Get to Know Us: UT Federal Credit Union
Starting college is about more than moving into a residence hall and finding your classrooms. It is a time when students begin building new relationships, making more independent decisions and learning how to manage life on their own. That is why UT Federal Credit Union was honored to partner with the University of Tennessee at Martin as the sole external sponsor of 2026 Welcome Weekend, helping welcome an incoming class of more than 1,000 first-year students to campus Aug. 20-23. For UTFCU, the weekend was about more than sponsorship. It was an opportunity to invest in UTM, invest in Martin and invest in students as they begin this next chapter. From serving snow cones to incoming students to talking about college life and financial decisions, leading a hands-on financial education activity and giving students a chance to win cash, our team spent the weekend connecting with the newest members of the Skyhawk community. Welcome Weekend kicked off Thursday with the Welcome Home Picnic, giving incoming students and their families a chance to relax, connect and enjoy their first evening on campus. The UTFCU team joined The Blue Swing Shaved Ice to serve snow cones to students. It was a simple way to start the weekend, but it represented something important to us: being present in the communities we serve. UTFCU has been part of the Martin community since opening its Martin branch in 1989, and we were excited to welcome another generation of students to the community we have been proud to serve for decades. Friday morning brought incoming Skyhawks together in the Kathleen and Tom Elam Center for UT Martin's inaugural First Flight Frenzy, an ESPN GameDay-style experience designed to build excitement for the new school year and help students prepare for their first year at UT Martin. Presented in partnership with UTFCU, the event featured remarks from UT Martin Chancellor Yancy Freeman Sr., Provost Laurie Couch, UTFCU CEO and President Kenyon Warren, Dr. Giles, a UTM faculty member, and Scarlett Seymour, a UTM student. Each shared advice and personal perspective on making the most of the first-year experience. For Warren, the conversation provided an opportunity to connect with students about college life, independence and the financial decisions that come with taking on more responsibility. College is full of firsts, including many of the first financial decisions students make on their own. Students begin managing money away from home, deciding how to spend limited funds, handling unexpected expenses, balancing wants and needs, building savings and learning from financial mistakes. The event also brought plenty of energy and student participation. Students took part in interactive activities including a "Moneyball" shootout, where deans wore basketball goals on their heads while students raced the clock to score, and a Price Is Right-style challenge that tested their knowledge of the cost of common college housing items. The combination of conversation, competition and campus connection gave students an energetic introduction to life as a Skyhawk. "We want to be a resource students can lean on as they build financial confidence, not simply a name they saw on a sponsorship banner," Warren said. That idea carried throughout the weekend. From hands-on financial education during Free Play to opportunities to connect with students throughout Welcome Weekend, UTFCU's goal was to make its presence meaningful, approachable and relevant to students as they begin this new chapter. One of the highlights of UTFCU's Welcome Weekend involvement was Free Play, where our team partnered with UT Martin's Center for Student Success and Career Development (CPAD) to bring financial education directly into the student experience. Two interactive activities gave students a chance to think about money in a way that was hands-on, approachable and, most importantly, relevant to college life. Ninety students participated in Plinko Your Money, an interactive financial education activity designed to show how everyday decisions and unexpected events can affect your money. Students received a UTFCU-branded wristlet to use as their College Money Wallet, along with $500 in UTFCU College Cash. Then came the Plinko drop. Each student landed on a different college-life scenario, such as: Some scenarios put money into their wallet. Others took money out. But every scenario came with a Money Move designed to connect the experience to a practical financial habit, from building emergency savings and identifying wants versus needs to protecting accounts from fraud and thinking carefully about unexpected income. Students then made another Plinko drop and saw how their choices and circumstances affected the money they had left. The point wasn't to teach students that they should never spend money. It was to help them understand that knowing where your money is going is one of the most important parts of managing it. Two UTM Bookstore gift cards were also given away during the activity, adding another element of fun for participating students. On Saturday, UTFCU also brought a second financial activity to Free Play: Take a Guess. Take the Cash. Fifty-four students participated by looking at a jar filled with cash and submitting their best guess at the total amount. But there was a little more meaning behind the number. The jar contained $189.90, representing 1989, the year UTFCU opened its branch in Martin. For more than three decades, UTFCU has been part of the Martin community. The activity gave us a fun way to connect that history with the students who are now beginning their own journey in Martin. And, of course, there was cash on the line. Welcome Weekend included activities across several days, and UTFCU's involvement extended well beyond financial education. Our team supported events including the Welcome Home Picnic, First Flight Frenzy, Glow Night, Free Play activities and the Saturday night Welcome Weekend Concert. Throughout the weekend, UTFCU employees had opportunities to meet students where they were, have conversations, answer questions, hand out giveaways and simply be part of the Welcome Weekend experience. That's what community investment looks like to us. It isn't always about a big moment or a formal presentation. Sometimes it's serving a snow cone. Sometimes it's talking with a student about their first year of college. Sometimes it's handing someone a fan on a hot Tennessee afternoon. And sometimes it's giving a student a chance to think differently about their money. Financial independence is one of the many new responsibilities that comes with college. Students are making decisions about spending, saving, transportation, subscriptions, food, textbooks and unexpected expenses, often while managing their own money for the first time. That's one reason UTFCU recently introduced , an account designed specifically with students in mind. The account gives eligible students access to features designed to fit college life, including cash back on qualifying debit card purchases, nationwide ATM access and Digital Banking. For students beginning their journey at UT Martin, having a financial partner that understands the realities of college life can be an important part of building good money habits early. Learn More About Student Checking UTFCU has been part of the Martin community since 1989, when we opened our branch in the community. Our connection to Martin has continued to grow over the years, and Welcome Weekend was another opportunity to invest in that relationship. We were honored to partner with UT Martin and CPAD to help welcome an incoming class of more than 1,000 first-year students to campus and help them begin this next chapter. Because investing in a community means investing in the people who make that community stronger. We believe in investing in UTM. Welcome to Martin, Skyhawks. We are excited to see where this next chapter takes you. UTFCU's mission is to improve lives, financially and beyond. Mission in Motion puts that mission into action by giving employees unlimited paid volunteer time to support the causes, organizations and communities that matter to them. See how UTFCU is making a difference beyond banking through community partnerships, campus connections, volunteerism, and employee engagement across Tennessee. Cryptocurrency scams are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect. Learn the most common warning signs and how to protect your money before it’s too late. UT Federal Credit Union earned the Marketing & Sales Innovation Award for a people-powered digital campaign that brought real engagement back to social media. UT Federal Credit Union has been honored with three national Diamond Awards recognizing excellence in marketing and communications. While the awards highlight UTFCU’s innovative campaigns, the real story is the organization-wide collaboration behind them, from the Konversation Tour listening initiative to the U Save Round-Up savings campaign. Explore how teamwork, employee feedback, and cross-department coordination helped bring these award-winning initiatives to life. Celebrate a memorable night with UT Federal Credit Union members and employees at the 56th Annual Meeting. From great conversation and exclusive member swag to a Knoxville Ice Bears victory and a center-ice photo, it was an evening filled with connection, community, and celebration. Tax season is prime time for scammers. Learn how to spot common IRS scams, protect your personal information, and see how UT Federal Credit Union helps keep your accounts secure. Susannah’s House provides hope, healing, and stability for mothers and children in our community. Learn how UT Federal Credit Union is proud to support their mission and what’s next for this impactful organization. A heartwarming end to 2025! From spreading holiday cheer and volunteering with Tiny Trees, to celebrating World Kindness Day and supporting families through the Grocery Giveaway, UTFCU wrapped up the year giving back to our communities, connecting with students, and celebrating wins across Tennessee. From feeding families and supporting children to caring for seniors and animals, UT Federal Credit Union employees showed that small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Read about our 2025 Acts of Kindness Campaign and see how we’re spreading joy across Tennessee! From fundraising dinners to fall festivals, October was full of heart and community at UT Federal Credit Union. See how our team supported local causes, families, and traditions throughout the month. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month! Learn how to protect your accounts with strong passwords, recognize phishing and scam attempts, and keep your personal information safe online. Discover how a UTFCU debit card gives you more than just spending power — from instant issuance at the branch to real-time alerts, fraud protection, and rewards, our cards are designed for convenience, control, and peace of mind. August was filled with community, connection, and celebration! From supporting agriculture and healthcare to welcoming students back to campus and spreading kindness through school supplies, UTFCU was proud to show up for Tennessee this month. From ribbon cuttings to hot dog cookouts, July was full of moments that brought our mission to life. See how UTFCU showed up to support innovation, education, and community. From food truck to full-fledged creamery, The Sugar Queen has become a Knoxville favorite by serving up small-batch ice cream and homemade treats—with a little help from UT Federal Credit Union. Discover how this family-run business turned their dream into a delicious success story. Online scams are rising on Facebook Marketplace and other social platforms. Learn the top red flags to watch for—and how UTFCU can help keep your money safe. From barn dances to civic summits, June was packed with inspiring moments. See where we showed up, lent a hand, and celebrated our Tennessee communities. Are you getting the most from your money? With UTFCU Relationship Rates, your everyday banking could earn you more and help you save on loans. Discover how simple it is to qualify and start maximizing your financial benefits today. From vacations to home upgrades to back-to-school shopping and unexpected expenses, a Summer Loan from UT Federal Credit Union can help you enjoy the season without breaking your budget. See how this limited-time offer could work for you! Catch up on all the ways UTFCU connected with our communities in May—from supporting students and local nonprofits to celebrating healthcare heroes and women's leadership. This month's recap is filled with moments of kindness, celebration, connection, and service. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and financial stress is one of the biggest factors affecting our well-being. Learn how UTFCU and GreenPath Financial Wellness can help you reduce money-related stress and take control of your financial future. From galas to garden parties to financial education and fun runs, April 2025 was packed with purpose for UTFCU. Take a look back at how our teams showed up and gave back across Tennessee! Just bought a car? Don't hit the road just yet. Here's your checklist of everything to do after you drive off the lot—insurance, registration, budgeting, and more. From a single truck loan to a thriving landscaping business, Ian Dovan's journey with UTFCU is a story of growth, resilience, and community impact. Discover how Seeds of Change has flourished with the right financial partner by its side. Balancing caregiving responsibilities and financial stability can be challenging. Discover smart financial strategies to manage expenses, plan for the future, and access valuable resources to support your journey. UT Federal Credit Union's 55th Annual Meeting was a night to remember! From celebrating our commitment to education to honoring Debbie Jones' incredible 29-year legacy and welcoming our new CEO, Kenyon Warren, see all the highlights from this special evening. Scammers are using spoofing techniques to impersonate UTFCU and other trusted organizations. Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from these fraudulent calls. Make the most of your tax refund! Discover smart ways to save, invest, and grow your financial future with these strategic tips. Managing money in college can be challenging, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can set yourself up for financial success. Learn how to budget, build credit, manage student loans, and protect yourself online. Plus, discover how UTFCU can support your financial journey with expert guidance and resources! It's never too late to start planning for retirement! Discover practical strategies, the power of compound interest, and how UT Federal Credit Union can help you secure your future. Start your journey today! Is it time to refinance your loan? Discover 5 signs that refinancing could help you save money, lower your payments, or better align with your financial goals. Learn how UT Federal Credit Union can guide you through the process! Achieve your financial goals in 2025 with these simple, actionable tips. Discover how UTFCU's share certificates can help you grow your savings with guaranteed returns, competitive rates, and flexible term options tailored to you financial goals. The holidays are here, but so are the scammers! Learn how to spot and avoid the most common holiday shopping scams with these essential tips to protect your finances and personal information. Discover the mind games retailers play on Black Friday to make you spend more—and learn simple strategies to outsmart them! This blog is your go-to guide for making sense of personal finance terms, helping you make informed choices with ease. UT Federal Credit Union explains credit scores, interest rates, savings tools, and more—offering clear insights for managing and growing your money confidently. Explore a purpose-driven career with UT Federal Credit Union, where you can make a community impact, grow professionally, and enjoy work-life balance alongside competitive benefits. A healthy Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio can open doors to better financial opportunities. This guide covers what DTI is, its impact on loans and credit, and steps to improve it. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month—a reminder to protect personal information in today's digital world. UT Federal Credit Union is dedicated to equipping members with security tools and knowledge to stay safe. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services can make purchases feel more affordable, but they come with risks like late fees, credit score impacts, and overspending. Learn the pros and cons of BNPL, and how UTFCU can help you manage you finances responsibly. Fall brings unique expenses, from back-to-school to holiday shopping. This guide offers tips on budgeting, tracking expenses, and savings. Learn how UT Federal Credit Union's resources can help you manage fall costs while staying on track financially. While online banks offer convenience, UT Federal Credit Union provides a unique blend of digital ease and personalized in-branch service. Discover the value of local banking for financial wellness. Debt impacts your financial health in different ways. Whether tackling credit card debt or loans, learn practical tips and get expert guidance from UT Federal Credit Union to take control and achieve financial wellness. In times of crisis, scammers exploit people's generosity. UT Federal Credit Union urges caution when donating after disasters. Stay informed to protect your donations from fraud. During economic downturns, UT Federal Credit Union offers enhanced security and stability. We help members confidently navigate financial uncertainty. UT Federal Credit Union offers personalized mortgage solutions to help you navigate the competitive housing market. Be prepared and avoid missing key steps. This blog is packed with smart tips to maximize your savings during a tax-free weekend! Plan ahead, stick to your budget, and combine tax savings with other discounts. Plus, learn how UTFCU's U Rewards Checking can help you earn rewards on every purchase. This blog offers simple strategies to streamline your finances! Learn how UT Federal Credit Union can help you manage money more easily with personalized advice and account features. This blog highlights how we can support your small business with tailored financial solutions, flexible loans, and expert resources. Discover how UTFCU can help you reach your goals today! Discover how understanding and managing your credit score can help improve your financial decisions. Learn about factors like payment history and credit utilization, and find simple steps to boost your score. Learn how to explain the difference between needs and wants and introduce banking basics as they grow. UT Federal Credit Union offers practical guidance to help your children build strong financial foundations. Stay one step ahead of fraudsters! UT Federal Credit Union prioritizes your security and offers essential tips to recognize and avoid scams, including common tactics like phishing and social media fraud. Learn how to secure your financial information and monitor accounts effectively to keep your finances safe. Record-high temperatures mean finding refreshing ways to cool off is essential! Explore East Tennessee's waterfalls, enjoy a day at Dollywood's Splash Country, or take a relaxing float down the Tennessee River. Keep cool with these tips from UT Federal Credit Union. Unlock your home's potential with a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) from UT Federal Credit Union! Let us support your journey to a more valuable, comfortable home. Protect your loved ones from elder fraud with UT Federal Credit Union's helpful guide on recognizing and preventing scams. We are here to support you with secure banking solutions and resources to keep our community safe. Learn how UT Federal Credit Union stands out with its member-focused approach, community involvement, and wide range of services. Find out how to join and experience the benefits of a not-for-profit credit union committed to serving you and the community.Investing in the Next Generation: UTFCU Celebrates Welcome Weekend at UT Martin
Welcoming Students to Martin
Helping Students Start Their First Year With Confidence
Bringing Financial Education to Free Play
Plinko Your Money
Take a Guess. Take the Cash.
More Than a Sponsorship
Helping Students Take Their Next Financial Step
Investing in the Next Generation of Skyhawks
We believe in investing in students.
And we believe in investing in the Martin community.Welcome Weekend Photo Gallery
Mission in Motion: When Improving Lives Goes Beyond the Numbers
Beyond Banking: Community Connections
Cryptocurrency Fraud: How to Spot the Scams Before They Cost You
UTFCU Earns Marketing & Sales Innovation Award for Digital Marketing Innovation
UTFCU Earns National Recognition with Three Diamond Awards
Celebrating Community at UT Federal Credit Union's 56th Annual Meeting
How to Protect Yourself from Tax Season Scams
A Place of Hope and Healing: Growing with Susannah's House
November & December at UTFCU: A Season of Kindness, Celebration, and Community
UT Federal Credit Union’s Acts of Kindness Campaign Spreads Joy Across Tennessee
Community Connections: October at UTFCU
Stay Safe Online: Cybersecurity Tips for UTFCU Members
The Top Debit Card Features You Should Expect
August Event Recap: Growing Connections, Building Community
July Recap: Serving, Celebrating, and Supporting Our Communities
Scooping Up a Dream with The Sugar Queen Creamery
Marketplace & Social Scams: What to Watch for and How to Stay Safe
June Recap: Celebrating Community, Culture, and Civic Engagement
Understanding Relationship Rates: How to Maximize Your Earnings with UTFCU
Is a Summer Loan Right for You? Let's Find Out!
From Kindness to Community: UTFCU in Action - May 2025 Recap
Your Wallet and Your Well-Being: How Financial Stress Impacts Mental Health
UTFCU in the Community: A Look Back at April 2025
Your New Car Checklist: What to Do After You Buy a Vehicle
Growing with UTFCU: How Seeds of Change Built a Thriving Business
Financial Strategies for Caregivers: Managing Expenses and Securing Stability
Reflecting on the 2024 UTFCU Annual Meeting
Beware of Spoofing Scams: Protect Your Personal Information
Maximizing Your Tax Refund: Smart Strategies for Financial Growth
Smart Money Moves: A College Student's Guide to Financial Success
Is It Too Late to Start Saving for Retirement?
5 Signs It Might Be Time to Refinance Your Loan
Start 2025 Strong with These Financial Resolutions
Unlocking the Benefits of Share Certificates at UTFCU
Stay Safe This Holiday Season: How to Avoid Common Shopping Scams
Black Friday Shopping Tips: Outsmart Retail Tricks to Save Big
Banking Jargon Decoded: Your Guide to Financial Terms
Building Careers with Purpose: The Credit Union Advantage
How to Improve Your Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio
Cybersecurity Awareness Month: How UTFCU Helps You Stay Safe Online
Buy Now, Pay Later: The Risks Behind the Convenience
How to Build a Fall Budget and Prepare for Seasonal Expenses
Credit Unions vs Online Banks: The Value of Local Banking
Understanding Debt and How to Manage It Effectively
Protect Yourself from Natural Disaster Scams
Why UT Federal Credit Union is Safer than a Bank in a Financial Crisis
What to Look for When Buying a House in a Hot Market
Maximize Your Savings This Tax-Free Weekend with UT Federal Credit Union
4 Strategies to Simplify Your Financial Life with UT Federal Credit Union
4 Ways UT Federal Credit Union Can Help Your Small Business Grow
7 Things You Need to Know About Credit Scores
How to Teach Kids to be Money Savvy
Protect Yourself from Scams and Fraud with UT Federal Credit Union
Beat the Summer Heat
How a HELOC Can Help: Transform Your Home with UT Federal Credit Union
Protecting Loved Ones from Elder Fraud
Get to Know Us: UT Federal Credit Union
Welcome to UT Federal Credit Union! We are thrilled to have you here and look forward to serving you. As a member-owned financial institution, UTFCU is dedicated to providing exceptional service to our members. Here’s a bit more about us and what makes us unique.
Our Mission and Vision
At UTFCU, our mission is to provide comprehensive financial solutions to our members while fostering a sense of community and mutual support. Our vision is to be the preferred financial institution for individuals and businesses in our service areas, promoting financial well-being and economic growth.
Our History
Established with a strong foundation in serving the community, UTFCU has grown to support members across Anderson, Blount, Knox, Loudon, Martin, Memphis, and Union Counties in Tennessee. Over the years, we have expanded our services and reach, continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of our members.
Membership Benefits
One of the key advantages of joining UTFCU is that we are a not-for-profit organization. This means that our profits are returned to our members in the form of lower rates, higher interest on deposits, and reduced fees. Here are some highlights of what you can expect as a member:
- Personalized Service: Our members are our top priority, and we are committed to providing personalized financial solutions that cater to your unique needs.
- Community Focus: We actively participate in and support local community initiatives, ensuring that our contributions have a positive impact.
- Member Ownership: As a member, you are an owner of the credit union. This gives you a voice in how we operate, with the ability to vote in board elections and contribute to decision-making processes.
How to Join
Becoming a member of UTFCU is easy and can be done in a few simple steps:
- Online Application: Visit our online application portal to complete the process from the comfort of your home.
- Visit a Branch: Stop by any of our branches with your government-issued ID, proof of address, Social Security card (if possible), and opening deposit. Our friendly staff will assist you in setting up your account.
- Give Us a Call: Contact us at (865) 971-1971 or (800) 264-1971, and we will guide you through the membership process over the phone.
Services We Offer
UTFCU provides a wide range of financial services designed to meet the diverse needs of our members. These include:
- Personal Banking: Checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, IRAs, and more.
- Personal Loans: Auto loans, personal loans, student loans, mortgages, and home equity lines of credit.
- Business Banking: Business checking accounts, savings accounts, money market, lines of credit, commercial real estate loans, commercial vehicle loans, and SBA loans.
- Digital Banking: Online and mobile banking services to manage your accounts anytime, anywhere.
- Financial Education: Tools and resources to help you make informed financial decisions and achieve your financial goals.
Community Involvement
We take pride in our community involvement and strive to give back through various initiatives and programs. We focus on creating a positive impact and supporting the well-being of our communities.
Contact Us
For more information or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via email or call us at (865) 971-1971 or (800) 264-1971. You can also visit any of our branches or explore our website to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.
Join UT Federal Credit Union today and experience the benefits of being part of a member-owned, community-focused financial institution. We look forward to welcoming you!
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