First Harvest Launches Inclusive & Accessible Product & Service Additions

First Harvest Credit Union has launched two new offerings in an effort to further elevate its financial product and service suite. Virtual Branch provides members with more accessible account maintenance services, and First Step Checking account offers a simple checking solution with a no overdraft advance feature to assist members in establishing positive credit and payment history.

Virtual Branch provides First Harvest members with the option to engage face-to-face with a First Harvest member service representative. This virtual service offers an accessible option for those who may not have a branch nearby or who experience other barriers when accessing a physical branch. Members have the option to schedule an appointment or “walk-in” to the Virtual Branch lobby to receive assistance. Through Virtual Branch, members can perform a broad range of account maintenance functions, including screen-sharing, for a better member-support experience.

First Harvest has also launched its First Step Checking account to provide members with a simplified checking solution that offers many of the same conveniences as a traditional checking account, such as debit card access, direct deposit, and online bill pay services. This account option is ideal for members who are looking to build positive transaction history and get on the path of establishing a good credit score. Members can gain better control over their account while experiencing straightforward terms and a minimal monthly service charge, while avoiding overdraft advanced transactions, as accountholders are only able to spend within their available account balances.

We made a commitment this past year to expand our banking offerings and accessibility to a wider range of our membership by finding new and inclusive financial solutions for all of our members,” stated First Harvest President & CEO, Mike Dinneen. “First Step Checking allows our members to choose for themselves how to best manage their finances and creates a responsible spending account for members who are looking to establish a better banking history. Too often, consumers find themselves in excessive overdraft situations, or they may not even qualify for traditional checking account options altogether. First Harvest already features among the lowest overdraft and account maintenance fees in Southern New Jersey. As a Low Income-Designated credit union, we have a duty to provide responsible banking solutions and starter options to members of our community who need them the most, providing a path to build positive credit history. In addition, our Virtual Banking will provide video banking options to our members and Select Employer Group partners who may not live near a branch or are unable to visit one. Our team is perpetually committed to ensuring that our members have access to convenient, simplified, inclusive, and trusted baking solutions that fit their unique financial needs.”