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.

• Click the “I forgot my password” link on the login page of It’s Me 247 Online Banking
• Correctly answer the three security questions that you had set up
• Then, set up a new password to use for online banking

If you can’t remember the answers to your security questions, please call us at 605-923-1405 or toll-free at 888-923-1400. We can reset your questions and password for you, then you will need to log in right away and set up new ones. 

Has your Online Banking password expired?
Please call us at 605-923-1405 or toll-free at 888-923-1400 and we’ll reset your password for you, then you will need to log in right away and set up new ones. 

Would you like to enroll in Online Banking & e-Statements?
To enroll in Online Banking & e-Statements, please complete our Online Banking Enrollment Form.

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.

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.

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

Assets

Liabilities

2011 Annual Report

Loan Rates effective as of February 3, 2012
Loan rates are based on credit history, term of loan, year and type of collateral.
*Annual Percentage Rate (APR) may change without notice.

New Vehicle Loans (2010 and Newer)

Used Vehicle Loans (2005 – 2009)

Used Vehicle Loans (2002 – 2004)

Used Vehicle Loans (2001 and Older)

Classic Cars
Completely restored and registered at Court House as antique

Motorcycle Loans – New and Used

Snowmobiles, ATV & Personal Watercraft Loans

Motor Homes, Campers, Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels,
Boats & Horse Trailer Loans

Mobile Home Loans

Personal Loans

Other Loans

Loan payment example: At 4.5% the annual percentage rate (APR) for a 60 month term with 0% down and 30 days to 1st payment, monthly payments are calculated at $18.66 per $1,000 borrowed.

Not all borrowers qualify for lowest APR or 0% down. To find out if you qualify, please call Sentinel Federal Credit Union at 605-923-1405 or ask your Black Hills area auto dealers.

Note: Interest rates on home equity loans will increase 1% on loans with a 90% or greater loan-to-value (LTV) ratio based on the appraisal of the property.

Loan rates are based on credit history, term of loan, year and type of collateral.

*Annual Percentage Rate (APR) may change without notice.

First Mortgage Rates

Please contact our Mortgage Loan Officer at 605-923-6772 or 888-923-1400 for rates and applications for our first mortgage products and residential lot loans.

Share Savings & Checking Rates

Share Rates effective as of December 16, 2011

*APY is Annual Percentage Yield. Rates subject to change without notice. Early withdrawal penalties may apply. Fees could reduce the earnings on the accounts.

Share Certificates & IRA Certificates

Certificate Rates effective as of December 16, 2011

Special Bump-A-Rate available on any certificate excluding specials. Minimum deposit $500.*APY is Annual Percentage Yield. $500 minimum balance requirement. Rates subject to change without notice. Early withdrawal penalties may apply. Fees could reduce the earnings on the accounts. Specials will automatically renew into the same term at maturity if that same term special is available from the Credit Union. Otherwise specials will automatically renew to the closest regular term. Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government and National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency. IRAs up to $250,000.

**Maximum $100,000 in special certificates per SSN.

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

We believe that you get the best car buying value when you have your loan pre-approved before you go vehicle shopping. We’ll give you great car buying tips that can save you money. You’ll also know how much you can afford to spend on that new auto and what your monthly payments will be. Then when you’re ready to buy you’ll be purchasing with the buying power of cash. Since buying a vehicle is one of the most significant purchases we make, doesn’t it make sense to take a little more time and become an informed shopper. We’d love to help you get the best deal.

Additional Benefits:

• 100% financing on most new and used vehicles
• The better your credit, the better your rate
• Simple interest at a competitive rate
• No penalty for early payoff
• Credit Life and Disability Insurance offered at low rates

Get Preapproved

GAP (Guaranteed Asset Protection)

Do you owe more than your vehicle is worth? Ever consider what will happen if your vehicle is totaled in an accident or stolen? GAP is designed to protect members against financial loss in the event their vehicle is stolen or declared a total loss due to an insured peril. GAP pays the difference between the primary auto insurance carrier’s settlement and the protected loan balance. Most everyone is eligible for the coverage and for a small charge you can sleep well knowing your investment is protected.

MRC (Mechanical Repair Coverage)

Have you ever considered buying an extended warranty? Have you been over-charged at a dealership in the past? Mechanical Repair Coverage helps pay the covered repairs on your vehicle when the unexpected breakdown occurs. For a few dollars a month, you can protect your vehicle and your finances from expenses that could total thousands of dollars. With MRC, your vehicle will be back on the road and you will rest easy knowing you saved a lot of money. 

Time for a new car? Click. Shop. Drive!

Sentinel Federal Credit Union is proud to introduce CUDL AutoSMART. It’s a free online resource that offers valuable research tools and resources to help you make more informed decisions the next time you’re considering a vehicle purchase.

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.

Online Auto Auction

• 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 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

With interest rates at record lows, now is an excellent opportunity to reduce your monthly mortgage payment.

• Refinance your adjustable rate mortgage and save with today’s low rates.
• Tap the cash equity you’ve built in your home and pay off bills or take that well-deserved vacation.
• Buy the home of your dreams or remodel your current home.

Regardless of your needs, we can help. In a brief, free consultation we can review your current loan program and help you find exactly what you need to reach the financial fitness you desire. With hundreds of different loan programs to offer, we will find just the loan you need.

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.

Home Loans

• First Mortgage Loans
• Refinances
• Residential Lot Loans
• Home Equity & Line of Credit Loans

Financial Fitness 101

• What factors are affecting your credit score?
• How to save for the home of your dreams
• Helpful do’s and don’ts when applying for a mortgage

Calculators

• How much home can I afford?
• Mortgage Payment Calculator
• Comparing mortgages (i.e. 15, 20, 30 year).

MEMBERS® Auto and Homeowners Program
You trust Sentinel Federal Credit Union to provide you and your family with quality products and services to meet your financial needs. We’ve joined with a dedicated team of insurance professionals to bring you the MEMBERS® Auto and Homeowners Insurance Program.

• MEMBERS Auto and Homeowners is the property and casualty coverage solution preferred by the most credit unions and their members.
• Convenient e-service, pay your bill or make changes to your policy, even report a claim.
• Receive fast, easy access to claims service 24-hours a day.
• Obtain a free no obligation quote or locate an agent at the local Liberty Mutual sales office.

Get a Quote Now

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

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

Have you thought about refinancing your home loan?

Although the media makes it sound impossible to get a mortgage in today’s economic environment, at Sentinel Federal Credit Union, it’s business as usual. Rates have never been lower! Even if you haven’t thought about refinancing, here are three reasons why it could be a smart move for you:

1. To lower your interest rate. For example, if your rate right now is 6.5% (6.787% APR) on a 30-year loan of $250,000 and you refinance to 4.0% (4.181% APR), your payment goes down from $1,580 to $1,193, saving you $387 every month!
2. To shorten the term of your loan. If you’re in a 30-year loan now, you might want to refinance to a 15-year loan so you’ll be able to pay off the mortgage sooner.
3. To refinance an adjustable-rate mortgage into a fixed-rate loan. If you don’t have a fixed interest rate on your home loan, now is the time to refinance to take advantage of historically low rates and lock in at a rate that you know will never go up. That’s peace of mind you don’t currently have.

Whether you want to save hundreds of dollars every month or save tens of thousands of dollars over time, or both, a mortgage refinance could be the answer.

Contact Pat Wahl, our Mortgage Loan Officer, today at 605-923-6772 or toll free at 888-923-1400 to schedule a free consultation or send Pat a message.

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

• Terms & Conditions of Your Account
• Electronic Fund Transfers – Your Rights and Responsibilities
• Your Ability to Withdraw Funds
• Truth-In-Savings
• Substitute Check Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Schedule of Fees – Common Features
• Courtesy Pay Disclosure
• Reg E Opt-In

Visa Credit Card

• Visa Credit Card Agreement
• Visa Classic Application and Solicitation Disclosure
• Visa Secured Application and Solicitation Disclosure

Notices

• Notice of Changes in Temporary NCUA Insurance Coverage for Transaction Accounts

Electronic Disclaimer

Rates, terms, special offers and other information on our website are subject to change without notice. The calculators are intended to provide approximate information and do not constitute an offer to extend credit. Your actual payment information may vary. Please contact Sentinel FCU for exact payment information. Sentinel does not guarantee accuracy or completeness of information provided on this site due to varying and out side factors, such as, but not limited to, the fact that websites are not always accessible and information provided by other sites that we are linked to are out of our control.

• 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

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

Whether you’re looking to refinance your mortgage or buy your first home, Sentinel Federal Credit Union is here to help. We offer special low rates and a wide variety of loan programs including FHA, VA and South Dakota Housing Loans. We’ll make your home loan process easy and comfortable with the friendly, trusted service you expect. So what are you waiting for? There’s never been a better time to get a home loan. Visit with Pat Wahl, Mortgage Officer, at 605–923–6772 or toll free at 888–923–1400 or send Pat a message. He’ll get you pre-approved and find you the right mortgage.

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.

If you’re finding it difficult to put money away for a down payment after paying your bills and financing your living expenses, take heart. It’s a common problem.

The solution is to shave it off the top. For example, if you’ve decided to save 10% of your income to buy a home, that 10% must come right off the top of your paycheck before you do anything else.

Will you be able to live off 90% of your income? Absolutely. When that’s what there is to work with, you’ll be surprised at how workable it is. But, if you take care of everything else before saving and just save “whatever’s left” you’ll find that nothing is.

If you’re serious about becoming a homeowner, take a tip from us and shave it off the top.

Using your tax refund to save

It’s that time of year again … Your tax refund is coming. And while you’ve got lots of ideas on how to spend that annual windfall, consider this: The money you’re getting from the IRS is no gift; it’s money that was yours in the first place. By overpaying on taxes every payroll period, you were forced to “save” it slowly over the year.

So you did. You saved it. And now you’re ready to spend it. But are you really sure you want to spend those hard-earned savings on some “extras” that may be gone before you know it?

This year, we challenge you to do something different. Bring your check to Sentinel Federal Credit Union, and open an account to save for a down payment on a home. Use the money that you’ve been forced to save all year to help you achieve something really special—like owning your own home.

You can become a homeowner. And we can help you do it. Visit the Credit Union as soon as your refund check arrives and open an account to help save for that down payment. That way, your refund will last decades—not just a weekend—and you’ll feel good about investing in your future.

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.

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.

It’s a great time to open a new door …
with a low-cost Mortgage Loan from Sentinel Federal Credit Union.  

Should you wait to buy your first home or upgrade to your next home? Is it really a good time to refinance? 
 
If you’re thinking about buying, building, or refinancing a home, it’s a great time to make that move! Here’s why:

Rates are the lowest they’ve been in years.
Take a look at rates from as far back as the early 1960′s, and you’ll find that rates today are the lowest they’ve been in decades. That fact translates to great savings in your monthly payments.

You have options for greater flexibility. 
If you’re worried that you have limited options, think again! Whether you’re buying or refinancing, we offer competitive rates and lower fees for a variety of mortgage loans including FHA, VA and South Dakota Housing Loans. You pick the option that works best for your needs.

Our one-on-one personalized service is difficult to find with the other guys!
Whether you’ve been a credit union member for a few months or a number of years, you know the service you find here is tough to beat – and that level of service extends to our mortgage lending too!

So what are you waiting for? There’s never been a better time to get a home loan. Apply with us today!

Contact Pat Wahl, Mortgage Loan Officer, at 605–923–6772 or toll free at 888–923–1400 or send Pat a message.

Lot Requirements
The lot must be located in a marketable area and abut a public road. The land may not exceed 40 acres. Adequate electrical power, sewer, and water must exist or be readily attainable. Public electrical power must run adjacent to the property. If public sewer is not available, a copy of the septic site approval, signed or stamped as approved by the appropriate authority, or evidence of an acceptable perk test is required.

Rate and Term

• 10 and 15 year fixed rate
• Fixed rate 20 year amortization with 5 year balloon
• Fixed rate 30 year amortization with 5 year balloon
• Fixed rate 30 year amortization with 10 year balloon

Down Payment: Minimum 10% down payment

Escrow Account: Escrows for taxes and insurance are not required.

Maximum Loan Amount and Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio

• 90% Maximum LTV
• Maximum loan $150,000

Send us a message or call us today at 605-923-1405 or toll-free at 888-923-1400 for more information.