Consumers Credit Union 2025
Consumers Credit Union (CCU) is a member-owned financial institution founded in 1930 and headquartered in Illinois. As one of the largest credit unions in the state, with over $3.5 billion in assets and 232,000+ members, CCU offers a wide range of banking products and services to meet members financial needs.
How We Rate Consumers Credit Union
At Financer.com, all lenders go through a thorough research and review process. Here’s how we rate Consumers Credit Union:
Category | Rating |
---|---|
Affordability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Application process | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
CCU Loans terms | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
CDs profitability | ⭐⭐ |
High Yield Savings | ⭐ |
Transparency | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Overall | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Do We Recommend Consumers Credit Union?
Yes, we recommend Consumers Credit Union as a reliable financial institution. Skip to our full review below and see in details the Consumers Credit Union review.
Consumers Credit Union Overview
We already know that CCU is one of the oldests financial institution in the U.S., serving their members with a wide range of products and services. To better understand about Consumers Credit Union, take a look at the main information.
Characteristic | Consumers Credit Union |
---|---|
Year of foundation | 1930 |
Headquarters | Gurnee, IL |
Total Assets | $3.5 billion+ |
Members | 232,000+ |
Branches | 15 in Illinois |
Serves | Nationwide |
ATM Access | 30,000+ surcharge-free ATMs nationwide |
Mobile App Rating | 4.1/5 stars (Apple & Android) |
Membership Eligibility | Open to anyone in the U.S. |
Yield Checkin Account | Profitability up to 5% APY |
Auto Loans | Rates as low as . Terms up to 84 months |
Personal Loans | Rates from 11.74% to 24.79% APR. Terms from 6 months to 7 years |
Mortgages | Up to $4 million. Rates as low as 6.268% APR |
NCUA Insured | Yes |
Pros and Cons of CCU
High-yield checking account: Earn up to 5.00% APY with qualifying activities
Nationwide membership: Anyone in the U.S. can join
Large ATM network: Access to 30,000+ surcharge-free ATMs
Competitive loan rates: Low rates on auto loans, mortgages, personal loans
No monthly fees: Free checking and savings accounts available
Pros
Limited physical branches: Only 15 locations, all in Illinois
High balance requirements: Need $10,000+ balance for best checking APY
Complex rewards structure: Multiple requirements to earn highest APY
Cons
Overall, CCU offers attractive rates and nationwide accessibility, but has a limited branch network and complex account requirements. If you like this scenario, open an account and enjoy the good side of Consumers Credit Union features.
CCU Loans
Consumers Credit Union provides a variety of loan options to meet different borrowing needs. Let’s explore CCU loan offerings in more detail.
Auto Loans
Consumers Credit Union auto loans offers competitive rates:
- Rates as low as 4.99% APR for new cars (2023 models and newer)
- Terms up to 84 months available
- 100% financing for qualified buyers
- 0.50% rate discount when using CCU’s car buying service
- No prepayment penalties
The low rates and flexible terms make Consumers Credit Union auto loans an attractive option for car buyers. According to recent data, the average auto loan rate nationwide is over 7% APR, so Consumers Credit Union auto loan rates are very competitive.
Personal Loans
Consumers Credit Union’s personal loans offer flexible funding for various needs:
- Fixed rates from 11.74% to 24.79% APR
- Loan amounts up to $40,000
- Terms from 6 months to 7 years
- No origination fees or prepayment penalties
- Same-day funding often available
While the rates are higher than secured loans, like auto loans, CCU’s personal loan rates are lower than many credit cards, making them a good option for debt consolidation or large purchases.
Home Loans
CCU provides several mortgage options:
- Fixed-rate mortgages: 10, 15, 20, and 30-year terms
- Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs): 5/1 and 5/5 options
- Jumbo loans up to $4 million
- Low down payment options starting at 3%
- No PMI options available
- Refinancing available
Current Consumers Credit Union mortgage rates start as low as 6.268% APR for a 5/1 ARM. This is competitive with national average rates reported by Freddie Mac.
Other Loan Types
- Home equity loans and lines of credit
- Commercial real estate loans
- RV and motorcycle loans
- Student loans
- Credit cards
CCU’s diverse loan portfolio allows members to finance a wide range of purchases and projects. The credit union’s competitive rates and flexible terms make it worth considering for your borrowing needs.
In conclusion, Consumers Credit Union offers attractive rates on deposits and loans, nationwide accessibility, and a full suite of banking products.
CCU Banking Services
Okay, now you know Consumers Credit Union’s credit scenario. But CCU isn’t just about loans – they offer a full suite of banking products to meet your financial needs. From high-yield checking to retirement accounts, CCU aims to be a one-stop shop for your money. Let’s break down their main offerings:
Bank Accounts
At Consumers Credit Union, you’ve got options. Let’s break down the different types of accounts they offer, so you can find the perfect fit for your financial needs.
Free Rewards Checking
This is Consumers Credit Union’s star player in the checking account game. With a profitability up to 5.00% APY, which is one of the highest checking account yields nationwide, it glows when we talk about checking accounts.
Earn up to 5.00% APY (that’s Annual Percentage Yield, folks)
No monthly fees
Get paid up to two days early with direct deposit
Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements
Pros
Need to meet specific requirements to earn the highest APY
$5,000+ balance needed for best rates
Cons
Student Choice Checking
Designed for the young guns aged 13-17. It’s important to note that there’s no interest earned on this account, but it’s a great option for learning money management.
No monthly fees
ATM fee reimbursements up to $25 per month
Debit card with $310 daily limit
Pros
Must convert to a standard account at age 19
Parent/guardian must be joint account holder
Cons
Money Market Account
For those who want a bit more earning power than a regular savings account, the Money Market offers profitability up to 4.13% APY on balances over $100,000.
Higher interest rates than standard savings
Easy access to funds
Tiered rates for higher balances
Pros
Typically requires a higher minimum balance
May have transaction limits
Cons
Smart Saver Account
A nifty tool to boost your savings game. Here, profitability goes up to 3.00% APY, limited to $1,000 each month. But you need to met some requirements to achieve this level.
Earn 3.00% APY with qualifying activities
Automated transfers make saving easy
No minimum balance required
Pros
Monthly deposit limit of $1,000
Need a CCU checking account for best rate
Cons
Health Savings Account (HSA)
A tax-advantaged account for medical expenses. Profitability offers competitive monthly dividends, plus tax advantages. The best option to create a saving for your health.
Tax-deductible contributions
Tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses
No account fees
Pros
Must have a high-deductible health plan to qualify
Penalties for non-medical withdrawals before age 65
Cons
Certificates (CDs)
For when you want to lock in a rate for a set period. The profitability for 9-month Consumers Credit Union CD rates is 4.50% APY. Obivously, you’ll have penalties for early withdrawal, though.
Higher rates than standard savings accounts
Guaranteed returns
Various term options available
Pros
Funds are locked for the term length
Early withdrawal penalties
Cons
CCU’s diverse account offerings cater to different financial needs and goals. Whether you’re a student learning to manage money, a saver looking for high yields, or someone planning for future medical expenses, there’s likely an account that fits your situation.
Credit Cards
CCU offers Visa credit cards with some attractive perks:
- Visa Signature Cash Back: Earn 3-2-1 cash back on purchases
- Visa Signature Rewards: Earn 3-2-1 points on purchases
- Visa Platinum Rewards: Earn points on all purchases
- Visa Platinum: A basic, low-rate option
Investment Services
Through a partnership with LPL Financial, CCU offers:
- Retirement planning (IRAs, 401(k) rollovers)
- Mutual funds
- Stocks and bonds
- Annuities
- Life insurance
Other Services
- Mobile banking: Highly-rated app for account management on-the-go
- Online bill pay: Free service for checking account holders
- Zelle: Fast, free money transfers to friends and family
- Shared branching: Access your accounts at over 5,600 credit union locations nationwide
- ATM access: Use over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs across the country
CCU’s diverse product lineup allows members to handle most financial needs in one place. Their high-yield checking account and nationwide accessibility through shared branching are particularly noteworthy features that set them apart from many local credit unions.
Interest Rates for CCU Products
Now that we’ve covered Concumer Credit Union’s overview, let’s put all their key rates in one place so you can easily compare. Here’s a handy table showing current interest rates for CCU’s main products:
Product | Interest Rate/APY |
---|---|
Free Rewards Checking | Up to 5.00% APY |
Certificates (9-month) | 4.50% APY |
Smart Saver Account | 3.00% APY |
Money Market Account | Up to 4.13% APY |
Auto Loans | As low as 4.99% APR |
Personal Loans | 11.74% – 24.79% APR |
Mortgage (30-year fixed) | 6.875% APR |
Home Equity Line of Credit | As low as 5.49% APR (intro rate) |
Visa Credit Cards | 13.95% – 27.24% APR |
As you can see, CCU offers some competitive rates across their product line. Their checking account yield is particularly impressive, though it does require meeting certain criteria. Auto loan rates are also quite low compared to national averages.
One of the best choices
Consumers Credit Union’s Free Rewards Checking offers one of the highest checking account yields nationwide at up to 5.00% APY.
CCU Membership Requirements
Ready to join the Consumers Credit Union family? Great choice! CCU offers a ton of perks, from high-yield checking accounts to competitive loan rates. But first, let’s break down what you need to become a member.
Here are the main requirements:
- Open to anyone: Unlike some credit unions, CCU doesn’t limit membership based on where you live or work.
- One-time fee: Pay a $5 membership fee to join the Consumers Cooperative Association.
- Minimum deposit: Keep at least $5 in a Membership Share/Savings Account.
- Valid ID: You’ll need a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport).
- Social Security Number: Provide your SSN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
That’s it! Pretty simple, right? Now, let’s walk through the steps to open your account.
How to Open Your CCU Account
Steps
Choose your account
Decide which account type fits your needs best. The Free Rewards Checking is a popular choice with its high APY.
Make your application
Have your ID and SSN/ITIN ready. Then, visit CCU’s website to start your application. It’s a simple process that you can make in a few minutes.
Fund your account
Make your initial deposit (remember, at least $5 for the savings account). And don’t forget that $5 fee to join the Cooperative Association.
Once approved, register for digital banking to manage your account easily. Now, enjoy all CCU’s features in your daily business.
Features of the CCU Mobile App
In today’s fast-paced world, having a solid mobile banking app is crucial. CCU’s mobile app doesn’t disappoint, offering a range of features to make managing your money a breeze.
Here are the standout features:
- Account management: View balances, transfer funds, and pay bills all from your phone.
- Mobile check deposit: Snap a photo of your check to deposit it instantly.
- Zelle integration: Send and receive money quickly with this popular payment service.
- Card controls: Easily manage your debit and credit cards, including the ability to freeze/unfreeze them.
- Fingerprint and facial recognition: Log in securely without typing your password.
- ATM locator: Find nearby ATMs and shared branches.
- Account alerts: Set up custom notifications for transactions and balance thresholds.
- Budgeting tools: Track your spending and set financial goals.
The Consumers Credit Union Mobile App has received solid ratings from users. On the Apple App Store, it boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating, while on Google Play, it maintains a respectable 4.1 out of 5 stars.
Remember, a great mobile app is just one part of the Consumers Credit Union package. Combined with their competitive rates and member-focused approach, it’s clear why so many people are choosing Consumers Credit Union for their banking needs.
CCU Customer Service
When it comes to banking, good customer service can make or break your experience. Let’s take a look at what Consumers Credit Union members are saying about Consumers Credit Union customer service.
Many members praise CCU for their attentive and helpful staff. Besides, they maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, suggesting a strong commitment to addressing customer concerns.
However, like any financial institution, CCU isn’t without its critics. Some members have reported issues with account management and loan processes.
It’s worth noting that Consumers Credit Union offers 24/7 customer support through live chat, which is a big plus for those who need assistance outside of regular business hours. They also provide phone support on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. CT.
Overall, while CCU seems to deliver good customer service for many members, experiences can vary. It’s always a good idea to reach out to Consumers Credit Union customer service team directly if you have specific questions or concerns before becoming a member.
Is CCU Right for You?
In this Consumers Credit Union review, we’ve covered a lot of ground about Consumers Credit Union, from their competitive rates to their diverse product offerings. Let’s recap the key points:
CCU offers a range of financial products, including high-yield checking accounts, certificates, CCU loans, such as personal loans, auto loans, and mortgages. Their Free Rewards Checking account, with potential APY up to 5.00%, is particularly noteworthy.
They provide nationwide accessibility through online and mobile banking, shared branching, and a large ATM network. This makes CCU a viable option even if you don’t live near one of their physical branches in Illinois.
CCU’s loan rates, especially for auto loans, are competitive compared to national averages. They also offer flexible terms and quick approval processes for many of their loan products.
So, who might find CCU to be a good fit?
- High-yield seekers: If you’re looking to maximize your checking account earnings and don’t mind meeting certain requirements, Consumers Credit Union’s Free Rewards Checking could be perfect for you.
- Tech-savvy bankers: With a highly-rated mobile app and comprehensive online banking services, CCU caters well to those who prefer digital banking.
- Auto loan shoppers: Consumers Credit Union’s competitive auto loan rates and flexible terms make them a strong contender for car buyers or those looking to refinance.
- Those who value personalized service: As a credit union, CCU often provides more personalized service than large banks. This can be particularly beneficial for those seeking mortgages or personal loans.
However, CCU might not be the best fit if you prefer in-person banking and don’t live near their branches in Illinois. Also, if you’re not comfortable with technology or don’t want to meet certain requirements for the best rates, you might want to explore other options.
Consumers Credit Union FAQs
What Is Consumers Credit Union and How Does It Differ From Traditional Banks?
Consumers Credit Union (CCU) is a member-owned financial cooperative founded in 1930. Unlike traditional banks, CCU is not-for-profit and returns earnings to members through better rates and lower fees. With over $3.5 billion in assets and 232,000+ members, CCU offers a wide range of financial products nationwide. Its Free Rewards Checking account can earn up to 5.00% APY, significantly higher than most traditional banks.
How Do I Become a Member of Consumers Credit Union?
Joining CCU is open to anyone in the U.S. To become a member, you need to pay a one-time $5 fee to join the Consumers Cooperative Association and deposit at least $5 in a Membership Share/Savings Account. You’ll need a government-issued photo ID and your Social Security Number or ITIN. The entire process can be completed online in minutes, making it easy for anyone to join regardless of location.
How Many ATMs Does Consumers Credit Union Have Access To?
CCU members have access to an extensive network of surcharge-free ATMs. Through partnerships with the CO-OP Network and other credit union alliances, CCU offers access to over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. This network includes ATMs at popular locations like 7-Eleven, Walgreens, and Costco. Additionally, CCU reimburses ATM fees when certain account requirements are met, effectively expanding access to even more ATMs.
Is Consumers Credit Union FDIC Insured?
Consumers Credit Union is not FDIC insured, as it’s not a bank. However, CCU accounts are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), a U.S. government agency. The NCUA provides the same level of protection as FDIC insurance, covering up to $250,000 per depositor. This insurance ensures that your funds are safe and secure, just as they would be in an FDIC-insured bank.
How to Contact Consumers Credit Union Customer Service?
CCU offers multiple ways to contact customer service. You can reach them by phone at 877-275-2228, available Monday-Friday 8 am to 6 pm CT and Saturday 8 am to 2 pm CT. For 24/7 support, CCU provides live chat through their website and mobile app. They also offer email support and have 15 branch locations in Illinois for in-person assistance. CCU’s commitment to customer service is reflected in their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
How Secure Is Consumers Credit Union Online Banking?
CCU employs robust security measures for online banking. They use 128-bit encryption for all online transactions and implement multi-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access. CCU’s mobile app features biometric login options like fingerprint and facial recognition. The credit union also provides real-time fraud monitoring and instant alerts for suspicious activities. CCU’s mobile app is highly rated, with 4.8 stars on the Apple App Store and 4.1 stars on Google Play, indicating user satisfaction with its security and functionality.