Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about your accounts or how a product or service works?
You’ve come to the right place.
We’ve compiled a list of our members’ most frequently asked questions. If you don’t find the answer you are looking for, please contact us at 800-452-6021.
General
Once I become a member, can family members join, too?
Yes, of course! We would love to have your loved ones be part of Gateway CU family.
How do I make a withdrawal when I need it?
- By check, if you have a checking account
- By cashier check. Give us a call so we can mail it to you
- By using an ATM or debit card if you are issued an ATM or debit card for your Account (daily limits apply). Fees may apply.
- By bill payment through online banking
- By wire transfer. Visit or call us to set up a wire transfer. Fees apply.
How do I make deposit?
Make deposits in person, by mail, through an electronic transaction, or automatically through direct deposit/payroll deduction. We also have a night-drop box which allows you to drop off your deposit after hours.
How do I check my balance or make a transfer?
Check your balance or make a transfer by using our free Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Text Banking, or call one of our friendly member service representatives at 800-452-6021. You can also get your balance information at one of surcharge-free ATMS. Click here to find the nearest ATM.
ATM Card
Where can I use my ATM card?
Your card can be used in any ATMs with MoneyPass® logo. To find surcharge-free ATMs, simply use our ATM locator. There are more than 24,000 surcharge free ATMs nationwide.
Can I still use an ATM that is not listed on the ATM locator?
Yes, as long as the MoneyPass® logo is displayed on the ATM. However, some ATMs may charge a usage fee. The ATMs will prompt you to accept the fee before continuing with the transaction.
Where can I use a Debit Card?
No. An ATM card can only be used to access your funds at an ATM machine. However, with our Visa Debit Card you can make purchases at retail outlets, restaurants, service stations, grocery stores, hotels, or anywhere you see the Visa logo. Also, you can make purchases by phone and online.
Where can I find a surcharge-free ATM?
You can find a surcharge free ATM location in your area using the ATM locator. There are more than 24,000 surcharge free ATMs nationwide. All US Bank on-premise ATMs are surcharge-free.
My spouse and I have a joint account. We share one checkbook, so will we have to share one card, too?
No. You may request another card so each of you have one to use at your convenience.
What should I do if my ATM/ Debit/ Visa Credit Card is lost or stolen?
Report lost/stolen cards immediately to avoid unauthorized use.
Regular Hours:
During business hours, please call us at 800-452-6021.
After Business Hours:
Please call 800-682-6075
Checking / Debit Card / Visa Credit Card
Do you offer Overdraft Protection?
Yes, we do. Apply for a line of credit and when approved, you will be protected from overdrafts up to your approved limit.
Do I have to be a member to apply for a checking account?
Yes, you do. It’s easy and simple. When you apply for a checking account, we will process your membership at the same time. So, you do not have to complete each process separately.
How can I reorder my checks?
Click here to order checks online or call us at 800-452-6021.
Do I get a Debit Card? Do I have access to any ATMs?
Yes, you can. Give us a call and we will send you your free debit card. You will have access to more than 24,000 surcharge- free ATMs nationwide.
How do I check my balance or make a transfer?
Check your balance or make a transfer by using our free Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Text Banking, or call one of our friendly member service representatives at 800-452-6021. You can also get your balance information at one of surcharge-free ATMS. Click here to find the nearest ATM.
Where can I use a Debit Card?
You can use your Debit Card everywhere you see the Visa logo. There are more than 24 million merchants worldwide!
When I use my Debit Card, am I borrowing from a revolving line-of-credit?
NO! It is not a credit card. Funds are always deducted directly from your Checking Account just as if you had written a check.
Do I choose “DEBIT” or “CREDIT”?
You may need to choose between a CREDIT button and a DEBIT button. These buttons determine how the merchant processes the transaction. Whatever you choose, the purchase amount will be deducted from your Checking Account.
- Choose CREDIT and you will simply sign a receipt
- Choose DEBIT and you will key in your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The advantage of using DEBIT is that you can get cash back.
How do I know where I can use my Debit Card as an ATM card?
You can find a surcharge free ATM location in your area using our ATM locator. All US Bank on-premise ATMs are surcharge-free. There are more than 24,000 surcharge free ATMs nationwide.
Online Banking
Is it safe to bank and pay bills online?
At Gateway Credit Union, you can bank online with confidence that your account information is safe and secure. GCU Online Banking system has multiple security verification.
Forgot your Logon ID?
If you forgot your Logon ID, give us a call at 800-452-6021 and we will assist you.
Why should I enroll Online Banking?
- Secure access to your account. Anytime, anywhere!
- Easily transfer money between your accounts
- Receive customized alerts to help stay on top of your account activity
- Save time when you use Bill Pay. It's an easy, fast and secure way to pay your bills.
- View all your account activities
How do I change my Logon ID or password?
Log in to your Online Banking account and follow the steps below:
- Under Self Service tab, go to Security Information box
- To change your Logon ID, click Change Logon ID
- To change your password, click Change Security Code
What type of accounts can I access with Online Banking?
Once you are enrolled, you can access any accounts that you have with us including loan account you own.
Loans / Visa Credit Card
How do I check my balance?
Check your balance by using our free Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Text Banking, or call one of our friendly member service representatives at 800-452-6021.
Do I have to be a member to apply for a loan?
Yes, you do. It’s easy and simple. When you apply for a loan, we will process your membership at the same time. So, you do not have to complete each process separately.
What if I want to purchase a car on a weekend when the credit union is closed, and I don’t know how much I can afford?
We understand that weekends are the best time to shop for a car. That is why we provide a pre-approval service to our members. Get a pre-approval from one of our friendly loan officers before you go to any dealership and find out how much you can be approved for. In addition, if you know what type of car you are going to purchase, we can help you find out the book value of the car. Therefore, you can go to any dealership and be confident that you will not pay much more than what you should.
What should I do if I decide to refinance my loan from another financial institution?
It’s simple and convenient. Call one of our friendly loan officers at 800-452-6021, and we will take care of it for you. There is absolutely no hassle.
How do I make payments?
Make payments in our lobby, by mail, convenient night-drop, or make automatic deposits through payroll deduction. You can also transfer loan payments through online banking.
Do I have to be a member to apply for a credit card?
Yes, you do. It’s easy and simple. When you apply for a credit card, we will process your membership at the same time. So, you do not have to complete each process separately.
What should I do if I decide to transfer the balance from my other high-interest-rate credit card?
It’s simple and easy. Call one of our friendly loan officers at 800-452-6021, and we will take care of it for you. There is absolutely no hassle.
What should I do if my ATM/ Debit/ Visa Credit Card is lost or stolen?
Report lost/stolen cards immediately to avoid unauthorized use.
Regular Hours:
During business hours, please call us at 800-452-6021.
After Business Hours:
Please call 800-682-6075
Checking
Do you offer Overdraft Protection?
Yes, we do. Apply for a line of credit and when approved, you will be protected from overdrafts up to your approved limit.
Do I have to be a member to apply for a checking account?
Yes, you do. It’s easy and simple. When you apply for a checking account, we will process your membership at the same time. So, you do not have to complete each process separately.
How can I reorder my checks?
Click here to order checks online or call us at 800-452-6021.
Do I get a Debit Card? Do I have access to any ATMs?
Yes, you can. Give us a call and we will send you your free debit card. You will have access to more than 24,000 surcharge- free ATMs nationwide.
How do I check my balance or make a transfer?
Check your balance or make a transfer by using our free Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Text Banking, or call one of our friendly member service representatives at 800-452-6021. You can also get your balance information at one of surcharge-free ATMS. Click here to find the nearest ATM.
Savings Accounts
Where can I find a surcharge-free ATM?
You can find a surcharge free ATM location in your area using the ATM locator. There are more than 24,000 surcharge free ATMs nationwide. All US Bank on-premise ATMs are surcharge-free.
Why is there a minimum balance of $10?
The $10 minimum balance represents two membership shares at $5.00 each. It is not a fee.
Can I get an ATM Card?
Yes, just give us a call at 800-452-6021 and we will send you your free ATM Card.
Holiday Savings
What is the maximum deposit I can make annually on Holiday Savings?
$3,600.
Can I withdraw from my Holiday Savings in case there is an emergency?
Yes, you can make withdrawals from your Holiday Savings. However, there will be a low $5 withdrawal fee per transaction.
Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
What is a traditional IRA?
A traditional IRA is a type of retirement plan that has been in existence since 1975. Traditional IRAs offer tax-deferred earnings, and the possibility for tax-deductible contributions. These tax advantages make the traditional IRA a powerful tool in creating a balanced, long-term savings plan.
How does the traditional IRA work?
You can contribute to a traditional IRA if you earn compensation and you will not reach age 70-1/2 by the end of the year. If you file a joint tax return, you can treat your spouse’s compensation as your own (except your combined contributions cannot exceed your combined compensation). All earnings in the traditional IRA are not taxed until they are withdrawn. The ability to defer taxes on the earnings, and to withdraw in a year when you may be in a lower tax bracket, can mean more after-tax dollars for your retirement.
How does the traditional IRA work?
You can contribute to a traditional IRA if you earn compensation and you will not reach age 70-1/2 by the end of the year. If you file a joint tax return, you can treat your spouse’s compensation as your own (except your combined contributions cannot exceed your combined compensation). All earnings in the traditional IRA are not taxed until they are withdrawn. The ability to defer taxes on the earnings, and to withdraw in a year when you may be in a lower tax bracket, can mean more after-tax dollars for your retirement.
How much can I contribute to a traditional IRA?
Please refer to the IRA Contribution Limits Table at the top.
Can I still contribute to a traditional IRA if I participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan?
Yes, your participation in an employer sponsored retirement plan will not affect your ability to contribute to a traditional IRA (assuming age and compensation requirements are met). However, higher-income earners will lose their ability to deduct their traditional IRA contributions if participating in an employer sponsored plan.
If I already have a Roth IRA, can I have a traditional IRA, too?
Yes, you can. However, the limits on annual contributions described on the previous page apply to any combination of traditional and Roth IRA contributions that you make for the year.
How much can I deduct?
If you are single, or married and neither spouse is an active participant in a retirement plan, your traditional IRA contribution is deductible regardless of income. If you or your spouse is an active participant, you may deduct contributions only if your income is below certain limits. Smaller deductions are available if your income is within the phase-out range, which is determined by your filing status. Higher-income earners with retirement plans may still contribute, but deductions are not available if income is over the phase-out range. If you have questions about your specific tax situation, please consult your tax advisor for an interpretation of how these rules apply to you.
Can I get any tax credits for making IRA contributions?
You may be able to receive a tax credit for making contributions through tax year 2006. The full credit is 50 percent of the first $2,000 of contributions. The full credit is available for joint filers who have joint modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) up to $30,000, heads of households with MAGI up to $22,500, or other filers with MAGI up to $15,000. Smaller tax credits are available for joint filers with MAGI up to $50,000, heads of households with MAGI up to $37,500, or other filers with MAGI up to $25,000.
Will I owe income taxes when I withdraw from my traditional IRA?
Yes, you will owe income taxes when you withdraw from your traditional IRA. However, if you make nondeductible contributions to a traditional IRA, a portion of each withdrawal will be treated as the nontaxable return of these contributions.
If I make an early withdrawal from my traditional IRA before age 59-1/2, do I pay a penalty?
In general, you must pay a ten percent tax on early distributions or withdrawals before age 59-1/2. But the early distribution tax does not apply in the following situations:
- Amount is rolled over or directly transferred to another traditional IRA
- Amount is properly converted to a Roth IRA
- Withdrawal of an excess contribution before the tax return is due
- Withdrawal of an excess contribution after the filing deadline if certain conditions are met
- Payment is made to your beneficiaries after your death
- Withdrawal of up to $10,000 is for first-time home purchase
- Amount is used to pay for qualified post-secondary education expenses
- Amount is used to pay for medical expenses in excess of 7.5% of adjusted gross income (AGI)
- Amount is for pre-59-1/2 periodic payments
- Distribution is to an owner who is disabled (as defined by the IRS code)
- Distribution is for medical insurance premiums during unemployment that lasts 12 weeks or longer
When must I begin taking distributions from my traditional IRA?
You must begin taking required minimum distributions from your traditional IRA at age 70-1/2. The minimum distributions each year will be computed using an IRS formula. You are allowed to delay the first year’s payment until April 1 of the following year, but you will receive two year’s worth of payments in your 71-1/2 year if you choose to delay.
Can I move funds from a qualified retirement plan to a traditional IRA?
If you are entitled to receive an eligible rollover distribution from an employer’s plan, you can continue deferring taxes by moving the money into a traditional IRA. The best way to do this is to inform the plan administrator that you want the funds moved directly to your traditional IRA in a direct rollover. The plan administrator will inform you before making an eligible rollover distribution.
Can I move money from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA?
You can move money from your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA if your adjusted gross income for the year is $100,000 or less, and you are either single or married filing a joint tax return. In the year you convert, you will have to pay federal income taxes on the amount that you move, except the portion that is treated as the return of your nondeductible contribution. You may also be subject to state income taxes.
What happens to my traditional IRA after my death?
You may designate one or more beneficiaries to receive your IRA after your death. If your spouse is your beneficiary, he or she may directly transfer your traditional IRA to his or her own IRA tax-free. In addition, all beneficiaries have the option of taking a lump sum payment, and in most cases, they will be able to take periodic payments over a number of years. Any tax-deferred money in your traditional IRA at the time of death will be taxed when it is distributed to your beneficiaries.
Certificate of Deposits
Is there a maximum limit on how much I can put into my CD?
No. However, our deposit accounts are federally insured up to $250,000 by the NCUA. For more information on Certificate Rates, click here.
Is there a minimum limit on how much I should put into my CD?
Yes, the minimum opening balance is $1,000. For more information on Certificate Rates, click here.
Can I make a deposit after the CD is opened?
No. Once the CD is opened, you may not make additional deposits to your account. You may, however, make a deposit or a withdrawal during the 10-day grace period after the CD matures.
What happens when my CD matures?
At maturity there is a 10-day no-interest, no-penalty grace period for partial withdrawal or closure of your certificate. At the end of the 10-day grace period, the certificate balance will automatically renew for the same term as the maturing certificate, but at the rate then in effect for the same class of investment.
At maturity, can I reinvest my CD for a different term? If I can, how would I do that?
Yes, you can. Simply give us a call at 800-452-6021 within the 10-day grace period, and tell us the term of your reinvestment.
Can I withdraw from my CD Account in case there is an emergency?
Yes, you can. However, because CDs are term accounts, there will be a penalty for an early withdrawal. To understand how the penalty is determined, please read our Certificate Disclosure.