SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union

SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is a federally chartered credit union headquartered in Tustin, California. It is the largest credit union in California by membership and one of the largest in the country. The credit union was founded in 1934 to serve public school employees and has remained focused on that community throughout its history.

SchoolsFirst is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative insured by the National Credit Union Administration up to $250,000 per depositor. Because it operates as a cooperative rather than a shareholder-owned bank, it generally aims to provide competitive rates and fewer fees for its members.

Membership is restricted to California school employees, retirees from qualifying school districts, and their immediate family members. This includes teachers, administrators, support staff, and other individuals employed by California's K-12 public schools, community colleges, and certain other educational institutions. Family members such as spouses, children, parents, and siblings of eligible members can also join.

SchoolsFirst commonly offers savings and checking accounts, auto loans, mortgages, personal loans, and credit cards. Its auto loan rates are frequently cited as competitive, and its mortgage products cover both purchase and refinance. Members who work in the education sector and their families will generally find a broad range of financial products available.

The credit union operates branches across California, with particular concentration in Southern California, the San Francisco Bay Area, and the Central Valley. It also provides full online and mobile banking services.

This credit union is specifically designed for the California education community. If you are a California school employee or a family member of one, SchoolsFirst is worth considering as part of a comparison of available financial institutions.