The Best Credit Unions for Eastside Locals

Credit unions in Eastside are proving that banking can be both personal and community-driven, with local branches offering services tailored for everything from tech professionals to eco-conscious families. Whether you crave cutting-edge digital tools or hands-on support for your next big purchase, there’s a credit union here designed to put your financial needs first.

Let’s get to it.

First Tech Federal Credit Union

Since its founding in 1952, First Tech Federal Credit Union has served technology professionals and their families in the Pacific Northwest. It provides an online banking platform and mobile app for bill payments, money transfers, and account management. Members can set up direct deposit and receive real-time alerts for account activity. Branches in Bellevue, Kirkland, and Seattle operate Monday through Friday until 5 p.m., with Saturday morning hours in Kirkland and Seattle.

Members can choose from a variety of checking and savings accounts, auto and home loans, insurance policies, and investment services designed specifically for tech workers. While fee schedules are not always fully detailed online, the credit union offers access to more than 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. Dedicated customer support teams address tech-related issues and assist with account setup.

First Tech sponsors local nonprofit organizations through financial contributions and volunteer programs. Partnerships with over 900 companies, including Amazon and Intel, reinforce its membership focus. With an emphasis on technology-driven services and community engagement, it delivers a smooth banking experience for people working in the tech sector.

Check out their website.

Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union

Established in 1936, Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union provides checking, savings, loans, and investment accounts to members in Bellevue, Renton, Tacoma, and Vashon. Its participation in the CO-OP Shared Branching network and extensive ATM partnerships grant access to financial services across the country. The credit union also offers online statements and paperless billing to reduce waste.

Online banking and a mobile app enable account management on the go. Remote deposit capture lets members deposit checks by photographing them. Alerts for low balances and scheduled payments help members stay on track. The credit union offers Energy-Smart Loans for solar panels and energy-efficient windows, as well as a GreenRewards Checking account that supports local environmental organizations.

Most branches close before dinner on weekdays, but the Vashon location remains open on Saturdays. No-cost checking and free bill pay help members avoid extra charges. Community events and financial workshops reinforce the credit union’s local presence. With a strong focus on job creation, conservation projects, and nonprofit support, PSCCU invests in regional growth and ecological initiatives.

Check out their website.

Global Credit Union

Starting in 1948 as a cooperative for Alaskan air depot workers, Global Credit Union has expanded across Alaska, Washington, Idaho, parts of California, and Maricopa County in Arizona. The institution grew further by acquiring First Financial Northwest Bank. Members can open checking and savings accounts, apply for personal and business loans, and access mortgage services. Online banking and a mobile app support remote deposits, transfers, and account alerts.

Global offers tailored products for military personnel, federal employees, and Alaska Native Regional Corporations. Personal insurance and investment options complement traditional credit union offerings. The credit union also provides cash-back rewards on select checking accounts and low-rate credit cards.

Global eliminated non-sufficient funds fees and provides an early direct-deposit feature. Members can use more than 55,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. A 24/7 Member Service Center handles questions and transactions at any hour. Selected branches feature drive-through lanes. Global Credit Union also supports regional causes through its foundation, donating funds and volunteer hours to local nonprofits.

Check out their website.

BECU – Eastside Financial Center

Serving the Eastside since 1935, BECU’s Eastside Financial Center offers full-service banking to Boeing employees and local residents. It provides checking and savings accounts, personal and business loans, and home-equity lines of credit. Debit cards can be issued on site, and services include notary services and cashier’s checks alongside ATM access. Online banking and a mobile app allow for bill pay, transfers, and remote deposit.

As a member-owned, not-for-profit credit union, BECU prioritizes member benefits over fee income. The branch hosts free financial seminars, community events, and first-time homebuyer workshops. With over 240 ATMs and approximately 60 branches in the region, members enjoy convenient access to their accounts.

The Eastside location follows standard weekday hours and opens on Saturday mornings. It does not offer a drive-through window but its digital banking platform and mobile app support remote account access and transactions. BECU also issues credit and debit cards with up-to-date security features. Its combination of local service and online tools makes this center a practical choice for diverse banking needs.

Check out their website.

Gesa Credit Union

Established in 1953 in Richland, Washington, Gesa Credit Union now operates more than 30 branches statewide. Members benefit from low service fees and minimal account requirements. With access to a network of over 77,000 no-fee ATMs, you rarely pay extra for withdrawals.

Gesa provides a full suite of services: checking and savings accounts, personal and auto loans, mortgages—including programs for first-time homebuyers—business banking, and investment options. Small business owners in the Pacific Northwest often turn to Gesa for tailored loan programs and support designed for local enterprises rather than large corporations.

Digital tools are reliable and user-friendly. The mobile app and online portal let you check balances, pay bills, and deposit checks by snapping photos. Many branches include drive-through lanes for added convenience. As a not-for-profit, member-owned institution, Gesa emphasizes community support through scholarships and free financial seminars. Their competitive rates and focus on local engagement reinforce the sense that your money stays right here in the community.

Check out their website.

WSECU

Operating since 1957, WSECU began serving state employees and has since opened membership to all Washington residents. With more than 23 branches in cities such as Seattle, Everett, and Bellevue, plus a network of 24-hour ATMs, it’s easy to find access points across the state.

WSECU offers standard personal banking: checking and savings accounts, personal and auto loans, mortgages, and credit cards. Members can also tap into investment and insurance services. Select branches feature drive-through lanes that let you handle transactions without stepping out in rainy weather.

Their online and mobile banking platforms support balance checks, bill pay, and remote deposits. WSECU’s commitment to first-time homebuyers includes specialized programs and a Welcome Home Grant. The credit union also partners with local organizations and awards annual community grants. Branch hours generally follow traditional banking schedules, with some locations open a half-day on Saturdays but closed on Sundays. WSECU’s member-first approach aims to combine personal service with community impact.

Check out their website.

Harborstone Credit Union

Tracing its roots to the 1950s as McChord Federal Credit Union, Harborstone Credit Union adopted its current name in the 1990s and merged with Community 1st Credit Union in 2024. Today it operates 16 branches across King, Pierce, and Thurston counties. The CO-OP ATM and shared branching networks ensure members can access cash and in-person services wherever they are. Online banking and a mobile app handle bill pay, transfers, and mobile deposit.

Harborstone’s BreakFree and Ultimate Value checking accounts carry no monthly fees and require only $25 to open. Teen members can open a fee-free account. In addition to personal checking, the credit union offers mortgages, auto and personal loans, and business banking services. Selected branches provide Saturday hours and drive-through lanes for added convenience.

Beyond traditional banking, Harborstone emphasizes financial education. Community workshops and one-on-one coaching are available through partnerships with Junior Achievement of Washington and Sound Outreach. The credit union also hosts webinars and publishes online financial resources. This combination of digital tools and community engagement delivers dependable service without hidden costs.

Check out their website.

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