Account Management
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is your Routing Number?
Our Routing Number: 296076262
If you are setting up a Direct Deposit to your Ideal CU account, you will need our Routing Number.
Does Ideal CU have safe deposit boxes?
Yes, Ideal CU has safe deposit boxes available for rent at our Eagan, Hugo, North St. Paul and Woodbury locations. Safe deposit box sizes and prices are as follows:
2 x 5 x 21" = $30
3 x 5 x 21" = $36
3 x 10 x 21" = $66
5 x 10 x 21" = $85
10 x 10 x 21" = $127
Drilling of lock = $220
Lost key = $38
Sizes and availability of boxes may vary by location. Call 651-770-7000 or 800-247-0857 for more information.
Why should I use Ideal Credit Union?
If you’re looking for exceptional service, quality financial solutions and people who go beyond the ordinary to meet your needs, you’ve come to the right place. At Ideal CU we put members first and look for ways to say “yes.”
Who can join Ideal CU?
Anyone who lives, works, worships, attends schools or volunteers in Anoka, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey or Washington counties is eligible. Those outside the six-county area are eligible by making a $5 donation to the John Miller Scholarship program. Additional eligibility information can be found on the Membership Information page.
What does Ideal CU offer?
Ideal CU offers a full line of quality financial products and services. What sets us apart is our commitment to personalized service above and beyond your expectations. Ideal CU strives to make every experience a positive one and values the trust you place in us to be your financial partner.
Online & Mobile Banking Questions
I forgot my passcode
Q: I forgot my passcode. How do I reset?
Simply click the “Forgot Passcode” on the login box under where you put your credentials. You will be asked to validate yourself and then a temporary passcode will be emailed to you immediately. You will be asked to change your password right away.
Q: My screen says "Account Disabled" Can I still reset my passcode?
Yes, please use the "Forgot Passcode" feature despite your account being in disabled status. Click "Forgot Passcode" from the Disabled Account screen and a temporary passcode will be emailed to you.
Q: I forgot my Username. What do I do?
Usernames can not be reset automatically. To reset a username, you'll need to contact Ideal CU during for assistance.
Access ID & Passcode
Q: What is my Passcode?
Once into the system, you’ll be prompted to select a new Passcode that is at least seven (8) characters long and contain at least 1 number and 1 letter. For added security, DO NOT use your Access ID for your password.
Q: When I select my new Access ID, what should I choose?
Your Access ID should be both easy for you to remember, but strong enough to be secure. We suggest it be between 5-20 characters and contain a combination of numbers, letters and special characters. Please do not use your Tax ID Number, Social Security Number, Member Number or any other online account numbers.
Q: Can I use my member number or Social Security number as my Access ID?
For security reasons, you cannot use your member number or Social Security for your Access ID. Please choose something you can remember that fits into the security criteria.
Q: What makes a strong Passcode?
A good Passcode is one you can remember while still being secure. Use special characters in place of letters, such as a 3 in the place of an E or @ in the place of an a. Avoid using a Passcode based on your name, address or other easily-obtained information. Ideal CU Digital Banking has an additional security layer called Quality Passcode Evaluator. If the Quality Passcode Evaluator can guess your passcode, the system will immediately ask you to change your passcode.
Q: Are my Access ID and Passcode case sensitive?
Yes. All of your login credentials are case sensitive.
Q: I forgot my passcode. How do I reset?
Simply click the “Forgot Passcode” on the login box under where you put your credentials. You will be asked to validate yourself and then a temporary passcode will be emailed to you immediately. You will be asked to change your password right away.
Q: My account disabled. What do I do?
If you incorrectly input your Passcode three times, your account will move to a 'disabled' status. You can still reset your passcode on your own using the Passcode Reset feature while in disabled status.
Enrolling in Digital Banking
Q: I've never used Ideal CU Digital Banking Before. How do I enroll?
When you login the first time, use the enroll button on the Digital Banking Login Box found on the homepages of www.idealcu.com. You’ll be required to provide your name as shown on your statement, member number, Social Security number and an email address. Member numbers DO NOT require the 000 in the front of the number for enrollment. From there, follow the on-screen instructions to create an Access ID and Passcode.
Digital Banking Enrolling tip: DO NOT include the prefix 000 as your account number OR any suffix at the end (S1, S21, L29 etc). Use only the 7 digits as your account number
Q: What browser do I need to access Digital Banking?
You will need a browser that supports 128 bit encryption as well as Internet Explorer version 7.0 or higher. The newest browsers all support this. To view eStatements, you will need a copy of Acrobat Reader.
Ideal CU has a troubleshooting guide for troubleshooting many browser versions including some mobile.
Transferring Funds
Q: How do I transfer funds in Digital Banking?
On the Transfers tab you’ll see the “From Account” and “To Account “options. All of your accounts, including your loans, will display in the drop-down menu. Enter a description, the Amount you wish to transfer, the Frequency, the Period (or number of times you wish to perform the transfer) and the scheduled transfer date. Options include:
- One-time: transfer will only occur once.
- Fixed recurring transfers: schedule a transfer for the same dollar amount each time.
- Variable recurring: schedule a transfer to occur continually, say on the 15th of the month, but set a different dollar amount each time.
- Occasional: these transfers are not recurring, but can be viewed in the Transfer history table if you should want to use them again.
Q: I’ve set up a recurring transfer but don’t see it in my pending transactions. Why?
Payments will post to your account but will not show in Digital Banking as a pending transaction. Please use Future View to track those transfers/payments that are scheduled to be deducted from your account.
Q: How do I add an account in Digital Banking?
If you are the authorized signer for an account, you can add it to Digital Banking. To add an account, simply select the Accounts tab and the "+Add An Account” link near the top right of the page. You can request accounts be added that you are joint on. For example, a spouse or children’s account.
In addition, you can request Transfer Only rights to other accounts in which you are NOT an authorized user or joint on.
Q: Can I see my completed transfers?
Yes. See your account history under the Recent Transfers table on the Transfers page. There is also a View Transfer History link for older transfers.
Account Management
Q: Why do you need my email address?
When you use certain features like Bill Pay, eStatements and Notify Me Alerts, we will generate and email a security code you will use to access the requested service. This measure helps keep your info safe, secure and for your eyes only.
Q: What transactions or actions generate a security code email?
To add further protection to your finances when entering Bill Pay or Transfer Funds for the first time, you will be asked for a one-time security code that will be sent to the email address we have on file for you. In addition, if you login to Digital Banking from another computer or if your browser cookies are deleted, you will be asked to enter the security code again.
Q: How often do I need to change my Passcode?
We recommend that you change your Passcode every 90 days. A good rule of thumb is to change yours every season.
Q: I forgot my passcode. How do I reset?
Simply click the “Forgot Passcode” on the login box under where you put your credentials. You will be asked to validate yourself and then a temporary passcode will be emailed to you immediately. You will be asked to change your password right away.
Q: Will I need to update my security questions?
The more often these questions change, the more secure your login will be. In addition, having unique questions and unique answers increases your online security.
Q: Can I search and download my account history?
Yes. You’ll find the Account History page under Accounts. Then select the History link. There you can search by Transaction Type (check, debit, credit) share draft (check) number amount range and even Transaction Categories. For example, you can search for your salary or direct deposit history with a click.
Q: How do I categorize my expenses?
See how you’re earning and spending your money. In the Account tabs select your account and then in detailed/recent transactions categorize your expenses. Select a category from the provided list, which includes both income and expenses. Or simply add your own. You can also add a descriptive memo to a transaction, such as: Payday November 12.
Q: Can I change my Quick History settings?
Certainly. View your Account History by date range or transaction number.
Q: What’s Future View?
Future View is a budget tool to help plan for future transactions and project what deposits or debits will occur on your account in the future. For example: if you pay your auto insurance premium every six months, use Future View to input when your next premium is due. That way, you can plan to save enough to pay your auto insurance premium.
Q: How do I add an account in Digital Banking?
If you are the authorized signer for an account, you can add it to Digital Banking. To add an account, simply select the Accounts tab and the +Add An Account” link near the top right of the page. You can request accounts be added that you are joint on. For example, a spouse or children’s account.
In addition, you can request Transfer Only rights to other accounts in which you are NOT an authorized user or joint on.
Q: I manage an account at Ideal CU for a local organization (school, sports teams, scout troops etc). Can I use Digital Banking?
As long as you are the authorized signer for the account, you can add it to Digital Banking. To add an account, simply select the Accounts tab and the +Add An Account link near the top right of the page.
Q: I’ve set up a recurring auto or mortgage loan payment but don’t see it in my pending transactions. Why?
At one time, payments displayed in Digital Banking as pending transactions. These payments will continue to post to your account, but will not show in Digital Banking as a pending transaction. Please use Future View to track those transfers/payments that are scheduled to be deducted from your account.
Q: How do I use Quicken with Digital Banking?
Get your latest transactions from Digital Banking as you normally do. Now, from inside the Quicken software, deactivate your Ideal Credit Union account. Finally, reactivate your account by simply logging in to Digital Banking and downloading your transactions into Quicken and following the on-screen instructions. If you have never used Quicken with Digital Banking, simply login to Digital Banking and download your transactions into Quicken. Be sure to follow the on-screen instructions to establish a connection with Ideal Credit Union .
Q: What if I run into trouble updating Quicken?
There are many versions of Quicken. Therefore it may be necessary to visit www.intuit.com/support/quicken to locate step-by-step instructions for your operating system and software.
Using Bill Pay
Q: How do I sign up for Bill Pay?
You’ll need to have both access to Ideal Digital Banking and a Ideal Credit Union checking account to use Bill Pay. If you have both, simply click the Payments tab to request access to bill pay.
Q: What info do I need to establish a payee?
Your account number as it appears on your statement, an address and the zip code for the person or business you are paying.
Q: What’s an eBill?
Depending on the business, you can choose to get an electronic version of your bill delivered in Bill Pay or an online reminder or email notification when your bill is due or has been paid. Best of all, that bill comes directly to your Bill Pay page.
Q: When are payments made? How many business days?
The answer depends on the bill being paid. You can select what day you’d like the business to receive your payment. The payment is sent in enough time to meet your selected date.
Receiving eStatements
Q: Will I still get paper statements when I sign up for eStatements?
No. You’ll no longer receive a paper copy of your Ideal Credit Union statement. Using the eStatements service is the only way to see a rendering of your actual monthly statement. Account history can be viewed at any time in any date range in the Accounts tab.
Q: Do I need an email address to receive eStatements?
Yes. You can update your email address in Digital Banking under the User Services tab. Then locate the Update Email Address under Manage Account. We’ll notify you via email when your statement is ready to view.
Q: I have a Ideal Credit Union Credit card. If I sign up for eStatements, will I get eStatements for my bill too?
No. eStatements for share and loan accounts and eStatements Ideal Credit Card are two different services. You can sign up for eStatements by locating your Ideal Credit Card account in the Loans and CC box on your accounts tab in Digital Banking. Select the desired Credit Card account would to add eStatements. While in the portal, select Online Services, then modify your eStatement profile.
Q: Why are eStatements a good idea?
Receiving eStatements is more secure than receiving paper statements in your mailbox. Your monthly statement is ready for viewing days earlier and all you can archive all your monthly statements in one convenient place.
Q: What are the browser and software requirements for eStatements?
For eStatements, you will need Acrobat Reader to view your statements. In addition, you will need a browser that supports 128 bit encryption to login to Digital Banking. The newest browsers all support this.
Q: Can I print my eStatements?
Yes, your eStatements arrive in both PDF and HTML formats and can be easily printed.
Setting Alerts with Notify Me
Q: What is the Notify Me Alert feature in Ideal Digital Banking
The Notify Me alerts feature allows you to receive email and/or text notifications of important messages and account activity. The system generates and sends three types of alerts: Account Activity, Security & Messaging alerts.
Q: What are Messaging Alerts?
Receive Messaging Alerts concerning transaction-related or service-related activity with your online Ideal Credit Union account(s). You can also receive alerts when Ideal Credit Union sends personal or general email announcements. Alert options include:
- New Message Inbox: when you receive any type of message within Digital Banking.
- Transaction-related: when the system sends you an important message about a transaction or service. For example, alerts may include warnings about failed transactions.
- New Online Privilege: when Ideal Credit Union grants you a new service privilege (Bill Pay added or Online Accounts added).
- Broadcast Message: when Ideal Credit Union sends a broadcast message to members. For example, if we send a message about holiday branch hours, you will receive an alert that the broadcast message is available on the Messages tab.
- Personal Message: when Ideal Credit Union sends you a personal message on the Messages tab. For example, if you sent a message to us about a deposit, you will receive an email alert when we respond.
Q: What are Account Activity alerts?
You can opt-in to receive account alerts to monitor online account activity, specific transactions and balances. This feature may help you avoid unnecessary service charges, ensure transactions are processed, as well as be alerted to unusual account activity. These include:
- Account Overdrawn: Receive an alert when your account becomes overdrawn.
- Balance > $: Receive an alert when your account balance is above a specified amount. The balance information is based on the account's available balance.
- Balance $: Receive an alert when your account's balance is below a specified amount. The balance information is based on the account's available balance.
- Check #(s) Cleared: Receive an alert when the specified checks clear on the selected account.
- Deposit Made > $: Receive an alert when a deposit over a specified amount is made on your account.
- Transaction > $: Receive an alert when a withdrawal over the specified amount is made on your account.
Q: What are Security Alerts?
Security alerts are delivered automatically when certain types of maintenance and requests are processed. These alerts are sent automatically to the primary email address associated with your Access ID. You can elect have duplicate security notifications sent to a secondary email and/or mobile device. Security alert notifications occur when:
- A security-related change is made (i.e. Access ID or Passcode change)
- An online transfer is processed for a certain amount
- An external transfer is processed
Q: How many times a day could I receive an alert?
Alerts are sent up to three times per day depending on what you’ve requested and if your status changes throughout the day. You will only receive an Alert that has been established and approved by you.
Q: How do I get alerts?
You can either receive your alerts via email , text message or in the Messages tab in Digital Banking.
Customizing Your Digital Banking
Q: Can I change my information?
Yes. Click the User Services tab and look for Change Address Information, phone numbers, and email address preferences under Manage Account.
Q: What’s an account nickname?
An account nickname is a way to customize your accounts so they work for you. For example, name a savings account “Trip to Paris” and start putting money away for that dream vacation. In addition, if you have multiple accounts linked to your profile, the Nicknaming feature can help quickly identify accounts under one profile with a unique nickname for each account.
Q: Can I add an online account?
Yes, you can add online accounts that you are joint on. Depending on your association with the account, you will be able to view balances and transact from these accounts while logged into your own account profile. Approval is required to add accounts. After making a request to add an account, you will receive access within 1-2 business days after the request is approved.
Q: Can I remove an account?
Yes. For example, if you are an out-of-sight out-of-mind saver, you could remove your certificate account from your Digital Banking view.
Q: Can I stop payment on a check?
Yes, you can stop payment on a check. Select User Services and look for the Other Service Requests box. There, you’ll find Stop Payment, in addition to other check related services. Please note- there is a $35 fee to stop payment on a check.
Q: Can I change what page I see first when I login to Ideal CU Digital Banking?
Located under the User Services tab, Start Page Selection allows you to change which section of your account appears first when you login.
Q: I’ve customized my start page selection to be Accounts. Why do I keep landing on Messages?
When you have a new message from the credit union, you are automatically taken to that page, first. Once you have read your message, or if you do not have further messages upon login, you will be taken to your preferred page.
Q: What’s list sorting?
You can customize how you’d like your Account Summary and Account History to appear. Select the User Services tab and then List Sorting. Once there, you can sort your Account Summary and Account History by balance, name or number.
Using Messages to Contact Ideal Credit Union
Q: How does Messages work?
The Messages tab allows you to send and receive messages to and from our experts at Ideal Credit Union. When we get your message, we reply as quickly as possible. When you get your reply, it will show up when you login to Digital Banking.
Q: Can I attach a file?
Yes. You can send us a copy of your documents if you need to. Just upload it and we’ll get back to you from within the security of Digital Banking.
Q: I’ve customized my start page selection to be Accounts. Why do I keep landing on Messages?
When you have a new message from the credit union, you are automatically taken to that page, first. Once you have read your message, or if you do not have further messages upon login, you will be taken to your preferred page.
Q: What are the security and system settings?
Internet Explorer 7.0 or higher, or the latest version of Mozilla Firefox, Safari or Google Chrome are necessary to maintain the high security standards associated with Digital Banking.
Tips with Quicken
Activate your Ideal Digital Banking access ID and pass code. Download your transaction activity within Digital Banking using Quicken Web Connect. If you do not use Quicken Web Connect format, the integration between your Quicken installation and Ideal CU Digital Banking may not function properly.
Additional support for Quicken and Quickbooks from Intuit
Mobile Security Tips
General mobile banking best practices
- Password-protect your mobile device and lock your device when it's not in use. Keep your mobile device in a safe location.
- Frequently delete text messages from Ideal Credit Union on your mobile device, especially if they contain sensitive information (i.e. text banking sessions). SMS Text Banking messages are similar to ATM receipts, offering masked account numbers and no account details.
- Never disclose personal information about your accounts via text message, i.e. account numbers, passwords, or any combination of information that can be used to steal your identity.
- If you change your mobile number or lose your mobile phone, send Ideal Credit Union a secured message in Digital Banking immediately to change the details of your Mobile Banking profile.
- Do not hack, 'jailbreak' or modify your device, as this will leave it susceptible to infection from a virus or Trojan.
- When possible, install mobile security software on your device (if it's available).
- Be aware that malware exists and fraudulent applications will continue to pop up. Don't download applications onto your phone without checking them out first. If possible, use Ideal Credit Union’s website to download our mobile application.
- Report any banking application that appears to be malicious to Ideal CU right away.
- Monitor your financial records and accounts on a regular basis and consider having electronic alerts on account activity sent to your email or mobile device.
- Bookmark Ideal CU’s mobile web site and only use that bookmark to access the site to avoid phishing.
- Do not click on links in SMS messages unless you initiated the SMS conversation with Ideal CU.
- Always use your cellular network when conducting mobile financial services and avoid using unsecure public Wi-Fi networks.
Protect your Digital Banking access ID and passcode.
- Do not store your Digital Banking access ID and passcode on your mobile device
- Do not use your Digital Banking access ID and passcode combination in conjunction with other online systems
- Periodically, change your Digital Banking passcode
Protect your mobile device from malware.
Malware can pose a significant threat to mobile devices. A malware-infected mobile device can be used by fraudsters to secretly “siphon” confidential information, including Digital Banking Access IDs and passcodes from the device.
- Only download mobile apps from reputable sources and sites
- Never perform financial transactions using a mobile device that has had its operating system unlocked or hacked (commonly known as “jail-breaking” or “rooting”)—these devices may have a much higher risk for malware infections
- Consider utilizing a commercial anti-malware application or service with your mobile device
Physically protect your mobile device.
If you use your device for managing your finances, it is critical to protect it from loss, theft, or unauthorized access.
- Enable your mobile device’s screen lock and passcode
- Do not leave your mobile device unattended in a public place or visible in a car
- Do not share your mobile device with anyone you would not want to have access to your financial information
- Consider utilizing a “remote wiping” service that, in the event your mobile device is lost or stolen, provides the ability to remotely erase all of its data
What to do if your Mobile or Digital Banking security has been compromised
If you suspect that the security of either your mobile device or Digital Banking credentials has been compromised, contact Ideal CU immediately.
- You can temporarily disable or completely remove access for your mobile device by logging on to Digital Banking (www.Idealcu.org), navigating to User Services > Mobile Enrollment, and choosing the desired option from the Mobile Banking Center menu
- You can contact the Credit Union with any Digital Banking questions or concerns, by calling (651) 770-7000, or (800) 247-0857—On-duty staff are able to discuss your security concerns and, upon request, suspend online access to your Credit Union accounts
Business Digital Banking Questions
Who should I contact with questions regarding enrollment and set up?
Please contact Business Services at 651-747-8900 or e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Should you choose to e-mail, please do not include any sensitive account information.
If I delete Sub-User Administrators, will their sub-users be deleted as well?
No. The sub-users are considered “children” of the primary commercial users, so they remain in the system.
What steps should I take if a sub-user no longer works for my business?
The sub-user’s access ID should be disabled immediately to prevent any unauthorized access to the business accounts. Ideally, the sub-user access ID for the former employee should be reassigned to another employee rather than deleted, as deleting an access ID affects any pending commercial transactions originated and/or approved by the sub-user. A sub-user’s access ID cannot be reassigned to another sub-user once it has been deleted.
User types within Business Digital Banking
Focus Member
Individual who initially enrolls on behalf of the company. The Focus Member is an individual who is both an authorized signer on an eligible Business Member account and has been given the authority to establish and manage Sub-User access to Ideal Credit Union Digital Banking. The Focus Member is considered to have full authority to act on behalf of the Business Member and any other authorized signers. A Focus Member can designate and remove Sub-Users and may assign certain administrative rights to a Sub-User.
Sub-User Administrator
Refers to an administrative user available only to Business Members. A Sub-User Administrator may administer and assign access rights to Sub-Users.
Sub-User
An Authorized User who has been assigned access to an Eligible Account by a Focus Member or Sub-User Administrator. Sub-Users may be granted full or limited access to originate online transfers such as ACH transactions and/or wire transfers.
For general questions regarding online & mobile banking, please refer to Ideal CU Online & Mobile Banking FAQs.
Mobile Check Deposit Questions
What is Mobile Check Deposit (MCD)?
MCD is a free service that allows you to deposit checks into your eligible Ideal CU deposit account(s) electronically using the camera on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device.What if I haven’t used Mobile Banking?
Download the app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android). Search for “Ideal CU Mobile Banking.”What if I’m not able to log in to Mobile Banking?
Use your Ideal CU Digital Banking credentials to sign in. If you have not enrolled in Digital Banking yet, enroll now to establish your credentials.Will MCD benefit me?
Yes! MCD allows you to save time, money, and gas by safely depositing checks into your eligible deposit account(s) anytime, anywhere with your compatible smart phone or tablet.Is there a cost to use MCD?
MCD is a free service provided you by Ideal CU. However, usage rates from your mobile carrier may apply when using Mobile Banking. Make sure you understand the terms of your mobile agreement before using the app.Who can use MCD?
To be eligible to use Mobile Check Deposit you must have downloaded the latest version of the Ideal CU Mobile Banking App and:- Have an iPhone, iPad or Android device.
- Download the most recent version of the Ideal CU Mobile Banking App.
- Have an active Ideal CU eligible deposit account.
- Be enrolled in Ideal CU Digital Banking.
- List your current email address within Digital Banking.
- Be in good standing with Ideal CU.
If you attempt to use MCD and receive a message instructing you to contact the credit union, you may be ineligible. Please call 651-770-7000 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will assist you in determining your eligibility. You can also view full eligibility requirements from within the Ideal CU Mobile Banking App.
Can I use MCD to deposit funds to any Ideal CU account?
You can only deposit checks into your own eligible deposit account(s); this includes savings and checking accounts.NOTE: Checks written written from one of your Ideal CU accounts to another Ideal CU account of which you are the owner will not be accepted. To transfer funds between your separate Ideal CU accounts, log in to Ideal CU Digital Banking, select the "User Services" tab and click "Add New Online Account." Once you finish adding your other Ideal CU accounts you will be able to make transfers via Digital Banking.
Can I use MCD on more than one account that I have at Ideal CU?
Each eligible deposit account from your online banking profile will be included as an option to deposit funds when using MCD. Log in to Ideal CU Digital Banking and select the "User Services" tab to request access to an Ideal CU deposit account. Once approved, this account will show up as an eligible account to deposit funds via MCD.How do I endorse a check submitted using MCD?
Checks must be properly endorsed by all payees, noting “MCD” on the front of the check and "For MCD Only" below the endorsement(s) on the back of the check (see example below).
NOTE: Checks made payable to multiple payees!
Checks made payable to multiple payees will only be accepted if all payees are joint on the eligible deposit account. If the check is payable to both you and a joint owner, either party can endorse.
What types of checks does MCD accept?
Acceptable check types made payable to you and/or joint owners include personal checks, business checks, or cashier's checks drawn on a financial institution located within the U.S.What types of checks does MCD NOT accept?
- Foreign Checks/Foreign Currency
- Savings Bonds
- Altered checks
- Second party checks
- Stale-dated checks (date issued extends six or more months prior to the date of deposit)
- Post-dated checks (date issued is a future date from the date of deposit)
- Checks made out incompletely or incorrectly
- Non-negotiable items
- Damaged checks
- Non-legible checks
How do I take a picture of the check?
To take a picture of your check, place it on a flat, non-shiny surface. Make sure your environment is brightly lit and your check is not under direct sunlight. Hold the camera directly over the check and use the borders to properly zoom and scale until the check is in full view.NOTE: The picture should only include the image of the check. (Make sure other checks, books, keys, change or shiny items are not in the picture. Reflections, glare and blurring may also result in your deposit being rejected).
Is there a limit on how much I can deposit?
You can deposit up to $2,500 daily into eligible Ideal CU deposit accounts. You can apply to increase your daily limits by contacting the credit union at 651-770-7000 or 800-247-0857.Can I deposit more than one check at a time?
Yes, multiple check items can be deposited in one session as long as they do not exceed the daily deposit limit.How do I verify that a check has been accepted?
You will receive an on-screen confirmation immediately after submitting your check deposit. This only confirms that you have submitted a deposit and does not guarantee availability of funds in your account. All MCD deposits are subject to physical review and deposits may be adjusted or rejected based on the check’s content and accuracy. All deposits must meet our deposit criteria.Will my check deposit be available immediately for use?
Deposited funds will typically be available by the following times:- Deposits made before 3:30 p.m. (CST) Mon - Fri will be posted to your account by 6:00 p.m. that same day.
- Deposits made after 3:30 p.m. (CST) Mon- Fri will be posted to your account the next business day.
- Deposits made on weekends or holidays will be posted to your account the next business day.
If I entered an incorrect amount for a deposited check, should I re-deposit the check?
No. A check can only be deposited into MCD once. Entries with an incorrect check amount will be reviewed, adjusted and credited for the correct amount of the check. However, if you see a discrepancy in the deposit posted, please contact Ideal CU at 651-770-7000 or 800-247-0857.Why is a deposit I made still not showing in my available funds?
Your deposit may be subject to a holdSome checks may be subject to a hold (see our Funds Availability Policy).
Your deposit may have been rejected
Deposits may be rejected for several reasons. Review the following common reasons deposits are rejected:
- Incorrect endorsement (see MCD Endorsement Guidelines).
- Payee or payees not present on deposit account: All payees listed on your check must be an owner or joint owner of the deposit account.
- Check is stale/post-dated: Make sure the check you are depositing includes the date the check was issued. Your check is stale-dated and will be rejected if the date issued extends six or more months prior to the date of deposit. If this occurs you will need to request a new check be issued to you. Your check is post-dated and will be rejected if the date issued is a future date from the date of deposit.
An Ideal CU representative will email you if your deposit is rejected.
Your deposit may still be pending
Deposited funds will typically be available by the following times:
- Deposits made before 3:30 p.m. (CST) Mon - Fri will be posted to your account by 6:00 p.m. that same day.
- Deposits made after 3:30 p.m. (CST) Mon- Fri will be posted to your account the next business day.
- Deposits made on weekends or holidays will be posted to your account the next business day.
Please retain your deposited check for 14 days before securely disposing it.
What should I do with my check after using MCD?
Retain your check for 14 days after it has cleared your account. After 14 days, it is a best practice to shred the check. DO NOT mail the check to Ideal CU. (We suggest after depositing a check, put a note on the front corner of the check with the date and MCD, to prevent accidentally trying to deposit the check more than once.)How long can I view my transaction history?
Uploaded deposit information can be viewed the Mobile Banking app for 90 days, and all approved deposits will in Online and Mobile Banking transactions history.VIP+ Program Questions
Am I getting a Special Dividend? How will I know?
All members who will receive a Special Dividend/s will be notified through email (if we have a current address on file) and in monthly statements.When will I receive my Special Dividends?
VIP Patronage Dividend, Loan Rebates and Deposit Bonuses will be paid to qualifying members (VIPs) in mid to late January of 2014.How will I receive my Special Dividends?
Special Dividends will be deposited directly into the member’s Share Savings account (S1).Why are dividends being paid into Share Savings?
Share Savings is the one account type that all members have in common.How can I calculate my Special Dividends?
Review the VIP Member Program page of our website to help get an idea of what dividends you qualify for and the respective amounts. See qualification guide and VIP payout information.Is a Loan Rebate Dividend or Deposit Bonus Dividend reportable on my taxes?
Yes. Loan Rebate Dividends and Deposit Bonus Dividends are reportable on IRS Form 1099 INT for the year the dividends are awarded.Can I receive more than one Special Dividend?
Yes. There are multiple Special Dividends which include a VIP Patronage Dividend, Deposit Bonus, and Loan Rebate. It is also possible for an individual member to earn Special Dividends on more than one Share Savings account. If a member with more than one membership account qualifies for VIP status, by performing 144 annual checking withdrawals per account, each account then earns VIP status and will be awarded accordingly.I have more than one membership account. Will Ideal CU count all of the loans and deposits I have?
Yes.My spouse is joint on my checking account, is he/she also a VIP?
Whoever is the primary account holder is a VIP. If he/she is not the primary account holder, then they are not a VIP.I’m a VIP; why didn’t I receive a dividend?
Being a VIP automatically qualifies you for the VIP Patronage Dividend of $5.00. To be eligible for either the deposit dividend or loan rebate, you are required to meet the criteria for each.
When are VIPs determined?
VIPs are determined at the beginning of January. Once a member is determined as a VIP, they will remain a VIP for the remainder of the year.Why are VIPs only determined annually?
We want members to be able to enjoy the benefits of being a VIP for a sustained period of time, while ensuring that it is easy to explain and understand. Shortening the time period would mean that members could fall in and out of the program. Likewise, the behind-the-scenes complexity of the program makes an annual program much more favorable.Is the dividend paid at the same time every year?
While annual member Special Dividends are not guaranteed, it is our objective to reward members annually in January.How can I ensure that I get a dividend again?
Dividends aren’t actually guaranteed each year and will be determined by the overall financial performance of the credit union at the end of each year. However, we would like to continue offering our members a dividend each year. In order for Ideal CU to continue a patronage dividend, a member must maintain two or more loan types or two or more deposit types, to help increase your chances of receiving a dividend in the future.Once a VIP, will I always be a VIP?
Once you have been determined to be a VIP, you will remain a VIP for the rest of the calendar year. Each January, we will recalculate who our VIPs are based on the number of withdrawals done from your checking account over the course of the year.What is the significance of 144 withdrawals?
Our research shows that a member who is actively using Ideal CU for their primary checking relationship does at least 144 transactions each year. In fact, most of our active checking accounts are being used twice as often. The 144 withdrawal count also makes it very easy for members who use a Ideal CU Checking Account at least 12 times a month to qualify as VIPs.Do I have to do at least 12 withdrawals every month to remain a VIP?
No, once you have been qualify as a VIP by completing 144 checking withdrawal transactions, you remain a VIP for the entire year.Which withdrawals count? Is it only debit card purchases?
Most withdrawal transactions count, including debit card purchases, ATM withdrawals, checks, automatic payments (ACH) and transfers based on our transaction code data.
Where is the dividend money coming from? Who is paying for it?
The Special Dividends come from a portion of our net earnings. Net earnings are the money left over after we’ve covered our operating expenses, regular member dividends, deposit interest and reserve requirements.
Why don’t banks offer Special Dividends? Why don’t other credit unions?
Banks are stockholder-owned corporations and are obligated to return excess earnings (in the form of dividends) to their shareholders, not their customers. Because Ideal CU is a financial cooperative and our members are both customers and shareholders, we can return excess earnings to our membership. Some other credit unions, and many other cooperatives, actually do offer patronage dividends in some form or another.
Why are there three Special dividend programs?
The programs are designed for members who are in different financial life phases. While there is some overlap as people transition from their borrowing years into their wealth-building years, most people fall into only one category of financial need. It simply isn't a good service to our members - nor is it an effective use of our resources - if we try to incent members to open accounts they don’t need.
Does my signature loan count toward the Loan Rebate Dividend?
Your Signature Loan does not count as a loan type toward your eligibility for the Loan Rate Dividend. However, it does factor into the total interest paid when determining how much your Loan Rebate Dividend will be if you qualify.Do Certificates of Deposit (CDs) count towards the Deposit Bonus Dividend?
CDs do not count as a deposit account toward your eligibility for the Deposit Bonus Dividend. However, it does factor into the average balance when determining how much your Deposit Bonus Dividend will be if you qualify.I co-signed on a loan. Which one of us gets the credit toward a Loan Rebate Dividend?
The primary borrower will be credited toward the Loan Rebate Dividend if they meet all of the criteria for earning the dividend.My spouse and I each have a checking account and are VIPs. We also have a mortgage and an auto loan, but we didn’t receive a dividend. Why not?
Dividends are determined by each individual account, not by household. Two of the qualifying loan types per individual account are required to be eligible for a Loan Rebate Dividend.Do my business accounts qualify?
No. Business Accounts, Custodial Accounts, and Trust Accounts are not eligible. Business checking is not factored into VIP eligibility. Likewise, business deposits and loans are not considered as part of either dividend qualification or Special Dividends.Does my Health Savings Account (HSA) count toward the Deposit Bonus Dividend?
Your Health Savings Account counts toward your eligibility for the dividend and factors into determining how much your Deposit Bonus Dividend will be.Can you explain how average balance is calculated?
Deposit Bonus Dividends are based upon a member’s year-end average daily balance. This is calculated as the average of the month-end average daily balances of all deposit accounts (non-business) listed under a single membership number for the calendar year. This may vary slightly –although insignificantly – from a true average daily balance because not every month has the same number of days. Any variance between the two is neutralized by our tiered Special Dividend model.What is a member in good standing?
A member in good standing is any member who has at least $1.00 deposited in their Share Savings account; it is your ownership share in our financial cooperative. In addition to being a member in good standing, in order to receive a dividend a member must also not have any loan charge offs or delinquencies.As a result of the $500,000 Special Dividend, are there going to be any increases to loan rates or decreases to deposit rates?
No. Ideal CU planned for this Special Dividend as part of the annual budget, so it will not affect the pricing of other products.Will a HELOC count as one of the two loan types if there is no outstanding balance on the account?
Yes. HELOCs and Visa Credit cards count whether they have a balance or not. Because they are lines of credit that you keep open and use as needed, simply having the product is important to us.EMV Chips Card Questions
What is EMV?
EMV (Europay, MasterCard®, Visa®) is computer chip technology with advanced security capability. The chip attached to your EMV card stores the card data that currently resides on the magnetics stripe. This makes creating a fraudulent EMV chip card almost impossible. Because of this added layer of security, EMV chips make debit and credit card data less valuable and decrease fraudsters' incentive to steal data. Already the standard method of payment in Europe, EMV technology has greatly contributed to the fight against credit and debit card fraud.
Why is Ideal CU implementing EMV technology?
Ideal Credit Union is upgrading to EMV technology to provide you with a more secure method of payment. EMV chip cards ensure your information remains protected, and make it more difficult for potential fraudsters to obtain your data. To drive EMV and help prevent fraud in the U.S., merchants are being required to convert their current payment terminals to EMV-enabled processing terminals by October 2015.
How will EMV benefit me?
EMV technology will ensure your information remain as secure as possible when making purchases.
What makes EMV more secure?
The chip attached to your EMV card stores the card data that currently resides on the magnetics stripe. This makes creating a fraudulent EMV chip card almost impossible. Because of this added layer of security, EMV chips make debit and credit card data less valuable and decrease fraudsters' incentive to steal data. The chip uses a unique cryptogram to produce a one-time use code for each transaction you make. Because one-time use codes are specific to each transaction, stolen chip data cannot be used to create counterfeit cards.
Are other financials and merchants adopting EMV technology?
Yes, EMV technology will be the chosen method of payment in the United States within the next few years for credit unions and big banks. Further, all U.S. merchants are being required to convert their current payment terminals to EMV-enabled processing terminals by October 2015.
What happens if a merchant does not accept EMV payment?
Your new EMV chip card will include the magnetic strip, giving you dual-purpose technology to enhance your purchasing capabilities. This means that you will be able to use the EMV chip at retailers who support EMV processing, and the magnetic strip at all other locations.