State Employees' Credit Union

The “best” credit union depends on where you live, who you’re eligible to join, and what you need (checking, loans, credit cards, etc.). But these are some of the largest, most popular, and highly rated credit unions that people actually use:

1. Navy Federal Credit Union

• Best for: Military members, veterans, and families
• Why people use it: Largest credit union in the U.S. by assets. Excellent customer service, low-rate credit cards, auto loans, and no monthly fees on checking.
• Drawback: Not open to the general public unless you have military ties.

2. PenFed Credit Union

• Best for: Nationwide online banking + competitive loan rates
• Why people use it: Open to everyone with a small $5 savings account deposit. Known for top-tier CD rates, low-rate mortgages, and auto loans.
• Good for: People who want low loan rates and don’t need branch access.

3. Alliant Credit Union

• Best for: High-yield checking/savings and online banking
• Why people use it: Anyone can join (through a small donation to a partner charity). Offers high APY on savings, no monthly maintenance fees, and large fee-free ATM network.
• Good for: Digital-first users who want competitive rates.

4. State Employees' Credit Union (SECU)

• Best for: North Carolina residents/state employees
• Why people use it: Huge branch network in NC, no-fee checking, low-rate loans, and highly trusted by locals.
• Drawback: Membership is limited mostly to North Carolina.

5. BECU (Boeing Employees’ Credit Union)

• Best for: Washington state residents and Boeing employees
• Why people use it: One of the largest credit unions in the country. No monthly fees, ATM fee refunds, and strong mobile banking.
• Good for: Pacific Northwest residents.

6. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union

• Best for: California school employees and their families
• Why people use it: Excellent auto loans, low fees, and strong customer service. Very popular among educators in California.
• Drawback: Eligibility limited to school employees.

7. Golden 1 Credit Union

• Best for: California residents
• Why people use it: Open to anyone who lives or works in California. Large branch network, good checking options, and competitive auto loans.

8. Bethpage Federal Credit Union

• Best for: East Coast residents, especially NY
• Why people use it: Anyone can join with a small donation to a partner foundation. Known for high-yield savings and low refinance rates.

Quick recommendations based on needs:

Bottom line: The best credit union is one you’re eligible to join and that offers the specific products you need. If you want a nationwide, easy-to-join option, Alliant and PenFed are the most popular choices. If you want top-tier service and don’t mind eligibility rules, Navy Federal is the gold standard.