Skip to Content
Hurricane Updates and Resources

All our Florida branches are open. Several North Carolina branches remain closed. Please click here for a list of closed branches, along with resources for storm-impacted members.

Become a Member of Self-Help Credit Union

How to Join:

  • Visit a branch near you (find a branch near you).
  • Reach out to the Self-Help CU Contact Center (go to our Contact Us page)

    •  

    When you join Self-Help Credit Union, you gain access to competitive rates and affordable products and services. You also become part of a non-profit, mission-driven, financial services organization focused on economic opportunity for all.


    Why Join?

    Local Roots, National Membership

    We have locations in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia—and you can join no matter where you live. With online access, mobile banking and remote check deposit, plus thousands of free ATMs and shared branches nationwide, it's easy to bank with us wherever you are.

    Find a Self-Help branch.

    Financial Services You Can Trust

    Joining Self-Help means low fees, competitive deposit rates and no surprises. It also means affordable loans for your new home, business or car, plus other unique loans to improve your financial health. 

    See the benefits of becoming a member.

    Money that Does Good

    With Self-Help, you can build your savings and serve your community at the same
    time. Every deposit you make contributes to the mission of expanding opportunities
    for families and improving the economic well-being of our communities.

    Learn about our mission.

    Frequently Asked Questions

     

    Who is eligible to join Self-Help Credit Union?

    Anyone can become a member by joining our nonprofit, the Center for Community Self-Help,
    with a one-time $5 fee. Otherwise, many of our members are eligible because they live in
    specific locations or have affiliations through their family or workplace. See our eligibility page.

    How do I join?

    You can join by calling the contact center at (800) 966-7353, or apply in person at one of our branch locations.

    What is the Self-Help mission?

    Our mission is creating and protecting ownership and economic opportunity for all. While we
    serve members from all walks of life, our lending focus is on those who have been underserved
    by conventional lenders, including people of color, women, rural residents and low-wealth
    families and communities

    Where are Self-Help Credit Union's locations?

    With 70,000 members, Self-Help has branches in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida and
    Virginia. Visit our locations page to find your nearest branch.

    Can I use Self-Help Credit Union without having a branch nearby?

    With our automated services you can access your accounts 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We offer online, audio and mobile banking. We also partner with a network that offers over 30,000 ATMs
    nationwide.

    Is Self-Help a full-service credit union?

    Yes, we have a full range of financial products and services to fit your needs, including home loans, loans for large and small businesses, car loans and credit-building loans.

    How did Self-Help start?

    Self-Help began in 1980 as a small initiative to help workers in rural North Carolina who had been
    displaced from their jobs. Our start-up capital was $77 earned from a bake sale. Find out more about
    our mission grew and evolved at Our Story.

    What is the difference between a bank and a credit union?

    As a not-for-profit, cooperative financial institution, Self-Help is owned by our members, not
    shareholders, and we exist for the benefit of members. Our members serve as elected
    representatives, giving all members a voice in governing the credit union. Our earnings are
    returned to our members in the form of lower rates on loans and higher rates on savings.

    Why do you have the name "Self-Help"?

    From the beginning, we have witnessed the talent, determination and creativity within the
    communities we serve. Our name reflects the reality that we are investing resources in people
    who help themselves when given the opportunity to succeed.
    Other Questions? Call us at 1-800-966-7353 or visit a branch today.