This year, Franklin Johnstown Federal Credit Union (FJFCU) has partnered with TurboTax to offer its members an exclusive 20% discount on TurboTax products for the 2025 tax season. It’s an opportunity for members to take advantage of trusted tax software while maximizing their savings (note: be sure to compare this offer to all of TurboTax’s current 2025 coupons and offers).
But before diving into the details of this offer, let’s look at Franklin Johnstown Federal Credit Union itself: its history, benefits, and how it supports members financially year-round. From this broader perspective, it becomes easier to see why this partnership with TurboTax could be a valuable resource during tax season.
A Closer Look at Franklin Johnstown Federal Credit Union
History and Mission
Franklin Johnstown Federal Credit Union was established in 1948 to serve the financial needs of employees in the Franklin and Johnstown regions of Pennsylvania. Like many other credit unions, FJFCU was founded on the principle of “people helping people.” This cooperative model aims to provide better financial products and services than traditional banks, often at lower costs and with more personalized attention.
Over the years, the credit union has grown to serve a larger community, expanding membership eligibility while maintaining its commitment to offering affordable and accessible financial solutions. Unlike profit-driven banks, Franklin Johnstown Federal Credit Union operates as a not-for-profit organization. Earnings are reinvested into the institution to improve services, offer lower loan rates, and provide higher returns on savings accounts.
Membership and Services
Franklin Johnstown Federal Credit Union membership is open to employees, families, and retirees of select businesses in the area. The credit union provides a range of financial products and services designed to meet the needs of everyday people. These include:
- Savings Accounts: Competitive rates on regular savings, certificates of deposit (CDs), and IRAs to help members plan for their futures.
- Checking Accounts: Low-fee or no-fee checking options with overdraft protection and online banking access.
- Loans: A variety of loan products, including auto loans, personal loans, home equity loans, and mortgages, all with competitive interest rates.
- Credit Cards: Members can access credit cards with lower interest rates than many traditional banks.
- Financial Education: FJFCU prioritizes financial literacy, offering resources to help members improve budgeting, debt management, and savings habits.
Franklin Johnstown FCU’s Role During Tax Season
For many members, the credit union plays an integral role during tax season. Financial planning is especially important this time of year, as refunds, deductions, and other financial considerations come into play. Franklin Johnstown FCU helps its members navigate these challenges by providing:
- Tax Refund Direct Deposits: Members can receive their tax refunds faster by using the credit union’s direct deposit service.
- Low-Cost Loans: Short-term loans are available for members who may need a financial cushion as they await their refunds or pay unexpected tax liabilities.
- Partnership Discounts: Collaborations, such as the one with TurboTax, allow members to save money on necessary tax preparation services.
- Financial Counseling: For members who want help budgeting their tax refund or planning for the year ahead, the credit union offers financial counseling services.
The TurboTax 20% Discount: What Members Need to Know
Details of the Offer
The 20% discount on TurboTax products is one of the key benefits offered to Franklin Johnstown FCU members this tax season. This partnership ensures that members can access a trusted and user-friendly tax preparation platform at a reduced cost. Here are some details about the offer:
- Discount Tiers: The 20% discount applies to all TurboTax online products, including:
- TurboTax Free Edition: For those with simple tax situations (e.g., filing a 1040EZ form).
- TurboTax Deluxe: Ideal for maximizing deductions and credits.
- TurboTax Premier: Best for those with investments or rental property income.
- TurboTax Self-Employed: Tailored for freelancers, independent contractors, and small business owners.
- Ease of Access: Members can access the TurboTax discount through a unique link provided by Franklin Johnstown FCU.
- Support Options: TurboTax offers live expert assistance and a Full-Service option for members who want extra guidance.
This deal makes TurboTax not only affordable but also a reliable choice for individuals who may otherwise spend hundreds of dollars on professional tax services.
Benefits of TurboTax for FJFCU Members
TurboTax has earned its reputation as one of the top tax preparation software platforms in the United States. Here’s why FJFCU members might find it particularly appealing:
- Cost Savings: With the 20% discount, members save money upfront. For many, the price of TurboTax is significantly less than hiring a CPA or visiting a tax preparation service.
- User-Friendly Interface: TurboTax walks users through the tax filing process step-by-step, making it accessible even for those unfamiliar with tax preparation.
- Convenience: Filing taxes can be done from home, without the need to schedule appointments or travel to a tax preparer’s office.
- Accuracy Guarantee: TurboTax includes an accuracy guarantee, meaning any calculation errors are covered, and users are protected from associated penalties.
- Max Refund Guarantee: The software is designed to help users claim every deduction and credit they qualify for, ensuring they receive the maximum refund.
- Audit Assistance: For added peace of mind, TurboTax offers optional audit support and representation.
Are There Any Downsides?
While TurboTax offers plenty of advantages, it’s worth considering a few potential drawbacks, especially for members deciding between TurboTax and other tax preparation methods:
- Cost for Complex Returns: While the 20% discount makes TurboTax more affordable, the cost can still add up for users with complex tax situations, especially those who need the Self-Employed or Premier versions.
- Learning Curve: For first-time users, there may be a slight learning curve in navigating the software.
- No Face-to-Face Interaction: Some members might prefer the reassurance of sitting down with a tax professional in person, which TurboTax does not provide.
Balancing Credit Union Benefits with Tax Season Needs
Franklin Johnstown Federal Credit Union plays a key role in helping members achieve financial stability, and its TurboTax partnership aligns perfectly with this mission. By offering tools and resources to simplify tax preparation, FJFCU empowers members to make the most of their finances during a critical time of year.
For instance, members can use the money saved through the TurboTax discount to boost their savings or pay down debt. Additionally, the credit union’s financial education resources can help members make smarter decisions about how to allocate their tax refunds.
Final Thoughts on the Partnership
As someone who appreciates the financial support credit unions offer, I think Franklin Johnstown Federal Credit Union’s partnership with TurboTax is a natural fit. It combines the personalized service and community focus of a credit union with the convenience and expertise of a leading tax preparation platform.
For FJFCU members, this 20% discount is an excellent opportunity to save on a necessary expense while still getting a reliable, user-friendly product. And for anyone navigating tax season, the credit union’s broader financial services are a reminder that tax preparation doesn’t have to be stressful when you have the right support in place.
If you’re a Franklin Johnstown FCU member and haven’t yet explored this partnership, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the TurboTax offer and start planning for a smooth tax season.