Northwest Federal Credit Union

OK Credit Union
- novagirl - Wednesday, May 4, 2011 - 8:41 PM

I recently opened a Northwest Federal Credit Union and here are my thoughts so far.  The online process was fine for the most part, except when I didn't check off the right box for how I qualified to be a member.  Because of this, my application was in limbo until I called them to ask a question on what they call the "signature page" that you have to print out upon completion of the application, sign and mail back to them.  Okay, step one completed.  I had checked off that I wanted to apply for their credit card.  Again, that was in limbo too.  More than a week past until I again called and they took additional information from me to process the credit card.  They had asked how much I credit did I want.  They said if I didn't state how much then I would get the automatic $2000.  $2000???  Considering I have excellent and established credit, I was a bit insulted.  It wasn't worth it to open a credit card for that amount.  Again, I get more paperwork in the mail to sign and return.  I finally get my debit card in the mail.  Had to wait a bit to get my PIN.  Then I tried to change my address, but their policy is that you can't change your address within 30 days from opening a new account for security reasons.  Then I try to link up this account to another external bank account.  I was having a tough time and called their customer service number.  The rep was nice and friendly, but didn't know the answer nor did she try to problem solve.  So here is the bottom line.  NWFCU has nice customer service and you don't have to press a gazillion numbers when you call their call center to speak to a rep.  NWFCU was highly recommended by a friend and I was told they have good credit card rewards and that's my primary reason for opening the account.  However, compared to other banks and credit unions, they are a bit ancient in today's standards with technology and efficiency.  I am a member of 2 other banks and NWFCU has the least robust website and online banking.  They need a serious online banking upgrade.  In my other credit union, to qualify for free checking, you just have to meet 2 out of 3 of their criteria, both of which are very reasonable.  With NWFC, you have to meet all their criteria and I believe there are 5.  If you are looking for VERY basic online service and have patience - give them a shot.  If you want more capabilities from a bank - consider other options.  I probably won't used them for my primary banking transactions, but I thought I would give them a try. 

NWFCU Add-On CD
- outtempster - Wednesday, June 16, 2010 - 1:32 PM

I have very good experience with NWFCU add-on CD. whenever you have some extra money, you can deposit it into the CD. I use internet online banking. However, they have partners in my area where I can do deposits, such as checks or cash. You can transfer or deposit money in your savings account, and transfer them to your add-on CD. Even though there normally is a hold on your check, the representative can waive it since the money stays in the Credit Union. I am very happy with their customer service too, very nice and helpful. Unfortunately their add-on CD promotion CD rate has gone. However, they still  have 2-year add-on CD with 1.51% APY.