12 Best Nationwide Credit Unions Of December 2024

Managing your finances can feel daunting, but finding the right credit union to help you navigate the complexities doesn't have to be.

Whether it's favorable interest rates, personalized service, or a wide range of services you're seeking, we've researched and compiled a list of the 12 best nationwide credit unions for all your banking needs.

The location shouldn't be a stressor when deciding where to place your trust and money. That's why these credit unions are local and nationwide, ensuring you get the best services wherever your life may take you.

Read on to learn more about these top-performing establishments in the financial world committed to serving members' needs.

12 Nationwide Credit Unions In 2024

In 2024, credit unions continue to play a pivotal role in the financial landscape, offering a range of services to their members.

Twelve nationwide credit unions stand out for their reach, services, and member benefits. One such notable credit union is Alliant Credit Union.

Alliant Credit Union

Alliant Credit Union is renowned for its digital banking services, providing a seamless online experience for its members. They offer many financial products, including award-winning savings and checking accounts, credit cards, and loans.

A significant highlight of Alliant Credit Union is its competitive Annual Percentage Yield (APY). Alliant boasts an APY of 3.10%, notably higher than the national average savings rate.

This rate is sourced from the National Association of Federal Credit Unions in collaboration with SNL Financial and Datatrac Corp.

Banking with Alliant is convenient and user-friendly. Members can bank anytime and anywhere using Alliant Mobile and Online Banking. The credit union also offers an attractive rate on savings with only a $100 minimum balance requirement.

Moreover, members can benefit from no monthly fees if they opt for eStatements. Additionally, Alliant provides access to thousands of fee-free ATMs nationwide.

For those considering membership, Alliant has a unique promotion for new members. By joining through Suze Orman’s "The Ultimate Opportunity Savings Account" promotion, new members can earn a $100 bonus deposit.

This promotion requires members to open a new savings account and fund it at least $100 monthly for 12 consecutive months.

Also Read: 8 Safest Banks In The U.S. 2024 [Safest Place For Your Money]

Consumers Credit Union

Founded in 1951, Consumers Credit Union (CCU) provides various financial services that rival larger banks while maintaining personalized, member-focused care.

Known for their attractive interest rates, CCU offers a lucrative high-yield checking account earning up to 4.09%. Additionally, customer service is available 24/7 through their state-of-the-art digital platforms.

As part of a vast co-op network, you can access over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs and over 5,000 shared branches nationwide. Operating on a note-worthy philosophy - 'It's Banking.

Only Better.' - CCU practices business for people before profit and reinvests earnings into the membership through better rates and services.

Navy Federal Credit Union

Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) is the largest credit union worldwide, specifically focusing on serving members associated with the armed forces.

Founded in 1933 with only seven members, it has grown dramatically and now serves over nine million members globally.

NFCU provides comprehensive banking services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, and mortgages with low lending rates.

They stand out for their commitment to serving military families with special perks like early access to military paychecks.

With mobile banking options and customer support accessible round-the-clock through their website or app, they ensure convenience is never compromised.

Membership is accessible not only to Department of Defense employees but also to the immediate family of current NFCU members, which broadens its reach significantly.

Navy Federal goes beyond offering just financial services; they endeavor to serve those who serve our country!

Connexus Credit Union

Connexus Credit Union prides itself on improving its members' financial well-being. It offers an extensive range of products and services, including high-yield checking and savings accounts, several types of loans, credit cards, certificates, and more.

It has consistently maintained competitive rates on variable-rate loans as per the National Credit Union Administration.

More so, Connexus hosts over 5,000 shared branches for easy access to your banking needs and offers a mobile application that provides a convenient banking experience.

Perhaps what sets Connexus apart is their extraordinary checking account. This account offers an excellent APY of up to 1.75% with no minimum balance or monthly fee – the ideal choice if you’re looking for a report to manage your day-to-day transactions while growing your savings.

Also worth mentioning is their active involvement in communities nationwide through financial education programs and sponsorships.

Also Read: Banks With Branches In All 50 States 2024 [List of All Banks]

Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed)

Whether you're in the military or not, the Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) has financial offerings.

PenFed is famous for its auto loans scheme, which provides member-friendly rates and terms with flexible payment options, as reported by NerdWallet.

PenFed offered the highest dividend return for a Money Market Certificate among all credit unions analyzed.

For service members abroad or those frequently on the go, PenFed's robust online platform makes managing money stress-free wherever you might be.

PenFed invests in giving back to the military community through the PenFed Foundation, providing service members with financial education, credit building, home ownership support, and more.

First Tech Federal Credit Union

Founded in 1952, First Tech Federal Credit Union caters primarily to high-tech workers but is open to anyone. It provides a compelling mix of digital banking services and in-person customer service at branches nationwide.

Well-regarded for their competitive interest rates on checking accounts and credit cards, First Tech offers a comprehensive range of banking services including savings accounts, mortgages, home equity loans, vehicle loans, personal loans, and insurance products.

Another significant advantage of First Tech Federal Credit Union lies in its Dividend Rewards Checking account.

This unique feature allows you to enjoy an APY of up to 4.00% with no account fees when specific requirements are met monthly.

First Tech is also recognized for their exceptional customer service and member benefits, including a solid technological presence (mobile check depositing and online bill pay), access to over 5,500+ shared branches, and approximately 30,000 co-op ATMs nationwide.

Membership eligibility includes working or living within the state of Lane County in Oregon or being an employee at a partner company such as Amazon, Intel Corporation, or Microsoft.

Service Credit Union

For over six decades, Service Credit Union has been committed to offering financial products geared towards military personnel and their families, though it's open to everyone across the globe.

It provides both domestic and international banking services ranging from checking accounts with great APYs based on balance level to auto loans with competitive rates.

Their 'Everyday Checking' account stands out due to its staggering 5% APY on the first $500 deposited; after that, it's tiered based on your balance.

Roll into ServicePlus – an exclusive program targeted towards active duty military members receiving direct deposits – providing special reduced loan rates and other perks such as international postage-free mailboxes.

Service Credit Union further embraces technology, delivering efficient mobile and online services, depositing cheques, transferring funds, or making payments at your fingertips.

Although based in New Hampshire, the credit union has locations worldwide and provides access to hundreds of shared branches and surcharge-free ATMs.

To join Service Credit Union, the easiest way is by becoming a member of the American Consumer Council; you're not required to be a military member.

Their commitment to members extends to anyone affected by COVID-19 with various assistance programs.

SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union

As one of the largest credit unions in the U.S., SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union prides itself on serving school employees and their families. Founded in 1934 by school employees, passion for education runs deep in this entity.

One main advantage SchoolsFirst offers is its myriad of financial products. This credit union is a one-stop shop for many banking needs, from checking and savings accounts to various loan options. It also champions economic well-being with retirement services, financial advisors, and insurance products.

Members can access free Nationwide CO-OP ATMs, mobile banking services, and physical branches throughout California.

This coverage ensures that you can access your money securely even if you're not based out of California.

Also Read: How Many Millionaires Are There In California? [2024 Latest]

Boeing Employees Credit Union (BECU)

With over 30.2 billion in assets and more than 1 million members, The Boeing Employees Credit Union (BECU) is one of the largest credit unions in America, catering to Boeing Company employees and their families.

BECU offers several checking account options with no monthly fees - quite advantageous compared to traditional banks.

For individuals seeking loans or mortgages, BECU provides competitive interest rates that could save thousands over the loan's life.

Perhaps BECU stands above others in its commitment to budgeting, retirement planning resources, and free access to financial counselors.

Members can access a free CO-OP ATM network alongside online banking benefits, including eStatements and mobile check deposits. Therefore, it doesn't matter where you are located – efficient service is assured!

Bethpage Federal Credit Union

Operating since 1941 as one of New York's most popular credit unions, Bethpage Federal Credit Union serves over 440,000 members across multiple states, though previously restricted to Long Island residents.

Bethpage offers a comprehensive suite of financial services, including various loan products, credit cards, and competitive rates on certificates of deposit. Checking and savings accounts come with no minimum balance requirements or monthly fees.

The Bethpage mobile app and online banking services offer 24/7 account access to members with features such as mobile check deposits, balance checks, transfers between accounts, and much more.

Yet what sets Bethpage apart is the convenience it offers - be it through its nationally accessible ATMs or its 60 full-service branches spread across Long Island.

Latino Community Credit Union

The Latino Community Credit Union is a financial institution that empowers the Latino community. Founded in 2000, it offers bilingual services and culturally adapted financial education to low-income individuals and families.

Dedicated to serving their community, they offer various accounts - checking, savings, certificates, and custodial. One notable feature is its credit-builder loan, which assists members in establishing or repairing their credits.

One highlight of the Latino Community Credit Union is its commitment to financial education. They conduct workshops on various topics geared towards financial literacy, from understanding credit scores to basic budgeting guides.

America First Credit Union

America First Credit Union is one of the largest and most progressive credit unions nationwide. It was founded in 1939 and currently holds over $11.7 billion in assets while serving over one million members worldwide.

They offer comprehensive services, including mobile banking, debit & credit products, mortgage loans, commercial lending, and insurance products focused on automobiles or homes.

These services are coupled with robust customer support in online and physical branches across Utah and Nevada.

One salient feature of America First’s service is its fee-free ATM network across the US combined with a distinct mobile banking platform that helps manage personal finances effortlessly.

Suppose you'd like extra cashback rewards or bonuses on top of your regular expenses. In that case, their VISA Classic Card offers up to 1.5% cash back on all purchases without any limits or categories.

Their dedication to helping individuals progress toward personal finance goals easily makes them one of our top picks.

Do credit unions build credit?

Yes, becoming a member of a credit union can aid in building your credit score. Credit Unions often provide smaller, manageable loans and credit cards designed for individuals who want to build or repair their credit.

They also report your payment history to the major credit bureaus, an integral factor in determining your credit score. Timely payments on these loans and credit cards can positively impact your credit score.

Also Read: How Much Does Credit Repair Cost In 2024? [DIY At No Cost]

Do credit unions have ATMs?

Yes, credit unions do have ATMs. Some credit unions have their own branded ATMs, while others are part of larger ATM networks, which allow members to use thousands of ATMs across the country without incurring additional fees.

It's always a good idea to check with your specific credit union about their ATM network and any potential fees.

FAQs About best nationwide credit unions

Conclusion

Choosing the right credit union can be significant since it directly influences how you manage and plan your financial matters.

Considering the various services and perks nationwide credit unions offer is crucial in making a choice that benefits you in the long run.

Whether it's a competitive APY, an impressive digital platform, or personalized customer service, it's all about finding what aligns with your financial needs and lifegoals.

Always remember that a credit union is tailored perfectly to meet your needs in the vast economic landscape.