Quick loan companies promise fast cash, but often at a steep cost. With high interest rates and fees, the money that seems like a quick fix today can create long-term financial strain. At VyStar, we take a different approach by offering members lower rates, flexible options and guidance designed to help them through both everyday needs and unexpected emergencies.
That difference recently came into focus at our St. Augustine branch when Relationship Specialist Andi met Jason, a member who pulled up to the drive-thru with a $5,775 loan check carrying 38% interest. Recognizing the burden this would place on Jason and his family, Andi looked deeper and discovered he was pre-approved for a VyStar Personal Line of Credit for $12,500 at a much lower 15.24% rate.
“When I saw the interest rate on that check, I knew I had to find a better solution,” Andi said.
As Andi spoke more with Jason, she learned that he needed to cover emergency surgery for his dog. Without help, the vet bills would have drained his family’s savings, leaving them unable to afford back-to-school supplies for their kids. However, with Andi’s quick action, Jason was able to open his line of credit the same day, pay for the surgery and protect his family’s finances.
“Hearing their story and being able to offer something that gave them hope, it reminded me why I do what I do,” Andi said.
Benefits of a Personal Line of Credit
At VyStar, we believe a Personal Line of Credit should be... personal. Borrow just what you need, when you need it. You only pay interest on the amount you borrow. Unlike quick loans, a Personal Line of Credit offers:
Lower interest rates compared to payday loans or credit cards
Flexible borrowing so you draw only what you need, when you need it
Reusable funds so that as you repay, the available balance returns for future use
Financial security that is useful for emergencies, cash flow gaps or planned expenses
Relationship Specialist Andres at our Downtown Orlando branch helped another member open a Personal Line of Credit even though the member didn’t have an immediate need. Andres explained how it could be useful for unexpected expenses or emergencies.
A few weeks later, the member learned his mother’s home — the same home he planned to purchase one day — was at risk due to missed mortgage payments. Because he had already set up the line of credit, he was able to act quickly and save his family’s home. The member told Andres how grateful he was that someone had taken the time to help him prepare.
“I am always looking for ways to Do Good for our members by identifying solutions to help them on their financial journey and goals,” Andres said. “The Personal Line of Credit has resonated with a lot of my members, especially with today’s economy.”
VyStar employees like Andres often pull from their own life experiences to provide members with personalized, life-changing service.
“What has helped is adding my personal story to it,” Andres said. “I currently have a personal line of credit where I use it for emergencies. I explain to my members that is best to have one when you don’t need one and when that need or emergency arises it is there and available to use.”
These moments highlight the difference VyStar employees make every day. By listening, educating and finding solutions that fit, they help members build a stronger financial future.
VyStar’s Better Banking Stories series showcases real members and the VyStar employees who go above and beyond to help them.