CCFB News» April 2026

Celebrating National Credit Union Youth Month at IAA Credit Union

 

April is National Credit Union Youth Month! At IAA Credit Union, we believe in helping our families raise money-smart kids. Financial education starts early, and the lessons children learn today will shape their financial habits for a lifetime. Yet many parents find it challenging to introduce these concepts at home.

 

How many of you have talked to your children about finances? If you haven’t yet, you’re not alone. A surprising 41% of parents admit they’ve never discussed money with their kids. According to a Greenlight survey, this communication gap contributes to the fact that 3 out of 4 teens lack confidence in their financial knowledge.

 

What is Financial Literacy?

Financial literacy is understanding and using financial skills and concepts effectively. It encompasses critical skills such as:

• Opening a bank account
• Using debit and credit cards responsibly
• Basic budgeting
• Managing and paying off debt

 

Why Financial Literacy Matters

Financial literacy equips individuals with the tools to make informed decisions and achieve financial wellness. Here are some key benefits:

• Fosters a better understanding of real-world financial decisions
• Helps manage money effectively and establish healthy spending and budgeting habits
• Reduces vulnerability to financial fraud
• Supports life goals like saving for education, using debt responsibly, and planning for retirement

 

Despite its importance, only seven U.S. states currently mandate at least one semester of financial education in schools. That’s why financial institutions like IAA Credit Union step in to bridge the gap through initiatives like National Credit Union Youth Month.

 

Practical Tips for Teaching Kids About Money

• Lead by example: Share your budget and financial decisions in age-appropriate ways.
• Encourage open conversations: Talk about money regularly and celebrate milestones.
• Reinforce good habits: Help kids practice saving and spending wisely.
• Embrace mistakes: Allow children to learn from small financial missteps now to avoid larger mistakes later.

 

How IAA Credit Union Supports Financial Literacy

Since 1951, IAA Credit Union has served the Illinois Farm Bureau Family of Companies and their employees. Beyond traditional banking services, we’re committed to financial education, offering youth-focused programs tailored to every stage of development.

 

Kids Club (Ages 0-12)

The Kids Club is designed as an introductory savings account, helping children learn the basics of saving for short- and long-term goals. Benefits include:

• Savings Account to jump start their savings
• Access to the Greenlight app, a trusted family money management tool. 

 

Dollars & Sense Club (Ages 13-17)

The Dollars & Sense Club builds on the foundation of the Kids Club, offering

• Savings rollovers from Kids Club accounts.
• First checking accounts with no minimum balance or monthly fees.
• Remote deposit capabilities and online banking.
• Access to over 35,000 ATMs with your debit card.
• Youth CDs with as little as $500 to start.
• Continued access to the Greenlight app, fostering independence with parental supervision.

 

Elite Club (Ages 18-23)

The Elite Club prepares young adults to manage their finances independently while still offering support:

• Savings and checking account rollovers from Dollars & Sense Club.
• Access to remote deposits, online banking, and no-fee checking.
• Exclusive perks such as getting the lowest possible rate on first Auto loan.
• Build your credit by linking your current savings account to a Secured VISA credit card.
• GreenPath resources for free financial education, including budgeting assistance, credit reviews, and debt management plans.

 

What is Greenlight?

Greenlight is the loved and trusted financial education app and debit card for kids and teens that allows parents to instantly send their kids money, set up chores and allowances, create savings goals, and more.

For the entire month of April, enjoy a complimentary Greenlight subscription and a custom debit card at no extra cost. When you become an IAA Credit Union member and sign up for Greenlight through us, you’ll receive a free* Greenlight subscription and, for a limited time, a free custom debit card^ (a $79.99 value). Let your child bring their card to life by personalizing it with a favorite photo, pet, or design making learning smart money habits fun and memorable. Additionally, parents can add up to five kids, each with their own card, ensuring every child’s experience is both engaging and special.

 

Once registration is complete, debit cards will be shipped for each child and will be ready for use upon activation.

 

Not a member yet? Join IAA Credit Union today and let us help you stay on budget and build a brighter financial future!

 

Visit us at www.iaacu.org today!

 

IAA Credit Union’s Youth Program sets your child on the path to financial success from ages 0-23. Let’s empower the next generation with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive financially!

Become a member today! Together, we can build a future of financially confident and capable young adults.

*IAA Credit Union members are eligible for the Greenlight SELECT plan at no cost when they connect their IAA Credit Union account as the Greenlight funding source for the entirety of the promotion. Subject to minimum balance requirements and identity verification. Upgrades will result in additional fees. Upon termination of promotion, customers will be responsible for associated monthly fees. See terms for details. Offer ends 05/09/2027. Offer subject to change or renewal.

^New Greenlight customers are eligible for a $10 bonus to their Parents Wallet within 7 days after completion of successful registration. Members must sign up at greenlight.com/iaa to redeem offer. Successful registration must occur between 04/01/2026 and 04/30/2026. See terms for details. Offer subject to change.

The Greenlight prepaid card is issued by Community Federal Savings Bank, member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International.

Greenlight is a financial technology company, not a bank. The Greenlight app facilitates banking services through Community Federal Savings Bank (CFSB), Member FDIC.