Can you get a credit card through a credit union?

Yes, you can get a credit card through a credit union, but you need to be a member of that credit union first. Membership eligibility requirements vary by credit union, but the criteria are usually related to geographic location, employer affiliations, or membership in certain organizations or associations. Some credit unions are open to virtually anyone, though.

Once you become a member of the credit union, you can apply for one of its credit cards. The application process is similar to what you would experience with a bank-issued credit card. You may be able to apply online, over the phone, by mail, or at a branch with a representative. The credit union will assess your credit standing and other factors to determine whether you qualify for a credit card and what credit limit and terms they can offer you.

How to Get a Credit Card Through a Credit Union

1. Find a credit union that you’re eligible to join.
2. Apply to join the credit union. In some cases, you may be required to open a checking or savings account with a small deposit to join.
3. Compare the credit union’s credit card offers based on credit requirements, rewards, interest rates, fees, and secondary benefits.
4. Pick a card you stand a good chance of qualifying for that fits your needs.
5. Submit an application for the card. Applying online should give you the fastest results, but you may be able to apply by phone, by mail, or in person, depending on the credit union.
6. Wait for the credit union’s decision. This could take a few minutes to a few weeks.
7. Wait 7-10 business days for the card to be delivered, assuming you are approved.

Best Credit Cards from Credit Unions

Keep in mind that not everyone may be eligible to join these credit unions. However, there are several credit unions that just about anyone can join, so you may want to browse credit card offers from those credit unions.

Credit Unions Anyone Can Join That Offer Credit Cards

• A+ Federal Credit Union
• Affinity Federal Credit Union
• Alliant Credit Union
• American Heritage Credit Union
• BCU
• Blaze Credit Union
• Blue Federal Credit Union
• Boeing Employees’ Credit Union
• Broadview Federal Credit Union
• CapED Credit Union
• Connexus Credit Union
• Consumers Credit Union
• Credit Human Credit Union
• Dow Credit Union
• Fairwinds Credit Union
• First Tech Federal Credit Union
• Four Leaf Federal Credit Union
• Kinecta Federal Credit Union
• Lake Michigan Credit Union
• Latino Community Credit Union
• Meritrust Credit Union
• NASA Federal Credit Union
• PenFed Credit Union
• Quorum Federal Credit Union
• San Diego County Credit Union
• The Credit Union for All
• University Federal Credit Union
• Wings Credit Union

Benefits of Credit Union Credit Cards vs. Bank Credit Cards

Competitive interest rates and fees: Credit cards from credit unions often feature lower APRs and fees than credit cards from big banks.

More personalized service: Since credit unions tend to serve fewer people than big banks, it may be easier to get personalized help from a representative, especially at a local branch. Credit unions also focus more on meeting their members’ needs than turning a profit, unlike many banks.

Good rewards and benefits: Credit cards from credit unions often provide rewards programs and supplemental benefits that can compete with the offers big banks are putting out, so ignoring the credit union sector of the market may cause you to miss out on good deals.

More flexibility with approval: Credit unions may be more willing to work with you when you don’t quite meet the minimum requirements for a certain card if you have a positive existing banking relationship with them.

Other resources: If you join a credit union to get a credit card, you might get access to other resources it offers, such as financial education classes or seminars.

Credit unions can be a great option for obtaining a credit card, especially if you're looking for competitive interest rates, low fees and personalized customer service. However, it's always a good idea to compare the credit card offerings from multiple sources, including both banks and credit unions, to find the best fit for your financial needs and preferences.

You can learn more about the best credit cards from credit unions here on WalletHub.