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Alternatives will be closed November 28th and 29th for the Thanksgiving Holiday

We will reopen November 30th for our regular Saturday business hours. Be safe and enjoy your Holiday! You may access you account 24/7 through online banking and our mobile app.

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Routing #: 221381867

Living Wage Study

In 1994, Alternatives did its first living wage study to address internal staff concerns about compensation levels. Rather than looking at what competitors paid, or what the statutory minimum wage was, the credit union wanted to see what it took to support a person above the poverty level. It has continued to update this study every two years.

Recent Studies

2023

2021

2019

2017

2015

2013

2011

Living Wage Links

Economic Policy Institute: Research group that supports the living wage movement.

Responsible Wealth: A program of United for a Fair Economy made up of the wealthiest people in America. Information about living wage movements.

United For a Fair Economy: A “movement support” organization to provide media capacity, economic literacy education, and training resources to organizations and individuals who work to address the widening income and asset gap in our country.

Worker’s Center: Previously called The Living Wage Coalition, the Worker’s Center advocates for a living wage in Tompkins County and also supports a Living Wage Employer Certification program.

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Unlike traditional banks, we specialize in lending to individuals, organizations, and businesses in under-resourced communities, offering financial education, business coaching, and low-interest rate loans that increase economic potential and help build wealth.

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No need to figure it out yourself, coaches can provide help with money management, paying bills, building credit and housing issues. Speak with a financial coach through our non-profit partner, Balance.

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