Debit Cards

Sometimes it’s difficult to keep up with the pace of life. But no matter what comes your way, you can enjoy it more simply by requesting a free Sentinel Federal Credit Union Visa Debit Card. With it, you have the purchasing power of Visa, plus ATM access to your Credit Union accounts. It’s safer than cash, faster than writing checks, and it’s accepted all over the place. So you can use your Debit Card to pay for movie tickets, gas, doctor visits, dry cleaning—virtually anything you need to keep your life moving.

Keep track of every purchase.
Purchases come directly from your checking account and are itemized on your monthly statement as well as online. You’ll see the merchant name, location, date and amount for every purchase.

Transactions available in real time.
Your Debit Card transactions are available in real time. This means most transactions are immediately reflected in your available balance. This includes deposits made at the Credit Union as well as your purchases and cash withdrawals.

Shop safe and secure.
When you press “credit” at the keypad and sign for your purchases, your card is protected by multiple layers of security, including: Visa’s Zero Liability Policy, so you won’t have to pay for unauthorized transactions; replacement funds, so any funds taken from your account due to fraudulent use will be returned; and continuous fraud monitoring for suspicious activity.

Pay with your Debit Card.
The next time you have to pay, reach for your Debit Card and discover just how easy life can be. Contact us today for your free Debit Card!

Debit Card & ATM Card Fees & Surcharge Information

• No transaction fee is charged when used in Sentinel Federal ATMs
• A small transaction fee is charged when used in ATMs not owned by Sentinel Federal. The owner of the ATM however, may apply an additional surcharge fee. A surcharge notice is normally displayed on the ATM screen before your transaction is processed.

Other Helpful Information about using your Debit Card

• To avoid a transaction charge anytime you have an option of entering debit or credit, choose credit. Entering a pin number results in a transaction fee.
• If you have a loan payment at Sentinel Federal that is late, the transaction maybe denied.
• Shop online with confidence. Use Verified by Visa.
• Debit Card Tips

Daily Limits

• Should your card be lost or stolen, daily limits have been set up for your protection.
• With your debit card, you may purchase up to a maximum of $1,500 per day, provided there are sufficient funds in your account. 
• With your ATM card, you may make 10 cash withdrawals in any one day from an ATM, with a $400 maximum daily limit.

To Report Lost or Stolen Cards

• During Normal Business Hours: 605-923-1405 or 888-923-1400
• After Business Hours:
• ATM Cards: 800-472-3272
• Debit Cards: 800-682-6075
• Credit Cards: (Lost/Stolen) 800-543-5073; (Blocked) 866-334-1048

Sentinel Federal Credit Union has a card to fit your need!

Credit Cards

Debit Cards

To Report Lost, Stolen or Blocked Cards:

• During Normal Business Hours: 605-923-1405 or 888-923-1400
• After Business Hours:
• ATM Cards: 800-472-3272
• Debit Cards: 800-682-6075
• Credit Cards: (Lost/Stolen) 800-543-5073; (Blocked) 866-334-1048

If you’re carrying balances on high-interest rate credit cards, you’re invited to transfer those balances to a Sentinel Federal Visa Classic Credit Card which can save you money. Transfer your other credit card balances to a low-rate Sentinel Federal Visa Classic Credit Card by February 29, 2012, and you’ll qualify for a balance transfer rate that is the same as your purchase rate. There are no balance transfer fees or annual fees and you’ll enjoy a lower interest rate while you pay down your balance.

APPLY NOW!

The Sentinel Federal Visa Classic Credit Card offers:

• Low variable rates
• No annual fees
• 28 day grace period on purchases
• No balance transfer fees
• Earns ScoreCard Reward Points for every net purchase you make
• Payments can be made at any credit union office or automatically deducted from your savings or checking account each month
• Protection from unauthorized charges and lost and stolen card charges at no additional cost

Visa Classic Application and Solicitation Disclosure
Visa Credit Card Agreement

Helpful Information

• Shop online with confidence. Use Verified by Visa.
• Let us know if you’ll be traveling with your card
• To report lost, stolen or blocked Credit Cards:

During Normal Business Hours: 605-923-1405 or 888-923-1400
After Business Hours: (Lost/Stolen) 800-543-5073; (Blocked) 866-334-1048

 
Visa® Secured Credit Card
Everyone qualifies for the Sentinel Federal Visa Secured Credit Card, regardless of their credit history.

• Non-variable rate as low as 10.00% APR*
• Card is secured by your savings
• No annual fee
• No grace period on purchases
• Earns ScoreCard Reward Points for every net purchase you make
• Payments can be made at any credit union office or automatically deducted from your savings or checking account each month
• Protection from unauthorized charges and lost and stolen card charges at no additional cost

Apply today for our Visa Secured Credit Card.

Helpful Information

• Credit Card Agreement
• Verified By Visa
• Let us know if you’ll be traveling with your card
• To report lost, stolen or blocked Credit Cards:

During Normal Business Hours: 605-923-1405 or 888-923-1400
After Business Hours: (Lost/Stolen) 800-543-5073; (Blocked) 866-334-1048

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Your actual rate and term may vary, depending upon your credit history and other factors. Other conditions, restrictions and credit approval apply.

CUDL AutoSMART has it all:

• Extensive new and used auto inventories of dealers in your area and exceptional pricing
• Valuable vehicle research and comparisons
• Easy-to-use loan calculators

Ask us about this valuable member benefit or visit our CUDL AutoSMART website today.

Effective August 31, 2011, Sentinel Federal Credit Union will be making adjustments to our ScoreCard® Rewards program. We will no longer be participating in the ScoreMore™ feature of the rewards program. We will continue to offer ScoreCard Rewards which means your Sentinel Federal Visa Credit Card will continue to earn one Bonus Point for every net dollar you spend. Once you have accumulated enough Bonus Points, you can redeem them for brand-name merchandise and exciting travel rewards at www.scorecardrewards.com.

Visit ScoreCard Rewards to check your balance, redeem points or to view current merchandise and travel offerings.

New Federal Reserve rules allow you to make decisions about overdrafts for transactions made with your debit or ATM cards. Under the new rules, you must give us your permission to apply our standard overdraft practices to your everyday debit card and ATM transactions. The information below should be helpful as you consider your options.

To grant this permission, simply complete the opt-in request form below and we’ll add that coverage to your account.

What You Need to Know About Overdrafts and Overdraft Fees

An overdraft occurs when you do not have enough money in your account to cover a transaction, but we pay it anyway. We can cover your overdrafts in two different ways:

1. We have standard overdraft practices that come with your account.
2. We also offer overdraft protection plans, such as a link to a savings account or overdraft line of credit, which may be less expensive than our standard overdraft practices. To learn more, ask us about these plans.

This notice explains our standard overdraft practices.

What are the standard overdraft practices that come with my account?

We do authorize and pay overdrafts for the following types of transactions:

• Checks and other transactions made using your checking account
• Automatic bill payments
• ACH transactions

We will not authorize and pay overdrafts for the following types of transactions unless you ask us to (see below):

• ATM transactions
• Everyday debit card transactions

We pay overdrafts at our discretion, which means we do not guarantee that we will always authorize and pay any type of transaction.

If we do not authorize and pay an overdraft, your transaction will be declined.

What fees will I be charged if the Credit Union pays my overdraft?

Under our standard overdraft practices:

• We will charge you a fee of up to $35 each time we pay an overdraft.
• There is no limit on the total fees we can charge you for overdrawing your account.

What if I want the Credit Union to authorize and pay overdrafts on my ATM and everyday debit card transactions?

If you also want us to authorize and pay overdrafts on ATM and everyday debit card transactions, simply complete the opt-in request form below and then click submit. You may also call 605-923-1405 or toll free at 888-923-1400.

___________________________________________________________

• Call Sentinel Federal Credit Union at least 48 hours in advance at 605-923-1405 or toll-free at 888-923-1400 to let us know the dates and locations you will be visiting and if you will be making large transactions in those areas.
• Make sure we have correct phone numbers to contact you in case we see unusual activity on your card while you are traveling.
• If your card is blocked, please call Falcon at 866-334-1048.

Sentinel Federal Credit Union warns all members to be extremely cautious when you are asked for personal or financial information over the phone, by email, through a text message or the Internet. Don’t give out personal information unless you’ve initiated the contact and are sure you know who you’re dealing with.

Identity thieves are clever, and may pose as a representative of your Credit Union to get you to reveal your sensitive information. The thieves may use pressure to get you to act immediately or use scare tactics or harassment to trick you into sharing your personal information.

DO NOT RESPOND to these fraudulent messages. These are scams attempting to steal your personal information. Sentinel Federal Credit Union will NEVER contact you via email, text, or phone asking for confidential or sensitive information. Remember never give out your sensitive information to people who contact you.

Contact us immediately at 605-923-1405 or 888-923-1400 if you responded to a fraudulent message and have given out any information.

Recent Fraud Alerts

Learn more about Phishing Scams and how you can protect your confidential information. Learn more about common telemarketing scams and how to avoid them at ftc.gov/phonefraud.

To Report Lost or Stolen Cards:

If your Sentinel Federal card is lost or you believe it has been stolen, call us immediately at the appropriate number below.

During Normal Business Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT)
Phone: 605-923-1405 / 888-923-1400

After Business Hours:
ATM Cards: 800-472-3272
Debit Cards: 800-682-6075
Credit Cards: 800-543-5073

Order Checks & Accessories

Order your checks online from Harland Clarke, our preferred provider, at OrderMyChecks.com. Plus shop for accessories to complement your check order with matching covers, address labels and debit card holders.

• Our Routing Number is 291479291.
• For your convenience and protection, we have selected CheckProtect® as the preferred, standard delivery for check orders which provides:
• Tamper-evident, polywrap packaging that helps conceal your checks
• Fully-trackable deliveries, so you know where your checks are
• Estimated delivery dates that let you know when to expect your order
• Check orders will be sent to the mailing address on your account. If your name or address has changed since your previous check order, please contact the Credit Union before placing your order.
• Your total will be deducted from your checking account when your order ships.
• Members of our Club accounts receive one free box of standard checks per year. Additional check styles and options are available and the difference will be deducted from your checking account when your order ships.  

Secure, Fast Ordering
Ordering checks online from Harland Clarke is as safe and secure as ordering them in person or over the phone. The site is Verisign secure and TruSecure certified, so your transactions and account information are safe and completely confidential. 

First Time Orders

If this is the first time ordering checks for your account, please contact the Credit Union or stop by any branch to complete your order.

Basic Checking

• No minimum balance
• No monthly service charge*
• Free unlimited check writing
• Free direct deposit
• Free Debit Card or ATM Card
• Free 24-hour phone banking with CU*TALK
• Free online banking with It’s Me 247 Online Banking
• Free Notary Service
• Overdraft Protection available
• Online Bill Pay available

*Notice: $5 monthly inactivity charge is assessed after 3 months of inactivity if over 18 years of age and less than $200 balance.

Bonus Checking

• $500 minimum balance to earn dividends
• Dividends earned daily
• $7.50 monthly service charge is assessed if balance falls below the $500 minimum on any day during the month
• Free unlimited check writing
• Free direct deposit
• Free Debit Card or ATM Card
• Free 24-hour phone banking with CU*TALK
• Free online banking with It’s Me 247 Online Banking
• Free Notary Service
• Overdraft Protection available
• Online Bill Pay available

Prime Checking (Exclusively for 55 and wiser!)

A dividend-bearing checking account available for our Prime Time Club members:

• $1,000 minimum balance to earn dividends
• Dividends are earned daily (compounded and paid monthly)
• No monthly service charge (unless daily balance falls below $1,000 during the month then $7.50 monthly fee assessed)
• Free unlimited check writing
• Free direct deposit
• Free Debit Card or ATM Card
• Free 24-hour phone banking with CU*TALK
• Free online banking with It’s Me 247 Online Banking
• Free Notary Service
• Overdraft Protection available

As a Prime Time Club member you’ll receive these extra perks**

• Free Online Bill Pay
• Free box of standard checks each year
• Free fax and photocopies
• Free money orders and cashiers checks
• Free domestic wire transfers
• Free Call Center services available Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT
• A premium added to certificate rates (excludes specials)
• Discount on loan rates (includes auto, campers, motorcycles, ATV and boats)

Qualifications to join Sentinel Federal’s Prime Time Club:
This is a FREE CLUB for Sentinel Federal Credit Union members who are 55 years old and wiser! As a Prime Time Club member you are eligible for special services and discounts.

You are eligible for a Prime Time Club account if you:

• have joined Sentinel Federal,
• are 55 years of age or over, and
• have a Prime Checking account

Plus, you must either:

• have a $5,000 balance in a Prime Saver account, or
• maintain a recurring monthly Direct Deposit in a Prime Checking account or regular Savings account

**Benefits are subject to change without notice. Some limitations may apply. A joint checking account relationship held by either you or your spouse qualifies both of you for a Prime Time Club membership.

Rebuilder Checking

If you’ve been declined for a checking account, then call us today at 605-923-1405 or toll free at 888-923-1405 and ask about our Rebuilder Checking.

Need to order checks?

Routing Number: 291479291

Business Basic Checking has the features and benefits targeted to sole proprietor relationships and small businesses (small number of transactions – generally less than 30 checks written and less than 100 deposited items monthly).

• No minimum balance
• Nominal $5 monthly fee
• Free unlimited check writing
• Free first order of duplicate deposit slips
• Free deposits
• Free Debit Card
• Free Call Center services
• Free 24-hour phone banking with CU*TALK
• Free online banking with It’s Me 247 Online Banking
• Free Notary Service
• Free Coin Counting
• Free Deposit Bag
• Online Bill Pay available
• Overdraft Protection available
• Night Depository available

Business Bonus Checking designed for medium to large businesses will help keep your business moving in the right direction.

• $1,500 minimum balance
• No monthly charge (If daily balance falls below $1,500 during the month then $7.50 monthly fee assessed.)
• Dividends are compounded daily and paid monthly on balances of $1,500 and greater
• Free unlimited check writing
• Free first order of duplicate deposit slips
• Free deposits
• Free Debit Card
• Free Call Center services
• Free 24-hour phone banking with CU*TALK
• Free online banking with It’s Me 247 Online Banking
• Free Notary Service
• Free Coin Counting
• Free Deposit Bag
• Free Online Bill Pay
• Overdraft Protection available
• Night Depository available

Non-Profit Checking is used for non-profit accounts where the non-profit has a tax designation of tax exempt by the IRS. There must be a tax number on file to report any dividends.

• No minimum balance
• No monthly charge
• Dividends are compounded daily and paid monthly on balances of $500 and greater
• Free unlimited check writing
• Free personal size checks
• Free deposits
• Free Debit Card
• Free Call Center services
• Free 24-hour phone banking with CU*TALK
• Free online banking with It’s Me 247 Online Banking
• Free Notary Service
• Free Coin Counting
• Free Deposit Bag
• Online Bill Pay available
• Night Depository available

Business Checking Dividend Rates

Need to order checks?

Activate the Verified by Visa Feature Today
It’s easy and only takes a few moments to activate your card:

• Visa Credit Card
• Visa Debit Card

To learn more, visit www.visa.com/verified. Shop online with Verified by Visa today!

Full Time Teller
Primary duties include processing monetary transactions to include deposits, withdrawals, checks, credit card payments, loan payments and cash advances for the members, sell credit union services that best meet the members’ financial needs and provide members with courteous and prompt attention. Qualified applicants must be service-oriented and possess some similar or related experience, possess numerical aptitude and intermediate mathematical skills, and possess basic proficiency in one or more software programs.

Join Our Team
We are continually seeking applications. If you would like to become a member of our team, please complete our Employment Application or email your resume to hr@sentinelfcu.org. Applications are kept on active file for six months.

You may also forward your resume to Sentinel Federal Credit Union, Human Resources, P.O. Box 700, Box Elder, SD 57719 or fax to 605-923-3960.

Sentinel Federal Credit Union is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

It’s Me 247 Online Banking plus E-Statements

Take care of your finances from the comfort of your home for free! 

• View your e-Statements online*
• Review account balances
• Transfer funds and make payments
• Apply for loans
• Get notifications with eAlerts
• Plus all of your transactions post in real time!

Enroll in Online Banking & e-Statements today!

Mobile Web Banking

Take care of your finances on the go with Mobile Web Banking! 

• Check balances
• Transfer funds
• Monitor account status and more!

6 Tips for Safer Online Banking

1. Do not reply to any email, text or phone requests asking for your online banking credentials. We will never contact you and ask you to provide this information.
2. Use strong passwords and keep them safe.
3. Don’t use the same password for many accounts.
4. Update anti-virus and spyware software regularly.
5. Protect your wireless network at home and be cautious about the information you access or send from a public wireless network.
6. Monitor your online banking account on a regular basis and contact us immediately at 605-923-1405 or toll-free at 888-923-1400 if you believe that an electronic fund transfer has been made without your permission or if there is suspicious activity on your account. If you notify us promptly your losses may be limited to no more than $50.

We also recommend that our commercial online banking account holders perform a risk assessment and a controls evaluation periodically.

For more information on how to guard your personal information and protect yourself against fraud visit CU*Secure and our Consumer Education site provided by Harland Clarke.

Questions: 

• Need to reactivate your online banking account?
• Forgot your online banking password?
• Need to cancel your online banking services? View the Online Services Cancellation Request Form 

Routing Number: 291479291

You may access your account, fee-free, by using your Sentinel Federal ATM card or Debit Card at the following Sentinel Federal-owned ATMs:

Rapid City, SD
Drive-Up ATM: Haines Branch – 1430 N Haines Ave
Drive-Up ATM: Triple Crown Branch – 4011 Triple Crown Dr

Ellsworth AFB, SD
Drive-Up ATM: Located in BX Parking Lot
Walk-Up ATM: Located in Shoppette

Box Elder, SD – New Location
Drive-Up ATM: 447 North Ellsworth Road (next to Villa Car Wash)

Mailing Address:

Sentinel Federal Credit Union
PO Box 700
Box Elder SD 57719

Branch Locations & Hours:

Main Office
On Ellsworth AFB connected to BX
Mail: PO Box 700 – Box Elder SD 57719
Phone: 605-923-1405 / 888-923-1400
Fax: 605-923-3960
Overseas DSN: 675-6303
Call Center Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT)
Lobby Hours: Mon – Fri 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT) 
Contact Us

Haines Branch
1430 N Haines Ave, Suite 101 – Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: 605-923-1405 / 888-923-1400
Fax: 605-348-8047
Call Center Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT)
Lobby Hours: Mon – Fri 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT)
Drive-Up: Mon – Fri 7:30 am – 5:30 pm (MT) / Saturday 9:00 am – Noon (MT)  

Triple Crown Branch
4011 Triple Crown Dr – Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: 605-923-1405 / 888-923-1400
Fax: 605-342-2055
Call Center Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT)
Lobby Hours: Mon – Fri 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT)
Drive-Up: Mon – Fri 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT) / Saturday 9:00 am – Noon (MT)   

Winner Branch
757 W 2nd St – Winner, SD 57580  
Mail: PO Box 87 – Winner, SD 57580
Phone: 605-842-3581 / 888-923-1400
Fax: 605-842-1370  
Lobby Hours: Mon – Fri 8:30 am – 3:30 pm (CT)
Drive-Up: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 3:30 pm (CT)

To Report Lost or Stolen Cards

If your Sentinel Federal card is lost or you believe it has been stolen, call us immediately at the appropriate number below.

During Normal Business Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT)
Phone: 605-923-1405 / 888-923-1400

After Business Hours:
ATM Cards: 800-472-3272
Debit Cards: 800-682-6075
Credit Cards: 800-543-5073

Shared Branching

Shared Branching gives you convenient access to your credit union accounts at over 185 credit union locations. Get details

You’ve heard of credit scores. You’ve probably even been told not to apply for too many loans or to run your credit report too often because it can “bring down the score.” But the truth about what does — and doesn’t — affect your credit score often remains a mystery.

When you apply for a mortgage loan, your credit score is a major factor in determining the type of loan and the interest rate you’ll get. Because automated underwriting is so prevalent today, your credit score really effects whether or not you’ll qualify for a home loan.

There are 5 major factors that affect your credit score:

1. Whether or not you pay your bills on time. This includes mortgage loans, car loans, credit cards, and any other loan that shows up on your credit report.
2. Loan balances. The total amount you owe is taken into account when evaluating whether or not you will be able to take on additional debt.
3. Amount of time you have had credit. Someone who just got their first credit card and has no other credit history will have lower points for this factor than someone who’s been paying on time for several years.
4. New credit. Too much recent credit, even if you have a long credit history, is a warning sign to lenders.
5. Account mix. Is it completely credit card debt, or do you also have a mortgage loan, a car loan and a department store account? The more variety, the better.

To a lesser degree, your score also takes into account the following:

• Your level of education;
• The amount of time you’ve live at one address;
• The amount of time you’ve worked at one place; and
• Homeownership. Homeowners get more points because they are considered a better credit risk (another reason to consider homeownership if you rent!).

As you can see, the best way to get a high credit score is (surprise, surprise) to earn it! By paying all bills on time and using credit responsibly, you demonstrate the fact that you’re a good credit risk … and in return you’ll get the lowest rate possible on your home loan.

Send us a message to request your free consultation or call us today at 605-923-1405 or toll-free at 888-923-1400 and learn how Sentinel Federal Credit Union can help you get financially fit.

CU*TALK is our 24-hour phone banking system, which makes taking care of your credit union business faster, easier and safer! You’ll have around-the-clock access to your accounts which makes this service perfect for today’s busy lifestyles. Plus it’s free!

All you need to make contact with CU*TALK is a touch-tone phone, your account number, and your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Now you are all set to take care of business!

CU*TALK Guides You Through Each Step!

• Using your touch-tone phone, call toll free: 866-923-1448
• You will be asked to enter your account number followed by the # sign.
• Next, you will be prompted to enter your PIN followed by the # sign. Contact us for your PIN.

Main Menu Options

(1) Account inquiries, including balances and a list of recent transactions
(2) Perform money transactions, including transfers
(3) Hear current credit union rates or calculate estimated loan payments
(4) Change your PIN
(5) Change to a different account number
(6) Other credit union services, including locations and hours
(8) Repeat this menu
(9) End the call
(0) Hear the Tutorial
(*) Press * to return to the main menu at any time

Helpful Tips

• Be sure to press the # sign when asked.
• Keep your PIN confidential. This protects your privacy and keeps others from gaining access to your accounts.
• When entering dollar amounts, decimals are not required. For example, you would enter $25.00 as 2500
• CU*TALK may occasionally be unavailable for short periods so that we may perform maintenance. If you are unable to complete a transaction for this reason, try calling back later.
• Be extra careful when entering your PIN. Entering a PIN incorrectly three times will disable access to that account through CU*TALK. If this happens, contact the credit union directly for reactivation.

Cross-Member Transfer Request
Please fill out the Cross-Member Transfer Request Form if you want to be able to transfer funds between your accounts using Online Banking and/or Phone Banking.

or a …

Home Equity Line of Credit with a variable rate
as low as 4.00% APR* with approved credit.

Are you looking to make home improvements, pay for college tuition or finally take that much needed vacation? Then Sentinel Federal Credit Union may be able to help you with a Fixed-Rate Home Equity Loan or a variable rate Home Equity Line of Credit! Borrow only what you need … only when you need it … and pay interest on only what you borrow.

A Home Equity Loan or Home Equity Line of Credit is also great for those of you who want to consolidate debts without refinancing your first mortgage, or for those of you who want to pay off higher interest consumer debt with a loan secured by their home in order to gain possible tax advantages. Consult a tax advisor regarding the tax deductibility of interest.

Fixed-Rate Home Equity Loan
Choose from a variety of terms and save money with fixed rates as low as 5.49% APR. With the fixed-rate home equity loan, you get the entire amount of the loan at closing and the rate never changes over the life of the loan.

• Offers a low, fixed rate
• Repayment terms up to 15 years
• Borrow up to 100% of current appraised value with approved credit
• Interest rates on home equity loans will increase 1% on loans with 90% or greater loan-to-value (LTV) ratio based on the appraisal of the property
• Minimum loan amount is $5,000 with $100 minimum monthly payment
• Usually the estimated costs to obtain a Home Equity Loan is $175
• For example, a payment for a $20,000 Home Equity loan at 5.49% for 60 months would be approximately $382 per month

Variable Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
With a variable Home Equity Line of Credit you borrow only what you need, only when you need it and pay interest on only what you borrow! Variable rate as low as 4.00% APR with approved credit.

• This is a revolving line of credit secured by improved real property.
• Borrow up to 100% of current appraised value with approved credit
• For example: Appraisal of home $100,000
  • 90% of appraised value = $90,000
  • Less mortgage debt – $50,000
  • Potential line of credit $40,000
  • Minimum loan amount is $5,000 with $100 minimum monthly payment
• Usually the estimated costs to obtain a Home Equity Line of Credit is $175
• Maturity is up to 20 years depending on loan amount
• The Draw Period is 5 years from the funding date of the loan. After that time, further draws are not allowed
• The Repayment Period is up to 20 years including the 5-year Draw Period
• Interest Rate Cap: The annual percentage rate shall not be increased or decreased by more than two percentage points annually

For a better understanding of Home Equity Lines of Credit, please read:

When Your Home Is On The Line: What You Should Know About Home Equity Lines of Credit

Shopping For Your Home Loan (HUD Settlement Cost Booklet)

Consumer Handbook on Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (CHARM Booklet)

Contact us for a Home Equity Application

You can perform the following transactions at a shared branch location: 

• withdraw cash
• make deposits
• transfer between accounts
• make loan payments
• check your balances

For a complete listing of locations and hours, visit the Shared Branch site.

• Forgot your online banking password?
• Need to reactivate your online banking account?
• Need to order checks?
• Send us a message

Phone Numbers:

Main Phone: 605-923-1405
Toll-Free: 888-923-1400
Main Fax: 605-923-3960
Overseas DSN: 675-6303

To Report Lost or Stolen Cards:

If your Sentinel Federal card is lost or you believe it has been stolen, call us immediately at the appropriate number below.

During Normal Business Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (MT)
Phone: 605-923-1405 / 888-923-1400

After Business Hours:
ATM Cards: 800-472-3272
Debit Cards: 800-682-6075
Credit Cards: 800-543-5073

Mailing Address:

Sentinel Federal Credit Union
PO Box 700
Box Elder, SD 57719

Routing Number: 291479291

Locations & Hours  I  Shared Branching  I  24/7 Services

Telephone Banking
Take care of transactions over the phone with CU*Talk

Online Bill Pay
Save time and money by paying your bills electronically with Easy Pay Online Bill Pay

Mobile Web Banking
Take care of your finances on the go with Mobile Web Banking

Online Check Ordering
Our online ordering tool makes shopping quick and easy when you need to order checks

Online Applications
You can easily complete a Membership Application and a Loan Application right online

ATM Locations
Access your account 24/7 at these ATM locations

Fed up with your bank’s high interest rate credit card? Tired of getting nickeled and dimed with fees on your checking account? Then it’s time to move your banking to Sentinel Federal Credit Union.

From free checking and online banking to competitive interest rates on the loans you may need you can trust Sentinel Federal Credit Union to put you first. Whether you’re looking to buy a new car, or if it’s time to own your own home, or you need to save for the future, we’ll spend time with you to set up your financial plan to help you reach your goal. Remember we’re here for you every step of the way.

Who Can Join
You are eligible for membership at Sentinel Federal if you live, work, worship, or go to school in, or are a business or other legal entity located in the following South Dakota counties: Pennington, Lawrence, Meade, Custer, Lyman, Todd, Tripp, Gregory and Mellette.

Why Join
Sentinel Federal is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that is owned and operated by its members. Every member is an owner with an equal vote in the election of the credit union’s volunteer board of directors. Once you become a member of Sentinel Federal, you can remain a member for life, even if you change jobs, relocate or retire. Plus, after you become a member, your immediate family members are automatically eligible to join.

Switch to Us
Stop into any branch and visit with one of our member services staff or Apply for Membership online. We require an initial deposit of $5. This initial deposit represents your “share” of ownership. It is not a fee; it goes directly into your newly established Share/Savings Account.

As part of our Business Services, Sentinel Federal Credit Union can help you quickly set up a wide range of credit and debit card options for your customers. Contact our Business Financial Service Representatives for more information.

Safe Deposit Boxes

Safe deposit boxes are safe and secure places to keep valuable personal items but they are not fire nor flood proof. Vaults are fire, flood, and heat “resistant”. Your box contents are not insured by the Credit Union. Ask your insurance agent about available options to insure the contents of your safe deposit box. Annual rental fees are automatically withdrawn from your savings or checking account on January 1st each year. Please contact us for availability.

Direct Deposit

Direct Deposit is the easy way to deposit your paycheck. Instead of receiving a written check that you must personally bring to the Credit Union, your pay is electronically transferred from your employer right to your Credit Union account. Social Security and other government checks can also be direct deposited. There’s no standing in line and no reason to make a special trip to the Credit Union. It’s free, easy, safer and a time saver. Find out if your employer offers direct deposit. If so, ask for an enrollment form, usually available through your human resource department. Complete it and return it to your employer. Or, ask a Credit Union Member Service Representative for an enrollment form, fill it out and return it to your payroll department. Direct Deposit usually begins within 30 days.

Payroll Deduction

Save money the easy way – through payroll deduction. Most employers have a payroll deduction program, which allows employees to have a portion of their pay sent directly to the Credit Union. You can even arrange to have your loan payments or Christmas Saver account deposits made through payroll deduction. If you already have direct deposit at the Credit Union we can automatically transfer money to your savings account each payday. Just let us know how much you’d like transferred and to what account. Check with your employer about signing up for payroll deduction or inquire at the Credit Union.

Night Deposit

The easy way to conduct business after hours. Okay, it’s after Credit Union business hours, you forgot to make your deposit and you’ve got to be at work before we open in the morning — not a problem. Use the night deposit that’s available at the branches. 

It’s important to remember that deposits made after hours are posted the next business day. Friday after hour deposits will be posted on Monday. Please be aware however that checks trying to clear your account and automatic loan payments may occur before your night deposit is posted. This may result in an overdraft. If it is vital for you to have your deposit posted first thing in the morning, we recommend you bring it in personally. Don’t let the name “Night Deposit” mislead you, you can drop off a deposit there even during business hours, just remember it will be posted the next business day.

Savings Bonds

Buy electronic savings bonds online
The U.S. Department of the Treasury discontinued over-the-counter sales of paper savings bonds on December 31, 2011. Savings Bonds are no longer sold at Sentinel Federal Credit Union. Savings bonds are available for purchase as electronic issues in TreasuryDirect®. TreasuryDirect is a secure Web-based system that allows investors to establish accounts to purchase, hold and manage Treasury securities online at www.treasurydirect.gov. Learn more

If you’re in the market for a new home, you’ll have fewer problems and delays qualifying for your loan if you follow this inside advice from Sentinel Federal Credit Union.

Clean up your credit. Before you apply, order a copy your credit report and FICO score. There are several online sources available, and for just a few dollars, you’ll learn exactly what information will be used to determine how much money you qualify for and, most important, what negative information appears that will affect your application and interest rate.

For example, if you have had several late payments, start 6 months prior to applying for your mortgage and make payments on time, every time. That may improve your credit score and the interest you’ll pay on your loan. Plus, you’ll have enough time to contact the Credit Bureaus in writing to explain or correct any outright wrong information. Looking at your credit report on a regular basis is also a good way to spot any instances of identity theft. It’s all about you, so be aware of what’s being recorded.

Collect your records. Start now to get the required documentation in order. Create a file – even a shoebox will do – and start saving important papers that your Loan Officer will need at time of application, throughout the loan process, and prior to closing.

Here are some helpful DO’s and DON’T’s to prepare for the application and speed the approval …

DO keep originals of all pay-stubs, bank statements and other important financial documentation. Your lender is required to update any documents that are over 30 days old prior to the closing of your mortgage loan. (This is required even if your loan is approved.)

DO have a copy of your employment history for the past two years, including contact information.

DO have your residence history for the past two years available, such as your rental agreements or your mortgage account number.

DO have a copy of your Social Security Card.

DO have a copy of your divorce decree, if applicable.

DO have copies of your Federal Income Taxes for the past two years.

DO provide all documentation for the sale of your current home. (e.g.: sales contract, closing statement, employer relocation/buyout program).

DO notify your Loan Officer if you plan to receive gift funds for closing costs.

DO notify your Loan Officer of any employment changes. (e.g.: change of employer, recent raise/promotion, transfer, change of pay status, such as salary to commission scale, etc.)

DO NOT change jobs/employer without inquiring about the impact this change would have on the approval of your mortgage loan.

DO NOT make major purchases during or prior to closing (e.g.: new car, furniture, appliances, electronics) as this may impact your qualification ratios. Please confer with your Loan Officer to have him/her calculate what your ratios would be with any additional debts.

DO NOT obtain and/or deposit unusually large sums of money without notifying your Loan Officer. FNMA/HUD guidelines require documentation as to the source of these funds (e.g.: copy of bonus check, copy of tax refund, copy of insurance settlement, gift letter with copy of check and deposit slips, etc.)

DO NOT close/open or transfer any asset accounts without inquiring about the proper documentation required for your loan file. (i.e.: If you transfer all the funds in your stock account to your savings account, documentation is required.)

DO NOT open or increase any liabilities, including credit cards, signature loans, etc., during the loan process. Please check with your Loan Officer for any documentation that will be required and what impact this would have on your qualification ratios.

For most people, this is just a matter of organizing documents they already have on hand and using common sense. Taking a little time to get your papers in order for the Loan Officer will make the application easy and the approval process swift. A little time spent now means a lot of time – and even money – saved later, so follow these tips to take the headache out of home ownership.

Send us a message to request your free consultation or call us today at 605-923-1405 or toll-free at 888-923-1400 and learn how Sentinel Federal Credit Union can help you get financially fit.