About
Meriwest Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial institution that provides a wide range of financial services to its members. Founded in 1961 in San Jose, California, Meriwest Credit Union was originally established to serve the employees of the Westinghouse Corporation.
Over the years, the credit union has grown significantly and now serves individuals and businesses throughout the Bay Area and beyond. Today, Meriwest Credit Union has over $1 billion in assets and more than 80,000 members.
Meriwest Credit Union is a community-based credit union, meaning that anyone who lives, works, or attends school in certain counties in California is eligible to become a member. In addition, family members of existing members can also join the credit union.
As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, Meriwest Credit Union is owned and operated by its members, with any profits being returned to the members in the form of better rates, lower fees, and improved services. The credit union is also committed to giving back to the community and has established the Meriwest Foundation to support various charitable organizations and causes.
Requirements
To join Meriwest Credit Union, you must meet one of the following eligibility requirements:
- Live, work, or worship in one of the following California counties: Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Cruz, or San Francisco.
- Have an immediate family member who is a current Meriwest member.
- Work for one of Meriwest's partner companies or associations.
- Belong to one of Meriwest's partner associations, such as the Financial Fitness Association or the California PTA.
In addition, you will need to provide some personal information and identification, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and government-issued ID, when opening an account.
Products and Services
- Checking accounts. Members can choose from a selection of checking accounts, including a free checking account without monthly fees and a rewards checking account that offers interest and cash back rewards for debit card purchases.
- Savings accounts. Meriwest offers various savings accounts, such as a regular savings account with no minimum balance requirement, a money market account with tiered interest rates, and youth savings accounts for children.
- Loans. Members have access to different loan options, such as auto loans, personal loans, home loans, and business loans, which they can apply for online, by phone, or in person.
- Credit cards. Meriwest offers credit cards with low interest rates, rewards, and no annual fees. Members can choose from various card options, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
- Online and mobile banking. Meriwest members can manage their accounts online and through the mobile banking app, which allows them to check balances, transfer funds, and pay bills.
- Investment and retirement services. Meriwest Wealth Advisors, a subsidiary of the credit union, provides members with investment and retirement planning services, including financial planning and investment management.
- Business services. Meriwest offers business checking and savings accounts, merchant services, and business loans.
In summary, Meriwest Credit Union provides a range of financial products and services to its members, focusing on low fees, competitive rates, and personalized service.
Credit Union Reliability
Meriwest Credit Union is a federally insured credit union and is backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government through the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). This means that deposits at Meriwest are insured up to at least $250,000 per account. Additionally, Meriwest has been awarded a 5-star rating by BauerFinancial, a leading independent bank and credit union rating firm, indicating the credit union's strength and stability. Meriwest has also been accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) with an A+ rating, indicating the credit union's commitment to ethical business practices and customer service. Overall, Meriwest Credit Union is considered a reliable and trustworthy financial institution.
