KCCU in the community

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage isn't just a step, it's your secret weapon to becoming the buyer sellers actually want to work with.

In 2026's real estate market, pre-approval is more important than ever. Here's why: sellers are receiving multiple offers, and they want to work with buyers they can trust. A pre-approval letter tells them you're serious. You've already gone through the financial vetting process. A lender has reviewed your income, credit score, debt, and assets—and given you the green light. That's powerful.

Without pre-approval, you're essentially asking sellers to take a gamble on you. Will your financing actually come through? Does your income really match what you're claiming? Are you actually qualified to borrow that much? Pre-approval answers all those questions upfront. It's not a maybe—it's a verified yes from a professional lender.

Know Your Real Budget (No More Guessing Games)

The Sellers' Perspective: Why Your Pre-Approval Letter Is Your Golden Ticket

Here's something most first-time buyers don't realize: sellers care about pre-approval almost as much as you should.

When a seller receives multiple offers in 2026, they're making a tough choice. Sure, one offer might be $5,000 higher than another. But if that higher offer comes from a buyer without pre-approval, and the lower offer comes from a pre-approved buyer, many sellers will take the lower offer. Why? Because the lower offer is certain. The pre-approved buyer is less likely to have financing fall through.

Think about it from the seller's perspective: they're about to hand over the keys to their home. They need to know the deal will actually close. They've already accepted your offer, so they've stopped showing the home to other buyers. Their real estate agent is preparing the paperwork. Everyone's counting on you to secure financing. If your loan falls through at the last minute, they're back to square one—and they've lost weeks.

Pre-approval dramatically reduces that risk. It tells sellers: this buyer is legit. This buyer has already proven their finances to a professional lender. The financing isn't a question mark, it's locked in. You're the safe choice, the buyer they want to work with. That might be the difference between your offer being accepted or rejected.

Getting Pre-Approved vs. Pre-Qualified: Why the Difference Matters

You might have heard both terms thrown around, and they sound similar. But they're very different, and understanding the difference could save you from embarrassment later.

Pre-qualification is a rough estimate. You give a lender basic information about your income and credit, and they tell you a ballpark figure of what you might be able to borrow. It takes 15 minutes, and it's not binding. It's helpful for getting a general sense of your budget, but it's not a promise. The lender hasn't verified anything. They're taking your word for it.

Pre-approval is the real deal. You've provided documentation—pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, proof of employment. The lender has pulled your credit report and verified everything you've told them. They've checked your debts, your assets, your employment history. After all that verification, they've decided: yes, we will lend you this amount of money. It's a commitment, not a guess.

So if you're serious about buying in 2026, skip pre-qualification and go straight to pre-approval. It takes a bit longer (usually a few days), but it's absolutely worth it.

What Happens Next: Your Path from Pre-Approval to Keys in Hand

Getting pre-approved is a major milestone, but it's not the finish line. Let's walk through what comes next so you feel confident about the journey.

Step 1: You've got your pre-approval letter. This is valid for about 90 days. You can now start house hunting with confidence.

Step 2: You find a home you love and make an offer. Your real estate agent includes your pre-approval letter with your offer. Sellers see it. You're competitive.

Step 3: Your offer is accepted. Congratulations! Now the real work begins. You and the seller agree on a closing date (usually 30-45 days away).

Step 4: You move to full mortgage approval. This is when you work more closely with your lender at KCCU. You'll do a home inspection, get a professional appraisal done, and finalize your loan terms. The lender wants to make sure the home is worth what you're borrowing.

Step 5: Final walkthrough and closing. A few days before closing, you walk through the home one more time to make sure everything agreed upon is still in place. Then you sign paperwork, provide your down payment, and get your keys.

The whole process from pre-approval to keys in hand usually takes 40-60 days. Your KCCU team will guide you through every step, answer your questions, and keep things moving forward. You won't feel lost or confused because you'll have a professional in your corner.

Ready to Get Pre-Approved? Here's How KCCU Makes It Easy

If you're ready to stop wondering and start knowing your real buying power, getting pre-approved with KCCU is simpler than you think.

Here's what you need to do:

• Gather your documents: Have recent pay stubs, your last two years of tax returns, bank statements showing your savings, and your ID ready. Don't worry if you don't have everything perfect—KCCU can help you figure out what you need.
• Contact KCCU: Reach out to our mortgage team. You can call, email, or apply online. Whatever feels easiest for you.
• Have a conversation: A mortgage specialist will talk through your situation, answer your questions, and explain the process. This isn't intimidating—it's a friendly chat with someone who's helped hundreds of buyers.
• Submit your application: You'll provide your financial information, and KCCU will verify everything with employers, banks, and credit bureaus.
• Get your pre-approval letter: Within a few business days, you'll have your letter in hand. You're officially ready to make an offer.

The best part? KCCU is a credit union, and we care about your financial health. Our mortgage specialists will be honest with you about what makes sense for your situation. They'll help you understand your options and find a loan that works for your life—not just today, but five, ten, twenty years from now.

Getting pre-approved isn't just about jumping through hoops. It's about taking control of your homebuying journey. It's about walking into negotiations from a position of strength. It's about knowing, without a doubt, that when you find the right home, you can actually buy it.

Stop wondering if you're ready to buy. Let KCCU show you that you are. Contact our mortgage team today and take the first step toward owning your home.

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If you live, work, worship, or attend school in Michigan, KCCU is an option for you. Starting a membership is easy; all you need is a $5 deposit. You don't need a Kellogg's cereal commection, no Battle Creek address, and we definitely don't require you to jump through any hoops. 

If you've never been a member of a credit union, we bet you have a lot of questions about the process of joining, and what makes it different from opening a bank account. We'll walk you through it all - from who qualifies, to what joining looks like, and why thousands of Michigan residents have made KCCU their financial home for decades. 

Do I Have to Work at Kellogg's to Join KCCU? 

Who is Eligible to Join KCCU? 

You are eligible to join KCCU if you: 

• Live in Michigan
• Work in Michigan 
• Worship in Michigan 
• Attend school in Michigan 
• Own/operate a business in Michigan 

Relatives of KCCU members are also eligible for membership with us! Regardless of where you live or work, if your family member is a member, you are eligible as well. 

What's the Difference Between Joining a Credit Union and Opening a Bank Account?

You're an Owner, Not Just a Customer 

The idea of “joining” a financial institution might feel unfamiliar if you’ve only ever used big banks to manage your money. The key distinction of joining a credit union is that you become a part-owner of the establishment instead of simply being a customer.

“When you become a member at KCCU, you are simply opening an account like you would with a bank,” Rori Ross, Vice President of Marketing at KCCU, explains. “The main difference is that when you open an account, you become a member and part-owner of KCCU. You must deposit $5 in your savings account upon opening the account and keep that $5 in the account. That’s your membership/ownership share in the credit union.”

What That Means For Your Money

Unlike banks, credit unions are not-for-profit. Profits are returned to members by way of reduced fees, higher savings rates, and lower loan rates.

At a bank, the profits go to outside shareholders. At KCCU, they come back to you.

“Credit unions are member-owned, whereas banks are owned by shareholders,” Ross says. “Our executive team reports to a voluntary board of directors who have our members’ best interest in mind, compared to banks who have shareholders and are more profit-driven.”

How Do You Actually Join a Credit Union? 

What to Bring 

Joining KCCU is very simple. Stop by any branch and speak with a Member Service Representative, and bring your Social Security card and one of the following: 

• Driver's license
• State-issued ID card
• Travel visa
• Passport

From there, KCCU membership requires a minimum savings account deposit of only $5.

What to Expect

“Opening an account at KCCU is simple and quick,” Ross notes. “Typically, we can open an account in 30 minutes, but that may vary depending on what products and services are being opened. You will leave with a KCCU membership card and other account documentation. Once you’re a member, you have access to all of our products and services.”

And that’s it. Just bring your ID, Social Security card, $5, and you’re all done. From that point forward, you’re a member-owner of a financial institution that’s been serving Michigan since 1941.

Once a Member, Always a Member. What Does That Mean? 

Your KCCU Membership Follows You for Life 

One of the most meaningful benefits of credit union membership is something called the “Once a Member, Always a Member” policy. This means you’ll have access to KCCU’s products and services for a lifetime, even if you retire, change jobs, or relocate.

Your membership gets locked in the moment that you join. If you want to move to another state 10 years down the road, you don’t have to requalify or look for another financial institution. You are a KCCU member for life.

Why Members Stay 

This lifetime membership quality is why we have members that stay with us for 30, 40, even 50 years.

“Many long-time members enjoy the low turnover rate with our employees,” Ross explains. “They appreciate being treated with kindness, patience, and care, and they recognize our professionalism. Furthermore, several long-time members see our staff as more than consultants and tellers, they see them as family.”

What Can You Do as a KCCU Member? 

Many people think that, since credit unions are smaller operations than banks, they don’t (or can’t) offer as much as a big bank does. That is not the case at KCCU.

“There may be some misconception because we are a local credit union. People may think that we don’t offer all the services of a large bank, but we do. Sometimes, we offer even more. We are truly a one-stop shop for all financial needs. And we do it with personalized, local service.”

A Full Look at KCCU's Products and Services 

Here’s a quick rundown of what KCCU offers:

• Checking and savings accounts (including a high-yield eChecking account)
• Auto, boat, and RV loans
• Mortgages and home equity loans
• Personal (signature) loans and credit cards
• Business checking and commercial lending
• Certificates of deposit (CDs) and IRAs 
• Investment services through LPL Financial
• Insurance products
• A full digital banking suite (that includes online banking, a mobile app, mobile deposit, bill pay, text banking, and more)

Your Money is Protected

Your money is just as safe here as it would be at any bank. KCCU is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), which is the credit union equivalent of the FDIC, and it insures deposits up to $250,000.

KCCU has also been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Credit Unions for three years running, which speaks to the quality and consistency that our members experience.

Why Would People Choose a Credit Union Over a Big Bank? 

Our Service is Personal 

“Many people have transitioned from a big bank to our credit union because of their positive experiences with our personal service, lower fees, and competitive rates. We often hear from individuals that they felt like, at a bank, they were just a number. But, at KCCU, we treat them like family and have their best interest in mind,” says Ross.

“Being a member at KCCU goes beyond just a bank account,” Ross continues. “Being a member at KCCU means walking into your favorite branch to team members who offer a warm smile, and who are excited to greet you and ask how you’ve been. We’re your biggest cheerleaders, financial consultants, neighbors, friends, and family.”

The Financial Benefits

Because KCCU is a not-for-profit cooperative, it is able to offer lower loan rates and higher savings rates than many big banks. Those benefits go directly back to the people who bank at a credit union.

Are You Ready to Make the Switch? 

“At KCCU, we can be the one stop for all of your financial needs,” Ross says. That’s what she most wants potential new members to understand. “We will always have your best interests in mind. KCCU is a local organization, and the team that serves you lives, works, and supports your local community.”

Getting started is as easy as stopping by any KCCU branch and bringing your ID, Social Security card and $5. You can also visit kccu4u.org to learn more about membership, explore rates, and see everything else that KCCU has to offer.

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Throughout the winter months, you’re either saving up for holiday gifts or trying to recover from them. Financially, things might feel a bit tighter than usual, especially with ever-rising prices on just about everything. While winter gives you a good excuse to stay in and save money, it’s completely normal to feel bored and at a crossroads. Do you hibernate all winter to save cash, or do you splurge on $100 ski rentals at Boyne for one day of fun?

Luckily, KCCU is here to remind you that finding cheap winter activities in Michigan doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re looking for fun with the whole family or planning something with friends, there’s plenty to enjoy during the Mitten’s snowy season.

Outdoor Activities

1. Peabody Ice Climbing - Looking for a chilling, adventurous experience that makes you feel like you’re on top of the world? Peabody Ice Climbing in Fenton, MI offers the chance to climb their 45-ft and 75-ft ice towers—perfect for both beginners and experienced climbers. It’s fun for the whole family, and day passes are $25 per person (rental gear not included).

2. Echo Valley - Get ready for a day full of excitement with Echo Valley’s snow tubing, tobogganing, and ice skating all for $25! Located in Kalamazoo, MI, you can experience sledding at a whole new level with quarter-mile toboggan runs that reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. If you’re looking for a longer ride, enjoy the tubing hill with a paved and heated walking path, or go ice skating throughout the park. No matter what you choose, you’re guaranteed to make warm winter memories.

3. Christkindl Market - From November 19th through December 23rd, Grand Rapids is hosting its third annual Christkindl Market. Explore a wide variety of delicious food, drinks, handmade gifts, and more, with 60+ vendors in attendance. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, the Christkindl Market offers a warm, scenic, and festive environment to stroll through and enjoy.

4. Millennium Park - If you’re looking for an affordable place to ice skate, head to Millennium Park in Kalamazoo, MI. Admission is just $5, and skate rentals are $3. Enjoy being outdoors while taking in the city’s lively winter atmosphere.

5. Flurry of Fun - Held in Kalamazoo in February, Flurry of Fun is packed with winter activities at absolutely no cost. Enjoy a hot chocolate station, s’more station, mobile library, storytelling tent, winter golf, winter obstacle courses, snow toss, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring your little ones for a magical day they won’t forget. More information on dates and pre-registration will be available in January.

6. Winter Wanderland - Downtown Battle Creek is hosting the Winter Wanderland event on December 6th from 2:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. Explore the city while enjoying free horse-drawn wagon rides and a mini Polar Express train. You’ll also find holiday markets and artisan vendors throughout the event.

Indoor Activities

1. Crafting for Adults - If you’re searching for a warmer, lighthearted activity, Willard Library in Battle Creek, MI offers adult craft nights. They feature a variety of projects, one of them being a chunky-yarn snowman. Stay updated on their website as well as All Events – Battle Creek to see what’s happening throughout the winter.

2. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (KIA) - Enjoy free general admission on Thursdays at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. Stop in to browse beautiful artwork ranging from paintings and ceramics to photographs, prints, and sculptures.

3. Improv Night - Get your giggles in this winter at Crawlspace Comedy Theatre in Kalamazoo, MI. On December 12th, Crawlspace is hosting an improv night for $15 per ticket.

4. Winter Book Swap - Visit Sit & Stay Winery on December 4th in Kalamazoo, MI for a cozy evening of reading, delicious wine and food, and friendly conversation. The winery offers a warm, welcoming environment—perfect for a low-cost night out.

5. Trivia Night - Test your knowledge for free at LFG Gaming Bar in Kalamazoo, MI. Trivia Night takes place every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m., making it the perfect mid-week pick-me-up. Bring friends or family to team up—or spark some friendly competition!

6. Marshall Indoor Flea Market - If you’re big into flea markets but not into cold weather, Marshall’s indoor winter flea market is calling your name! Browse local produce, baked goods, and artisan shops as a refreshing morning activity. Admission is free, so it’s entirely up to your budget how much you spend on goodies and gifts.

No matter which activities you choose this season, KCCU hopes you—and your wallet—stay cozy all winter long. Happy holidays from KCCU!

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 The temperature is dropping, the leaves are falling, and the snow is on its way. These are all tell-tale signs of fuzzy sweaters, hot cocoa, and most of all, the holidays. The holiday shopping season is close to being in full swing. If you’re wondering how you’re going to pay for this frenzy of shopping while keeping your checking account in the black, you’re not alone.

The most important thing to remember is to plan ahead: Have a set spending amount for gifts, wrap, entertainment, donations, and travel.

Make a list and check it twice

If your finances are tight you might have to evaluate your gift-recipient list to stay in budget this year. Once you trim your list, make a holiday treat or handmade token for those who got the cut. It really IS the thought that counts.

Once you have your list complete, figure out a realistic amount to spend on each person. Jot down a couple of gift ideas in your price range for that person.

Try a budgeting app like Mint to keep your spending in check. You can use Mint for regular monthly budgeting, but it also allows you to allocate more funds for holiday purchases. Using graphs and reports, it shows how much you’ve spent and how it will affect your budget in the months to come.

The iSpending app uses charts to show your expenses and how much you have left to spend, while CashTrails allows you to separate your normal expenditures from special purchases like holidays and travel.

Shopping

Most people want to avoid crowds, so they may hit stores earlier in the season or shop online. Retailers are well aware of this trend and are offering pre-Black Friday sales and discounts.

Spreading out your holiday shopping over several weeks also makes it easier on your budget. Always shop with a list and keep track of your spending. As you buy your gifts, subtract from your total budget.

In addition to shopping the sales and collecting coupon codes for online purchases, know when to buy. December is the best time to buy cars, appliances, winter clothing, and electronics. Also, know how much items cost before a markdown to know if you’re really getting a deal.

If you’re shopping online, order early and expect delays in shipping. Increased shopping during the holidays will affect already-strained delivery companies. To avoid shipping delays and higher shipping costs, shop at stores that offer “buy online, ship to store” service. This service is free at most retailers, some of which offer curbside pickup.

Get the best deals on cards, decorations and gift wrap during the days right before and after Christmas. Discounts of up to 75% off can shave a lot off your holiday budget for next year.

Entertaining

The best part about the holidays is getting together with your loved ones to enjoy each other’s company, which of course, can still be just as delightful when following a budget. If you’re hosting guests, keep costs down by asking everyone to bring their favorite side or dessert and include festive recipe cards with the chef’s name.

Use DIY decor featuring natural items, like holly and pinecones. Gather the kids and go on a hike to find outdoor holiday decorations. Not only will it save you money, but it will also give you some stress-free outdoor time with your family.

Travel

If you must travel home for the holidays, don’t forget to figure in other incidentals beyond gasoline and the cost of a plane ticket.

If you’re traveling by car, gas prices have luckily seen a steady dip. Still the GasBuddy app can help you find the best prices for gasoline wherever you are. Don’t forget to figure in tolls and any emergency costs that may come up.

If you’re flying, consider baggage fees, parking and shuttle costs and the expense of ground transportation once you arrive.

And don’t forget Fluffy! You’ll need to pay someone to take care of your furry friends. The Rover app can help you find pet care options near your home.

Charitable giving

The holidays are a time for goodwill toward all. But if your budget cannot accommodate a monetary donation, volunteer your time. If you can make a financial donation, be sure to check that the charity you are supporting is legitimate.

Keep your holiday dollars in check, and you may have some holiday spirit left over even after the last elf is packed away and the January bills start rolling in.

We at KCCU wish you all a happy, healthy and stress-free holiday season!

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Kellogg Community Credit Union (KCCU) is proud to kick off our annual toy drive, bringing joy to children who might otherwise go without a gift during the holidays. Now in its 23rd year, KCCU continues this heartwarming tradition of collecting toys and gifts for local children in need. 

This year, all KCCU branches are excited to support local organizations dedicated to bringing holiday joy to children of all ages - from infants to teens. We invite our members and the community to join us by donating new toys and games for kids up to 17 years old. For our teenage recipients, gift cards make a wonderful choice, giving them the chance to choose something special from their own wish list. 

Donations can be dropped off at any KCCU branch from November 10th through December 13th, 2025. Please remember to keep the donated gifts unwrapped. By contributing a gift, you can help brighten a child's holiday and bring the joy of the season to families across West Michigan! 

"At KCCU, the holiday season is a time to reflect on the importance of generosity and community," shared Tracy Miller, CEO of KCCU. "We are honored to once again host our annual toy drive, helping to bring joy and hope to children and teens during this special time of year. We invite our members and the broader community to join us in making a meaningful difference - together, we can help ensure the season is brighter for those who need it most." 

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Kellogg Community Credit Union, headquartered in Battle Creek, Michigan is a full-service financial institution serving people who live, work, worship, or attend school in the state of Michigan. With $925 million in assets, KCCU proudly serves over 54,000 members in Michigan, with branches in Battle Creek, Marshall, Kalamazoo, Portage, Richland, Grand Rapids, Schoolcraft, and Three Rivers. A community leader since 1941, KCCU consistently outperforms other financial institutions with outstanding service satisfaction ratings and a long history of growth. For more information, please visit www.kccu4u.org. Connect with KCCU on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 

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Kellogg Community Credit Union (KCCU) will kick off its annual coat drive on September 15 to help the members of the communities they serve stay warm this winter. The coat drive will run until October 31, and items can be dropped off in the lobby at any KCCU branch location. Financial hardship can make it difficult for some families and individuals to ensure they are dressed properly this fall and winter, making this annual coat drive especially timely. KCCU knows their team, members, and the community will come together and show support for this worthy cause, as they have done for many years past. 

KCCU is committed to helping provide cold-weather gear for those who may need assistance, so they are collecting new and gently used coats, snow pants, hats, mittens, and scarves that are clean and in good condition, in all sizes from adults to infants and everything in between. The items collected will be distributed to local families in need by community partners. 

"KCCU is deeply committed to supporting the communities we serve in every way possible," said KCCU's CEO, Tracy Miller. "With the colder months just around the corner, we want to make sure everyone in our community has access to warm clothing. Our annual Coat Drive is one of the many ways we strive to give back and embody our 'people helping people' philosophy. Together with our incredible community partners, we're honored to make a positive difference for families and individuals who may need a little extra help as the cold weather approaches. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donates and helps us make a lasting impact!" 

KCCU's vision statement includes, "providing opportunity and lifelong value to our members and our community." KCCU takes this statement seriously, and for the past twenty-one years, they have hosted a Coat Drive in partnership with community-based organizations as part of their commitment to their vision. 

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Kellogg Community Credit Union, headquartered in Battle Creek, Michigan is a full-service financial institution serving people who live, work, worship, or attend school in the state of Michigan. With $928 million in assets, KCCU proudly serves over 54,000 members in Michigan, with branches in Battle Creek, Marshall, Kalamazoo, Portage, Richland, Grand Rapids, and Three Rivers. A community leader since 1941, KCCU consistently outperforms other financial institutions with outstanding service satisfaction ratings and a long history of growth. For more information, please visit www.kccu4u.org. Connect with KCCU on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 

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Juggling debt payments while balancing everyday expenses can be exhausting. With multiple loans and credit cards boasting different interest rates, payment amounts, and due dates, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by mounting financial obligations. The pressure can take a toll on your well-being, leaving you stressed – mentally and financially.

But there’s a solution to simplify the repayment process while keeping more money in your wallet: debt consolidation.

Debt consolidation combines multiple debts into one loan, often with a lower interest rate and a fixed repayment schedule.

Here are seven ways debt consolidation can help improve your finances and increase your savings:

1. Fewer Payments

Consolidating debt makes handling monthly finances easier. Instead of trying to track numerous due dates and minimum payments, you focus on a single debt obligation. This helps you keep bills organized and reduces the chance of missed payments and the resulting late fees.

2. Lower Interest Rates

Debt consolidation can help you secure a lower interest rate on outstanding balances. By replacing multiple high-interest debts with a single loan at a lower rate, you can save a substantial amount of money over time.

3. Fixed Repayment Terms

With debt consolidation, you’ll have a stable repayment schedule. Knowing exactly when and what you need to pay can offer significant peace of mind. Plus, a fixed repayment term provides certainty, allowing you to budget more accurately and track financial milestones.

4. Faster Debt Elimination

If you consolidate your debts into a loan with a lower interest rate, more of each payment goes toward eliminating the principal balance. This accelerated repayment can help you become debt-free more quickly, saving you money on interest and providing a sense of accomplishment.

5. Increased Savings

Whether you want to save for a trip abroad or build a 6-month emergency fund, debt consolidation can provide the financial breathing room needed to hit your financial targets. The potential interest savings from a lower-rate loan means you can allocate more money toward savings each month, helping you achieve your financial dreams.

6. Less Stress

Constant financial worry can negatively impact your quality of life. Debt consolidation reduces this mental strain by providing a single, manageable payment. Gaining control of your finances can positively impact your relationships, work performance, and overall happiness.

7. Improved Credit Scores

Debt consolidation can positively impact your credit score by reducing your credit utilization rate - the amount of credit used compared to the total available credit. A higher credit score can open the doors to lower insurance premiums, certain employment opportunities, and expanded housing options.

Debt consolidation scenario*:

Jenny finds herself in a challenging financial situation with three credit cards carrying the following balances and interest rates:
 

Jenny's total debt amounts to $10,000, and she's struggling with high interest rates on all three cards. To simplify her payments and potentially save money, Jenny decides to explore debt consolidation using a personal loan.

After researching her options, Jenny applies for a debt consolidation loan of $10,000 with an 11% APR and a 24-month repayment term. Upon approval, she uses this loan to pay off all three credit card balances, leaving her with a single monthly payment to manage.

Before consolidation:

• Jenny had three separate payments to keep track of
• She was paying an average interest rate of about 20%
• Over two years, she would pay approximately $4,080 in interest

After consolidation:

• Jenny now has one monthly payment
• Her interest rate is reduced to 11%
• She has a fixed repayment term of 24 months

Over two years, she will pay about $2,200 in interest

This consolidation could save Jenny money on interest charges and simplify her debt repayment process, making it easier for her to manage her finances and pay off her debt more efficiently.

NOTE: While debt consolidation offers numerous benefits, there is a risk of accruing new debt if the underlying reason for overspending is not addressed.

Debt consolidation is a powerful money management strategy that can help you take control of your future. Ready to take the next step? KCCU is here to support you every step of the way. Visit us online, call us at 800.854.5421, or stop by a branch location to learn how debt consolidation can work for you.

*This is a hypothetical situation provided for illustrative purposes only. Your results may differ.

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KCCU named as one of America's best credit unions

KCCU is thrilled to announced that it has been recognized as one of America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2025 by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group for the second year in a row. Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group recognized top regional banks and credit unions in the United States, by conducting a large-scale study based on the analysis of over 9,000 institutions, more than 70,000 customer surveys and millions of social media reviews.

This award recognizes KCCU’s community impact and commitment to the company’s vision of “providing financial opportunity, choice, and lifelong value to our members and our community.” Multiple factors were analyzed when compiling the list of the region’s best banks and credit unions, including simplicity of account management, minimization of account holder risk, enhanced transaction experience, and staff interaction.

"It is truly affirming to our dedicated team and loyal members to be recognized as a top credit union for the second year in a row,” stated Tracy Miller, KCCU’s CEO. “We strive to provide our members with the best value and services possible to support them in their financial journeys. We wouldn’t have been granted this honor if it wasn’t for our members!"

Global Editor in Chief for Newsweek, Nancy Cooper said, “Regional banks and credit unions are the financial backbone of communities nationwide as they support small businesses, fund local projects, and ensure easy access to essential banking services.” Cooper added, “Newsweek and market-data research firm Plant-A Insights are proud to introduce ‘America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2025’, highlighting companies utilizing a community- and customer-centric approach to make a big financial impact in their neighborhoods.”

KCCU was named "Best of the Best" in three categories by the community (Feb 2025).

Readers of the Battle Creek Shopper and community members voted KCCU as the Best of the Best for:

• Best Credit Union
• Best Bank
• Best Mortgage Lender

"We are truly humbled and honored to be recognized by our members and the community in three amazing categories; Best Credit Union, Best Bank, and Best Mortgage Lender" said Tracy Miller, CEO of KCCU. "At KCCU, we don't just work here, we live in the communities we serve. We're your neighbors, your friends, and your biggest financial cheerleaders," she continued. "We see this recognition as a testament to the dedication of our incredible team and the trust and support of our members. It's our pleasure to provide the best financial solutions to help enrich the communities we serve."

KCCU was named "Best of the Best" by The Morning Star and The Recorder newspaper readers (Aug 2025)

The Morning Star and The Recorder newspapers cover Eastern Calhoun and Jackson County. Readers from these areas voted KCCU as the "Best Bank/Credit Union." 

"It has been an absolute honor to receive such meaningful and positive feedback from our members and the community" said Tracy Miller, CEO of KCCU. "Our members are at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition means the world to us as it comes directly from the communities we are proud to serve. This award is a reflection of the strong relationships we've built together, and we are so grateful for the trust and support you have placed in us." 

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_{Photo caption: Pictured from L-R: SWMI First Chamber Director, Clarence Lloyd; KCCU CEO, Tracy Miller; KCCU CCO, Amber Mallernee; KCCU VP of HR, Jessica Bissenden; SWMI First Chamber Membership & Events Coordinator, Kevin Crittenden; Chamber Ambassador, Rex Simpson, Owner of Hobby-Sports}

KCCU receives Best Workplace award

October 14, 2022

Kellogg Community Credit Union is thrilled and honored to announce that we have received the Best Workplace award for 2022 by the Southwest Michigan First Chamber!

The 2022 Chamber’s Choice awards exist to partner with our community to recognize and celebrate the businesses and leaders that are making a huge impact in Kalamazoo County. There are currently (8) Chamber’s Choice awards and (10) Best of Kalamazoo County awards. One of the Best of Kalamazoo County award categories is Best Workplace which recognizes an organization that is a leader in workplace employee happiness, engagement, culture, retention, and attraction. Based on this description and after the votes were tabulated, Kellogg Community Credit Union received the highest total number of votes in this category!

“The Southwest Michigan First Chamber is honored to celebrate the team at Kellogg Community Credit Union as the winner for the Best of Kalamazoo County – Best Workplace award for 2022,” stated Clarence Lloyd, Director, Southwest Michigan First Chamber. “There has never been a more critical time for companies to focus on building world-class employee culture and serving their business mission by first serving their teams. Congratulations to the team at KCCU for being awarded this community recognition.”

“We feel truly honored to receive Southwest Michigan First’s 2022 Best of Kalamazoo County Award for Best Workplace!” said Amber Mallernee, KCCU’s CCO. “KCCU was nominated and selected by public vote, based on our workplace culture and engagement. We are incredibly grateful for our team, our members, and the community!”

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Kellogg Community Credit Union was featured in a recent creditunions.com article. The article showcases KCCU's balance between loan growth and member impact, and how KCCU strives to provide greater value in the products and services offered to members. Want to learn more? Read the article here.

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