Save Smarter:
Are you wondering why It Makes Sense to Belong at 1st Ed? Control your money anytime, anywhere with a Checking Account! As a member, you’ll have access to 30,000+ surcharge-free ATMs across the country to use your fee-free debit card, our innovative mobile app, and more.
For a limited time only, you can earn 50* when you set up your new account. It’s simple: when you open your Checking Account with a debit card (did we mention it’s free?) and enroll in Online Banking with eStatements and deposit a minimum of $50, we’ll match that $50 to get your savings started!*
Borrow Better:
Are you looking for additional funding to fill the gap for your education? A student loan at 1st Ed can help! Apply for a flexible, affordable Student Choice Student Line of Credit and you’ll receive a pair of earbuds, on us!** We also offer Auto Loans, Personal Loans, Credit Cards, and more, so whatever you’re looking for, 1st Ed is here to help fund your dreams.
Plus, one lucky winner who opens a Checking Account or applies for a Student Choice loan will be randomly selected to win an air purifier!**
Who is 1st Ed Credit Union?
We’re a credit union, which offers similar products and services as a bank, but with local customer service and our members in mind. If you’re looking to start saving, apply for loans, or invest in your future, we can help! Our branches are located in Chambersburg, Greencastle, and Hanover, PA; plus, with our Mobile App and Online Banking your account is always within reach.
Founded in 1938, 1st Ed Credit Union is a full-service financial institution serving southern Pennsylvania. We strive to provide our members with quality and diverse services, as well as personal attention to their financial needs. As a member-owned, not-for-profit organization our earnings are returned to our members in the form of lower loan rates, higher interest on deposits, and lower fees. Find out why others say It Makes Sense to Belong at 1st Ed!
What You Get as a Member:
- Financial services to meet your needs, whether you’re looking for a loan or starting to save (savings, checking, loans, and more)
- Access to 30,000+ surcharge-free ATMs to access your money when & where you need it
- Mobile app with SmartWallet card control and 24/7 account access
- Personal, local customer support where you’re more than just a number
- Free financial education events and resources
- No monthly or annual fees!
- And so much more!
Credit unions and banks are similar, but there are several key differences:
While a credit union offers similar services to a bank (like debit/credit cards and online banking), our structure is fundamentally different. Banks are for-profit institutions driven by stockholders, while credit unions operate as financial cooperatives owned by their members. Any profits we make go back to you, our members, in the form of convenient financial services with low or no fees. Plus, your money is just as safe. Deposits are federally insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), a federal agency, similar to how the FDIC insures bank deposits.
As a Shippensburg University (go Raiders!) student, you are eligible for membership at 1st Ed. You can visit any of our branches, located in Chambersburg, Greencastle, and Hanover, Pennsylvania, to apply in person. You can also apply online. You will need to provide personal identification information, such as your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security Number, as required by law.
Absolutely. Building a positive credit history is crucial for your financial health. But remember, improving your credit score is a marathon, not a sprint. The most impactful actions you can take are:
- Pay all your bills on time: Payment history is the single most important factor in your credit score.
- Keep your credit card balances low: Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit limit. For instance, if you have a $1,000 limit, try to keep your balance below $300.
- Don’t close old credit accounts: The length of your credit history matters. Keeping older, well-managed accounts open can be beneficial.
- Review your credit report regularly: Check for errors that could be hurting your score and dispute them if you find any.
Our team is also here to offer guidance and connect you with financial education resources to help you on your credit-building journey.
Good news: Once a member, you’re always a member and will have access to your credit union benefits! You can use over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs across the country. Plus, our comprehensive digital services (including Mobile Deposit for check deposits, Bill Pay, and SmartWallet to manage your cards) mean your money is always at your fingertips from your favorite devices.
Yes, 1st Ed Credit Union offers Zelle® through our mobile app and online banking. You can send or receive money to people you know and trust directly from your account.
*Promotional offer available only to Shippensburg University students with no previous relationship with 1st Ed Credit Union. Member must open a Checking Account with debit card, enroll in Online Banking with eStatements, and account must meet $50 minimum balance requirement within promotion period to receive incentive. $5 of the initial deposit will be put on hold as a membership share and cannot be withdrawn without closing the membership. New member incentive will be revoked when a new membership is closed within 12 months of the opening date. Cannot be combined with any other offers; offer subject to change or terminate at any time without prior notice. Giveaway winner will be randomly selected from all eligible participants. May receive a 1099-INT for tax purposes. Deposits are insured by NCUA up to $250,000. Not a member? Visit https://www.1edcu.org/about-us/membership/ to see if you qualify.
**Promotional offer available only to Shippensburg University students with no previous relationship with 1st Ed Credit Union. Application must be received through Student Choice loan application portal. Applicant is eligible for incentive regardless of loan approval. Giveaway winner will be randomly selected from all eligible participants. Deposits are insured by NCUA up to $250,000. Not a member? Visit https://www.1edcu.org/about-us/membership/ to see if you qualify.
**Promotional offer available only to Shippensburg University students with no previous relationship with 1st Ed Credit Union. Application must be received through Student Choice loan application portal. Applicant is eligible for incentive regardless of loan approval. Giveaway winner will be randomly selected from all eligible participants. Deposits are insured by NCUA up to $250,000. Not a member? Visit https://www.1edcu.org/about-us/membership/ to see if you qualify.