Fairwinds Credit Union

Back in 1949, the USN Special Devices Center Federal Credit Union was established in Port Washington, NY with $55 in assets. That has now grown into the Fairwinds Credit Union of today, with over $3 billion in assets as of 2020.

Fairwinds Credit Union
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    How do Fairwinds Credit Union auto loans work?

    The lender offers some pretty fantastic rates, starting as low as 1.98% for a new car for 36 months, which is 2.11% lower than the national average.

    Used cars start at 2.18%, and you can go up to 72 months at a higher rate.

    Credit score

    The figures stated are assuming a credit score of 740 or higher, which is quite high.

    It’s possible to take an auto loan with a worse rating but the interest rates will be much less favorable.

    How Much Can You Borrow?

    Fairwinds Credit Union offers you the entire asking price of any new vehicle.

    What types of vehicles are eligible for financing?

    The best auto loans at Fairwinds Credit Union can be used to cover most road vehicles, be they four or two-wheeled.

    However, boats aren’t covered.

    How do I qualify?

    Fairwinds serves members throughout the country and parts of the world. You’re eligible to join in the following ways:

    • You live, work, or operate a business in the following Florida counties:
      • Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Collier, Duval, Flagler, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Martin, Miami-Dade, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sarasota, Seminole or Volusia.
    • You’re an immediate family member of a current Fairwinds member.
    • You’re a University of Central Florida student, faculty member, staff member, or alumnus.
    • You become a contributor to the Fairwinds Foundation because you cannot join by another means. Fairwinds will make a contribution of $10 on your behalf.

    What documents do I need?

    Be prepared with your documents so as to make the loan process easier.

    You’ll need some proof of personal information such as social security number, address, employment and income.

    What are the fees?

    There’s a ‘loan late fee’ when you’re seven days past due with your payments. You’ll have to pay 5% of your monthly payment, with a $5 minimum.

    How long does the loan process take?

    As long as you’ve got all your relevant information ready, the easy online loan application should take just five minutes to fill out, and you’ll receive a decision on your loan immediately.

    How to apply for an auto loan?

    You can apply online or in person at one of the many branches.

    What payment methods are supported?

    Payment can be made in a variety of ways. You can visit a branch, use cash or cheque, or make bank transfers.

    Pros and Cons

    Pros

    • Competitive rates
    • Ability to buy your eligibility

    Cons

    • Repayment terms are a little inflexible

    Is Fairwinds Credit Union right for you?

    Fairwinds is a decent and noteworthy organization, with strong auto loan rates for short terms.

    The ability to pay a $10 fee and join from anywhere in the world is a great advantage.

    However, the repayment schedules are quite rigid, and if you’d like a loan for longer than three years the rates become more expensive.

    Two similar sites with more relaxed repayment schedules are Capital One and Carvana, both of which have excellent rates.