Forget about horsepower. When you go with Earthmover for your auto loan or refinancing, you’ll get places faster, freeing up funds every month to turn budget burdens into bragging rights.

With Earthmover, not only are you getting the lowest rates in town¹, you’re getting a 90-day vacation² from making your first payment. Pair that with available GAP and Mechanical Breakdown coverage and regardless of what you pull off the lot with, drive away knowing the loan is just as shiny as the ride.

Did you know?
The average monthly car payment in the U.S. is a whopping $742³! But with Earthmover, our unbeatably low rates can potentially reduce that monthly payment to $535 or even lower⁴. Toss in 90 days of no payments² and your auto loan will be saving you money in no time. Now that’s something to brag about.

Learn more about our auto loans or apply today.

¹ The statement is accurate as of February 20, 2025. Vehicle rate information was sourced directly from the financial institution’s website within 30 miles of 2195 Baseline Rd. Oswego, IL 60543. Comparison rates are based on similar vehicle loans at similar financial institutions. Rates displayed, including Earthmover’s, may change without notice and their accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

² No payments will be required for the first 90 days. Only applies to auto loans. Interest will accrue during this period.

³ National average monthly auto loan payment data was sourced from Nerdwallet.com, is used for comparison only and is subject to change without notice.

⁴ Earthmover Credit Union average monthly auto loan payment is based on 2025 Earthmover Credit Union loan data.

Kelly McDonough, President/CEO of Earthmover Credit Union, has been inducted into the Credit Union House Hall of Fame, recognizing her leadership and contributions to the credit union industry.

With over 30 years in the field, Kelly has held executive roles at multiple credit unions and is known for her dedication to financial wellness. “I am deeply honored to receive this commendation,” she said. “Throughout my career, I have always sought to apply myself to the advancement of the credit union mission.”

Kelly’s career is marked by impressive achievements. While raising her son as a single mother, she graduated seventh in her class at St. Michael’s College with a business administration degree. She later earned a CPA designation, a master’s degree in business continuity management, and completed leadership programs at prestigious universities.

Under her leadership, Earthmover Credit Union grew from $292 million in assets in 2019 to $420 million in 2025, with membership increasing from 29,000 to 31,000. She also led the successful merger with Peoples Energy Credit Union, expanding services for members. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kelly ensured financial stability by implementing loan modifications and hardship programs while prioritizing employee safety.

Beyond her work at Earthmover, Kelly has been an active leader in the credit union community. She has served on various boards, including the Minnesota Credit Union Network and the Wisconsin Credit Union League’s Political Involvement Committee. She played a key role in bringing the Wincentive savings program to Wisconsin and has supported United Way initiatives in every community she has lived in.

Kelly is widely respected for her leadership style, fostering a supportive workplace culture and implementing strong employee benefits. Known for her kindness and dedication, she even welcomes her staff into her home for summer gatherings.

Earthmover Executive Vice President Janel Cabadas praised Kelly’s commitment: “She is deeply loyal to her credit union colleagues and passionate about serving members. We couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of this honor.”

Her induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a career dedicated to strengthening the credit union movement and improving financial well-being for all.

Summer is the perfect time to tackle home improvement projects, whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, adding a deck, or refreshing your living space. At Earthmover Credit Union, we offer two great financing options to help bring your renovation dreams to life: home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs).

Home Equity Loan: Fixed and Predictable
A home equity loan gives you a lump sum with a fixed interest rate and set monthly payments—perfect for large, one-time expenses like roof replacements or bathroom remodels. You’ll know exactly what to budget each month, making it easier to manage your finances while upgrading your home.

HELOC: Flexible and Convenient
A HELOC (home equity line of credit) works more like a credit card, allowing you to borrow from your home’s equity as needed. With a variable interest rate, you can withdraw funds over time—ideal for ongoing projects like landscaping or phased renovations.

Which Loan is Right for You?
Choose a home equity loan if you prefer predictable payments and need funds for a one-time renovation. Or if you’re looking for flexibility to cover costs over time and want to borrow as you go, use a HELOC.

Your home’s equity is a valuable resource—why not put it to work? Contact Earthmover Credit Union today to learn more about our competitive rates and easy application process. Apply now or visit your nearest branch to speak with a loan specialist!

Great news from Earthmover! We’ve been named one of the Top 100 Credit Unions in the U.S. by S&P Global Market Intelligence—and we’re proud to say we ranked #45 for 2024! This recognition is based on six weighted financial measures: member growth, shares and deposits per member, net worth as a percentage total of assets, return on average assets, delinquent loans as a percentage of total loans and net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans.

Out of hundreds of credit unions nationwide, only four from Illinois made the list, and we’re honored to be one of them. Earthmover has previously ranked #18 in 2021 and #21 in 2022, and we’re thrilled to be back in the Top 50 this year. It’s a reflection of our continued commitment to financial strength, smart growth and putting our members first.

“Earthmover works hard every day to ensure a strong financial that benefits our members and community,” said President/CEO Kelly McDonough. “We are thrilled to make the Top 50 in this nationwide list as a sign of our success.” Thank you to our members for your trust and loyalty—you’re at the heart of everything we do!

April is National Credit Union Youth Month, and at Earthmover, helping young savers build strong financial habits early is something dear to our hearts. This year’s theme, “A Sea of Savings”, encourages kids to see the power of saving and how small steps today can lead to big rewards in the future.

To celebrate, we’re offering a special certificate of deposit (CD) just for kids under 17! Between April 1 and April 30, you can open a 12-month CD at an incredible 4.25% APY*. It’s the perfect way to introduce young savers to the benefits of long-term savings while earning a great return.

Why start early?

Teaching kids to save now sets them up for success later. Whether they’re saving for a new bike, college, or a future adventure, having a safe place to grow their money makes a big difference.

Stop by any Earthmover Credit Union branch to open a youth CD today and enjoy a sea of savings! Together, we can help our young members turn their financial dreams into reality.

*APY=Annual Percentage Yield with a $500 minimum deposit, $2,000 maximum deposit. Rates are subject to change. One CD special per member. New and existing members qualify. Youth CD offer valid for individuals up to the age of 17. Rate available through April 30, 2025. ECU reserves the right to withhold any special offers. Certain restrictions apply. There is a substantial penalty for early withdrawal. Fees could reduce earnings on the account. All of these accounts are based on monthly compounding of interest and monthly crediting of interest.

At Earthmover, we know that two members are not alike, which is why we offer two tailored checking accounts—Pace and Velocity—both designed to align with your financial lifestyle. And there’s so much to these accounts, from earned interest all the way to no monthly fees. Here’s how to maximize the benefits of each:

Velocity Checking: Ideal for members seeking to earn interest on their balances. To fully benefit from this account:

• Earn 2.50% APY¹: Maintain the qualifying criteria to enjoy a competitive 2.50% Annual Percentage Yield¹ (APY) on your balance.
• No Monthly Fees & No Minimum Balance: Enjoy the freedom of no monthly maintenance fees and no minimum balance requirements, allowing you to manage your funds without extra costs.
• Early Direct Deposit: Set up direct deposit to receive your paycheck up to two days early², giving you quicker access to your earnings.
• Digital Wallet Integration: Link your account to digital wallets for convenient and secure transactions using your mobile device.
• Overdraft Protection³: Opt-in for overdraft protection to safeguard against unexpected overdrafts and potential fees.
• ATM Access: Access over 30,000 ATMs nationwide using the CO-OP Shared Branch network, with the first eight non-Earthmover ATM transactions per month free of charge.

Pace Checking: Offers simplicity and essential features without unnecessary extras. To make the most of this account:

• No Monthly Fees & No Minimum Balance: Manage your finances without worrying about monthly fees or maintaining a minimum balance.
• Early Direct Deposit: Receive your paycheck up to two days early² by setting up direct deposit, providing faster access to your funds.
• Digital Wallet Ready: Utilize digital wallet services for seamless and secure payments on the go.
• Extensive ATM Network: Enjoy surcharge-free access to a vast network of ATMs nationwide, ensuring convenient cash withdrawals wherever you are.

By actively engaging with the features and tools available through your Pace or Velocity Checking Account, you can optimize your banking experience and achieve greater financial flexibility. For more detailed information or to open an account, visit our checking accounts page.

¹ APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Earthmover Credit Union membership required. In order to qualify for 2.50% APY on account balance, members must maintain a minimum account balance of $0.01, must be enrolled and active in Earthmover’s Online Banking, be enrolled in paperless statements (eStatements) or be 65 years of age or older, have an active Earthmover Visa Credit Card and complete at least one (1) transaction OR make a minimum of 15 Visa debit card transactions per month with a $10.00 minimum per transaction amount (does not include ATM withdrawal), and have a total direct deposit amount of at least $500.00 in savings and/or checking. Direct deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g. IRS tax refunds), do not constitute direct deposit activity. 2.50% APY is only valid up to $5,000.00. Any balance greater than $5,000.00 will be paid at the stated dividend rate and APY for that tier. Dividends earned will be posted to the account on the second business day of the month following the dividend period. Offer and rate is subject to change without notice. See an Earthmover Credit Union team member for more details.

² Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. Not every employer submits and settles their payroll early. Earthmover Credit Union generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to two (2) days earlier than the scheduled payment date. If you have questions on your payroll timing, please consult your employer’s payroll department.

³ Members will have the option to opt in for Earthmovers’ Optional Overdraft Services which will protect your checking account when you don’t have available funds to cover a transaction. Certain restrictions apply. Member must be in good standing. Member must be 21 years or older. This applies to checking accounts only. If used, we will charge you a $28.00 fee each time we pay an overdraft. Visit our Optional Overdraft Service Opt-In Request page for complete details on this service and how it applies to you.

Big news! We’re thrilled to announce that Noreen Wilkerson has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Finance.

If you’ve been part of the Earthmover community for a while, you know Noreen is a true powerhouse. She’s been with us for 37 years (yes, you read that right!), helping to ensure the financial strength and growth of our credit union. Her dedication and expertise have played a huge role in making Earthmover what it is today.

“I’m honored for the opportunity to further serve the credit union in a larger capacity,” Noreen shared. “Throughout my time at Earthmover, I’ve been able to develop my career while always keeping our members and their needs at the forefront. I am looking forward to taking on new challenges.”

Noreen’s journey started with an accounting degree from Pace University and time at Shearson Lehman Brothers in NYC before she found her home at Earthmover. She’s held several leadership roles, including Accounting Manager and Vice President of Finance, and has been instrumental in helping Earthmover reach $420 million in assets!

Janel Cabadas, Earthmover’s Executive Vice President, summed it up best: “Noreen is an exemplary leader and exceptional at managing figures. Her efforts have been essential to the success of the credit union and to the growth we are seeking to achieve through new and innovative projects. This promotion is a testament to her skills, hard work and commitment to the credit union mission.”

Join us in congratulating Noreen on this exciting new chapter!

Congratulations to Stephanie Wuethrich, Director of HR & Training at Earthmover Credit Union. Stephanie is celebrating five years with Earthmover and we couldn’t be more honored to have her along for the ride! Thank you Stephanie!

Zelle^® Makes It Fast, Safe and Easy to Send Money to Those You Know and Trust With a Bank Account in the U.S.

Zelle^® is available in the online and mobile banking experience of Earthmover Credit Union. Zelle^® is a fast, safe and easy alternative to cash and checks when you need to send money to people you know and is easily accessible from Bill Pay in the user’s Earthmover Credit Union online or mobile banking account. Users must make sure they are enrolled in both online banking and Bill Pay to use Zelle^®.

For more than 150 million consumers, Zelle^® is already available from the convenience of their mobile banking app, making digital payments to friends and family a fast, safe and easy alternative to cash and checks. Money sent with Zelle^® goes directly from one bank account in the U.S. to another, using only a recipient’s email address or U.S. mobile number.

Funds are typically available within minutes when both parties are already enrolled with Zelle^®. Consumers who are not enrolled and receive a payment notification or a request for payment can enroll through their financial institution.

About Zelle^®
Zelle^® is transforming how money moves, with more than 5 billion digital payments sent since its launch in 2017. The Zelle Network^® connects more than 2,100 bank and credit union brands of all sizes, enabling consumers and businesses to send digital payments to people and businesses they know and trust with an eligible bank account in the U.S. Money is available directly in bank accounts generally within minutes when the recipient is already enrolled with Zelle^®.

We’re continually committed to providing our members with modern, welcoming spaces that enhance your banking experience. As you’re well aware, we’ve been undergoing a phased approach to renovate and update our branches. Here’s the latest on our progress:

Batavia Branch: Coming September 2025
In November 2024, we broke ground on a brand-new branch in Batavia, located at 1992 McKee St., just off Randall Road. Construction is progressing smoothly, and we anticipate the branch will be completed in August 2025, with doors opening to members in September 2025. We’re excited to become part of the Batavia community and build strong relationships with our new neighbors.

Baseline (Oswego)
Renovations are now underway at our Oswego location, and we’re thrilled with the progress so far! These updates will create an enhanced, more efficient experience for our members once completed.

Ogden Hill (Montgomery)
Renovations began in February at our Montgomery branch, bringing exciting improvements to the space. While the lobby will remain open, the drive-up will be temporarily closed from March 31 to April 18 to accommodate construction work. The full branch remodel is expected to be completed by summer 2025.

As renovation timelines are subject to change, we encourage members to check our website regularly for updates and temporary closings. We can’t wait to welcome you into these newly enhanced spaces.

Navigating the 2025 housing market can be challenging due to high prices and limited inventory. To enhance your chances of securing a home, consider the following strategies:

• Pre-Inspections: Conducting a home inspection before making an offer can demonstrate your commitment and provide confidence to the seller.
• Appraisal Gaps: Offering to cover the difference if the home’s appraised value falls short of the offer price can make your bid more attractive.
• Escalation Clauses: Including a clause that automatically increases your offer if competing bids arise can give you an edge.

Be mindful that these tactics may involve additional costs. It’s crucial to stay within your budget and avoid financial overextension. Unexpected expenses, such as repairs uncovered during inspections, can arise, so factor these into your financial planning.

We are pleased to announce our partnership with the FHLBank Chicago’s Downpayment Plus Program (DPP®). This program provides down payment and closing cost assistance for income-eligible homebuyers. In certain cases, this assistance may be as high as $10,000. Give us a call at 630.844.4950 or visit the FHLBank Chicago’s website for more information and eligibility requirements.

Given the current market conditions, assembling a trusted team of professionals is more important than ever. Focus on available options and stay informed about new listings to navigate the real estate landscape effectively.

For more information on homebuying strategy, read this full post over at our Momentum Blog.