Top Credit Unions in Berks County, PA
Looking for the top credit unions in Berks County, PA? Consider Bellco Federal Credit Union. Just like for-profit banks, we offer checking and savings accounts, home mortgages, credit cards, and even mobile banking services, but we can typically provide you with better rates and fewer fees.
Originally known as the Bell Telephone Credit Union, Bellco FCU opened its doors in 1938 and continues to provide unique financial products and services to individuals and small businesses in Berks County.
Bellco FCU is a member-owned, not-for-profit federal credit union that caters exclusively to you and your needs and offers a variety of affordable financial services. Our trusted and experienced professionals genuinely listen and offer solutions with the compassion of a true neighbor.
Although credit unions have grown more popular as an alternative to traditional for-profit banks and financial institutions, many people have misconceptions about how we work and what we offer.
Myth: It’s Difficult to Join a Credit Union
Credit unions are community-driven and typically serve people with a common bond. For example, employers often sponsor their own credit unions, such as the Firefighters First Credit Union and the Pentagon Federal Credit Union.
This means there are rules about who can join, but you may be surprised to learn that becoming a member is easier than you think!
Bellco FCU offers membership to people who live, work, worship, or attend school in Berks County, including immediate family members, such as your spouse, children, siblings, and parents.
By opening a primary Member Savings account with as little as $5 and following a few simple steps, you can become a member. And, once you join Bellco FCU, you may remain a member for the rest of your life, even if you change jobs, retire, or move away from Berks County.
Myth: Credit Unions are Less Convenient than Banks
Most traditional banks offer many satellite branches, large networks of ATMs, 24/7 call centers, and online or mobile banking services. Credit unions, however, operate under federal and state regulations that keep them from opening up branches and ATMs wherever they want in the world. But this doesn’t mean that we don’t offer the services you need!
Bellco FCU has two convenient branches in Wyomissing and Sinking Spring, PA. Members can also do business at thousands of participating branches and ATMs in the CO-OP Credit Unions network across the nation and around the world.
We also provide members with nationwide access to thousands of surcharge-free ATMs; fast, free, and easy to use online banking and bill pay services; and three convenient forms of mobile banking via web browsing, app download, and text banking.
In comparison to traditional banks, Bellco FCU is able to offer lower rates on loans and credit cards, higher rates on savings, and fewer fees for checking accounts and other convenient services.
Myth: Credit Union Deposits are Not Insured
Banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). There is typically $250,000 of FDIC coverage per customer. If the bank fails, your assets are covered by the FDIC up to $250,000.
Credit union deposits are insured by the federal National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), which provides the same protections as the FDIC– insurance coverage on deposits up to $250,000. Bellco FCU, and 98% of the credit unions in the United States, are insured by NCUA.
Bellco FCU is one of the top credit unions in Berks County, PA. Whether you are looking for home lending services, credit cards, auto loans, or an excellent savings program, become a member today and take advantage of our wide range of financial products and services!