The right checking account can build a strong foundation — find one tailored to your unique needs.
The right savings account helps you grow toward your goals — find one that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Manage your Patelco accounts effortlessly with our comprehensive support services.
Low rates, no annual fees — Patelco credit cards fit every lifestyle and financial goal.
Flexible loans and lines of credit to consolidate debt or cover life’s big expenses
Flexible lending options and programs for new and existing homeowners.
Take advantage of one of life’s biggest investments.
Drive off with an affordable new or used vehicle, or save on one you already own.
Have your fun and freedom with a great loan that fits into your financial plan.
Explore payment options and answers to commonly asked questions about loan payments with Patelco.
Up to $50,000. As low as 11.65% APR.
Get support managing your personal loans and much more.
Learn more about our local expertise, guidance and personal service.
Get support managing your loans.
Get support managing your auto loans and much more.
Get support managing your debit and credit cards and loans.
Tailored investment solutions to help you plan, invest, and secure your financial future.
Comprehensive insurance solutions to protect your assets and loved ones.
Complimentary one-on-one guidance from our Certified Financial Specialists.
Connect with us and find the right insurance option that fits your needs.
We provide a number of banking solutions to help your small business grow with peace of mind and personalized service.
Help your business grow with the convenience of our worry-free checking account.
Enjoy the convenience of higher transaction limits with low monthly fees.
Earn rewards points on your purchases with extra security features, tools and benefits.
Ensure peace of mind and keep your business going with overdraft protection.
Everything your business needs — from hardware to software — to process payments.
Simple and secure Payroll Solutions to help you better manage your business.
A convenient, secure account that helps your business grow with no monthly fee.
Get the most out of your Patelco Business relationship with a rate as high as 3.25% APY.
Meet with our Virtual BranchTM to open your account from the comfort of your home or business. You can schedule a video appointment or meet instantly with a Patelco team member.
Patelco’s Digital Banking provides secure, convenient access to your accounts anytime, anywhere. Manage your finances effortlessly with our comprehensive suite of online and mobile services.
Sign up for Patelco Online™ to access and manage your accounts securely.
Schedule a video appointment or meet instantly with a Patelco team member.
Send and receive money instantly with friends and family using Zelle®.
Manage accounts, pay bills, and transfer funds securely from any device.
Transfer funds between accounts or send money to others quickly and securely.
Bank on the go: check balances, deposit checks, send money and more.
Schedule and manage your bill payments online with ease and confidence.
Make secure, contactless payments using your mobile device at participating merchants.
Download our Mobile App to check your balance, make transfers, pay bills, deposit checks, plan and save securely and conveniently from your phone or tablet.
Patelco Credit Union is a full-service, not-for-profit financial cooperative dedicated to helping members and communities prosper. With nearly $10 billion in assets and over 550,000 members nationwide, we are one of the largest credit unions in the nation.
Learn more about Patelco’s community values, service in action, impact, events and partnerships.
As your trusted financial partner, we’re solely focused on helping our members build and sustain their best financial lives. Learn what makes Patelco membership different.
Get expert guidance, tools and support to take control of your financial future — from fraud prevention to education, relief options, and personalized advice.
Protect yourself from scams with tools, alerts, and tips to keep your info secure.
Explore financial hardship resources, loan relief options, and personalized support.
Tune in for expert interviews and real-life stories to help you master your money.
Get one-on-one coaching and tailored financial guidance from our financial specialists.
Join live and on-demand webinars to grow your financial knowledge and confidence.
Access tools, articles, and interactive course to support smarter financial decisions.
Access articles, guides, and tools to enhance your financial knowledge.
Access to your accounts anywhere, anytime
Higher savings, better rates, and fewer fees. Discover how Patelco membership connects you to more.
Virtual or in-person personalized banking
Trusted financial advice and guidance
Added benefits with Patelco Free Checking
Patelco is one of the largest credit unions in the United States and headquartered in Northern California. With 36 branches including Patelco Virtual Branch™, we’ve been tightly connected to our communities for more than 89 years. Our time, talent, and finances support local nonprofits across our philanthropic pillars: children’s health, food insecurity, affordable housing, and financial literacy. We offer higher savings, better rates, and lower fees compared to many traditional banks. In fact, loyal Patelco members saved over $1,500 in 2024.* Our checking accounts include features and benefits that you won’t find anywhere else. We encourage you to spend some time getting to know the Patelco checking account difference and see how we’re inspired by the chance to have an impact on our members’ lives. Learn more below.
Our member-owner model puts your needs first, not profits
1Source: over 22,000 five-star reviews on the App Store. Return
Source: over 22,000 five-star reviews on the App Store.
Access to financial wellbeing tools and fraud education to ensure sustained financial health
Decision making based on giving back to the communities we call home
Access Certified Financial Specialists free of charge — our dedication to connecting you to more
With fewer fees, better rates and products fit to your needs, you can improve savings and lower expenses
As your trusted financial partner, we’re solely focused on helping our members build and sustain their best financial lives.
From free personalized advice to webinars, wellness resources and partner program discounts, we offer you more ways to save money and be informed and in control of your finances.
After reading all the positive reviews, I had to come check this out for myself and see! I came here with my other half, and we were looking for a personal loan and to move banks. I was amazed at how easy and simple the process was. They are not-for-profit and are member-driven and this feels like a real credit union that actually wants to help people.
Nelson P | Patelco Member
Make sure you’re eligible based on our basic criteria listed below. If so, you can become a member in minutes!
Your Social Security Number, driver’s license of government ID, current home address, credit card or external bank account to fund your new account. Please read our Privacy Policy.
Patelco’s Free Checking account is a great place to start with no monthly fees or minimums, and comes with great benefits.
We’re proud to offer Patelco membership to so many people. Our diverse membership base is what makes us so unique, and our inclusive approach means that you only need to meet one of the following criteria to be eligible for Patelco membership. Do you live, work, attend school or worship in the following areas, have family members/roommates who are Patelco members or work for a Patelco sponsored company? If so, you can join Patelco directly through our website. Otherwise, you can still become a member by first joining the Financial Fitness Association.
Alameda, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Marin, Merced, Napa, Placer, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Yolo
We’re proud to extend Patelco membership to the following cities: Bakersfield, Eureka, McKinleyville, and Santa Cruz
Be enrolled or an alumnus of these schools: University of California, Berkeley; San Francisco State University; California State University, East Bay
When you become a member of the Financial Fitness Association (FFA), we’ll pay for your membership for the first year.2 FFA is a non-profit that improves people’s wellbeing with financial knowledge and tools.
You’re eligible for Patelco membership if you have a family member or roommate who is a current Patelco member, or if you’re the surviving spouse or child of a deceased employee-eligible member.
Ausundra My experience has been nothing but amazing – there’s no judgment. I’m really happy I walked into Patelco. It changed my thought process about finances…to have someone by your side while you’re going through the journey feels really good.
Nadeen I use the Mobile App and they have a little thing called ‘the savings goal’ …and they help you save. So easy.
Chris Every time I go to Patelco with a challenge, they come back with a positive solution.
Alicia When I walk into Patelco, I feel greeted, and seen, and heard.
Patelco Credit Union is honored and proud to be the recipient of multiple industry awards and accolades every year. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to progress, leadership and delivering best-in-class products and services to our members. Browse a few of the latest below.
Awarded “America’s Best Credit Union” in 2025
Awarded “Best In-State Credit Union” in 2025
Awarded “Best Credit Union Personal Loan” in 2025
Awarded “Best Credit Union” in 2025
Awarded “Best Credit Union in California” in 2025
Awarded “Best-in-Class Employer” in 2025
Make an appointment to visit a Patelco branch near you or meet online with our Virtual Branch. You can also contact our dedicated new membership team at 800-358-8228 x1212 M-F from 9-5pm and Saturday from 9-2pm (PT)
Explore our easy-to-follow options to check the status of your application with Patelco. If you still have questions, please be sure to contact us. That’s what we’re here for!
Membership benefits and Patelco partner discounts
Providing financial value with better rates and lower fees
Resources to protect your financial wellbeing
* Based on the Credit Union National Association Membership Benefits Study in Q4 2024 and rates and fees as of 03/17/2025. Assumed to have a $30,000, 60-month new auto loan, a classic credit card with an average balance of $5,000, a $200,000, 30-year fixed rate mortgage (a 30-year fixed rate mortgage is replaced with a 5-year adjustable rate mortgage if it yields a greater benefit as it is assumed more in demand), $5,000 in an interest-bearing checking account, $10,000 in a 1-year certificate account, and $2,500 in a money market account.
1 Source: Over 34,700 5-star reviews across Apple iOS and Google Play app stores
2 Patelco will pay for your initial FFA membership fee, giving you a whole year of access to their podcasts, articles and resources. After the first year, renewal of the FFA membership is your responsibility and is not required to maintain your Patelco membership.
