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Listerhill Credit Union is a nonprofit financial cooperative improving lives in our community.

If you live in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Florida, or Tennessee, you are eligible to become a member. Depending on your individual eligibility, we may require membership into an approved association at no cost to you.

You can also qualify for membership by being a family member of a current or potential Listerhill member.

With only $5, you can join Listerhill today and start taking advantage of a lifetime membership.

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How to Join a Credit Union in 3 Steps

How to Join a Credit Union in 3 Steps

Editorial Note: Articles published are intended to provide general information and educational content related to personal finance, banking, and credit union services. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, it should not be considered as financial advice and may be revised as needed.

Joining a credit union is simple and there are many great reasons why you might want to become a member. You can generally join if you live, work, worship, or attend school in a particular area. Sometimes membership is open to employees of specific companies or to people who work in certain fields.

Once you know you can join, you simply open a savings account with a low initial deposit and you're good to go! Read on to find out how to join a credit union and why joining a credit union can benefit you, your family, and your whole community.

Why Join a Credit Union?

Credit unions offer many of the same products and services as banks and other financial institutions. The key difference is that credit unions are not-for-profit organizations and this means we can pass revenue to our members in the form of lower rates on loans and higher rates on deposits. This is in contrast to banks where profits go to outside stockholders.

Another thing that sets credit unions apart is that they're formed to serve a particular community. For example, Listerhill Credit Union started out serving the workers of the Reynolds Metals Plant in Alabama in 1953.

Here's what you gain when you join Listerhill Credit Union:

  • Higher interest rates on deposits and savings accounts

  • Lower rates on loans and credit cards

  • Lower and fewer fees compared to banks—and no fees on some products

  • The convenience of our Mobile App, Online Banking, Smart ATMs, and LCU Cards App

  • A wide range of payment and deposit options including automatic payment, Bill Pay, direct debit, mobile deposit, and Zelle

  • Access to over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs in the Co-op network

  • Funds are safe and insured by NCUA up to $250,000

  • Personalized, local customer service for members just like you

  • Community support, fundraising, and special initiatives that benefit your area

  • Financial services and guidance to help you and your family thrive

  • Lifetime membership even if you move out of the service area

  • Membership gives you part ownership and the ability to vote and have a say in how the organization is run

3-Step Guide on How to Join a Credit Union

It's easy to join your local credit union and enjoy the many advantages and benefits of membership. Here's how to join Listerhill Credit Union:

1. Check You Meet the Membership Criteria

Credit unions all begin with a story about supporting the members of a particular community and that's why the eligibility requirements vary for each organization. The Listerhill Credit Union field of membership includes anyone who lives or works in the states of:

  • Alabama
  • Georgia
  • Mississippi
  • Florida
  • Tennessee

You can also qualify for membership by being a family member of a current or potential Listerhill member. Depending on your eligibility, we may require membership into an approved association at no cost to you.

2. Open a Share Savings Account With a $5 Deposit

When you open a Share Savings Account, you become a part owner or shareholder of the credit union. The minimum deposit to open an account and start earning dividends is just $5.

3. Enjoy Credit Union Products, Services, and Benefits

The final step is to take a look at all our other quality products and services, including checking accounts, money market accounts, certificates, credit cards, and a full suite of loan options. You'll see we offer great rates and lower fees—or no fees!

Do Credit Unions Help Build Credit?

A common question we get asked is, “Do credit unions build credit?” The short answer is, yes, credit union products and services can help get your finances in shape and improve your credit. You simply need to follow a few tips and tricks.

First, here's a handy breakdown of how the credit reporting bureaus give you a credit score:

  • Repayment history: 35%
  • Amount of available credit used: 30%
  • Length of credit history: 15%
  • Mix of credit types: 10%
  • New credit applications: 10%

Now, check out these easy ways credit unions can help build your credit:

Pay on Time

The simplest way to build credit is by making timely payments on your credit cards and loans. Compared to banks, credit unions can offer lower rates and more favorable terms. This makes it easier for you to keep up with your monthly payments so you're less likely to ever miss a payment. Remember: Missed payments will negatively impact your credit score.

Keep Your Credit in Check

In addition, credit unions offer a wide range of popular products like credit cards, personal loans, car loans, home loans, and more. A healthy mix of credit types will help you to build your credit and avoid maxing out your credit cards. Using less than 30% of your total available credit will also keep your score going in the right direction.

Consolidate Your Debt

If you're juggling multiple credit cards and loans, a credit union can help you consolidate your debt through a balance transfer credit card or low-interest personal loan. You can then keep your old credit card accounts open with a zero balance and this will increase the amount of time you've held accounts, which will improve your credit.

Reduce Unnecessary Applications

Finally, it will hurt your credit if you apply for multiple types of credit in a short space of time. With a credit union on your side, we can guide you to make the best decisions so you only apply for the right financing for your unique needs.

Experience the Credit Union Difference

Better rates, generous terms, and friendly local service are only the beginning. Listerhill Credit Union also provides valuable community support so that everyone in our service area can reach their goals and achieve financial security. Click below to learn more about how to join a credit union and the many advantages we have to offer!

See the Benefits of Joining Listerhill Credit Union


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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I avoid overdraft fees?

    All Listerhill checking accounts are eligible for 3 Overdraft or NSF Fee refunds per year. To request a refund, visit a Listerhill branch or call 1-800-239-6033.

    Additionally, we provide our members with overdraf services like:

    • Standard Overdraft Coverage

    • Debit Card Overdraft Coverage

    • Overdraft Protection

  • How can I start using mobile banking?

    To Get Started with our Mobile Banking app:

  • Do I have to pay any monthly service fees for having a checking account at Listerhill?

    Our Everyday Checking account comes with no minimum balances and no monthly service fees, so if you choose this account, you won’t have to pay any monthly fees, no matter what your daily balances are.

    If you’re interested in Growth Checking, you’ll have to pay a $10 monthly fee is your average balance is below $1,000. You can easily waive the account fee by keeping $1,000 or more in your account. That way, you can earn interest on your deposits without paying any monthly maintenance fees. It’s a win-win!

  • Why should I open a Growth Checking account?

    Growth Checking is the perfect account for those who want to see their money grow faster. This account offers high returns on your deposits for a small monthly service fee. You can waive the monthly fee by keeping $1,000 or more in your account. What’s even better is that the more you keep in your account, the higher the interest rate you’ll earn, so it makes sense to keep higher balances in your Growth Checking!

    If you want to put your money to work for you, open a Growth Checking account. Simply click here to start your online application as a new member or log into online or mobile banking to open your checking account if you’re already an established member. It normally takes 10 minutes or less to complete!

  • What is everyday checking?

    Everyday Checking is our free checking account. This account is convenient and simple with benefits like no minimum balances and no monthly service charges.

    If you're seeking a hassle-free checking experience coupled with top-rated online and mobile banking services, as well as options for overdraft protection and customizable account alerts, Everyday Checking is the ideal choice for you.

    Plus, our online application makes getting your new checking account easier than ever. Simply click here to start your online application as a new member or log into online or mobile banking to open your checking account if you’re already an established member. It normally takes 10 minutes or less to complete!