Merry and Mindful Holiday Shopping

FREE WEBINAR
Wednesday, September 30, 2026
2 - 3 p.m.

The holiday season can bring joy, generosity, excitement—and financial stress. Join our friends at Greenpath to learn how to develop practical strategies for staying financially balanced during one of the most emotionally charged spending seasons of the year.
 

ACFCU-Earns-Savings-Excellence-Award

ACFCU has earned the America Saves Designation of Savings Excellence award for the third year in a row.  Hannah Hutchins, ACFCU marketing manager, coordinated the 2026 campaign on behalf of the credit union. 

What Is Check Fraud? How It Happens and Why It’s Increasing

Understanding what check fraud is and why it’s increasing can help you protect your money and avoid becoming a victim.  

Farmer, Nickles Earn Financial Counselor Designation

ACFCU is proud to announce Norton Branch Manager Leah Farmer and Johnson City Branch Manager Kendra Nickles have earned the Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation.

Pause. Ask. Protect.

Elder financial abuse is more common than many people realize, and it’s often happening quietly.

Snider named CLO

ACFCU recently announced the addition of Miles Snider as Chief Lending Officer.   

ACFCU Earns Diamond Award

Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union named Diamond Awards recipient amid record-breaking competition.

Six Steps to Establishing a Spending & Savings Plan

Feel more confident in your finances by establishing a spending and savings plan by following these six steps.

ACFCU named MemberXP Best of the Best

ACFCU has been named a 2026 MemberXP Best of the Best Award winner, earning national recognition for delivering exceptional, data validated member experiences. 

Plan Your 2026 Finances with Ease

Financial wellness doesn't have to mean strict spreadsheets. It's about taking small, actionable steps to feel more in control.  

Mullins to retire, Penland named successor

ACFCU recently announced the retirement of Andrew J. Mullins III, President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 31, 2026.  The Board of Directors has appointed Paul G. Penland as Mullins’ successor. Penland will serve as President and CEO Designate until Mullins’ retirement, at which time he will officially assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer.

Nickles Named Johnson City Branch Manager

Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) is pleased to announce Kendra Nickles has joined the credit union as Branch Manager of its Johnson City location.

Your Paycheck-to-Paycheck Holiday Survival Guide

The holidays should bring joy. However, when every trip to the grocery store or gas station feels more expensive than the last, the season can also bring a heavy dose of stress. Read more for tips to ease the holiday financial stress.

Stay Ahead of Seasonal Home Costs

As the seasons shift, so do the expenses that come with keeping a home comfortable and running smoothly. Check out these simple ways to get ahead.

ACFCU Earns Savings Excellence Award

ACFCU has earned the 2025 America Saves Designation of Savings Excellence award for the second year in a row.  Hannah Hutchins, ACFCU marketing manager, coordinated the campaign on behalf of the credit union. 

Farmer Named Norton Branch Manager

Leah Farmer has joined Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) as branch manager of the Norton, Va. location.

In Memory of J.B. Oaks

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our long-time Board Director, James “J.B.” Oaks.

Race Earns Financial Counselor Designation

ACFCU is proud to announce Rogersville Branch Manager Misti Race has earned the Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation through the Enhanced Financial Counselor Certification Program offered by the Tennessee Credit Union League.

National Homeownership Month

June is National Homeownership Month: How Credit Unions Are Part of the American Dream

World Elder Abuse Awareness

Through community outreach and statewide engagement, we can raise this social issue to a worldwide priority that must be addressed and prevented. Check out this article to learn more on scams.

Brooks Joins ACFCU

Melissa Brooks has joined Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) as branch manager of the newly opened Church Hill branch.

ACFCU Honored with Best of the Best Award

Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) is honored to announce it has been recognized as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Best of the Best award, presented by MemberXP, a leading customer experience program offered through CUSG.

Don't Tax My Credit Union

ACFCU members: We need your help! The new Congress and administration are moving fast on tax reform, which could mean adding a new tax on credit unions and on the members they serve, including you.  Tell Congress, "Don't tax my credit union!"  

30 Days to a Better Budget

April is Financial Capability Month, making it the perfect time to put fresh eyes on your finances. Ever checked your account balance and thought, Where did all my money go?  You’re not alone. 

Financial Strategies for Dual Caregivers

Check out this article to learn the right strategies to help you manage your finances effectively and ensure a stable future for your loved ones.

ATM Upgrades Coming Soon!

We’re excited to announce we are upgrading our ATMs at four of our branch locations as well as our Domtar plant location to better serve you!

Credit Union Impersonation Scams

At ACFCU, your security is our top priority. While there may be times when certain information is requested during conversations between our team members and you, we want to remind you to always stay vigilant.

Avoid scams this holiday season

As the holiday season approaches, it seems like there are more and more fake shopping sites.  If you’re wondering how to avoid these phony offers, here are a few ways to help you detect them.

The Procrastinator's Guide to Holiday Travel Savings

Holiday travel season is near, and peak prices already tell that story: nearly 75% of Hopper customers say as they book travel this year,
they plan to spend the same or more than what they shelled out last year. Even if you’ve waited until the last minute, there are ways to trim down on steep travel costs.

New eStatement Portal

Beginning in December, eStatement subscribers will have a new eStatement portal via our online and mobile banking platforms.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month.  Learn four easy steps you can take each today to ensure your online safety.  

Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Resources

Like many of you, we are in disbelief at the devastation our communities have suffered as a result of Hurricane Helene.  ACFCU is here to help. 

ACFCU Earns Savings Excellence Award

ACFCU has earned the 2024 America Saves Designation of Savings Excellence award, an honor explicitly reserved for financial institutions that created measurable impact and displayed exceptional achievement during the annual America Saves Week campaign. Hannah Hutchins, ACFCU marketing manager, coordinated the campaign on behalf of the credit union.

Hazlewood earns HR Compliance Certification

ACFCU HR Director Rhonda Hazlewood recently earned her Credit Union HR Compliance Professional (CUHRCP) certification. 

Cloudflare Security Update

To provide the best possible protection against fraud and account takeover attempts, we recently implemented an additional cybersecurity product for our online and mobile banking systems. 

ACFCU CXO featured in Credit Union Times article

ACFCU CXO Miranda Cooper was recently featured in a Credit Union (CU) Times online series called "My journey to credit union leadership."  

Elder Financial Abuse Awareness

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15.  Learn the signs of elder financial exploitation to keep your loved ones protected.

Mullins Joins ACFCU

Jonathan Mullins has joined Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) as Senior Business Development Manager.

ACFCU Promotes Hutchins and Taylor

Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) recently promoted Hannah Hutchins to Marketing Manager and Savanah Taylor to Branch Manager.

Paying down debt is saving!

Just like having a plan for savings is important, so is having a plan for reducing your debt. Reports show that individuals have increased their usage due to ongoing inflation and rising costs of basic needs. Check out these tips to increase your credit score from the America Saves team.

Saving at any age!

It’s the last day of America Saves Week! We encourage you to talk to your family members - from kids to older generations- about your money story, goals, the importance of saving, and using credit wisely. Read this article for tips to help talk with your family about finances!

Saving Automatically

It’s America Saves Week! Today we’re focused on the easiest way to save. What is it? To Save Automatically! Check out this article to learn how to get started!

Saving for Major Milestones

It’s no doubt that saving for competing priorities (like home ownership, retirement, and education) can feel overwhelming! Read this article for 10 ways to keep staying on track with your spending & savings plan.

Saving For the Unexpected

Saving for everything that is important to you can seem overwhelming at times. There are so many things you may want to achieve financially and many of us find ourselves wondering which ones we should focus on first. Check out this article for best practices on saving for the unexpected.

ACFCU Named Best of the Best by MemberXP

ACFCU was recently ranked #1 out of 91 credit unions for Consumer Loan Experience and placed 5th for Member Care Experience by Member XP, a leading CX program offered through CU Solutions Group.

Cooper Named Chief Experience Officer

Miranda Gray Cooper has been named Chief Experience Officer (CXO).  Cooper joined ACFCU in February 2021 and has been instrumental in the development of the internal and external marketing functions and assessing and strengthening the member relationship areas. 

Lower Your Credit Card Rate

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently reported that the 25 largest credit card issuers charged customers interest rates of 8 to 10 points higher than small- and medium-sized banks and credit unions. This difference can translate to $400 to $500 in additional annual interest for the average cardholder.

Take Control of Your Data

Data Privacy Day is a global effort to raise awareness about the importance of respecting privacy, safeguarding data, and enabling trust. 

5 Ways to Make Money Resolutions that Stick

The New Year is a time for new beginnings. Are you ready to make money resolutions that stick?

5 Spending Tips to Bring You Less Stress & More Joy This Holiday Season

Our financial situation can cause stress any time of the year, but the holidays can be particularly challenging.  Fortunately, with a little advanced planning, there are options to turn that stress into joy.

ACFCU Team Members Earn Financial Counselor Designation

ACFCU Branch Manager Sherri Eaton and Senior Mortgage Loan Originator Penny Pavitt recently earned their Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation through the Enhanced Financial Counselor Certification Program.  

The Procrastinator's Guide to Holiday Savings

November and December kick off a season of celebrating, family, feasting, and yes…spending.  Here are a few strategies from our partners at GreenPath to help you save this season!

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Founded in 2004, Cybersecurity Awareness Month, held each October, is the world’s foremost initiative aimed at promoting cybersecurity awareness and best practices.

Protect the Elderly from Financial Exploitation

You, or someone you know, could become the victim of a growing crime in America — financial abuse of older Americans. 

Rumley Named VP of Lending

Olivia Rumley was recently promoted to Vice President of Lending at Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union.  

Five Tips for Retirement Planning

Are you planning to retire soon? This is an exciting but potentially overwhelming time. Read on for tips for putting your best foot forward in this next phase of your life!

Student Loan Repayment Simplified

Evaluating your full financial picture and making a repayment plan goes a long way towards reducing stress and uncertainty. Unsure where to start? Read on!

Attention Members

Dear ACFCU Members,

I wanted to take this opportunity to personally reach out to you regarding the technical difficulties some of you experienced with your debit cards and online and mobile banking over the weekend.  

Watch out for Smishing

Many companies, products, and services offer text message alerts to keep you up to date, but beware.  Scammers are using these alerts to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals.  

Five Steps to Boost Your Financial Health

Summer and peak travel season are in full swing, but the reality is that financial concerns remain a pain point for many.  Here are five steps to boost your financial health and reduce your worries this summer.

Protecting Your Loved Ones from Elder Fraud

Financial exploitation is a reality many seniors face, especially in the age of online scams.  Here are actions you can take to help financially safeguard your loved ones.

$mart Summer Travel: 7 Ways to Save (and Still Have Fun!)

Few things stoke wanderlust like longer days and warmer temps. But before you deep dive into summer travel — and your wallet — check out these tips that can help you have fun in the sun without breaking the bank.

Tips for a Better Password

In an era of botnets and data breaches, it's more important than ever to use strong passwords.

Talking to Kids About Money

Check out this short clip from our partners at Greenpath on how to explain money to your kids!

IRS De-Stress

You have until April 18, 2023 to file federal income taxes.  If you’ve already crossed this off your list…congratulations! If you haven't, don’t panic.  Here are five suggestions for filing in the final hour. 

ACFCU Safety & Soundness

At ACFCU, we want our members to know the credit union system is well-capitalized and on solid footing.  No one has ever lost a single penny of insured share deposits within the credit union system.

Tax Season Scams

The Internal Revenue Service recently issued a consumer alert to warn taxpayers of new scams that urge people to use wage information on a tax return to claim false credits in hopes of getting a big refund.

ACFCU Annual Meeting

Our 92nd Annual Membership Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 23 at 5:30 p.m. in the ACFCU Administrative Office Board Room. All ACFCU members are invited to attend.

Mullins Named CEO/President

Andrew J. Mullins III has been named Chief Executive Officer and President of Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union

Common Cents for Couples

Couples will enjoy a more harmonious relationship when they align on money matters. Check out these tips from our partners at GreenPath.

New Year, New Money Habits

Check out these small changes for improving your financial health in the New Year.

Attention Homeowners

If you have an ACFCU home loan, be wary of official-looking solicitations from companies that appear to be directly associated with us. 

How to Avoid Scams

Recognizing these four common signs of a scam could help you avoid one.

"Calling All Stories" - Brittany

Celebrate the Appy Way with ACFCU member stories! This installment of "Calling All Stories" is from ACFCU member Brittany.

"Calling All Stories" - Cheryl

This year, we are excited to share member stories in celebration of 90 years of The Appy Way! This installment of “Calling All Stories” is from ACFCU member Cheryl.

"Calling All Stories" - Randy

Celebrate the Appy Way with ACFCU member stories! This installment of "Calling All Stories" is from ACFCU member Randy.

"Calling All Stories" - Jessica

This year, we are excited to share member stories in celebration of 90 years of The Appy Way! This installment of “Calling All Stories” is from ACFCU Consumer Lending Manager Jessica.

7 Tips to Model Healthy Money Management

As adults, how we handle finances sends a powerful message to children. That’s why it’s important to model healthy money management behaviors. Here are seven ideas to help positively shape children’s attitudes and behaviors around finances!

"Calling All Stories" - Billie

Celebrate the Appy Way with ACFCU member stories! This installment of "Calling All Stories" is from ACFCU member Billie.

"Calling All Stories" - Brooke

This year, we are excited to share member stories in celebration of 90 years of The Appy Way! This installment of "Calling All Stories" is from ACFCU member Brooke.

Earn More, Short Term

Fear of long-term commitment?  Earn more, short term with 0.90% APY* on a 13-month Certificate or IRA in honor of our 90th anniversary.  

Five Tips to Jump Start Your Savings Plan

Whether it's the struggle of delaying immediate rewards for greater benefit in the future, or an unexpected expense, building a successful savings habit can be a challenge.  Here's five useful tips to jump start your savings and keep you on the right track!

How to Make Money Resolutions Stick

The New Year is a time for new beginnings. Are you ready to make money resolutions that stick?

Tips to Communicate with Your Creditors

Getting behind on payments can be a worry, but connecting with your creditors gives you the best options.  

'Tis the Season for Holiday Scams

Criminals don't take the holidays off.  Learn how to protect yourself before you shop this holiday season.  

Important Branch Update

As ACFCU prepares to celebrate our 90th year serving our community, we want to share some changes regarding our Gray location with you. 

Could Less Be More This Holiday Season?

Another holiday season is upon us, and, for the second year in a row, the impact of COVID will likely impact our celebrations.  Here's some advice for maximizing the joy, while staying within a holiday budget.

Five Steps to Prepare for a Big Purchase

A financial journey typically includes 
several twists and turns – such as understanding how to manage spending, build savings and control debt. 

Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone obtains your personal information, such as a Social Security number, home address, date of birth or bank account data, and uses it for fraud or other illicit purposes. Learn how you can protect yourself. 

Scam Alert

As part of the American Rescue Plan Act, eligible families will begin receiving an advance on their child tax credit beginning in July.  When money from the government is in the news, we know scammers are about to run their standard playbook.  Read more to learn how to protect yourself from these scams.  

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

To help draw attention to the importance of protecting senior Tennesseans, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has proclaimed Tuesday, June 15, 2021, as Elder Abuse Awareness Day.  ACFCU is committed to protecting our communities and our members against elder abuse and exploitation.

Enroll for eStatements Today!

Save a Tree and Avoid a Fee– Sign up for eStatements today!

Signing up for ACFCU's eStatements is not only environmentally friendly, but it also prevents you from being charged for paper statements. 

Click 'Read More' for full details and directions to enroll.

ACFCU COVID-19 Updates

At this time, and at all times, ACFCU is here for you. Every member need is different – contact us today to find out how we can help with yours. Please click here to read the latest messages and updates from the Credit Union. We look forward to serving you through these ever-changing times. Stay healthy!

Keeping Our Members Safe

At ACFCU, we're always looking out for you, our members—your financial well-being, as well as your financial and personal safety. So this section is meant as a resource for you to visit to learn about current scams and other security situations surrounding your financial information and protection.

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Stay up to date and get informed on the latest news, events and happenings at ACFCU by following us on Facebook! Simply click here and connect with us.