If you live in Utah, Idaho, or Arizona, you’ve probably seen the Mountain America Credit Union logo on a branch or two. With roots going back to 1935, this financial cooperative has grown into one of the largest credit unions in the country, serving over 1.2 million members and managing more than $17 billion in assets. But size isn’t everything. What really matters is whether Mountain America fits your financial life. Here’s a closer look at what they offer, who can join, and how they compare to other options.
Who Can Join Mountain America Credit Union?
Mountain America isn’t open to just anyone, but the eligibility rules are broader than you might think. If you live, work, worship, or attend school in an eligible county across Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Montana, or Wyoming, you can become a member. That covers a huge swath of the western U.S.
Don’t live in one of those counties? You might still qualify through your employer or an association. Many companies and community organizations partner with Mountain America, giving their employees or members access. Immediate family members of current members can also join. Once you’re in, you’re in for life—even if you move away or change jobs.
- Geographic eligibility: Live, work, worship, or attend school in select counties.
- Employment: Work for a participating employer.
- Association membership: Belong to a partner group or organization.
- Family: Have a relative who is already a member.
Opening an account requires a small deposit—usually $5 in a savings account—and you’re set. That $5 represents your share of the cooperative. The credit union also participates in the CO-OP Shared Branch network, so you can handle transactions at thousands of other credit union branches nationwide. Joining is straightforward: you can apply online in about 10 minutes or visit a branch. You’ll need a government-issued ID and your Social Security number.
Everyday Banking That Won’t Nickel-and-Dime You
Checking and Savings
Like most credit unions, Mountain America returns profits to members in the form of lower fees and better rates. Their checking accounts come with no monthly maintenance fees if you meet simple requirements, like setting up direct deposit. You get early access to your paycheck, often up to two days sooner, which is a nice perk.
Savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) offer competitive yields. They also have money market accounts and IRAs for retirement savings. If you’re looking for a high-yield savings option, their rates are worth a look—especially compared to big banks that pay next to nothing.
Loans and Credit Cards
On the borrowing side, Mountain America offers auto loans, personal loans, and credit cards. Auto loan rates are often among the lowest you’ll find, and they have a streamlined online application. Credit cards include options for cash back and travel rewards, with no annual fee on many cards. They also offer secured cards for those building credit. They also offer free checks and no overdraft fees if you opt out of overdraft protection.
Home Loans and Real Estate Financing
Mortgage Options
Buying a home is a big deal, and Mountain America has a dedicated mortgage team to help. They offer conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and jumbo loans. First-time homebuyer programs are available with low down payment options. If you’re just starting to explore mortgage options, it helps to understand what lenders look for. Our guide on what homebuyers should know before applying for a mortgage covers the application process and tips to strengthen your profile.
Home Equity and Investment Properties
Existing homeowners can tap into equity with a home equity loan or line of credit. Rates are typically lower than personal loans, and the interest may be tax-deductible. For investors, Mountain America does offer financing for rental properties, though terms and rates vary. If you’re considering a rental, our guide to financing your first rental property walks through the ins and outs. They also participate in down payment assistance programs for eligible buyers, which can make homeownership more attainable.
Digital Tools That Make Banking Easy
Mountain America’s mobile app consistently earns high marks from users. It’s rated 4.8 stars on the App Store, and for good reason. You can deposit checks with your camera, pay bills, transfer money, and set up alerts. Zelle is built in, so you can send money to friends instantly. The app also lets you control your debit and credit cards—freeze them if lost, set spending limits, and more.
Online banking is equally robust. You can open new accounts, apply for loans, and chat with customer service. If you prefer face-to-face help, there are over 100 branches across the western states. And thanks to the CO-OP Shared Branch network, you can use thousands of other credit union branches nationwide. The CO-OP ATM network gives you access to over 30,000 fee-free ATMs. You can also set up text alerts for large transactions or low balances, giving you peace of mind.
How Mountain America Compares to Other Credit Unions
Mountain America isn’t the only game in town. In Utah and neighboring states, America First Credit Union is another heavyweight. Both are not-for-profit cooperatives with similar missions, but they differ in eligibility, branch locations, and product lineups. For instance, America First has a strong presence in Utah and Nevada, while Mountain America reaches into more states. If you’re weighing your options, our America First Credit Union review breaks down its membership, banking, and home loan offerings. It’s a helpful side-by-side if you’re deciding where to park your money.
Other competitors include local banks and online-only banks. Credit unions like Mountain America tend to win on customer satisfaction and rates, but they may have fewer branches than big banks. That’s less of an issue if you’re comfortable with digital banking. Both credit unions are federally insured by the NCUA, so your deposits are protected up to $250,000.
Getting the Most Out of Your Membership
Once you join Mountain America, a few smart moves can maximize your benefits. First, set up direct deposit to avoid monthly fees and get paid early. Second, link your accounts to the mobile app and turn on notifications so you never miss a payment or suspicious charge. Third, take advantage of rate discounts—many credit unions knock 0.25% off auto loan rates if you set up automatic payments from a checking account.
If you’re saving for a goal, look into their “MyStyle” or “Holiday” savings accounts, which let you set money aside without easy access. For long-term investing, consider meeting with a financial advisor through their investment services. They can help with retirement planning, college savings, and more. Consider setting up automatic transfers to a savings account each payday to build an emergency fund without thinking about it.
Finally, don’t overlook financial education. Mountain America offers free workshops, webinars, and articles on topics like budgeting, credit scores, and homebuying. It’s part of their mission as a cooperative—to help members thrive financially, not just profit from them. Stop by a branch or visit their website to see current rates and open an account.