What you need to bring and where to start

Opening a credit union account requires a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. Most credit unions also ask for an initial deposit, which ranges from $5 to $25 depending on the institution. You can open an account in person at a branch, by mail, or online—the method depends on which credit union you choose and whether you already have a connection to it.

The first step is finding a credit union you can join. Credit unions are membership organizations, so you must meet their field of membership before you can open an account. This might mean you work for a specific employer, live in a certain county, belong to a particular profession or organization, or have a family member who is already a member. Once you confirm you meet the requirement, you can contact the credit union directly or visit their website to begin the process.

Key Takeaways

  • You must meet the credit union's field of membership—usually based on where you live, where you work, or a family connection—before you can open an account.
  • Bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of your address, your Social Security number, and money for the initial deposit when you explore in person.
  • Online and mail applications are available at many credit unions, though some require you to visit a branch to verify your identity in person.
  • The account opening process typically takes 15 minutes to an hour in person, or a few business days if you explore by mail or online.
  • Most credit unions charge no monthly fee for a basic checking or savings account, though some require you to maintain a minimum balance.

Verifying you meet the membership requirement

Every credit union has a field of membership—a set of rules about who can join. Common fields include all residents of a specific county or city, employees of a particular company or government agency, members of a union or professional association, or relatives of existing members. Some credit unions have broad fields that cover entire states; others are very narrow.

To find out whether you may have access to, visit the credit union's website and look for a page titled "Membership" or "Who Can Join." If the requirement is not clear online, call the credit union's main number and ask directly. They will tell you in one sentence whether you meet it. If you do not, they may suggest a different credit union in your area that you can join instead.

Documents to gather before you explore

Have these items ready before you walk into a branch or start an online process:

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card)
  • Proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days)
  • Your Social Security number
  • Money for the initial deposit (typically $5 to $25, though some credit unions ask for more)

If you are opening an account for a minor, you will also need to bring the child's birth certificate and proof that you are their parent or legal guardian. Some credit unions require both parents to be present; others allow one parent to open a custodial account.

If you do not have a government-issued ID, ask the credit union whether they accept alternative documents such as a passport card, tribal ID, or consular ID. Some credit unions will work with you if you bring two forms of non-photo ID plus proof of address instead.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walking into a branch is the fastest way to open an account if you have all your documents. Tell the staff member at the desk that you want to open a new account. They will hand you an process form or direct you to a computer terminal where you fill one out online. The form asks for your name, address, phone number, email, Social Security number, and employment information.

Once you complete the form, the staff member will verify your ID and address, review your information, and ask you to sign the account agreement. This is a document that explains the account terms, fees, and your rights as a member. Read it or ask the staff member to explain any part you do not understand. Then you provide your initial deposit—by cash, check, or debit card—and your account is open. The whole process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes.

You will receive a debit card and checks in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, the credit union will give you a temporary card or online access so you can start using the account right away.

Opening an account by mail or online

Many credit unions let you start the process online or by mail without visiting a branch. You fill out an process on their website or print one from their site and mail it in with copies of your ID and proof of address. Some credit unions ask you to have your documents notarized; others do not.

The credit union will review your process and contact you by phone or email to verify your information. At this point, some credit unions will complete the account opening over the phone. Others require you to visit a branch in person to show your original ID before they set up the account. This in-person step protects both you and the credit union against fraud.

If you explore by mail or online, the process takes 5 to 10 business days from the time the credit union receives your completed process. If they need you to come in person, add another 1 to 2 weeks depending on when you can visit a branch.

What happens after your account opens

Once your account is active, you can use online banking, mobile banking, and ATMs right away. Your debit card and checks arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need cash before then, you can withdraw money at any branch or at a shared branching location—a network of credit union branches you can use even if you do not belong to that specific credit union.

Most credit unions charge no monthly fee for a basic checking or savings account. Some require you to maintain a minimum balance (often $25 to $100) to avoid a fee, while others waive the fee if you set up direct deposit. Check your account agreement or ask a staff member what the requirements are for your specific account.

You become a member of the credit union when your account opens, which means you own a small share of the organization. You may be invited to vote on the board of directors or attend the annual meeting. You also gain access to other credit union products like loans, credit cards, and investment services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Some credit unions will open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Call the credit union and ask whether they accept ITINs. If the one you want to join does not, they can usually refer you to one that does.

What if I do not have a government-issued ID?

Many credit unions accept alternative documents such as a passport card, tribal ID, or consular ID. Some will also accept two forms of non-photo ID (like a birth certificate and Social Security card) plus proof of address. Call ahead and ask what documents they will take.

Do I have to visit a branch in person, or can I do everything online?

Some credit unions let you open an account entirely online, while others require at least one in-person visit to verify your identity. Check the credit union's website or call to ask about their process before you start your process.

How much money do I need to open an account?

Initial deposits range from $5 to $25 at most credit unions, though some ask for more. A few credit unions waive the initial deposit entirely. Check the credit union's website or ask when you call.

What if I want to add someone else to my account?

You can add a joint owner when you open the account, or later by visiting a branch with the other person and both of your IDs. Joint owners have equal access to the account and both are responsible for any overdrafts or fees.