with WLOX for a Back-to-School Supply Drive.

Education is a vital foundation for every child's future. It provides stability, empowerment, and opportunities. However, in the aftermath of a disaster, accessing basic school supplies can become a significant challenge for families struggling to rebuild their lives. By supporting a back-to-school supply drive for the children of Moss Point, we can help ensure their educational journey continues despite the difficult circumstances they face.

School essentials such as backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, calculators, art supplies, and more are greatly needed. Gather these items or organize a collection drive in your workplace or community center. Supplies can be dropped off at Navigator's Moss Point Branch, located at 6012 Hwy 63, during regular business hours, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Click here for a complete list of supplies.

In the face of adversity, through acts of kindness, unity and compassion, we can restore hope and provide a path forward. Together, we can ensure that these young learners have the tools they need to embark on a bright future, despite recent challenges.

16 Dec

New Features Enhance the Member Calling Experience; Identifying Information Required

New Features Enhance the Member Calling Experience; Identifying Information Required

Navigator has made changes to our phone system to enhance the Member experience. When calling our Member Service Center (800-344-3281), you’ll have additional options and be asked for identifying information to expedite assistance.

By providing your info while waiting for a Member Service Representative, you’ll be assisted more promptly when your call is answered. You’ll need to have the following in order to verify your identity:

  • Your 10-digit account number;
  • The last six digits of your social security number; and
  • The first three characters of your last name.

The benefits to this pre-verification process include hearing your account balance and your last five transactions while on hold. And if you request a callback, you now have the option to leave a detailed message explaining the reason for your call. Members can also set appointments for callbacks during our regular business hours and up to three days in the future.

In addition, we’ve added new security features. Each time you call the Member Contact Center, an email is sent alerting you someone accessed your account information. If you receive such an alert and did not call us to access your information, please let us know immediately.

Need help finding your account number?
There are several ways you can locate your account number. Log into Navigator Online Banking, select the account (share or loan) you want to find the full account number. Click the Details tab then it will be under the “Account Number” column. Account numbers are used for deposits and payments.

You can also find your account number at the bottom of your Navigator checks. There are thirteen digits between the routing number and the check number; your account number is the last 10 digits before the check number. The illustration below explains each set of numbers printed on your checks:

Anatomy of a check graphic

  1. Routing Number: Navigator’s routing number is 265377950. Every credit union and bank has a unique nine-digit number used to identify the financial institution for monetary transactions. When using your account for making payments or when receiving funds, you can always find the routing number on a Navigator check or at www.navigatorcu.org.
  2. 3-Digit Prefix: your Checking Account number contains a three-digit prefix to use before your 10-digit account number. This prefix indicates you are using your Checking Account when paying bills by phone or online and to facilitate Automatic Clearinghouse (ACH) transactions (account transactions set up electronically or by phone, such as direct deposits, payroll deposits and vendor transactions.)
  3. Account Number: your 10-digit account number is the number for your primary account and should be used for all transactions at a Branch. It’s the number you should have ready when calling our Member Service Center (800-344-3281) in order to verify your identity while on hold.
  4. Check Number: this is used as a reference number to help you track any payment made by check.

Each time an account is opened, the new Member is provided a printed account information card with the printed 10-digit account number. You can request a new account information card by visiting any of our convenient Branch locations during regular business hours.

These new features are designed to help Navigator help you! With your identity already confirmed, our friendly Member Service Team Members can begin assisting you with the specific reason for your call without having to go through extended an identification verification procedure.

And while the process has changed, your call options remain the same; you can still dial an extension or select an option for your call to be transferred without waiting on hold. For example, choose option 3 for Lending or 5 for Mortgage Services.

Navigator’s Member Promise includes simplifying your life and also protecting your privacy. These new enhancements to our Call Center operations are more examples of the ways we’re delivering on our promises to you!

14 Jul

Understanding the Child Tax Credit Expansion

Understanding the Child Tax Credit Expansion

The American Rescue Plan Act temporarily expanded the Child Tax Credit, or CTC, for the 2021 tax year. The IRS will pay half the total credit amount in advance monthly payments beginning in July. Those eligible for the credit can claim the other half when filing their 2021 income tax returns.

Navigator Members may have questions about what the Child Tax Credit expansion means for them. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

Will I receive advance CTC payments?

Navigator does not know who will receive advanced CTC payments or how much a Member will receive. The IRS will use your 2020 income tax return to determine if you are eligible and automatically enroll you for the advance payments.

Can I find out when I receive an advance CTC payment deposited to my Navigator account?

Members can see pending deposits on our free mobile app and/or be notified through e-Alerts.

When using the app, the pending deposit displays on the specific account to which the deposit will be posted. Using the mobile app to see pending deposits eliminates the need to call the Credit Union and avoids long hold times waiting for information that is right at your fingertips. It also allows you to see your available balance and displays any pending debits.

For more information on Navigator’s free mobile app, click here.

What if my advance CTC payment is set to deposit to a closed account or one with a negative balance?

If a Member’s advance CTC payment is deposited into a charged off checking account or any closed account, it will be sent back to the U.S. Treasury with the notation: account closed. If the share account designated for the deposit has been charged-off and the Member has another open share, Navigator will deposit the payment into the open share. If the account designated for the deposit has a negative balance, Navigator will apply the payment to the negative balance.

What do I need to do to get my advance CTC payments?

Most families will begin receiving monthly payments without any additional action. Eligible families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 to 17.

People who need to file a 2020 federal income tax return may be able to prepare and file their federal income tax online using IRS Free File if their income is $72,000 or less.

People who don’t need to file a 2020 federal tax return can also use the Non-filer Sign-up Tool to register to receive the advance CTC payments, the Third Round Economic Impact Payment, and the Recovery Rebate Credit.

Do I have to have direct deposit to receive the advanced CTC payments?

The IRS will use data already in its systems to send the advanced Child Tax Credit payments. Taxpayers with direct deposit information on file will receive the payment that way. Those without current direct deposit information on file will receive a check or debit card in the mail.

Can I opt-out of the advanced CTC payments?

You can unenroll from the advanced payments and claim the full, increased amount on your 2021 income tax return. You can unenroll at any time. For more information, click here.

How do I get more information?

There’s a great deal of information on the IRS’s website.

Beware of fraud

Navigator is warning you of potential scams. Remember, you do not have to do anything to receive the advance CTC payments. The IRS will not email, text, call or direct-message anyone as initial contact. You should delete those messages unread. Clicking a link or responding could connect you with a scammer or infect your phone or computer with a virus.

Here are some other things to do instead:

  • Don’t respond to any communication from the IRS other than snail mail, and be sure it’s genuine. Real IRS correspondence has a notice (CP) or letter (LTR) number on either the top or the bottom right corner.
  • If your check will be mailed to you, go to com and sign up for Informed Delivery, which emails you photos of your mail before it is delivered. It’s free. When your check is expected, pick up your mail as quickly as possible or have someone do it for you.
  • If you believe your check was stolen from your mailbox, the IRS can trace the check and replace the money.
  • If someone tries to scam you out of some of the money or offers “help” in getting it sooner, you can report it to the FTC at reportfraud@ftc.gov.

Remember, Navigator and the IRS will never ask for your personal information such as social security or account numbers.

 

12 May

Pullbacks, Corrections and Bear Markets

Pullbacks, Corrections and Bear Markets

What’s the difference? What do these terms mean for you?

Provided by Jeffrey C. Hamm

The COVID-19 outbreak has put tremendous pressure on stock prices, prompting some investors to blindly and indiscriminately sell positions at a time when the entire market is trending lower. Worried investors believe “this time it’s different.” When the market drops, some investors lose perspective that downtrends – and uptrends – are part of the investing cycle. When stock prices break lower, it’s a good time to review common terms that are used to describe the market’s downward momentum.1,2

Pullbacks.

A pullback represents the mildest form of a selloff in the markets. You might hear an investor or trader refer to a dip of 5% to 10% after a peak as a “pullback.”1

Corrections.

The next degree in severity is a “correction.” If a market or markets retreats 10% to 20% after a peak, you’re in correction territory. At this point, you’re likely on guard for the next tier.1

Bear Market.

In a bear market, the decline is 20% or more since the last peak.1

All this is normal.

Pullbacks, corrections and bear markets are a part of the investing cycle. When stock prices are trending lower, some investors can second-guess their risk tolerance. But periods of market volatility can be the worst time to consider portfolio decisions.

Pullbacks and corrections are relatively common and represent something that any investor may see in their financial life, from time to time – often, several times over the course of a decade. Bear markets are much rarer. What we are experiencing now represents the start of the ninth bear market since 1926. This bear market follows the longest bull market on record.1

How is this bear market going to affect me?

That’s a good question, but it’s something that you won’t fully understand in the here and now. The average bear market lasts 146 days for the Standard & Poor’s 500.2

A retirement strategy, formed with the help of a trusted financial professional, has market volatility factored in. As you continue your relationship with that professional, they will also be at your side to make any adjustments as needed and help you make any necessary decisions along the way. Their goal is to help you pursue your goals.

Jeff may be reached at 228-474-3427

Learn more about NCU Wealth Management.

This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

Securities sold, advisory services offered through CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registered broker/dealer and investment advisor. CBSI is under contract with the financial institution to make securities available to members. Not NCUA/NCUSIF/FDIC insured, May Lose Value, No Financial Institution Guarantee. Not a deposit of any financial institution.

Citations

  1. kiplinger.com/slideshow/investing/T018-S001-25-dividend-stocks-analysts-love-the-most-2019/index.html [3/10/20]
  2. marketwatch.com/story/the-dow-just-tumbled-into-a-bear-market-ending-the-longest-bull-market-run-in-historyheres-how-those-downturns-last-on-average-2020-03-11 [3/14/2020]
08 Jul

Getting your vehicle road trip ready

Summer is here, and many people are looking forward to getting away. Wherever you are headed, Navigator Credit Union wants to help you get there safely.

A routine vehicle inspection is one step that can save a lot of unwanted stress down the road. The Mississippi Department of Transportation has some advice on what you can do to make sure your vehicle is vacation ready.

  • Check tires for tread wear and proper pressure
  • Check your battery
  • Make sure belts and hoses are in good shape
  • Replace your windshield wiper blades
  • Check all brake and head lights
  • Make sure your air conditioning is ready for the heat

Fluid levels, such as oil, brake, transmission, windshield, coolant and power steering, should also be inspected before hitting the road.

When traveling, it’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit on hand. The kit includes basic repair tools, jumper cables, first aid supplies, a flashlight and duct tape. Also, do not forget a spare car key, kept in a safe space.

These quick and easy steps can help you relax even more knowing your car has been prepped for this year’s road trip.

06 Jun

Navigator celebrates 80th Anniversary

Ingalls Employee Credit Union

Navigator Credit Union is celebrating eight decades of serving the Gulf Coast, and this month the celebration centers around a special day in June. It was June 24, 1939, when seven shipyard workers met and planned to form a credit union to offer co-workers opportunities for saving and for loans. Today, Navigator is Mississippi’s largest state-chartered credit union.

The Mutual Benefit Credit Union was the name chosen by the Ingalls Shipbuilding employees who were the founders and first members. The name was soon changed to Ingalls Employees Credit Union, and decades of growth and expansion of services followed. In 2003, the name Navigator Credit Union was chosen by its members to reflect the broader membership base their Credit Union had grown to serve.

Today, the full-service financial institution has 8 full-service Branches in Mississippi and 5 full-service Branches in Alabama. The Credit Union offers innovative financial services such as Save’N Up Debit Card Savings Program and Credit Builder Loans, as well as interest-bearing checking accounts, high yield savings plans, unlimited rewards credit cards, mortgage services, competitive vehicle loans, retirement planning and more.

A painting commissioned to commemorate Navigator’s 80 years, as “your family’s financial navigator” was unveiled at Navigator’s 80th Annual Shareholders’ Meeting in March and is being featured in anniversary festivities throughout the year. The painting, by a Jackson County (MS) artist, illustrates the unique communities the Credit Union serves. Daphne’s mossy oaks and piers; Mobile’s Middle Bay Lighthouse and historic homes; Pascagoula’s Round Island Lighthouse, bayou fishing camps, pine savannas and forests of Gautier, Hurley and Vancleave; Ocean Springs’ downtown marquee and the Port of Gulfport’s anchor are depicted. The state flowers of Mississippi and Alabama, the magnolia and camellia, are featured, and the Credit Union’s founding sponsor Ingalls Shipbuilding is at its center.

Please join Navigator Monday, June 24, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at any Branch for a special “Birthday Party” celebration. Members will enjoy light refreshments and commemorative party favors while supplies last. You can find the Branch closest to you by clicking here.

A lot has changed since that muggy day along the east bank of the Pascagoula River, yet the belief “People Mean More than Money” is still fundamental to today’s Navigator Credit Union. Navigator continues to be a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution working in the best interest of its Members.

13 Feb

Free Community Shred Day

Navigator Credit Union is committed to protecting your privacy. In keeping with our promise, we’re partnering with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office for a free community shred day. But how do you know what to shred and what to keep? Navigator has your guide to how long you should keep certain documents.

Save forever
Keep documents related to major life events – birth, marriage, divorce and death. Lock securely:

  • Birth certificates or adoption papers
  • Social Security Cards
  • Citizenship papers or passports
  • Marriage or divorce decrees
  • Death certificates of family members

Also, keep auto titles and home deeds stored safety for as long as you own the property.

Tax records
Keep tax-related records for seven years. While IRS has three years to audit you, it has up to seven years under certain circumstances. A seven-year window should cover you in either event. The Federal Trade Commission suggests keeping tax returns forever.

Home improvement receipts
Keep these receipts until you sell our home, since certain expenses may reduce your capital gains tax.

Other records
According to the FTC, you can shred many other documents sooner than seven years. After paying credit card or utility bills, shred them immediately. Also shred sales receipts, unless related to warranties, taxes or insurance. After one year, shred bank statements, pay stubs and medical bills (unless you have an unresolved insurance dispute or these documents should be kept as tax records).

Free community shred day
The free shred event is set for Saturday, March 9, 2019 at Walmart located at 3615 Sangani Blvd., D’Iberville, Miss. It will be from 8 a.m. until noon or when the truck is full. Community members may bring up to three bags or boxes of documents to be shredded. It is on a first-come, first serve basis. The free shred day is not open to businesses.

Free shred day set for March 9, 2019 at Walmart in D'Iberville, Miss