150+ Years of Helping People Build Financial Stability
For more than 150 years, we’ve expanded economic opportunities across Connecticut—helping residents build credit, grow savings, and buy homes. Whether you’re rebuilding your finances, saving for the future, or ready to purchase a home, we meet you where you are and support you at every step. At Ascend Bank, we believe everyone deserves safe, affordable financial tools. Our Aspire Suite helps you take control of your money, build savings, and move toward homeownership.
Aspire Homebuyer Mortgage
- Up to 100% financing1 – keep more cash on hand.
- Up to $5,000 in down payment & closing cost assistance2.
- Lender pays mortgage insurance (PMI = $0).
- Reduced interest-rate solutions in eligible areas3.
- Designed to help lower upfront costs and reduce your monthly payment.
- First-time homebuyer (no home owned in the last 3 years).
- Household income up to 80% of AMI.
- Must complete Homebuyer Education.
- Property must be in Connecticut (1–4 family homes or condos).
Aspire Plus Savings
- Earn 3.50% APY4 on balances up to $10,000.
- Get a $1005 bonus when you make six consecutive monthly transfers.
- Open with just $25.
- No monthly fees.
- Great for emergency funds or preparing for homeownership costs.
Aspire Checking
- No hidden fees.
- BankOn National Standard certified.
- Direct deposit access.
- FDIC-insured up to $250,000.
- Strong alternative to check-cashing or costly prepaid cards.
Why Families Choose Ascend Bank
- Designed to meet clients where they are—no judgment, no unnecessary barriers.
- Committed to expanding economic opportunity for all neighborhoods we serve.
- A trusted community bank deeply invested in the long-term financial health of our clients.
Talk to Us Today to Get Started
Safe, simple, and affordable banking solutions created to help Connecticut families build financial stability and take the next step toward long-term financial goals – including home ownership. Have Questions? Contact us anytime!
Submit a request to talk to an expert.
Frequently Asked Questions
They’re designed to remove common barriers: high down payments, PMI, minimum balances, hidden fees, and high-cost alternatives.
Yes. Automatic transfers and bonus eligibility require an Ascend Bank checking account (any checking qualifies).
Aspire products are built to help you rebuild or strengthen your financial foundation. A Lending Center specialist can discuss your options.
You must not have owned a home in the past three years to qualify as a first-time buyer.
Assistance is available for eligible properties within Ascend Bank–approved geographies. A full mortgage application review and approval is required, and a loan officer will help confirm eligibility.
It means Aspire Checking meets national standards for safety, transparency, and affordability—ideal for families needing a fresh, stable banking option.
Yes—consistent saving, stable banking history, and direct deposit can strengthen your financial profile for future lending.
Yes—Aspire Checking and Savings are available everywhere Ascend serves. The Aspire Mortgage is available across Connecticut for eligible homes.
Disclosure
1 Restrictions and qualifications apply. Required borrower contributions and down payments vary based on loan type, Loan to Value (LTV), and underwriting criteria.
2 Properties must be in Ascend Bank approved, eligible geographies. Speak with a Mortgage Loan Officer for details on specific eligible geographic areas and household income restrictions.
3 All loans are subject to credit approval. This offer is subject to change without notice and may be withdrawn at any time.
4 Ascend Bank Checking Account required. Earn up to 3.50%APY (Annual Percentage Yield) up to $10,000, and 0.02% APY on balances over that amount. $25.00 opening balance required. Limit one account per person.
5 Automatic transfers will occur only when sufficient funds are available in your account. Must reach six (6) consecutive months with transfers to earn bonus. If funds are not available at the scheduled time, an automatic transfer will be delayed and processed once your balance allows. Please note that this may result in multiple transfers posting on consecutive days.
6 Aspire Checking does not include physical checks. $25.00 opening balance required.