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Core Credit Card

Some good TLC for your credit score.

Core Card 101

Whether you need to establish or repair your credit, the Core Credit Card is a straightforward option to get you and your finances where you want to go. We keep the rate low and, as a high-five for taking charge of your credit, we waive our annual fee. Our Core Card is a secured card, which means you’ll deposit the amount equal to the card limit at the time you open it. This is what makes this card so effective at cleaning up your credit — if you can’t pay your balance for whatever reason, your deposit covers for you. If you pay on-time monthly and never use your deposit, you’ll get all that money back, and enjoy credit that’s on its way to being strong enough to move onto an unsecured card.

Core Credit Card Benefits

Get started

Stack up a strong foundation for your credit. Apply for your Core Card today.

Next steps for new cardholders

This is the start of something good. How to set yourself up for card-carrying success:
  1. Go hands-free. Add your card to your digital wallet for secure, touchless transactions.

  2. Take control. Add your new card info to Online and Mobile banking, then use the Card Manager tool to set travel notifications, review statements, turn cards on and off, and more.

  3. Update recurring payments. Make sure you update any recurring payments like Amazon, Netflix or Spotify (to name a few), with your new account information.

  4. Protect yourself. Set up your Mastercard ID Theft Dashboard so you can review your info security at a glance, anytime. Enroll now: https://mastercardus.idprotectiononline.com/

FAQs

Who should use the Core Credit Card?

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We recommend the Core Credit Card to any of our members hoping to establish or rebuild good credit.

What documents do I need to apply for the Core Credit Card?

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To verify your identity, we always ask that you come prepared with a government-issued ID. It is important that it is not expired. Examples of acceptable IDs include a State Driver's License or a U.S or Foreign Passport. If we have trouble validating your ID, we may ask for a secondary ID. If you have a question about whether or not an ID can be used, just text us at 931.431.6800.

Is a deposit required upfront for the Core Credit Card?

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Yes, a deposit is required up front to receive the Core Credit Card. This card is designed to help members repair credit, meaning missed payments is a no-no. This is our way of giving our members a safety net while using their card.

How do I know if my card is contactless?

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All contactless cards will have the contactless symbol on the front of the card.

Are contactless cards safe?

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Contactless cards are actually safer than traditional cards. Contactless payment puts you in control and protects your data. Your card or device never leaves your hand, reducing the risk of loss or counterfeit, and each purchase is uniquely encrypted. You’re also protected against double billing, even if you accidentally tap twice. Contactless cards are also an easy way to reduce contact and can help you avoid the potential for picking up bacteria and germs.

Where can I use my contactless card?

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Use anywhere you see the Contactless symbol at checkout. Contactless checkout is ideal when speed and convenience are essential. You can use it at stadiums, fast food restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, transit locations, and more.

Are contactless cards similar to a digital wallet?

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Yes. Contactless payments use the same technology as mobile wallets, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.

What do I do if I lose my contactless credit card?

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To report a lost or stolen credit card, please call 800.449.7728. To dispute a charge on your credit card, please call 800.654.7728. To report fraud on your Credit Card, please call 866-557-5315.

What if I don’t have a contactless card, but want to get one? Can I request a contactless card?

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Yes, you can walk into any branch and we can create you a contactless debit card instantly. You may also reach out to us at (931) 431-6800 or via video chat to request a new contactless debit or credit card.

How do I activate my credit card?

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To activate your card, please call 800-631-3197 or download our Fortera Cards App.

How do I enable transaction alerts

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Fortera provides members with several options for enabling transaction alerts.

From within Online Banking

  1. Once you have logged into your account, click the Notifications link the page header.
  2. From the pop-up window that opens, click the Settings link at the bottom.
  3. On the Settings page, enable the types of alerts you wish to receive.

From within the Mobile Banking App

  1. Once you have logged into your account, select the More link in the footer.
  2. Click on the settings icon (looks like a gear) at the top of the More page.
  3. Select Push Notifications.
  4. From the Push Notifications page you can enable the type of alerts you wish to receive.

From within the Cards App

  1. Once you have logged into your account, click the menu icon in the upper left corner.
  2. Click Notification Settings.
  3. From the Notification Settings page, select the card you wish to get alerts on and then click the Alerts tab.
  4. From within the Alerts tab, you can select which type of transaction alerts you wish to receive.

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What's New

Nitty, gritty, and super important.

Fine print is your friend. When you have a minute, give these a good read:
Mastercard® Guide to Benefits for Credit Cardholders
View PDF
Core Card Disclosure
View PDF