In today's age of cards and instant-pay options, does it make sense to open a checking account? Yes, it does, and here's why. 

If you're new to the world of personal finance, a checking account is one of the first options to consider. Checking accounts allow for easy access of funds and assist with budgeting. Have your paychecks conveniently direct-deposited, and pay bills right from your account with the touch of a button. Also, you can check your account activities and perform transactions such as check deposits 24/7 with mobile banking.

You can also use your ATM or debit card to easily withdraw funds fee-free from over 30,000 CO-OP ATMs nationwide. A checking account is a secure way to store funds and access them when needed. What’s more, the money you deposit into your checking account is insured from fraud loss.

How can I open a University Checking Account?

Opening a University Checking Account can be accomplished several ways. You can do so online, by phone, or in-person at your local branch. To open an account, you'll need the following information:

  • Social security number
  • Home address
  • Driver's license or state ID card
  • Date of birth
  • Minimum deposit


Once you've applied online, UCU may run a credit check to review your financial history. Once approved, your checking account will be opened and you will be issued a debit card and starter checks if needed.

What are the benefits of opening a University Checking Account?

With your new University Checking Account, you’ll have electronic payment options, which makes paying bills painless. Mobile and online banking access are available for your busy and on-the-go lifestyle. Mobile and online banking allows you to transfer, verify, or deposit your money from the comfort of your own home. Other features include:

  • Setting account and card alert notifications
  • Transferring funds to friends and family through Pay a Person (P2P)
  • Online access to eStatements once enrolled
  • Setting up automatic withdrawals or payments


UCU’s bill pay, available in online and mobile banking, features let you set up recurring payments for monthly bills such as utilities and car payments. Once you enroll, you can simply set it and forget it. As long as you have sufficient funds in your account at the time of withdrawal, you'll incur no additional fees.

What fees are associated with a University Checking Account?

We understand, no one likes to pay fees. That’s why a University Checking Account has no monthly service fees. Being a not-for-profit financial cooperative, we’re able to pass along savings to our members.

Make sure you understand the fees associated with any checking account before you sign up. These may include:

  • Monthly service charge
  • Overdraft fee
  • Bill-pay fee
  • Wire-transfer fee
  • Card replacement fee
  • ATM fee


At University Credit Union, we want our members to use their checking account without hassle or headache. Learn more.

Open a checking account with UCU today

At UCU, our University Checking Account gives you the possibility to earn up to 5.00% APY* just by banking the way you already do!

Here’s how it all adds up:


Life is better with a UCU checking account. Open one today!
 

Apply Now


Want to learn more about checking account basics? Click here