2026 Fall Possibilities
From the President & CEO
At Ascend Federal Credit Union, we focus on providing everyday value to hardworking members like you who make our financial institution possible. That commitment is reflected in the products we offer that are designed to help you achieve financial success and the personalized service we provide, including free guidance from our knowledgeable local team.
In this edition of Possibilities, we’ll highlight some of the many ways you can take full advantage of your membership, as well as provide practical tips to help you along your financial journey. From saving money and building stronger habits to making the most of the products and services available to you, you'll find examples of the everyday value we're committed to delivering to our members.
On Oct. 15, Ascend and credit unions around the world will celebrate International Credit Union (ICU) Day, which honors credit unions’ efforts to improve our members’ financial well-being. The spirit of ICU Day is rooted in financial inclusion and the people-first philosophy that sets credit unions apart. At Ascend, that means finding new ways to bring value to our members and support your financial goals. I hope you’ll stop by a branch on Oct. 15 to celebrate ICU Day with us.
I’m so thankful to you for placing your trust in Ascend. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and look forward to continuing to deliver the value, guidance, and personalized service that comes with your membership.
Regards,
Matt Jernigan
President & CEO
Holiday Closures: All branches and offices will be closed on Monday, Oct. 12, in observance of Columbus/Indigenous Peoples’ Day; Wednesday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day; Thursday, Nov. 26, for Thanksgiving; and Friday, Dec. 25, for Christmas. We’ll also close at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 24, for Christmas Eve.
Shred Day Notice: Shred Day is returning Nov. 7 and 14. Keep an eye on our social media for more information to be announced soon.
Save Your December Statements: Included in your December statements is information you will need to file your 2026 tax return. Please keep this statement for tax purposes. According to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations, if dividends (interest) earned are not reported on your tax return, a penalty may be incurred.
Don't Miss Important Communications: Be sure to have your email address up to datefor Ascend to reach you regarding general communications, fraud alerts, and updates, including future issues of Possibilities.
How We Make Your Success Our Priority
When you choose Ascend, you get a partner that’s committed to helping you through all of life’s stages. We do that by showing up for you in meaningful ways, like offering better ways to save and borrow confidently, local guidance when you need it, and convenient banking options designed to help you succeed financially.
Because our members are the driving force that guide the decisions we make, we believe it’s critical to return value for your membership every day. We do this by:
Being Accessible
We make banking more convenient not only with our mobile app, but also our Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs), which allow us to provide local teller service at most of our branches from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Whether you’re checking your credit score on the go or making a deposit outside normal banking hours, we want to make financial management easier.
Listening and Advising
No matter what your financial needs may be, having the right support can make all the difference. When you contact Ascend, you’ll always get help from a real person, located in your area, who wants to see you succeed. And through resources like free financial health checkups, you can better understand your full financial picture.
Providing for Our Communities
Community support is an important part of our mission — this year alone, we have invested over $500,000 into our local communities through monetary gifts and in-kind donations. Through local partnerships, volunteer efforts, and investments in our communities, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the areas we call home.
We’re so thankful that you’ve chosen Ascend. As your trusted financial partner, it’s our mission to continue showing up for you with the service, solutions, and support to help you thrive.
Why Model-Year-End Deals Matter
As dealerships make room for new model-year vehicles this fall, you may find real savings on outgoing models, making now a great time to start shopping.
Whether you’re shopping for a new vehicle or paying on an existing auto loan, reviewing your financing options could save you money. The right loan can be just as important as finding the right vehicle at the right time. Ascend is here to help with both buying a car or refinancing your current loan.
Why Model-Year-End Sales Matter
As new inventory arrives, dealerships often look to move outgoing models off the lot — which can mean more room to negotiate. Shopping during this window may put you in a stronger position, especially if you get pre-approved first.
Get Pre-Approved Before You Shop
A pre-approval from Ascend gives you a clear budget and more confidence at the dealership, so you can negotiate from knowledge instead of guesswork.
Once you find the right car, you can move quickly.
Considering Refinancing
If a new car isn't in the plans right now, refinancing your existing auto loan may be worth a look. It could help lower your rate, reduce your monthly payment, or shorten your loan term.
Consider refinancing if:
- Your credit score has improved since you took out the loan
- Current interest rates available are more favorable
- Your financial goals or budget have changed
Applying Is Simple
Whether financing a new vehicle or refinancing your current one, you can apply online, by phone at 800-342-3086, or in-branch. Our team is on hand to guide you through the process.
Ready to save on your next ride, or the one you already have? Get pre-approved or explore refinancing with Ascend today.
Federally insured by NCUA. Loans are subject to credit approval. Rates and terms may vary based on creditworthiness and are subject to change.
For over 20 years, Ascend has supported our members in their pursuit of higher education through our scholarship program. We are happy to share that our 2027 scholarship application will open in December.
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must be members of Ascend Federal Credit Union and plan to enroll or prove enrollment as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, technical or trade school in pursuit of an associate, bachelor's, master's or other advanced-degree program in the next academic year.
Past Ascend scholarship winners may reapply if they meet the program requirements. If you are interested in applying for an Ascend scholarship, be sure to follow us on social media @ascendfcu and watch your email for additional information.
Visit ascend.org/scholarships for eligibility requirements and to apply.
New Select Employee Groups (SEGs)
Wesley Stephens Ministries, Inc. - Murfreesboro
Quilting Bees Quilt Guild (the Guild) - Murfreesboro
Anglican Church of the Epiphany - Antioch
NATLJ CHS Care Home Services - La Vergne
Little Hands South Sudan - Murfreesboro
Chrysalis Housing & Restoration Foundation - McMinnville
Knights of Columbus Council 15981 - Manchester
LAD Global Network Inc. - Nashville
Nature Together - Sparta
Manna Cafe Ministries - Clarksville
Learn how employees and members of your organization can partner with Ascend.
We Want to Thank You for Being a Member
Each year, Ascend joins credit unions around the world in celebrating International Credit Union (ICU) Day, a time to recognize the positive impact credit unions make in the lives of our members and communities. We’d love to celebrate with you — visit any of our Middle Tennessee branches on Oct. 15 for a special treat, on us!
Since its inception in 1948, ICU Day has highlighted the credit union movement's commitment to putting people first. Credit unions are not-for-profit cooperatives owned by the members we serve. That unique structure allows us to focus on helping our members achieve their financial goals while investing in the communities we call home.
Credit unions are known for building meaningful local connections and expanding access to financial services, especially in areas that may be overlooked by larger institutions. At Ascend, we are proud to support local businesses and partner with organizations making a difference across Middle Tennessee, including Second Harvest Food Bank, Operation Stand Down TN, Blood Cancer United, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, and many others.
The impact we make in Middle Tennessee wouldn’t be possible without you. Thank you for choosing Ascend.
Celebrating Milestones in the Communities We Serve
We’re Open in Clarksville
We cut the ribbon in July on our newest branch in Clarksville, located at 5888 Fire Station Road, Suite F. This is our first branch in Montgomery County, and we’re so excited to join one of Tennessee’s fastest growing communities. The branch lobby is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Drive-up ITMs are available with live teller assistance from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Celebrating 75 Years
In July, we were joined by members of the community and the Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce at our headquarters building for a ribbon cutting celebrating our 75th anniversary. As part of our anniversary, we shared impactful stories from our members at ascend.org/75th-anniversary.
We Love Our Teachers
The Ascend Lebanon branch joined the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce for their annual We Love Our Teachers initiative and to celebrate the first day of school at Lebanon Special School District. We love supporting our educators!
Main Street Awards
We’re so grateful to be named Best Credit Union in Rutherford County, Williamson County, and Maury County, as well as Best Mortgage Company in Maury County in the annual Main Street Awards. Thank you for your support!
Don't Forget to Shop Local
Shop local this holiday season and support our community’s small businesses during Small Business Saturday on Nov. 28. Every dollar you spend locally helps strengthen our community, and you’ll find unique gifts, too!
Cybersecurity Awareness Month
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, serving as a timely reminder to tighten your financial security before holiday shopping season ramps up. Between gift-buying and charitable appeals, fraudsters have more chances than ever to catch buyers off-guard. Here's how to shop smarter and safer this season:
Monitor Your Accounts
Use the Ascend app to easily review your accounts regularly and set up transaction alerts. In addition, there are card control features available to lock/unlock cards, limit transactions, and monitor activity right from your device.
Watch for Fake Charities
Holiday giving brings a surge in scam charities. Verify a charity through its official website before donating rather than clicking links in emails or texts and be wary of appeals demanding gift cards or wire transfers.
Guard Your Personal Information
Scammers use spoofing tactics to make calls, emails, or texts look like they're from Ascend. If a message seems suspicious, contact us directly at 800-342-3086 to verify it. Ascend will never ask for your digital banking login or one-time passcode.
Shop with Caution
Stick to reputable websites, avoid unfamiliar pop-ups, and check for a secure URL (https) with a lock icon before entering payment details. Keep devices updated with the latest security settings.
Keep Cards Secure
Store your cards securely when you aren't using them and consider using a digital wallet like Google Pay or Apple Pay for extra protection.
Suspicious? Call Us.
Notice suspicious activity on your account? Call Ascend immediately at 800-342-3086.
This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take these steps to enjoy the holidays with peace of mind.
Free Financial Health Checkups
Everyone's financial picture looks a little different, but there are always ways to improve. That's where our free financial health checkup comes in: a one-on-one session designed to catch problems before they grow, and opportunities you might not know you have.
Available to all members, a financial health checkup pairs you with a certified financial counselor. Whether you prefer a virtual appointment or stopping by any of our 28 Middle Tennessee branches, your counselor will build a personalized plan around your goals.
In practice, that means looking at your full financial picture: income, expenses, debt, and your credit report. Counselors often catch things that have gone under your radar, such as a vehicle payment that could be refinanced, insurance worth shopping around, or an old collections account quietly dragging down a credit score.
"People don't always believe they need a checkup. But when you sit down with us, we look at the whole picture. If there's a problem coming, we can usually catch it. We're looking at these accounts every single day, so we might spot something you've missed, or have a solution you haven't thought of." — Quivaris Northcutt, Ascend Financial Counselor
It usually takes about an hour, and it's just as useful for members who feel financially secure as for those working through financial challenges.
Schedule your free financial health checkup today at ascend.org/schedule or through our mobile app.
Create a Plan for Financial Success
Life has a way of throwing curveballs at us when we least expect them. Car repairs, medical bills, unexpected home expenses, job changes, or a costly vacation can disrupt even the most carefully planned budget.
With a few smart financial strategies, you can reduce debt, rebuild savings, and create a stronger plan for success.
Debt Consolidation
If you have multiple debts, consolidation could get you down to one monthly payment instead of several. In some cases, consolidation may also lower your interest rate.
Debt consolidation only works if you improve your spending and savings habits. Borrow only what is necessary to meet your needs and avoid taking on additional debt.
Using High-Yield Accounts
Rebuilding savings is just as important as tackling debt, and it can be made easier with a high-yield account, such as a certificate, money market, or high-yield checking account. Each has unique qualities, so it’s best to research your options thoroughly.
Ask an Expert
At Ascend, we offer free financial education resources, budgeting assistance, as well as one-on-one consultations with our financial health checkups. Speaking with a trusted financial professional can help you evaluate your debt, savings goals, and monthly budget from an objective perspective.
Managing debt and growing savings aren't competing goals — they work best together. By reducing high-interest debt, growing your savings, and seeking expert guidance when needed, you can create a stronger financial foundation and move forward with greater confidence.
A strong financial future isn’t built in a day, but a few intentional year-end actions can make a meaningful difference. Whether you’re reviewing spending habits, boosting savings, maximizing retirement contributions, or preparing for tax season, now is the ideal time to take a fresh look at your financial picture and create momentum for the year ahead.
Review Your Budget and Spending
Look back at your spending over the past year. Are there categories that crept up without you noticing? A quick review can highlight where your money is actually going versus where you meant for it to go, making it easier to set realistic goals for next year.
Automate Your Savings
After your review, put your plan into action by setting up automatic transfers in the Ascend app. Even small, consistent contributions build up over time. For faster growth, ask about our high-yield accounts, including certificates, money market accounts, and High-Yield Checking.
Top Off Your Retirement Plan
If you have a 401(k), ensure you’re taking full advantage of your employer's matching contributions. Consider maximizing your contributions before the Dec. 31 deadline, with a limit of $24,500, plus an additional $8,000 if you’re age 50 or older. Those aged 60 to 63 can contribute up to an additional $11,250 in 2026 in place of the $8,000, if your plan allows.
For IRAs, you have until April 15 to reach the $7,500 limit, with an extra $1,100 if you’re age 50 or older.
Schedule a Free Financial Health Checkup
Need help finalizing your financial plan for next year? Consider scheduling a free financial health checkup with one of our certified financial counselors, either in person at a branch or virtually from home. During your checkup, we'll help you assess your current financial health, review your spending and saving habits, and build a personalized plan to reach your goals.
Ready to finish the year strong? Schedule a free financial health checkup in-branch or virtually.
Cancel Unused Subscriptions
Subscriptions add up fast, and it's easy to lose track of what you're still using. Review your streaming services, apps, and other recurring charges and cancel anything you no longer need or regularly use.
Update Your Beneficiary Information
Life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child can affect your beneficiary designations on accounts like savings, retirement plans, and life insurance policies. Take time to review and update your beneficiary information to ensure your accounts reflect your current wishes.
Maximize Your Health Savings Account (HSA)
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), consider maximizing contributions before the year’s end to take advantage of tax benefits while saving for future medical expenses. For 2026, the limits are $4,400 for individuals and $8,750 for families, with an additional $1,000 catch-up for those aged 55 or older.
Use Your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Funds
Check your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) balance and plan your health care spending so you don’t lose unused funds at the end of the year.
Additional Tips for Year-End Preparation
Organize Tax Documents Early: Begin gathering tax documents, including W-2s, 1099s, and receipts for deductible expenses.
Consider Professional Guidance: If your financial situation has become more complex, consulting with a financial professional can help optimize your position.
At Ascend, we’re committed to helping you navigate your financial journey with confidence. By taking these steps now, you can approach the new year prepared and financially secure.