If you’re wondering how to become a Member of Redwood Credit Union, this FAQ explains who is eligible, what information you need, and how to get started.
Who can open an account and join RCU?
Answer: You can become a Member if you: live or work in any one of eight California counties (Sonoma, Lake, Marin, Napa, Mendocino, San Francisco, Solano, or Contra Costa), are an immediate family member of a current Redwood Credit Union Member (no matter where you live), or work for a Select Employer Group.
When you’re ready, it’s easy to open an account online. The application takes about 5 minutes to complete. Membership starts with an RCU savings account.
Key Takeaways:
- You may qualify if you live or work in certain Northern California counties.
- Immediate family members of current Members may also qualify.
- Employees of designated Select Employer Groups can also join.
- Membership begins with opening an RCU savings account.
What do I need to open an RCU savings account online?
Answer: To help the application go smoothly, please have the required information ready before you begin.
Steps:
- Confirm that you qualify for membership through your county of residence or work, an immediate family connection to a current Member, or your employer.
- Gather the following information:
- A valid ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and date of birth for each person on the account
- A phone number, email address, and physical U.S. address
- A debit card or bank account number and routing number to fund your new account
- Now you’re ready to complete the online account opening process to begin your membership.
What should I know before becoming a Member?
Answer: Here are four things to know before joining RCU:
- Credit unions are financial cooperatives owned by their Members. They focus on service, not profit. To join RCU, you will first open a savings account, which gives you a share in our cooperative.
- Eligibility for membership depends on where you live or work, whether you are an immediate family member of a current Member, or whether your employer is one of RCU’s Select Employer Groups.
- For a business membership, your business’s primary operation generally must be located in one of the field-of-membership counties. A sole proprietorship may also qualify if the owner is already an RCU Member.
- Your RCU deposits are insured to at least $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration, a US government agency.
If you aren’t sure if you qualify for membership, review "Who can open an account and join RCU?" above or contact us. We’re here to help!
Why It Matters:
- Confirming whether you can become a Member before you start the application ensures your time isn’t wasted.
- The application process is easier when you have the right information ready.
- Whether you’re joining as an individual or a business, you have peace of mind that your funds will be federally insured.
