2026 Spring Possibilities
Spring at Ascend Federal Credit Union can really be called a season of learning — in April, we celebrate both Financial Literacy Month and Youth Month! It’s the perfect time to focus on financial education and the importance of establishing healthy savings habits early.
As a local, not-for-profit credit union, part of our mission is to provide our members and the communities we serve with resources and guidance to help them become better financial stewards. Opening a youth account is incredibly beneficial for teaching good financial strategies at a young age, such as budgeting properly and tracking your finances. If you have a loved one under 18 years old who doesn’t have an account, April is the best time to open one for them at Ascend.
Youth accounts are just part of our commitment to financial education. We offer the premium online financial literacy platform Banzai to teachers and students across Middle Tennessee, which makes learning about finances fun and engaging.
Spring is also usually a busy season in the housing industry, with families starting their home searches as the school year winds down. If you’re preparing for a move, now is a great time to get prequalified for the perfect mortgage before you start your search. That way, you’ll know how much you can afford ahead of time and be ready to jump when you find the right home.
We have an expert mortgage team ready to help you through the prequalification process. They’ll help you get the right mortgage, and they have a wealth of knowledge about the local housing market if you need a resource as you search.
If you’re starting to save for a future move or simply just want to start saving more, keep reading for simple tips in honor of America Saves Week from April 6-10.
Thanks again for being a member of Ascend! We’re so grateful to have your trust and hope you have a safe, successful spring.
Regards,
Matt Jernigan
President & CEO
HOLIDAY CLOSURES
All Ascend branches and offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day. Branches and offices will also be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026, for the Juneteenth holiday.
MAKE A VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT
Members have the option to meet virtually with an Ascend Financial Services Officer. Visit ascend.org/schedule to schedule your appointment today.
UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION
Be sure your contact information is up to date with Ascend. Update your information using the QR code or open the Ascend app and select Profile under the Settings drop-down menu.
SHARE YOUR ASCEND STORY
Every member’s financial journey is unique, and we’re honored to be part of yours. We’re gathering real member stories to highlight how Ascend is helping people across Middle Tennessee. Selected stories may be featured on our website, social media, or for other marketing purposes. If you’re interested in sharing your story, we’d love to hear from you.
JOIN US FOR A FREE SEMINAR
Have a question about Social Security? Join us for a free seminar in April.
Open an Ascend Youth Account in April, and we’ll make a $100 deposit!

One of the best ways to start teaching your loved ones about finances at a young age is to help them open a youth account. April is the best time to do that at Ascend — during our Youth Month promotion, we’ll make the first $100 deposit into newly opened primary youth savings accounts!
Youth accounts help teach valuable financial lessons at a young age, such as budgeting, account monitoring, banking basics like withdrawals and deposits, and how to set and reach financial goals. When good habits are established early, they can help build confidence and teach responsibility.
At Ascend, our youth accounts are opened in the minor’s name, with a responsible party as a joint owner on the account. Youth savings accounts can be opened for anyone under 18, with the option to add a youth checking account for those ages 13-17. Full promotion details and terms and conditions can be found at ascend.org/youth.
To open an Ascend Youth Account, visit your nearest Middle Tennessee branch and speak with a financial services representative.
It’s never too early to begin a financial journey — help your loved one get started today!
Part of our financial education initiative at Ascend includes giving free access to educational opportunities for local students. We provide the virtual financial literacy program Banzai free of charge to teachers at 62 Middle Tennessee schools, helping more than 39,000 students broaden their financial literacy.
Banzai uses cutting-edge software, interactive classroom materials, and professional presentations to teach students how to navigate real-life financial situations. It’s been used by more than 160,000 educators across the country.
Learn more about Banzai at ascend.banzai.org.
A time to reflect and give back.

The Ascend team gathered on President’s Day for our inaugural All-In Day — an opportunity to come together as an organization and re-focus our goals, celebrate accomplishments, and give back to our community.
Our leadership panels and open discussions were powerful reminders of where we’re headed and how every team member plays a role in getting us there.
We were also inspired by a powerful keynote speech from Team Agar, as Johnny Agar and his parents shared a moving story of perseverance, grit, and refusing to accept limits.
One of the most meaningful moments of the day was serving together. In partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, Ascend team members packed 20,000 food and hygiene kits for neighbors in need.
We’re making an impact where it matters most – home.
Strong communities are built when neighbors show up for one another. At Ascend, that belief is at the heart of our mission. As a credit union, we exist to improve lives, and that means supporting not only our members, but also the broader communities we call home.
One of the ways we live out that commitment is through our partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, working together to help provide access to nutritious food for families across our region.
In 2025, Ascend donated $55,000 to support Second Harvest’s hunger relief efforts. This included $30,000 to sponsor 15 Mobile Markets in areas most impacted by food insecurity. These markets brought fresh, healthy food directly into neighborhoods, reducing transportation barriers, and connecting families with groceries. Ascend also provided helpful financial literacy resource materials.
During the holiday season, a time when many households feel added financial pressure, Ascend contributed an additional $25,000 to Second Harvest’s annual holiday campaign. Our employees also stepped up in a big way, donating 9,038 non-perishable food items through a November food drive. That generosity went even further thanks to Matt Jernigan, Ascend’s President and CEO, who pledged to donate one additional item for every two collected — bringing the total to 13,557 items.
For more than a decade, Ascend, our employees, and our members have proudly supported Second Harvest through donations, food drives, and volunteer efforts. Since 2022 alone, we’ve contributed more than $200,000 and 37,000+ food items to help fight hunger.
It’s a powerful example of the credit union philosophy of people helping people — and a reminder that when we come together, we can make a meaningful difference for our neighbors in need.
Members who would like to join us in supporting hunger relief can learn more or make a donation directly at secondharvestmidtn.org.
Open a High-Yield Checking account today!

Serving our members is our mission at Ascend. Everything we do and every decision we make is guided by what we believe is in your best financial interest. It’s part of the benefit you get from choosing a trusted, local credit union.
To help put more money back in your wallet, we offer great rates on our products, including the Ascend High-Yield Checking account. You can earn 3.04%* Annual Percentage Yield** on balances up to $15,000, which means you can boost your savings just by having an account.
Opening an Ascend High-Yield Checking account is easy — visit your nearest Middle Tennessee branch, apply online at ascend.org, or call us at 800-342-3086 to get started today.
Of course, great rates are just a portion of our commitment to service. We also provide all Ascend members with:
- Expert, always-local service to help with your unique needs
- Extended banking hours at our branches (7 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Saturday)
- An easy-to-use mobile app to manage your funds
- Tools to help you build credit
If it’s been a while since one of our experts has looked at your financial plan, consider scheduling a financial health checkup by visiting a branch or going to ascend.org/schedule. This is a valuable free service for Ascend members to review where you are on your financial journey and get personalized tips from a certified financial counselor.
Thanks again for being a member of Ascend!
*Rate effective November 1, 2025, and is subject to change at any time.
Simple Strategies to Build Stronger Habits Year-Round
At Ascend, we believe small steps can lead to big savings. In honor of America Saves Week (April 6-10), we’re sharing actionable tips to help you build a stronger financial future.
Set Clear Goals: Start with a purpose. Whether it’s creating an emergency fund, saving for a vacation, or preparing for retirement, having a specific goal can motivate you to stay on track.
Automate Your Savings: Consistency is key to growing your savings. Set up automatic transfers and direct deposits in the Ascend app to make saving effortless.
Track Your Spending: Understanding where your money goes can help you identify areas to cut back. As an Ascend member, you have access to free budget sheets at ascend.org/worksheets. These sheets make it easy to monitor your expenses and reallocate funds toward your savings goals.
Take Advantage of High-Yield Accounts: Maximize your money’s potential by exploring high-yield accounts or certificates offered by Ascend. These options can help your savings grow faster. Head to ascend.org/rates to see our high-yield rates today.
Celebrate Small Wins: Every milestone counts! Recognize your progress — no matter how small — to stay motivated and focused on your goals.
America Saves Week is the perfect time to reassess your financial habits and make positive changes. Ascend is here to support your journey with tools, resources, and expert advice. Let’s work together to make saving a priority in 2026 and beyond!
Local Expertise to Guide You Every Step of the Way
Buying a home is one of the most significant decisions a person can make. That’s why it’s crucial to have the right mortgage provider in your corner — someone located in your area who is looking out for your best financial interests.
Ascend has mortgage programs that make it easy to turn your homeownership dreams into reality, and our personalized service extends beyond closing. We choose to keep most of our mortgage servicing in-house*, meaning if you have a question about your loan payment, balance, escrow, etc., our local staff is here to assist you.
The specialized mortgage programs** we have available at Ascend all require little to no down payment as well as other additional benefits, including:
First-Time Homebuyer Loan: No private mortgage insurance (PMI) required, as little as $500 down payment, financing up to 102% of the sales price, and no income limitations.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs): Typically offer a lower initial interest rate for the first 5, 7, or 10 years, after which the rate adjusts on a set schedule (every five years or annually) and is subject to annual and lifetime caps. They can also reduce monthly costs by sometimes eliminating PMI and are often a good option for borrowers planning to refinance or sell within 5–10 years.
Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Lock in your interest rate for the entire loan term (such as 30 years), providing consistent monthly payments unless you refinance. While they typically start with higher rates than ARMs, they’re especially appealing in low-rate environments and are best suited for homeowners planning to stay long term.
No manufactured/modular/mobile homes are permitted. Applicants with no credit score may be eligible with acceptable alternative credit. Normal closing costs apply.
With nearly 75 years of trusted service in Middle Tennessee, Ascend is committed to finding a mortgage solution for you.
Ready to take the next step towards homeownership? Contact an Ascend representative by email at mortgages@ascend.org, by phone at 931-454-1300, or start your application online.
* Ascend services all loans in-house, excluding FHA and VA loans.
**Restrictions apply. Contact an Ascend Mortgage Loan Officer for complete details.
Equal Housing Lender. NMLS#451452. All loans are subject to credit approval.
Common Fraud Tactics and How to Avoid Them
At Ascend, safeguarding member information is a top priority. Unfortunately, scammers continue to develop more sophisticated tactics to trick individuals into sharing personal and financial information. Knowing the most common scam techniques can help you stay protected.
Common Scam Red Flags
Many scams involve impersonators claiming to represent your financial institution and creating urgency around your account. Keep in mind:
Ascend representatives will never:
- Ask a member for their account number via email or text message
- Ask a member to share their user ID or digital banking password
- Ask you to share your one-time passcode
- Request that you send money through Zelle® to keep your account current or “in good standing”
- Call you to verify a Zelle® transaction
If you receive a message or call requesting any of the above, it is likely fraudulent.
Be Careful with Unexpected Messages
Phishing emails and text messages often appear legitimate but may direct you to fake websites designed to steal your information. Never click links from untrusted sources, and do not rely solely on caller ID, as phone numbers can be spoofed. If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from Ascend, call us directly at 800-342-3086 to confirm its legitimacy.
Watch for Pressure Tactics
Scammers often try to rush you by claiming your account is at risk or that you’ve won a prize. Take time to verify any request before providing personal information or sending money.
Extra Protection for Older Members
Members age 65 or older can add an extra layer of protection with Ascend’s Advance Consent Agreement. By voluntarily signing the form, members authorize Ascend to contact a trusted individual if fraud or abuse is suspected. Speak with an Ascend representative to learn more.
If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, contact Ascend immediately at 800-342-3086.
Start your estate plan today.
Estate planning is becoming increasingly more important as more assets are moving across generations than ever before. If you don’t have a plan for how your assets will be managed in the future, Ascend can help get you started.
What is estate planning?
Estate planning is the process of preparing how your assets — savings, property, and personal belongings — will be managed and distributed after your lifetime. It may also include documents such as a power of attorney, typically one for financial matters and another for medical decisions in the event you can’t communicate your own wishes.
Wills vs. Trusts
When you create an estate plan, you’ll generally have two approaches to consider: creating a will and establishing a trust. Both help to ensure your wishes are honored, your loved ones are cared for, and unnecessary stress or costs are avoided. It may even be recommended that you have both, since they serve slightly different purposes:
Wills are legal documents that take effect at death and direct how assets are distributed.
- Wills name guardians, designate where your assets go, and specify your final arrangements
- Offer more limited control over the distribution of your assets
- Wills often must go through a probate process, which is a court-supervised proceeding that validates a will after you’re deceased and disperses assets, debts, and taxes
Trusts are arrangements that can take effect during life, hold and manage assets, and can help streamline asset transfer and provide privacy. They can be more complex to set up and maintain.
- Trusts allow for greater control over when and how your assets are distributed
- Only apply to assets that are held in the trust
- Trusts may help minimize or, in some cases, avoid probate, which can sometimes be costly and take years to complete
Receiving an Inheritance
If you’re expecting to receive an inheritance, you should consider talking with a financial expert before doing anything with it. As an Ascend member, you have access to free virtual or in-person financial health checkup appointments with a certified financial counselor who can help discuss general financial considerations and next steps. Appointments can be scheduled at a branch or online at ascend.org/schedule.
Estate plans can help you feel confident that your assets are secure. Don’t wait any longer — get started today.
Ascend is not a law firm and does not provide legal or tax advice. The information provided by Ascend is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult a qualified tax advisor or legal professional.

Members Enjoy Estate Planning Savings
Through our partnership with Trust & Will, Ascend members can save 20% when creating a will or trust and get access to valuable estate planning services.
Trust & Will is a third-party service provider and is solely responsible for its products and services.
Find flexible financing options with Ascend.
It’s almost the perfect time of year to go outdoors for an adventure. If you’re hoping to upgrade with a new boat, RV, motorcycle, or jet ski, a recreational loan can help get you on the road, water, or trail.
Ascend offers competitive rates for both new and used recreational vehicles. We also offer terms up to 144 months so you can find a loan that fits you and your budget – no matter what kind of adventure you have in mind.
Applying for a recreational loan with Ascend is easy. Start your application today.
All loans are subject to credit approval. We do business in accordance with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.
Corvis Transport, LLC - Smyrna
Bradley's Creek Baptist Church - Lascassas
Email bizdev@ascend.org to learn how we can help improve the financial well-being of your organization’s employees, members, or students.