FAQ’s

We hope this section answers any questions you may have, but if it doesn’t and you would like to speak to us please call us – we will be pleased to help you.

Is my money safe?

Yes, by law the money collected by Norfolk First Credit Union has to be banked within 48 hours. Norfolk First Credit Union has fidelity bond insurance that covers against fraud by any officer.

Your eligible deposits with Norfolk First Credit Union are protected up to a total of £85,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, the UK’s deposit protection scheme. Any deposits you hold above the £85,000 limit are not covered.

Is Norfolk First Credit Union a legal operation?

Yes, Norfolk First Credit Union is registered under the 1979 Credit Union Act and regulated by the financial conduct authority (FCA).

Can I withdraw my savings?

Yes, although it may take up to 7 days for larger sums. If you do need some money it is preferable to take out a loan so you do not lose your life insurance cover or affect the amount of any dividend you receive.

Do I get interest on my savings?

No, but you can receive a share of any profits made by Norfolk First Credit Union which is paid as a dividend to members. The actual amount is decided by members once a year at the AGM (Annual General Meeting) and will depend on how many shares you have.

How do I get shares?

You automatically get 1 share for every £1 you save. So, if you save £200, you have 200 shares.

How much life insurance do I get?

Before the age of 65 you automatically get £1 free life insurance for every 1 share you have up to £5,000. So, if you save £200 you will have £200 extra free life insurance. If you die, the amount paid out would be £400; that’s your £200 saved plus £200 life insurance. After age 65 the life insurance reduces to 25p per £1 share, and from the age of 80 onwards you do not receive any free life insurance.

Why do I pay a joining fee?

To become a member and shareholder in the Credit Union co-operative and to help cover administration and running costs.

How much can I borrow?

After saving regularly for 8 weeks or 2 months you can borrow up to two times the amount you have saved with us, up to a maximum of £5000.

Why do I have to save for 8 weeks or 2 months?

This helps you to get into the habit of saving regularly. It also builds funds in the Credit Union and gives the credit committee an idea of what repayments you can reasonably afford to pay back on a loan.

What happens if I am unable to repay my loan?

We understand that sometimes peoples’ circumstances change so we recommend that you contact us. We may be able to reschedule your loan so you can make smaller repayments, or work out other ways of being of assistance. One of the Credit Union’s aims is to help people and reduce worry, however we are not a charity and we do send reminder letters to slow payers. Other action may also be taken.

What interest do I pay?

The interest is set by law, and the amount is up to 3% per month of the outstanding balance. This is 26.80% APR and means that on £100 paid back in a year you would pay £11.97 interest. There are no hidden penalties or late payment clauses. You can see how much a typical loan would cost you to pay back by clicking here.

Do I have to save whilst repaying a loan?

We will encourage you to continue saving as it means you will increase the amount you can borrow in future and increase the amount of any dividend paid to you. Your life insurance cover will increase too. You are also helping others by strengthening the Credit Union and increasing the amount available for loans.