The Big List of Credit Unions Anyone Can Join

While some credit unions have strict requirements to join, usually based on where you live or work, others welcome a wider range of customers.

Below is our big list of credit unions anyone can join, along with a shorter list of some of our favorites, and details on how to join a credit union.

Big list of easy-to-join credit unions

This searchable list features credit unions with easy membership requirements and includes headquarters location, number of branches, and size in terms of assets under management.

If you want to narrow down your choices, you’ll find our short list of 10 credit unions with some great features also worth considering.

Updated Daily:

10 great credit unions that are easy to join

Here are 10 credit unions with open membership that we like and why we like them.

Affinity Plus Credit Union

Why we picked it: Affinity Plus Credit Union offers a large range of products, including bank accounts, loans, individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and insurance policies.

Membership requirements: You have many ways to become eligible, including through your employer or school, a relative, or even a roommate who is a member. You can also make a one-time $25 donation to the Affinity Plus Foundation to become eligible for membership.

Alliant Credit Union

Why we picked it: Alliant Credit Union features a high-yield savings account with a relatively low minimum balance.

Membership requirements: You can join Alliant Credit Union if you live in one of its eligible communities, or if you join the Alliant Credit Union Foundation, which helps promote digital inclusion in underserved communities.

Connexus Credit Union

Why we picked it: Connexus Credit Union offers a lot of different personal banking products, including checking and savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs). It also has credit cards for both individuals and businesses.

Membership requirements: The easiest way to join if you don’t qualify through an employer or family member is to make a one-time $5 donation to the Connexus Association.

Consumers Credit Union

Why we picked it: With its rewards checking account, you can earn up to 5.00% APY and get your direct deposits up to two days early.

Membership requirements: Anyone can get an account with Consumers Credit Union by joining Consumers Cooperative Association. All you need is a one-time $5 membership fee, which may be eligible for reimbursement.

First Technology Credit Union

Why we picked it: First Technology Credit Union provides banking, investment and insurance products to its members and offers solid rates on its First Tech Rewards Savings account.

Membership requirements: You can qualify for First Technology Credit Union by working for one of its 900-plus partner companies or by becoming a member of the Computer History Museum or Financial Fitness Association.

Hanscom Federal Credit Union

Why we picked it: Hanscom Federal Credit Union has some competitive CDs with varying terms.

Membership requirements: You can qualify for membership through an employer or relative or become a member of a partner organization. Active-duty military members and veterans are automatically eligible to join.

Liberty Federal Credit Union

Why we picked it: Liberty Federal Credit Union’s Vertical Checking account earns good yields and includes rate discounts on mortgages and auto loans.

Membership requirements: You can join Liberty Federal if you’re eligible through an employer, relative or community organization. You can also become a member by donating $5 to the Mater Dei Friends and Alumni Association.

Northwest Federal Credit Union

Why we picked it: Northwest Federal has a strong selection of CDs, with terms between 10 months and five years.

Membership requirements: Northwest Federal partners with businesses, nonprofits and government agencies. If you don’t work at one of its partner nonprofits, you can volunteer with them to qualify.

PenFed Credit Union

Why we picked it: PenFed Credit Union has a wide range of products and services, including checking accounts, savings accounts, mortgages and auto loans. It offers a free checking account, and it has competitive loan rates.

Membership requirements: Anyone can apply to join PenFed Credit Union. You must deposit $5 into a PedFed savings account to become a member.

Spectrum Credit Union

Why we picked it: Spectrum Credit Union’s MarketEdge Money Market Savings account earns on par with a high-yield account, as does its 12-month share certificate.

Membership requirements: If you don’t qualify for membership through one of Spectrum’s company partners or because of where you live, you can become a member of one of its nonprofit partners.

What is a credit union?

A credit union is like a bank, offering financial products and services, such as checking and savings accounts, loans, and credit cards. But unlike traditional banks, credit unions operate as not-for-profit organizations. 

Credit unions serve customers who are members. Profits are reinvested to benefit members, usually through lower rates and fees.

Some credit unions allow anyone to join, while others require specific affiliations. Credit unions usually serve particular geographic areas, employees of certain companies or federal agencies, or distinct groups of people, such as military members and veterans. 

When you join a credit union, you become a part owner or shareholder.

How to choose a credit union?

When comparing credit unions to find the right one for you, consider the following factors:

• Interest rates and fees: Compare interest rates at several different credit unions to find the best deals and help you save money in the long run. Also, make sure there aren’t a lot of fees, such as a monthly maintenance fee for a checking account.
• Account options: Some credit unions have a wide range of account types, while others are more limited. Make sure the credit union has the specific account (or accounts) you want to open. 
• Membership requirements: Unlike at a traditional bank, customers must be members. Each credit union has its own eligibility requirements, and you may need to live in a certain area, work for a specific company or be affiliated with a partner organization. Some credit unions may also require a small minimum deposit to join, such as $5.
• Customer service reviews: Reviewing a credit union’s customer service ratings can give you an idea of the quality of service. Pay special attention to recurring complaints — this can be a red flag.

Pros and cons of credit unions

How to join a credit union

The process of joining a credit union will differ from place to place, but you’ll usually go through the following steps:

• Provide your ID: You’ll likely need to supply a valid driver’s license or other government-issued ID, along with your Social Security number.
• Show that you’re eligible: You may need to provide proof of eligibility, such as documentation confirming your employment or affiliation with a partner organization.
• Make your first deposit: Some credit unions require a $5 deposit into a share savings account to become a member.

Other great credit unions

If you want to cast a wider net and look at all credit unions, with any kind of membership requirements, have a look at our picks for the best credit unions.