FAQs

Why is LVECU changing its website?

To provide a more modern, user-friendly experience with improved navigation for easy access to the tools and services we rely on.

When will the refreshed website be available?

The launch of the new website will be on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

Will I be able to access my credit union accounts during the website transition?

Yes, during the transition, you will still have access to your account through online banking on our old website.

Can I still access the old website after the launch of the new one?

No, once the new website is live, the old site will no longer be accessible. We recommend bookmarking the new website once it is launched for easy access.

Do I need to create a new e-Tran Online Banking account to use the new website?

No, you do not need to create a new account. You can continue using your current login credentials for online banking.

Will the new website look different?

Yes. The new website will feature a fresh, modern design with streamlined navigation and new educational resources including a blog, among other improvements. See previews of the desktop and mobile versions below.

Desktop View:

Mobile View:

How can I prepare for the new website launch?

Make sure your email address is current, so you'll receive all important notifications. Stay informed by visiting our Facebook page and website for updates as we approach the launch date.

Will the new website affect any services like loan payments or account management?

No, your ability to manage accounts or apply for loans will not be interrupted.

How can I get help if I have questions during the transition?

Contact us for assistance at 610-820-0145 or visit the “Website Refresh FAQs” page on our current and new website, which will provide helpful information and guidance during the transition.

Do I have to be a member to apply for a loan?

No. You can apply for a loan as a non-member. If you are approved for the loan and wish to proceed, you must then join the credit union.

how do i apply for a loan?

In addition to being able to come into an LVECU location to complete an application, you have the option to apply online through our website. For questions, contact the call center at 610-820-0145.

How long is the loan approval process?

Our goal is to process your loan request as quickly as possible. LVECU strives to get all members a loan response within 24 hours from the time you submit your application (excluding holidays and weekends). Loan closings can usually occur within a week.

Can i have a loan with LVECU even if i live out of state?

Yes, all consumer loans are available to our members in the U.S. However, mortgages and home equity loans are limited to property located in Pennsylvania. Contact us for details.

what credit bureau does lvecu use to determine loan approvals?

TransUnion

if i am approved for a loan, am i obligated to take the loan?

No. Your loan approval is good for 30 days. If you do not accept the loan within this time, you will need to reapply.

if i am denied, will it affect my credit report?

Although a denial will not directly affect your credit report, your report will indicate that LVECU inquired about your credit. If you have a large number of inquiries within a short period of time, it can negatively affect your credit score.

Why do I have to verify and/or update my address and telephone number information with the credit union?

The credit union needs to have your most current address to mail your VISA® credit card to you.  Your telephone number is one of the elements used to verify your identity when you activate the credit card.  Your telephone number is also important because we will call or text you to inform you about potential fraud on your account.

When will I receive my credit card?

If your credit card is mailed to you through the postal service, it will take from 7 to 10 days to receive. Instant Issue is not available at this time.

When may I activate my credit card?

You may activate your new credit card as soon as you receive it by calling 1-800-631-3197.  Each cardholder is required to call in separately. 

What if I do not receive my credit card?

Please call 1-866-620-6723 if you do not receive your credit card.

Where do I send my payments?

The address to send payments to is:

LVECU

PO Box 37603

Philadelphia, PA  19101-0603

If this is a reissued credit card, will my recurring credit card charges be transferred to my new credit card?

Merchants participating with VISA will be updated with the new credit card credentials.  Although we don’t have a list of the merchants who participate with VISA, many of the major merchants participate.  Smaller merchants may need to be updated manually.

How can I check my balance and usage?

You may access your credit card information on our online credit card platform though e-Tran.

Can I do a cash advance at a LVECU branch and how much can I advance?

Yes, you can obtain a cash advance at a LVECU branch, presenting your credit card with your driver’s license.  Cash advances are limited to 50% of your Lehigh Valley Educators Credit Union credit card available credit limit. Cash advance funds can also be accessed through ATMs that display the VISA® logo. To obtain a cash advance at an ATM, you will need to use your credit card and Personal Identification Number (PIN).

what is the minimum amount i can take for a cash advance?

There is no minimum amount.

Will digital wallets be available?

Yes, once you activate your new credit card it may be loaded into Samsung, Google, Apple, Fitbit, and Garmin digital wallets.

Why do I have a different credit card number than my joint owner(s)?

Every cardholder has a different credit card number tied to one credit card account. This is so that if one cardholder loses their credit card or experiences fraud, not all credit cards have to be replaced. The other cardholders can continue to utilize their credit cards.

Important numbers to remember.

Member Service – 1-866-620-6723

Lost/Stolen – 1-866-620-6723

PIN Change – 1-888-886-0083

i will be traveling overseas. where can i use my VISA® credit card?

VISA® is accepted at merchants worldwide. To use your VISA® card at an ATM machine, see VISA®'s website for a list of ATM machines in the area you plan to visit.

How do i increase or decrease my credit limit?

You must apply for a credit limit increase. Fill out a new VISA® application obtained from the credit union office, apply online, or call the call center to have one mailed to you. If you apply online, indicate in the comments that you wish to increase your limit, and to what dollar amount. For a limit decrease, simply send a letter signed by all cardholders to:

LVECU

Attn: Plastic Card Coordinator

3720 Hamilton Blvd

Allentown PA, 18103-4503

Provide your card number and indicate that you want to have your limit lowered to the amount you specify. A form is also available at any branch or you can call the call center and have the form mailed to you.

Do I have to open a share draft checking account when I join LVECU?

No. However, our checking account is free and there are many benefits, such as a Free VISA® Debit Card, Free e-Tran Online Banking, Free Bill Pay and more.

is there a minimum balance requirement?

No, there is no minimum balance required on a share draft checking account.

How old do I have to be to open up a share draft checking account?

You need to be 18 years or older to open a checking account. However, you can open one at 14 years old with a parent or legal guardian.

Why is there a difference between my balance and available balance?

There may be checks on hold that have been deposited, or Point-of-Sale transactions may be on hold until the actual transaction is processed.

How do I get a copy of a share draft or teller check?

If you have e-Tran online banking, you may print a copy of your cleared share draft check for free. For teller checks, or if you don’t have e-Tran you may stop by either of our locations or contact the call center. There is a $2.00 fee per check copy.

How many checks may I write each month without a fee?

There is no limit to the number of checks you can write and there is no fee per check written.

How do i reorder checks?

You can visit either one of our locations or contact the call center to order checks. You can also reorder checks through e-Tran® by logging into your account, clicking on the “More” widget and selecting “Checking Services”, Click “Reorder Checks”, choose an account, click “Next” and click “Order Checks”. The cost will be automatically deducted from that checking account.

When can I expect my checks after I order them?

Your checks will be mailed to you in 7-10 business days after we receive your order. You may rush order your checks for an additional fee.

Why do I have to verify and/or update my address and telephone number information with the credit union?

The credit union needs to have your most current address to mail your VISA® debit card to you.  Your telephone number is one of the elements used to verify your identity when you activate the debit card.  Your telephone number is also important because we will call or text you to inform you about potential fraud on your account.

When will I receive my debit card?

If your debit card is mailed to you through the postal service, it will take from 7 to 10 days to receive.  Instant Issue is not available at this time.

What if I do not receive my debit card?

Please call 1-800-800-2311 if you do not receive your debit card.

When may I activate my debit card?

You may activate your debit card by calling 1-800-631-3197.

May i select my pin?

Yes, after receiving your debit card, call the IVR phone number on the back of the card to activate it and select a PIN.

Will digital wallets be available?

Yes, once you activate your new credit card it may be loaded into Samsung, Google, Apple, Fitbit, and Garmin digital wallets.

If my debit card is reissued, will my recurring debit card charges be transferred to my new debit card?

No, this is not a service that is offered with a debit card.

What should i do if my VISA® debit Card is lost/Stolen?

During office hours you can call the call center after hours call 1-833-311-0082.

What if I have a purchase that exceeds my daily limit?

You can call the call center to request a temporary 1-day limit increase.

Are there any fees for atm transactions?

Locate a Surcharge Free ATM near you. Please see our fee schedule for additional fees.

Is my VISA® debit card a credit card?

No. The card is accepted anywhere that VISA® is accepted; however it is not a credit card. You must have the funds available in your LVECU checking account to cover your purchases/withdrawals.

What is a point-of-sale (POS) or Point of purchase (POP)?

It is the time and place a retail transaction is completed. It is the point at which a customer makes a payment to the merchant in exchange for goods or after provision of a service (this can be a PIN or signature transaction).

What is the difference between my total balance and available balance?

Your total balance is the amount currently in the account. Available balance is the balance minus the holds. Holds include VISA® Debit Card transactions, checks that are pending, and certain deposited items.

Will my VISA® Debit Card Work when traveling abroad?

Your VISA® Debit Card is accepted at the same merchants that accept your VISA® Credit Card when traveling abroad.

When Should i use my card as debit or credit?

The decision affects how your transaction will be processed. The funds will always be deducted from your Share Draft Checking account.

When you choose Credit:

• Purchases are processed by VISA®

• Your signature may be required

• Funds will be put on hold until processed

• Purchases may be protected by VISA’s® rules and regulations

When you choose debit:

• Purchases are processed by the STAR System

• You will need to enter a PIN

• Funds are deducted from your Share Draft Checking account immediately.

• Choose Debit when you want cash back

• Saves you a trip to the ATM and any ATM fees related to it

Important numbers to remember.

Member Service – 1-866-820-9785

Lost/Stolen – 1-866-820-9785

PIN Change – 1-888-886-0083