Ask the P-Man
P-Man is always here to answer your question, whether it's about him or Premier Federal Credit Union!  Use the form to the right to ask P-Man a question and then check back regularly to see what P-Man has to say.  He'll usually post a response within 48-hours of receiving your question!

Q: What is an HSA?
A: An HSA is a Health Savings Account designed to offset medical costs.  Individuals must be a participant in a qualifying High Deductible Insurance plan.  Contributions can be made into the account by an employer (pre-taxed) or by the individual (post-tax and most contributions can be claimed on your taxes - please consult your tax advisor).  Unlike a Flexible Spending account, the funds in the account rollover from year to year (funds in a flexible spending account have to be used within a certain time period).  Much like an IRA, HSA's have maximum contribution limits and withdrawals must be for qualifying medical expenses to avoid tax penalties (please consult your tax advisor).

Q: Can anyone join Premier FCU? I don't work for any of the companies on your list.
A: We are proud to serve 350+ companies in North and South Carolina. Unfortunately, you must work for one of these companies or be an immediate family member of someone who works for one of these companies to qualify. In addition, if you are interested in become a member, the company you work for may be interested in offering credit union benefits to all of its employees.  Speak with your Human Resources representative about offering Premier FCU services to the employees of your company.  It's easy to get your company started, and best of all IT'S FREE!

Q: How can i transfer money into another account online?
A: Depending on your unique situation there are different things you need to do.  First, do you have a PremierOnline account?  Next, if you want to transfer funds into another Premier Account online, you and the primary owner of the account you wish to make transfers to both need to sign paperwork to allow you to do this via PremierOnline. If you want to transfer to an account that is not at Premier, you will need to fill out an Automatic transfer form (if it's reoccurring), or do a wire transfer (if it's one time).  Either way, please contact one of the Fnancial Services Specialists in our Call Center at 800.873.2929 and they will be able to assist you in choosing the best option for your needs.

Q:  I have been using the same online login for a long time.  Should I change it and if so, how do I do that?
A: You do not "have" to change your LogOn ID, but you may want to as this helps to keep your identity safe.  This change is completely within your control.  To make the change - simply LogOn to the Premier OnLine Banking.  You will see the "Self-Service" tab.  Please click on that and go to the "Security Info" section.  Here you can change your LogOn ID, your Security Code and even your Enhanced Authentication questions/answers.  If you have any difficulty with this process - please call the Call Center and a Representative would be happy to assist you.

Q: If I wanted a home equity line of credit and recently had my home appraised would PFCU use that appraisal or order a new one?
A: The appraisal can be used if all of the following conditions are met: 1) It is less than 6 months old, 2) The appraisal was ordered by a lender; not by the homeowner and 3) It has been reassigned to Premier Federal Credit Union. You would have to contact the company that completed the appraisal to have the reassignment done.  Click here for more information on our Home Equity Lines of Credit!

Q: I want to sign up for online banking. How do I get started?
A: Online Banking is a great tool that will make it easy for you to access all your accounts with Premier FCU!  To get signed up, all you need to do is fill out our PremierOnline Banking Application and return it to us.  Oh, and don't forget to sign up for Bill Payment and E-Statements!

Q: If I already have a savings account, can I open a checking account online or over the phone?
A: Thank you for considering Premier FCU for all of your financial needs! It would be our pleasure to open a checking account for you, but this may only be completed in one of our branches or through the mail. If you would like to have documents mailed to you, please contact our call center at 800.873.2929. You may also visit your local branch to complete the account opening in person. We look forward to serving you!

Q: I paid off my car loan a few months ago, and I have not received my title. What should I do to get it?
A: Please contact our Operations Team, who handles Premier's titlework, at 800.873.2929.  They would be happy to research it using your information.

Q: How do I set up Bill Payment Services?
A: In order to have Premier Federal Credit Union's Bill Pay - you need to have PremierOnline Banking as well.  Whether you have Home Banking already and are just adding Bill Pay  there is a convenient form directly from our main web page that you can complete.  Locate on our Main Web Page under the date where it says, "Premier OnLine Branch".  Directly under those words there is a small box that says, "Click to Enroll Now".  Complete that form, sign it and either mail it, fax it or bring it on in to us and we will be happy to get you set up for OnLine Bill Pay. 

Q: Hi P-Man you're so handsome!!!!! You Rock!
A: WOW - I'm blushing!  Thanks, well I do try!  Have you checked out all my looks - we've added a few new ones.  Click here to see them!

Q: Is there a cap on the amount of purchase I can make with my debit card?
A: Yes there is! You may not make more than 25 Visa purchases, exceed $2,500 in purchases or withdraw more than $305 per 24-hour period at an ATM.

Q: What credit companies do you use to check credit worthiness on loan applications?
A: Premier FCU uses Equifax to check creditworthiness for our loan applications.  We report to all three agencies: Equifax, Experian and Transunion.  For more information and information on monitoring you credit, click here.

Q: During the night (between 2 or 3 am) online banking is down - why is that?
A: PremierOnline periodically goes through updates and systems maintenance.  This usually takes place between 2 and 3am in the morning to avoid disrupting member access during the day/peak hours.

Q: Can I view and print my monthly statements over the web?
A: Yes! Premier Federal Credit Union is proud to offer our members free E-statements. With E-statements you can get your statement before anyone else, save the environment by using less paper, and increase the security of your private financial information. To get signed up, make sure you are signed up for PremierOnline Banking Services.  Once you are signed up for PremierOnline, click on the “E-statements” tab under “BankIt” on the toolbar, and complete the required information. It will take 24 hours for this change to become effective.

Q: Is Premier in trouble like the larger banks?
A: In light of the current economy, this is definitely a question that many members may be asking! Premier Federal Credit Union IS NOT in trouble. Regulators state that in order to be considered well capitalized credit unions should maintain a 7% capital ratio. We are in a strong financial position, with adequate liquid funds and over 15% capital! Our strength stems from 45 years of sound financial management and our commitment to our member’s financial well being. We have ample liquidity to fund loans and withdrawals and to meet the needs of our members. Our practices have kept us, AND YOU, safe and strong. So rest assured that your credit union is strong, safe and making the best decisions for our member's financial well being. If you’d like more information on how we are doing, please click here. This link will take you to a message from Willene Combs, our CEO, as well as other information that you might find helpful!

Q: How does one qualify to become a member?
A: Joining Premier Federal Credit Union is one of the easiest decisions you’ll ever have to make!  We are proud to serve 350+ companies in North and South Carolina.  Click here to view a listing of all the companies we serve. If you work for one of these companies or are an immediate family member of someone who works for one of these companies - you qualify! It’s that simple.

Q: How can I check my balance online?
A: Are you already signed up for Premier FCU's FREE Online Banking Service?  If not, click here to get started, and you'll be able to access your accounts online in just a few days!  If you are already signed up for our Online Banking service and are having difficulties accessing your account(s), please contact our call center at 800.873.2929 for assistance.

Q: I am having difficulties accessing my online account.  What should I do?
A: To get assistance accessing your Online Account(s), please contact our call center at 800.873.2929.  They will be happy to assist you!

Q: What is the routing number for Premier FCU?
A: For automatic payments or debits from your account, you will need the Routing and Transit Number for Premier FCU which is 253175889.

Q: I forgot my password info - what do I do?
A:  It happens!  So many passwords, sometimes it's easy to forget!  Just call our Call Center at 800.873.2929.  One of our Financial Services Specialist will be able to assist you!

Q: Does PFCU offer members an ID theft protection program?
A: Premier FCU is proud to provide its members with several products that protect against and assist you in the event you are a victim of identity theft. Equifax 3-In-1 Credit Monitoring will watch your accounts for signs of identity theft BEFORE it happens.  If you have a Premier FCU Checking Account, we also offer PremierExtras for $5 a month, which offers $2,500 in Identity Fraud Expense Coverage to help you re-establish your identity in the event you become a victim of identity theft.  Both of these products are benefits of your Premier FCU membership, but may also be used to protect your "non-Premier" accounts.

Q: Hi! Can I request a Christmas club account on line? Also how do I order checks for my checking account? Thanks P-Man!!!!
A: Howdy Member!  Kudos to you for getting ready for the holidays - a Christmas Club account is a great way to do it!  Unfortunately, this account cannot be opened online.  You can call a Financial Services Specialist at 800.873.2929, or visit your local branch to get started.

Q: I signed up for Online Banking yesterday at my branch.  How long before I can access my account? 
A: Usually it takes one business day for your account to be set up online. Please check your account again and, if this problem has not been resolved, please a Financial Services Specialist at 800.873.2929. They will be able to assist you.

Q: I want to enter my routing and account number on a form for direct deposit. The account number on my check is not the account number I use at the bank. Would it be slightly different on my check?
A: The account number that you use when you come to the Credit Union is your unique membership identification number. The account number on the bottom of your checks will differ and that would be the account number you would list for any direct deposit information. Since we try to provide as much security for our membership as possible, we do not print your membership number on your checks in case the items are lost or stolen.

Q: Dear P-Man: I received a letter telling me that you were going to send me a new debit card. How long will it take to receive my new card and will I be able to keep my old PIN number?  
A: Excellent question!  The team at Premier FCU prides itself on keeping you safe and helping you out as quickly as possible.  Having watched them myself, I can tell you they sure are a speedy and dedicated bunch!  You should receive your new debit card within 10 days of receiving your letter.    Your new card will come with a temporary PIN, but you will also receive instructions on how to easily change that number to anything that is convenient for you! If you do not receive your card or have questions about changing your PIN, contact a Financial Services Specialist at 800.873.2929 and a representative will be happy to assist you!

Q: How do I access my Online Banking Account(s) through the new Web site?
A: That's a great question!  Accessing your Online Banking Accounts through www.premierfcu.org is easy!  On the upper, left side of every page, you will see an area called the "PremierOnline Branch".  By clicking on the arrow - you will be taken to a page where all your accounts can be accessed online, even your VISA Credit Card!  You can even enroll for Online Banking if you would like to do so.

Q: I cannot use my Bill Pay Account.  It states that I have logged on too many times unsuccessfully with the incorrect password. How can I get started again?
A: Premier FCU's Financial Services Specialists can help you get started again!  Simply call them during normal business hours at 800.873.2929 to speak with a representative.  It would be our pleasure to serve you!