Lake Merritt

Alameda County Employees

Your Credit Union. Your employee benefit.

Built for Alameda County Employees

1st United was founded in 1932 by Alameda County employees who wanted a better way to bank—one that put people first. That purpose still guides us today.
 
As an Alameda County employee, you have access to 1st United Credit Union membership including exclusive offers that aren't available to the general public. As a local, not-for-profit credit union, we're here to be a financial partner you can rely on—whether you're managing everyday banking or planning for what's ahead.
 

Your Exclusive Offers:

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Local Checking, Plus $250

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Auto or Personal Loan
0.50% Rate Discount

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$199 Off Wills & Trusts

Open a checking account using promo code AC250 and set up your payroll direct deposit of at least $1,000 per month for a minimum of two consecutive months within the first 60 days of account opening. Apply for an auto or personal loan using promo code ACLOAN50 and enjoy a 0.50% rate discount on our already low loan rates. Use promo code AC199 at checkout to save $199 on any estate planning package through Legal Karma.
Open an Account Apply in Minutes Start Your Plan Today
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$50 for You. $50 for Them.

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One Complimentary Skip Pay Per Year

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Get Paid Early

As a member, you can refer family, friends—anyone you’d like. When they open a qualifying account, you’ll both earn $50. Plus, there’s no limit to how much you can earn. Need a break from your loan payment? You can skip your loan payment twice a year, and we’ll reimburse one $35 Skip Pay fee per year. With direct deposit to your 1st United account, you can get paid up to two days early.
Refer a Friend Learn About Skip Pay Learn About Early Payday
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529 College Savings Plan

Give future education goals a head start with a college savings plan exclusive to Alameda County employees.
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Local Banking includes:

  • Better value with competitive loan rates and saving options to help you grow your money
  • Fewer fees so you keep more of what you earn
  • Local service you can count on
  • Trusted financial guidance at every stage
 


Member-Only Products & Perks

Everyday Banking

Smart Loans


Credit & Protection


More Ways We've Got You Covered


Easy Access to Your Accounts

 
We look forward to meeting you!
 
Headshot of Bernadette Osorio, Director of Relationship Management

Your Local Business Partner

At 1st United, we believe success happens through strong relationships. Whether you're a small business, nonprofit, or community partner, we're here to connect, collaborate, and help you thrive.
 
 
Bernadette Osorio
Relationship Management Director
bosorio@1stunitedcu.org | (925) 699-7113
It's easy to join 1st United using our online application or by visiting one of our branches.
Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, or attends school in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Joaquin, Solano, Stanislaus, or Kings Counties, California.
















$250 Checking Offer: Offer not available to existing or additional 1st United checking accounts. We reserve the right to retain incentive if checking account is closed within six months. Checking account and debit card establishment are subject to approval using a third-party consumer reporting agency. Members age 17 and under require an adult joint owner. Checking Plus: Only available for members 18 and older. Earn $250 when you 1) open a new checking account using promotional code AC250 2) set up your payroll direct deposit of at least $1,000 per month for a minimum of two consecutive months in the first 60 days of account opening. Offer is subject to change or withdrawal at any time. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Incentive will be credited on the 10th of the following month after all requirements are fulfilled. Membership is available to anyone who lives, works, or attends school in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Joaquin, Solano, Stanislaus, and Kings Counties. Insured by NCUA. 
 
Loan Rate Discount Offer: Auto: Loan cannot be used to refinance an existing 1st United Credit Union loan. Offer is for a limited time, may be changed or withdrawn at any time, and may not be combined with other offers. Rate discount is limited to one per product type.  Loans are subject to credit approval. Your rate may vary based on creditworthiness, age or value of vehicle, amount financed, and terms and conditions. Add 2% for year models 2019 and older or mileage over 100K. Minimum loan $5,000; proof of insurance required. Refinancing may extend the term of your loan. Interest will continue to accrue during the 60-day no-payment period. Must use promo code ACLOAN50. Must qualify for membership. Account must be in good standing. Personal: Loan cannot be used to refinance an existing 1st United Credit Union loan or line of credit. Rate discount is limited to one per product type. Your rate may vary based on creditworthiness, amount financed, and terms and conditions. Available terms between 12 months and 60 months. No pre-payment penalty. Loans are subject to credit approval. Must use promo code ACLOAN50. Must qualify for membership. Account must be in good standing. 
 
Skip Pay: Skip Pay is limited to eligible loan types in good standing, open for a minimum of 180 days, and limited to one skipped payment per six-month period. One skip pay fee of $35 per rolling 12-month period for each eligible loan will be automatically reimbursed to your account on the next business day following the date the fee is assessed. The fee will be automatically reimbursed to your account on the next business day after it is charged. Interest will continue to accrue during deferral period. If payment is not made with an internal scheduled payment transfer from 1st United Credit Union, member must cancel the payment and resume the payment after the skipped payment date. Other restrictions apply. View complete Skip Pay Terms and Conditions (154 KB PDF).

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