Credit Builder Program Empowers Financial Growth
February 11, 2026
For many people, building credit isn’t easy – especially if they’ve been turned down for loans, relied on payday lenders, or are just starting their financial journey.
UnitedOne Credit Union is stepping in with a solution designed to make the process more approachable, supportive, and achievable.
UnitedOne’s Credit Builder Program pairs a 12-month savings-secured loan with personalized financial education, giving members a structured path to improve their credit while building long-term financial confidence.
Unlike traditional savings-secured loans, participants don’t need upfront savings. Instead, the loan funds are held as collateral while members make monthly payments that are reported to the credit bureaus. Once the loan is paid in full, the funds are released to the borrower to use toward their financial goals.
Education plays a central role. Through a partnership with GreenPath Financial Wellness, members complete a series of short online courses covering budgeting, credit basics, financial habits, and understanding credit reports. These lessons are designed to be simple, practical, and empowering – especially for those who may feel overwhelmed by financial terminology or past credit challenges.
The Credit Builder Program also includes milestone check?ins to keep members on track.
At the six-month mark, participants earn $25 in a Saver’s Sweepstakes® account, which is a prize-linked savings account. With each $25 deposit made into a Savers Sweepstakes account, members receive an entry (up to six per month) into monthly, quarterly, and annual drawings for cash prizes ranging from $25 - $5,000!
Upon completion of the Credit Builder Program, members receive an interest rate discount coupon for a future consumer loan. When the loan is fully repaid, the collateral is released, instantly creating a savings cushion that can support future goals.
Ultimately, the Credit Builder Program is about more than credit scores. It’s about confidence, connection, and long-term financial wellness.
UnitedOne representatives are happy to walk members through each step, from the initial conversation to the final review, ensuring no one has to navigate the process of building credit alone.
Make an appointment to learn more about UnitedOne’s Credit Builder Program and start strengthening your financial future.
Questions? We're happy to help!
Call or text UnitedOne Credit Union at (920) 684-0361 in Manitowoc or (920) 451-8222 in Sheboygan or email us at mail@UnitedOne.org.