Frequently Asked Questions
How can I set up my loan to be paid from my People's Trust share / share draft account?
Automatic loan payments from your People's Trust checking or savings account can be set up by calling our Virtual Branch or by visiting your nearest People's Trust branch. Choose the date of your automatic payment and we'll automatically transfer the funds to your designated loan on that date. The automatic payment process will withdraw the funds that are available at the time of transfer, so be sure to make funds available the day before each automatic payment to avoid late fees or partial payments.
How many more payments do I have left on my loan?
The number of payments remaining on your loan can be affected by extra principal payments, skipped payments and payments less than the normal payment amount. If you have coupons, each coupon should reflect which payment number is next. If you have made all your payments due so far, subtract that number from your original term and add 1. That's approximately how many payments are left on your loan. You may always confirm the exact number remaining payments by visiting a branch or calling our Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200.
How can I make my loan payment online from another institution?
You may use the Funds Transfer under Bill Payment tab in HomeBranch to pay your loan. Contact your other institution for options on sending loan payments and other electronic deposits to People's Trust.
What is my loan payoff?
For most loans, a loan payoff amount can be viewed in the loan summary available on HomeBranch online account access. You may also hear your loan payoff amount using the MARTi telephone account access system. When prompted for a Service Code, enter 55#. Then enter your loan number followed by #. If using the full Menu Mode, choose option 6 at the Main Menu. Then choose option 5 for loan payoffs.
Why does my payment take so long to reach the credit union?
People's Trust has a centralized P.O. Box in order to allow the fastest and most secure U.S. Mail delivery possible. This P.O Box is checked daily and received mail is processed the day it is received, in most cases. Delays may occur when a payment does not include a loan coupon or other payment notice. If a coupon or notice is not available, use the memo field to notate the member number and loan number so the payment can be directed properly. For best results, mail payments and deposits to People's Trust, P.O. Box 4511, Houston, TX 77210.
How do I add my spouse to my car title?
Adding a spouse as a joint owner to a vehicle loan requires the refinancing of the loan to include the spouse as a co-signer. This will also require the co-signer to carry proper insurance to operate the financed vehicle.
How do I order loan coupons?
A Virtual Branch Expert will let you know if coupons are available for your loan. Loan coupons can be ordered by calling our Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200 or toll free 1.800.321.2411 during regular business hours.
I did not get any more coupons, how do I get more?
A Virtual Branch Expert can help you get more coupons. Call our Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200 or toll free 1.800.321.2411 during regular business hours and coupons will be sent via U.S. Mail. If you have elected to receive e-Statements/e-Notices, you will receive your coupons via email.
If I have an insurance check made out to myself and People's Trust for repairs to my damaged vehicle, what do I do with the check?
If you have had an accident and have received a check for repairs from an insurance company, it may be made out to yourself and People's Trust. If you have received a check made out this way, please notify our Risk Services department at 713.428.3287. We'll explain how to properly endorse the check and then use the funds to pay for the repairs. If the repairs have already been made, we can assist you in paying the repair shop or reimbursing you if you have already paid the shop. If vehicle repairs are not completed, we can accept the check and place the funds on hold until repairs are complete. In either case, an invoice detailing the completed repairs will be required to release funds to any repair shop or to any member account.
Can I have convenience checks for my line of credit?
At this time, convenience checks are not available for lines of credit. Funds from a line of credit may be transferred to an existing checking account, at which time a check may be written against these funds.
Can I have an auto loan in my name but insurance under someone else name?
People's Trust requires that the vehicle's owner and any co-signers of the loan, as shown on the certificate of title, must be properly insured to operate the financed vehicle. Other persons may be insured in addition to the vehicle owner.
What are the grace periods for all of our loans?
Auto loans are due on the date detailed in your loan documentation. However, a late fee will be avoided if payment is received wihtin7 days of the loan's established due date.
Do I get charged a fee for using my credit, ATM or debit cards abroad?
Any PIN based ATM transaction using, including those conducted abroad, is subject to a $1.00 fee when not using a People's Trust ATM machine. In addition, Visa and MasterCard credit cards both charge a fee equal to 1% of the converted transaction amount. Visa also adds a 0.8% fee for any transaction not requiring a currency conversion.
How much interest have I paid on my loan this year?
For the most current information, log in to HomeBranch and view the details for each open loan. The summary provided displays current year's interest, previous year's interest and current balance. You can also consult your statements to view the interest year to date. If you need more information, give us a call at 713.428.3200 or toll free 800.321.2411.
I can’t sign on to MARTI / HomeBranch. Can you reset me please?
Our Virtual Branch can assist you with resetting your HomeBranch or MARTi passwords. Please call our Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200 or toll free 1.800.321.2411 during normal business hours.
Can I set up online transfers to another credit union account?
HomeBranch online account access and MARTi telephone access allow electronic transfers to other People's Trust accounts, including other member accounts. Please call our Virtual Branch to learn more about transfers.
Why can’t I see all my check images?
Check images are received twice a week, at which time they are uploaded into our secure check images system. Check images could also be delayed by merchant processing; however, checks may clear as normal even when an image is not immediately available.
I made a pay people transaction online. Why can’t they get it?
To retrieve the transfer, the recipient must click the link provided in the Pay People notification e-mail. The recipient should then follow the instructions to create a user account. This is not a People's Trust Membership. Once properly registered, the recipient can then use the secret code.
I made a bill payment online. Why has it not cleared?
First check with the payee to determine if your payment has been applied. Payments are sent early enough to reach the biller by the date you requested. In some cases, a check may have been sent which clears directly from your checking account. In this case, the check will not clear until the payee submits the check to People's Trust for processing.
What payment methods are used for Bill Pay?
Bill Pay methods are primarily determined by the payee. When appropriate, our Bill Pay provider attempts to convert payees to electronic payments. Over 80% of current bill payments are sent electronically, with the remaining being sent via U.S. Mail.
Can my Visa debit card be used to withdraw money from my money market account?
Money market accounts currently cannot be linked to a Visa debit card. However, transfers to money market accounts from a current savings or checking account are available. This option lets you move the money market funds before making the debit card purchase.
Can my minor child have a checkbook?
A member must be 18 years of age or older to receive paper checks. Traditional ATM cards are available for minors 14 years of age and older.
Can my minor child have a debit card?
According to Visa rules, a cardholder must be a minimum of 18 years of age. However, traditional ATM cards are available for children 14 years of age and older.
I am traveling out of my home area…what do I need to do to use my credit / debit card?
Before you leave town, give us a call and let us know when and where you'll be traveling. We'll inform our card monitoring service so your transactions away from home won't run into any road blocks. Call our Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200 or toll free 1.800.321.2411.
Do both parties need to endorse a check if both are on the membership? (US Treasury, Insurance, personal check) The signatures required to endorse a check are determined by the check's Pay To line. Any parties that appear on the Pay To line are required to endorse a check to be cashed or deposited. In addition, at least one of the endorsing parties must be a People's Trust member.
I’m moving oversees, can I close my membership by fax?
Moving overseas does not require the closing of your membership. You can use your People's Trust account to pay U.S. bills, taxes, or your children's education expenses. If you choose, you may otherwise close your membership via fax by submitting a written request including the primary member's signature. Be sure to include your previous and current address and phone numbers.
What do I do or need if my spouse passes away?
Contact the People's Trust's Virtual Branch as soon as possible and we'll help you make the appropriate modifications to the affected accounts. A helpful representative will help you understand the required documentation and other issues that could arise.
What do I do if I get a letter my acct has been closed and funds sent to the State?
If you have received a letter explaining that your account has been closed and sent to the State of Texas (escheated), respond by the deadline indicated in the letter. If your account has already been sent to the state, you may search the Texas Unclaimed Property website http://www.window.state.tx.us/up or call 1-800-654-FIND.
How can I do a name change on my account?
The primary account holder may submit a name change by completing an account application with the name change details included. In addition to the account application, a valid government issued ID confirming the name change.
How do I stop the dormant fee on my account?
To avoid dormant account fees, a transaction must occur every 12 months or the account must carry a balance of $1,000 or more. Dormant account fees only apply to account whose primary member is 18 years of age or older.
How can I obtain copies of my monthly statements?
To obtain copies of your past monthly statements, please log in to your account in HomeBranch. Once you have successfully logged in, choose the e-Statements tab. If you have not done so before, at this time, you must accept the Terms and Conditions Disclosure. You will then be able to view PDF files for each past monthly statement up to 24 months. If you do not have HomeBranch access, you may visit a branch or call one of our Virtual Branch Experts at 713.428.3200 and they can either print or email them to you for a small fee.
How can I obtain copies of my checks?
To obtain copies of your cleared checks, please log in to your account in HomeBranch. Once you have successfully logged in, click the Account Access tab and choose the link for the appropriate Share to view your transaction history. Locate the cleared check that you would like to see by adjusting the viewing dates. To view and print, click on the blue hyperlink for the check image you need. If you do not have HomeBranch access or the image is not available, you may visit a branch or call one of our Virtual Branch Experts at 713.428.3200 and they can either print or email them to you for a small fee.
How do I refinance a vehicle already financed through People's Trust?
You may refinance a vehicle already financed through People's Trust by submitting a Used Auto Loan Application through our website, over the phone, or by visiting one of our branches. There is a $150 processing fee to refinance an auto loan already financed through People's Trust.
How do I refinance a vehicle financed through another lender?
You may refinance a vehicle financed through another financial institution by submitting a used auto loan application through our website, over the phone, or by visiting one of our branches.
How much is in my account?
There are several different ways to obtain your account balance. You may call MARTi, our automated telephone system, at 713.963.3200 or log in to your HomeBranch account to obtain your balance for free. For a small fee, you may call one of our Virtual Branch Experts at 713.428.3200 for account information. You may also use your ATM/Debit card at an ATM to obtain your balance.
How can I refinance my house?
To refinance your home mortgage, you can apply online or call 832.912.2151.
Can I open an account online?
You can access an Account Application by clicking the following link https://www.peoplestrustfcu.org/docs/forms/new_account_app.pdf. However, you must return the form to one of our Member Service Representatives or Virtual Branch Experts for approval and processing before the account can be opened. To open an account, we will need a clear copy of your valid government issued ID and social security card. Out of state applications must be notarized.
Can I apply for a loan online?
Yes, click here to apply online.
How do I order more checks?
You can reorder checks by visiting our website and choosing the "Checking & Savings" tab, then "Reorder Checks." You will need the Routing/Transit number which is 313084593 and you will need your full 13 digit account number, which can be found on the bottom of your old checks. If you do not have that information, you can always call our Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200 or visit a branch and they can order them for you.
What is the status of my loan application?
If you applied in person at a branch or over the phone, the representative that took your application will contact you when the status of the loan changes or if they need additional information. If you applied online, you will be contacted within 24 hours by one of our Member Service Representatives or Virtual Branch Experts with either a decision or a request for additional information. Please keep in mind that we look at each application that we receive carefully so we may not have an answer for you on the same day that you submit your application.
How can I skip a loan payment?
You may skip up to two payments during a rolling 12 month period once your loan is at least 12 months old and there have been at least 12 payments. You must also be within your grace period. If you qualify for a Skip-A-Pay, you must sign the Skip-A-Pay Loan Modification Disclosure and an Extension Agreement or Subsequent Action Form. You may get these forms by visiting a branch or by contacting the Virtual Branch. There is a $50 processing fee to do a Skip-A-Pay.
How can I access my account information online?
You can sign in to HomeBranch from the home page of our website. If you have never signed on and do not have a MARTi access code, please visit one of our branches or call the Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200.
What are my options for a certificate that is maturing?
From the certificate maturity date, you have a 10 calendar day grace period to add or withdraw funds, change the term, close, or renew the certificate. At the time of opening, you may have chosen to have the certificate automatically renew or close at maturity, however, you will get a notice from People's Trust reminding you of upcoming maturity and outlining your options.
How do I receive money transferred to me internationally?
You may have funds transferred to you internationally via an international wire transfer. You can provide the following wire instructions to the person sending you funds https://www.peoplestrustfcu.org/docs/forms/incoming_wire_transfers.pdf. Please note that People's Trust is only able to accept US Dollars, therefore, we do not have an IBAN or swift code.
How do I close an account on my membership?
To close an account within your membership, you can visit a branch or contact the Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200 or help@unbanking.org.
How do I close my membership?
To close your People's Trust membership, you must complete the Membership Closure Request Form. You may obtain this form from one of our branches or by contacting the Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200 or help@unbanking.org.
Do you offer business accounts?
Currently we do not offer business specific products or services.
How do I know what rate I am getting on my money market account?
https://www.peoplestrustfcu.org/rates/money-market.php then select the money market tier that you fit into.
I lost my checkbook? What do I need to do?
Please contact People's Trust immediately after discovering that your checkbook has been lost or stolen. You may visit a branch or call 713.428.3200. We can help advise you on the proper steps to protect yourself which may or may not include placing a stop payment on the lost range of checks and/or closing your membership and reopening it under a different member number.
What is my account number?
Your account number is a 13 digit number that includes your member number. You can find this number on the bottom of your checks. Please visit a branch or contact the Virtual Branch at 713.428.3200 to verify that you have the correct number.
How much is overdraft protection?
Currently, we offer overdraft transfer protection. This is a service in which we link a line of credit or savings account to your checking account to cover any items that may overdraw your account. There is no charge to link your accounts. A fee is assessed for each transfer. Learn more here or by seeing our fee schedule.
Can I deposit checks in ATMs?
Yes, you can deposit checks into some People's Trust ATMs.
Can I remote deposit checks?
Yes, you can deposit checks via Mobile Deposit in the People’s Trust mobile app. If you have not used this feature, you will have to register by simply clicking on “Deposit” within the mobile app.
How can I view my credit card bill/statement online?
To view your credit card information and statement online, first you must log into HomeBranch. Once you have successfully logged into your account, choose "e-Statements." Your credit card statements will be in the same list as your monthly statements.
How do I replace my credit or debit card?
To replace your credit card due to it being damaged, lost or stolen, please visit a branch or call our Virtual branch at 713.428.3200.
Have a Question?
Contact us online, give us a call at 713.428.3200 / 800.321.2411, or stop by a branch for any questions about our products and services.
