What's a "Share"?
At a credit union, your shares are your deposits, and your ownership stake in the credit union. With a share-secured loan, you use those shares as collateral.
How it Works
- Choose your amount and term. We’ll help you pick a monthly payment that fits your budget.
- Pledge your savings. The amount you borrow is secured by your STTFCU savings (those funds are temporarily frozen).
- Get your funds. Use them how you need; no reason to drain your savings.
- Repay and unlock. As you pay down the loan, the held savings are released. In many cases, your savings continue to earn dividends while pledged.*
* Dividends and hold/release details follow account and loan terms. We’ll explain them before you sign.
Why Members Choose Share-Secured Loans
- Lower rate vs. unsecured (because your loan is collateralized)
- Build or rebuild credit with on-time, monthly payments
- Keep your savings intact (and typically earn dividends)
- Fast, straightforward approval with no car title or other collateral to gather
Good share-secured loan uses:
Establishing or building credit, consolidating a small balance or covering an expense without touching your emergency fund.
Become a member, then apply online!
Joining STTFCU is the best step you can take toward flexible, affordable borrowing on St. Thomas.