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- Some credit unions let you join online from all over the US.
- To become a member, give a small donation to a foundation or open a savings account.
- You'll prefer a credit union over a traditional bank if you want to earn a higher interest rate.
Credit unions require membership to open a bank account or utilize services. Usually, you'll have to work for a select employer or live in a specific city or county.
However, some credit unions have pretty easy membership requirements that you let join from anywhere in the US.
If you're open to banking with a credit union over a bank, we've put together a list of potential credit unions for you to consider. These options are also in our best bank accounts guides, Hispanic American-owned banks guide, and Black-owned banks guide.
Credit unions with easy membership requirements
1. Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union Superior Money Market Account
Why it stands out:
Membership requirements: The easiest way to join Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union is to donate $25 to the Affinity Plus Foundation and open a savings account. Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union has 26 branches in Minnesota and has additional ways to become a member if you live or work in the state.
2. Alliant Credit Union
Why it stands out:
Membership requirements: You'll be able to become a member of Alliant Credit Union if you join Foster Care to Success, a non-profit organization focused on foster youth (Alliant covers the $5 joining fee). You'll also be able to join the credit union if you live in certain parts of Illinois or work at an eligible employer.
3. Bethpage Federal Credit Union
Why it stands out:
Membership requirements: Bethpage Federal Credit Union lets you join online from anywhere in the US, as long as you open a savings account with at least $5.
4. Blue Federal Credit Union
Why it stands out: The
The bank also offers 24/7 live customer service, which is ideal if traditional banking hours don't work for you.
Membership requirements: The easiest way to join is by donating $5 to the Blue Foundation and opening the
5. Connexus Credit Union
Why it stands out: Connexus Credit Union pays competitive interest rates on all its accounts. The
Membership requirements: Connexus Credit Union lets you join online from anywhere in the US if you make a $5 donation to the Connexus Association. If you or a family member live in Minnesota, Ohio, or Wisconsin, see if you meet one of the credit union's other membership requirements.
6. Consumers Credit Union
Why it stands out:
Membership requirements: Anyone in the US can become a member of Consumers Credit Union online. Just pay a one-time $5 membership fee and open a savings account.
If you're an immigrant or not a US citizen, Consumers lets you use a Matricula Consular ID or permanent resident card instead of a US government ID to open an account.
7. Hope Credit Union Savings Account
Why it stands out:
As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, Hope Credit Union lets you use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular if you don't have a US ID. You'll also be able to use an ITIN number instead of a social security number. If you plan on using an alternative ID, you'll have to apply in person instead of online, though.
Membership requirements: Hope Credit Union lets you join online if you pay a $10 membership fee.
8. Latino Community Credit Union Savings Account
Why it stands out:
Membership requirements: If you don't live in North Carolina, you can still apply online by submitting an application and paying a $10 membership fee.
9. Pentagon Federal Credit Union
Why it stands out:
Membership requirements: The easiest way to become a part of Pentagon Federal Credit Union is by opening a savings account with at least $5. You're also eligible for membership if you've served in the military or work at a select employer.
10. Premier Members Credit Union Earn Big Free Checking Account
Why it stands out: The
Membership requirements: While Premier Members Credit Union is based in Colorado, you're still eligible for membership if you join Impact on Education, a charity in the Boulder Valley School District, and open a savings account online. If you live in Colorado, check if you live in an eligible county or work at a select employer.
11. Wings Financial Credit Union
Why it stands out:
Membership requirements: The easiest way to join Wings Financial Credit Union is to donate $5 to the Wings Financial Foundation. However, if you or a family work in the aviation industry or live in an eligible county or metro area, you also might be eligible.
What are the pros and cons of choosing a credit union
Are you still mulling over the decision of whether to pick a credit union or a bank? Here are a few of the main pros and cons to consider about credit unions, which might help sway your decision in determining whether a credit union is right for you.
When should you bank with a credit union over a bank?
You'll prefer a credit union to a bank if you find specific accounts or services that are ideal for your goals. Many of the credit unions featured have high-yield bank accounts, so if you find an account that matches what you're looking for, you won't feel like you're compromising because there are fewer products and services.
You also might want to choose a credit union if you struggle with traditional banking services or requirements. Some credit unions offer 24/7 live customer service. Other institutions featured, allow you to use a foreign ID or ITIN number if you aren't a US citizen.