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		<title>figfcu.com Blog</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/blog</link>
		<description>News from the figfcu.com Blog</description>

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		<title>Pakistan Flood Relief Fund</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=689&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>July 22, 2010, made a mark in history as the worst flooding Pakistan has seen in 80 years. Nearly one fifth of the country, which spans 62,000 square miles, has seen the repercussions due to the annual monsoon rainfall. Currently, 20 million people have been affected, leaving 4 million people homeless in the submerged tundra.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Sep 2010 15:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>How to buy a used car: Part 1</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=688&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Buying a used car makes sense. You pay a lower purchase price, lower registration and license fees, lower insurance premiums, and your car doesn't lose a large portion of its value the moment you drive it off the lot. There are, however, pitfalls as well.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Enterprise, credit unions celebrate 30-year milestone</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=686&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Enterprise Car Sales and credit unions across the country are celebrating 30 years of working together to provide CU members with low-cost, quality used cars.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>KnowYourOptions.com educates distressed homeowners, explains how to avoid foreclosure</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=683&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>The Federal National Mortgage Association (or "Fannie Mae") recently launched KnowYourOptions.com, a consumer website designed to educate distressed homeowners about avoiding foreclosure, and encourage them to contact their lender to seek assistance before it's too late.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Aug 2010 10:30:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>CU Service Centers, CO-OP ATM app available on iTunes</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=679&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>iPhone owners can locate a Credit Union Service Center branch or a CO-OP Network ATM using apps available in the iTunes Store.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2010 16:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>$250,000 NCUA deposit insurance now permanent</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=676&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>President Barack Obama recently signed the new Financial Reform bill, making the current $250,000 limit on NCUA insurance for credit union deposits permanent.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Aug 2010 10:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Housing affordability at highest level in 19 years</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=667&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Buying a home is more affordable than ever. According to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index (HOI), house affordability is at its highest level since the index was first compiled 19 years ago.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:45:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Top 5 advantages of getting pre-approved for a home loan</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=663&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Whether you are shopping for your first house, refinancing an existing property, or purchasing a vacation home or rental, getting pre-approved for a home loan should be the first step in the process.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jul 2010 09:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Beware of 'predatory lenders' as home loan rates fall</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=662&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>As home loan rates hit 50-year lows, many people are taking advantage of these rates to consolidate debt or finance home repairs. While most lenders are honest, some are not--so-called "predatory lenders."</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jul 2010 11:10:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>First time home buyer credit extended to Sept. 30</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=659&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>President Obama recently signed a three-month extension of the new home buyer tax credit, extending the closing date to provide buyers who had binding sales contracts in place by April 30, 2010, additional time to complete their home purchases.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jul 2010 08:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Beat the summer heat with FIGFCU, Enterprise</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=656&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>AAA expects some 31.4 million Americans to hit the road this 4th of July weekend--an increase of 17.7% from last year's 26.7 million. But it won't be all BBQs and fireworks for some motorists. As temperatures rise, so do car problems.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 13:35:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>High MPG not the only way to save money on a car</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=653&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>The Department of Energy recently compiled a list of the 10 most fuel-efficient cars to hit the US auto market since 1984. The average combined EPA rating of the list is a little over 45 MPG, with the number one car getting an impressive 53 MPG.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 7:35:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Redesigned MyMoney.gov helps Americans with their finances</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=651&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Spending a bit more time understanding your finances and how to save can really help. More help has come recently in the form of MyMoney.gov.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 7:35:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>3 credit score myths debunked</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=649&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Managing your credit score can be tricky. And understanding how your actions effect your credit score can be even trickier. To help you better understand how what you do impacts your credit score, we've debunked three of the most common credit score myths.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Jun 2010 6:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Get 3.99% APR for 6 months on transferred balances</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=647&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>For a limited time, get 3.99% APR+ on transferred balances. Apply today and transfer high-rate credit card balances to FIGFCU and save money!</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jun 2010 8:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Mortgage rates continue to fall, near 50-year lows</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=645&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>The financial turmoil in Europe is providing an unexpected windfall for American home buyers as international money seeking a safe haven is flowing into the U.S., pushing domestic mortgage rates to the lowest levels of the year and back near 50-year lows.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 May 2010 9:30:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Car dealers' loans often aren't the best deal</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=642&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Many consumers spend hours searching for a vehicle that fits their lifestyle, but they devote little to no time doing the research for the financing of such a large purchase.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 18 May 2010 8:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>J.D. Power: More consumers willing to switch banks</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=638&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Consumers increasingly are willing to unglue themselves from banking relationships, according to a retail bank survey recently released by J.D. Power and Associates Inc.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 May 2010 6:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>FIGFCU members get special pricing with Invest in America</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=635&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Your Credit Union offers Invest in America--a program that offers FIGFCU members exclusive discounts from participating U.S.-based companies.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010 4:45:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>FIGFCU offers free online financial analysis, debt assessment</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=634&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Face-to-face consultations with professional financial planners can be intimidating. Many times, you may leave more confused after these sessions, with an onslaught of industry jargon and unrealistic goals.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Apr 2010 8:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>6 common mistakes home buyers make</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=630&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Buying a home is the biggest purchase most people will ever make, yet many go into it blind. CNNMoney.com goes over the 6 most common--and costly--mistakes homebuyers make.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2010 01:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Federal Reserve Board launches Consumer's Guide to Credit Cards</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=629&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>The Federal Reserve Board recently launched a Consumer's Guide to Credit Cards website to protect consumers and help them boost their credit card knowledge.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Apr 2010 06:20:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Top things to know about taxes</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=628&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>The deadline to file your taxes is quickly approaching. With so many codes and regulations, it's difficult to know what's most important. CNNMoney.com compiled the top basic things you should know about filing taxes.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Apr 2010 11:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Credit Union shared branching locator app now available on iTunes</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=627&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Financial Service Centers Cooperative, Inc., the nation's largest and most convenient credit union Shared Branching Network, announced the launch of the new credit union Shared Branching locator app on iTunes.</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 02 Apr 2010 14:45:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Quality, dependability most important when purchasing a car</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=626&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, among new-vehicle shoppers, perception of quality and dependability is the most influential factor in their decision to purchase a specific vehicle model.</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:45:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>New vehicles purchased in 2009 qualify for tax savings</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=622&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Tax season is here and if you purchased a new vehicle on or after February 16, 2009, you may be eligible to deduct the sales tax from your 2009 federal income tax return.</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Mar 2010 15:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Farmers establishes Chile disaster fund, matches up to $25,000</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=617&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>The 8.8 earthquake that struck Chile on February 27, and the tsunami that followed, killed more than 800 people and left more than 1 million Chileans homeless. Zurich Latin America reports that 1,543 of the Zurich employees and agents in Chile were either directly or indirectly affected by the disasters.</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010 14:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Pay yourself first, invest in your retirement</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=616&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>You have until April 15, 2010 to contribute to your retirement account for the 2009 tax year. To help you save, your Credit Union offers three types of Individual Retirement Accounts: Traditional, Roth and SEP IRAs.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Checking account trouble? We can help</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=609&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>If you've had trouble managing a checking account in the past and have a ChexSystems record, your Credit Union can help you get back on track.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:30:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>How financially fit are you?</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=605&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>As the White House renews its commitment to physical fitness, it may also be a good time to consider your financial fitness. According to online account monitoring service Mint.com, personal financial fitness is made up of 4 good habits: (1) saving money, (2) avoiding debt, (3) investing, and (4) not &quot;losing it.&quot;</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:20:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Help the Children's Miracle Network, get a Picturecard</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=603&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>When you order a Children's Miracle Network or Credit Unions for Kids Picturecard, we'll donate the $10 fee to the Children's Miracle Network.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:20:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Claim a home buyer tax credit? You'll have to file by mail</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=601&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>If you claim a first-time home buyer or move-up home purchaser credit on your 2009 tax return, you'll have to file the good old-fashioned way--by mail.</description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Farmers establishes Haiti disaster fund, donates $25,000</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=580&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>The Haitian Red Cross said it believes between 45,000 and 50,000 people died when the earthquake, which measured 7.0 on the Richter scale, struck on Tuesday.</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 Jan 2010 15:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>eNews contest starts today</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=572&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>Every time we send eNews and eNews: Agent Edition, we are giving away $25--starting today! A code is hidden in today's eNews that, when entered on our website, enters the participant into a contest for $25.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>On Suze Orman's 2010 To-Do list: Check out a credit union</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=563&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>"Credit unions are often a better deal than banks and tend to pay higher yields on deposits," says Emmy award-winning, personal finance expert Suze Orman in this month's O, The Oprah Magazine.</description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 07 Jan 2010 08:15:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>Win $25 every time you read eNews</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=558&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>You could win $25 every time you read eNews or eNews: Agent Edition starting January 12, 2010.</description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 30 Dec 2009 12:45:00 -0700</pubDate>
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		<title>FIGFCU donates $7,500 to the March of Dimes</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=552&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>We are making a $7,500 donation to the March of Dimes on behalf of our loyal members.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Dec 2009 09:45:00 -0700</pubDate>
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	    <title>Triple your donation to the March of Dimes</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=549&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Give the gift of donation this holiday season. Now, when you use your FIGFCU MasterCard to make a donation to March of Dimes, your donation will be matched--twice!</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Direct Deposit, Payroll Deduction, Checking contests winners selected</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=547&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Winners of our Direct Deposit, payroll deduction and checking account contests have been selected, and their Credit Union accounts have been credited with their winnings.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 8 Dec 2009 14:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>New low auto and home loan rates for the New Year</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=545&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Planning to buy a new car or home? Get a special rate with flexible terms when you finance with your Credit Union.</description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 2 Dec 2009 08:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>$8,000 first time home buyer credit extended, $6,500 credit added</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=541&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>President Obama recently signed into law an extension of the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit as part of a $24 billion economic stimulus package.</description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Win up to $500 at FIGFCU - Hurry! Offer ends Nov. 15th</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=536&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>You could win up to $500 when you sign up for Direct Deposit or open a new checking account, and up to $250 when you set up a Payroll Deduction.</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 6 Nov 2009 08:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>BofA to charge select customers annual credit card fee</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=534&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Bank of America will start charging customers an annual credit card fee of $29 to $99 next year.</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Banks charging record fees for checking accounts</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=533&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Monthly service charges on checking accounts climbed to new highs in August, USA Today is reporting. In 2009, the average fee for an interest-bearing checking account is a surprising $12.55 per month, according to a survey released last week by Bankrate.com.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 6 Oct 2009 11:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>First-time Home Buyers Can Get Up to an $8000 Tax Credit-Buy Before November 30, 2009</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=532&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Are you shopping for a home, but not sure if the time is right? If you are hoping to take advantage of the first-time buyer tax credit, you cannot afford to wait any longer.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Win up to $500 at FIGFCU</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=528&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>You could win up to $500 when you sign up for Direct Deposit or open a new checking account, and up to $250 when you set up a Payroll Deduction.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Bernanke optimistic about economy</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=520&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said Tuesday that the recession is probably over. But he also said that he thought unemployment would rise.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:50:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>A new way to fight ID theft&#8212;check your ID score</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=519&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Everyone knows their credit score (and if you don't, you should!). But did you know you also have an ID score? Knowing your ID score and monitoring it over time can help you protect your identity.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 8 Sep 2009 14:30:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>The end of free checking?</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=515&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>According to the Wall Street Journal, free checking is "going the way of the free lunch" as banks attempt to fill their revenue gap with checking account fees and requirements.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 1 Sep 2009 13:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>President Obama's credit card changes do not affect FIGFCU cardholders</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=513&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Three new provisions of the Credit CARD Act of 2009 went into effect last week. FIGFCU cardholders were not impacted by these changes, however, as your Credit Union already conducts business in the manner now mandated by the President.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:30:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Buy a GM vehicle on eBay</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=511&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>General Motors and eBay have rolled out a pilot program in California that allows customers to buy select new GM vehicles on eBay. Customers can negotiate with about 250 dealers throughout the state on 20,000 vehicles.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>10 things to know about 'Cash for Clunkers'</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=509&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>The Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS or "Cash for Clunkers") is a government program designed to help consumers buy or lease more environmentally-friendly vehicles.</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 4 Aug 2009 12:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Pope cites credit unions as ethical, humanitarian institutions</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=508&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Pope Benedict XVI compared credit unions and love in his third encyclical saying, "If love is wise, it can find ways of working in accordance with provident and just expediency, as is illustrated in significant ways by much of the experience of credit unions."</description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Banks not accepting CA Warrants, Credit unions are!</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=507&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>FIGFCU is accepting warrants issued to its members.</description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Be a Hero for Babies Day on July 22</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=504&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>The fourth annual Be a Hero for Babies Day is July 22, and all Farmers employees, agents and DMs are invited to participate in the first-ever, nationwide Blue Jeans for Babies event.</description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Sign up for eStatements in under 30 seconds</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=498&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>If you're still getting your statements in the mail each month, it's time to switch to eStatements. They’re good for you and for the environment.</description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2009 03:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Welcome 21st Century employees!</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=499&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>On behalf of Farmers Insurance Group Federal Credit Union, welcome to the Farmers family. As part of the Farmers organization, you and your family members are now eligible to join FIGFCU.</description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Get a free appraisal on an FIGFCU home loan, up to $400</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=497&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>Your Credit Union is still lending to new and current homeowners. And for a limited time, members who finance a home purchase or refinance an existing home loan get a free appraisal, up to $400!</description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Three things not to do in this economy</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=495&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>It's our mission to help you enhance your personal finances, so let's take a few examples of what happens when we become lazy about goals fulfillment, and see how they are relevant to current economic conditions. If you've ever thought it would be wise to...</description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>How do check holds work?</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=493&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>When you deposit a check at any financial institution, the funds may not be available for immediate withdrawal. Banks and credit unions often place holds on certain checks to ensure the checks are collectable and ultimately, to protect against loss.</description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	    <title>Get ready for summer vacation</title>
	    <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=489&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	    <description>If you're planning to take your family on vacation this summer, here are some helpful tips to make your trip stress-free.</description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>$250,000 NCUA Deposit Insurance extended through 2013</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=488&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Your FIGFCU deposits will continue to be insured up to at least $250,000 through December 31, 2013.</description>
		   <pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2009 07:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Banks hit with large FDIC fees</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=487&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.'s reserves were depleted by more than $10 billion taking the fund to its lowest point since 1994. As a result, U.S. banks will pay an emergency fee based on their asset size to replenish the reserves.</description>
		   <pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2009 13:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Stress tests could result in higher bank fees</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=479&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>The US government's recent stress tests determined that America's 19 biggest banks need to raise a collective $75 billion in additional capital to weather future losses as high as $600 billion by the end of 2010.</description>
		   <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 13:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Reissued credit cards won't hurt your credit score</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=475&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>If you've received a replacement credit card recently for an account that was closed and reopened by your financial institution because of a security breach, the good news is that it won't affect your credit score.</description>
		   <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2009 07:30:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Retirement Savings Options--Which is Right for You</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=470&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>When it comes to saving for retirement, you have a lot of decisions to make. And you need to look at your choices carefully to decide which option, or combination of options, fits your retirement needs best.</description>
		   <pubDate>Mon, 4 May 2009 07:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Credit Card rules may change, but not soon enough</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=468&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>The House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill to eliminate the sudden interest rate and late fee increases by credit card companies that have affected millions of consumers recently.</description>
		   <pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2009 15:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Youth Week Winners Announced</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=467&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Kids and teens who opened an account or made a deposit last week were entered into a $50 iTunes gift card drawing as part of our celebration of National Credit Union Youth Week. The winners are:</description>
		   <pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Celebrate Earth Day and go green at FIGFCU</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=464&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Paying bills online, setting up Direct Deposit, and switching to eStatements are all ways you can celebrate Earth Day and show your support for the environment.</description>
		   <pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2009 09:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Bank of America suspends overdraft fee increase as it raises other fees</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=463&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Despite the fact that Bank of America said it will suspend its previously announced overdraft fee increase from $35 to $39, the bank will begin charging customers a one-time $35 fee for accounts that are overdrawn for more than five days.</description>
		   <pubDate>Tue, 17 Apr 2009 07:30:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Tax changes could mean a larger paycheck, but no refund</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=455&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Many Americans may have already seen a small increase in their paycheck as a result of the government's economic stimulus plan. If you're one of them, you may need to adjust your withholding so you don't owe more when 2009 taxes are due.</description>
		   <pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 10:30:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Stay informed with eNews</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=454&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Sign up for eNews and we'll send you relevant Credit Union news and other financial information every other week.</description>
		   <pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2009 08:15:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Banks change credit card limits without notice</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=450&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Banks and other credit card issuers are looking for new ways to reduce risk after suffering from excessive losses. And it's often the consumers with good credit who are penalized.</description>
		   <pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2009 09:30:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Tax credit up to $8,000 for first-time homebuyers</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=427&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>As a part of the recent $787 billion economic stimulus bill, first-time homebuyers can get a tax credit equal to 10 percent of the home's purchase price, up to $8,000.</description>
		   <pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>FIGFCU's 74th annual meeting brings members together</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=425&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Farmers Insurance Group Federal Credit Union invited members to its corporate headquarters yesterday for its annual meeting. The focus at this year's meeting was on the Credit Union's strong financial position during these uncertain times and its commitment to member service.</description>
		   <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Another reason FIGFCU is better: Overdraft protection choice</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=423&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Overdraft protection fees have been called both a great service and a racket depending on your point of view.</description>
		   <pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>NCUA seizes two corporate credit unions</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=418&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the federal regulator which administers the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF) and insures your deposits with us, placed under its conservatorship both U.S. Central Federal Credit Union and Western Corporate Federal Credit Union.</description>
		   <pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 07:30:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Your Credit Union Remains Strong</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=417&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>As you know, the economy is in the throes of a deep recession which has caused financial institutions (banks and credit unions alike) to suffer from higher loan losses and investments value deterioration from mortgage-backed securities.</description>
		   <pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:45:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>FIGFCU will donate $50 to March of Dimes for every new account</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=415&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Last year, our members and employees raised over $27,000 for the March of Dimes. We're proud to join Farmers in raising money for this important cause once again in 2009. And this year we hope to raise even more.</description>
		   <pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2009 10:00:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Get your 2008 tax information online</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=409&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>We've made it easy for you to get your 2008 tax information with PC-TIED online banking.</description>
		   <pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 08:30:00 -0700</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Survey shows Americans are saving and paying off debt</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=403&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>A recent survey commissioned by America Saves and the American Savings Education Council indicated that Americans are still saving and paying down debt during trying economic times.</description>
		   <pubDate>Fri, 02 Mar 2009 10:40:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>FIGFCU members get special pricing from GM &#38; Chrysler</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=395&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>GM and Chrysler are offering special discounts to credit union members who purchase a vehicle as part of the Invest in America program.</description>
		   <pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2009 09:45:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Experts continue to recommend credit unions</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=393&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine recently published an article titled "Where to stash your cash now" that lists credit unions as a member-owned, non-profit alternative to traditional banks.</description>
		   <pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2009 09:45:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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	       <title>Get your credit report for FREE</title>
	       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=389&#38;src=blogrss</link>
	       <description>You're entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three credit reporting agencies--Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian.</description>
		   <pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2009 14:30:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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       <title>New FICO calculations may affect your credit score</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=385&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>Fair Issac's FICO 08 credit scoring model will soon take affect and could impact your credit score.</description>
	   <pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:45:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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       <title>Credit unions expected to gain popularity in 2009</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=384&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>CNBC.com columnist and nationally recognized credit expert John Ulzheimer predicts that consumers will rush to join credit unions in 2009.</description>
	   <pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2008 14:45:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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	<item>
       <title>New credit card rules may not go far enough</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=380&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>New federal rules announced Thursday will limit how much companies can increase credit card interest rates, among other changes. However, the changes won't take effect until July 2010 and many consumer advocates feel that the new rules don't do enough to protect cardholders.</description>
	   <pubDate>Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:15:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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	<item>
       <title>The Fed pulled out the stops today to save the U.S. economy by slashing interest rates to just above zero</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=379&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>The Fed's move was unexpected and results in the 10th reduction in over the past 12 months.</description>
	   <pubDate>Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:30:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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       <title>Enterprise Car Sales introduces "green" vehicle locator</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=377&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>Enterprise Car Sales has launched a new Web-based service that enables FIGFCU members to locate the most fuel efficient and "green" used vehicles available.</description>
	   <pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:45:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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       <title>Download branch and ATM locations to your GPS device</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=375&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>FIGFCU members with devices from Garmin or Tom Tom or other navigational systems can now easily download shared branch locations and CO-OP Network ATM locations to their devices.</description>
	   <pubDate>Mon, 08 Dec 2008 07:45:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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       <title>FIGFCU still lending as Fed adds $800 billion to bailout plan</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=371&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>Many banks have not yet resumed lending to consumers. However, FIGFCU continues to lend to its members without receiving any bailout funds.</description>
	   <pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2008 09:00:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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       <title>Can I have a 401(k) and an IRA?</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=368&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>The short answer is yes, you can. But there are a couple of things you should consider.</description>
	   <pubDate>Wed, 13 Nov 2008 14:42:00 -0800</pubDate>	   
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	 <item>
       <title>Find better rates on savings and loans at credit unions</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=365&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>Gregory Karp, a writer for Tribune newspapers, says credit unions are a viable alternative to banks, Karp writes that, "As household budgets tighten, you may find better rates on loans and savings at credit unions." Why you may ask?</description>
	   <pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:50:00 -0800</pubDate>
	   
	   
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       <title>FIGFCU Members can avoid ATM fees</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=363&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>According to a recent Bankrate.com survey, banks' ATM fees are at all time high. But FIGFCU members can avoid them if they use a CO-OP Network ATM.</description>
	   <pubDate>Tue, 04 Nov 2008 9:42:00 PDT</pubDate>
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       <title>Good Morning America: Consumers should check out FIGFCU</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=360&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>As big bank fees rise to an all-time high, Good Morning America encouraged consumers to consider credit unions as a cost-saving alternative on a recent segment titled "Bank Fees Out of Control."</description>
	   <pubDate>Fri, 29 Oct 2008 2:07:00 PDT</pubDate>
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       <title>U.S. News and World Report &#38; MarketWatch: Credit unions are doing well</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=350&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>Five news organizations--including U.S. News &#38; World Report and MarketWatch--published articles Tuesday and Wednesday pointing out that credit unions are doing well during the global financial crisis.</description>
	   <pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2008 9:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
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       <title>Your money is 100% protected at the Credit Union says Suze Orman</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=344&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>Suze Orman recently appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show to explain how consumers can protect their assets in the midst of our current financial crisis.</description>
	   <pubDate>Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
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       <title>Deposit Insurance Increased</title>
       <link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=303&#38;src=blogrss</link>
       <description>Your Credit Union deposits are now insured up to $250,000 per member on individual accounts and an additional $250,000 per joint owner on joint accounts. And, each named beneficiary on pay-on-death (POD) and trust accounts is insured up to $250,000 per account owner.</description>
	   <pubDate>Fri, 3 Oct 2008 12:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
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    <item>
		<title>FIGFCU and the Economy</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=301&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>The economy is much in the news lately. Some once solid financial institutions have either failed or been bailed out, and the bad news is probably not over. In times like these, we try to bring our members back to sound, fundamental investing and budgeting practices. Some of the more simple, yet invaluable, fundamentals would include saving regularly, paying bills on time, and not making impulsive spending decisions.</description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
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		<title>Your Insured Deposits</title>
		<link>http://www.figfcu.com/page.php?id=300&#38;src=blogrss</link>
		<description>In light of the recent takeover of IndyMac Bank in southern California by the FDIC, we know some of our members, especially our larger shareholders (depositors) may be wondering about our overall financial condition. I am proud to say it's as good or better now than it was a year ago, and your deposits are very safe at FIGFCU.</description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jul 2008 12:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
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