Start your first checking account
Manage your financial responsibilities with an affordable banking account that rewards you.
-
Good to know
-
Must be between 18-24 years old
Designed for students and young adults just starting out, this account is only available to those in the 18-24 age range.
-
Why Choose RCU?
At RCU, we’re passionate about helping our Members improve their lives. If you want a credit union that keeps your unique needs in mind and helps you envision and manage your financial future, the friendly experts at RCU are here for you.
Named one of America’s Best Credit Unions by Newsweek
Recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Small Employers 2023
Have invested with RCU since I was 18. Never will I leave this incredible institution who truly cares about its community.
-
1
Apply online
It takes just minutes. If you aren’t already a Member, have your Social Security number and driver’s license or ID card handy.
-
2
Deposit money
Move money into your new account so you can start using it.
-
3
Manage your money online
Easily manage your money with online and mobile banking.
Build or repair your credit
A low credit score should not be where your financial future ends - the Visa® Credit Builder credit card can help you build a better score to help you qualify for various loans, including housing and vehicle loans.
Financial wellness tools
Learn to manage money wisely - Use our free learning modules to help you build credit, save for emergencies, create a budget, and more!
Have a question?
At RCU, we're known for our reliable service, and we'll answer your questions and calls quickly.
Be in control of your own money
Enjoy a free Start Smart checking account with benefits to help you succeed.
-
1Debit rewards available for personal accounts only. Business accounts are not eligible for debit rewards. Signature-based transactions only.
2Certain restrictions may apply. Recipient must have a U.S. bank account. Once a recipient claims their funds, transfers are generally completed within 1 business day or less, but may take up to 3 business days. Message and data rates may apply. Mobile banking from RCU is free, but you may incur data charges from your carrier/service plan. Please check with your carrier and service plan on specific charges.
3First two non-RCU ATM fees reimbursed with active checking; first four non-RCU ATM fees reimbursed with checking and active RCU loan or credit card. Active=at least one transaction or payment in prior month. Casino/gambling and ATMs outside U.S. excluded.
All Highlights
-
No initial deposit or minimum balance requirement
There's no initial deposit required to open your account, no minimum balance requirement, and no monthly fees with Start Smart checking.
-
Free debit card & rewards1
You can use your free debit card to shop online or in-store. Plus, you'll earn points that you can redeem for cash back, gift cards, and more!
-
Free overdraft protection
There's nothing better than the peace of mind that comes with knowing your transactions won't bounce.
-
Person to person payments (RCUpay)2
Send money right from the RCU app. Use the free RCUpay feature to pay your roommate, landlord, or nearly anyone!
-
Nationwide ATM access3
Enjoy free access to 30,000 CO-OP® ATMs nationwide, or get cash at nearly any ATM fee-free up to 4 times per month with our ATM fee reimbursement program.
-
Convenient banking access
You can bank online or on your phone. It's easy, fast, and you can access your account from anywhere.
Checking account online application
You can open a young adult checking account in-person at an RCU branch.
Need help?
Conveniently schedule a time to meet in person or speak on the phone with one of our team members.
Already a Member?
Give us a call and we can go over options to upgrade your existing accounts.
PPP Forgiveness Application Deadline
Congress passed The Economic Aid Act which changed the deferment period from 6 months post covered period to 10 months post covered period. For example, if your covered period ended June 30, 2021, under the new guidelines the earliest your first loan payment wouldn’t be due until April 2022, and you have until then to request forgiveness. Please use the following calculation to help you identify when your forgiveness will be due:
- PPP borrowers may select a covered period anywhere from 8 weeks to 24 weeks.
- RCU is automatically calculating your loan due date based on a 24-week covered period, if you intend on using a shorter covered period please inform us immediately as this will impact your due date.
- Your correct deadline will be reflected in your online banking account.
If all or part of your PPP loan is not forgiven, your first loan payment will be due the first of the following month after a decision is made by the SBA.
Leaving Our Website
You are leaving our website and linking to an alternative website not operated by us. Redwood Credit Union does not endorse or guarantee the products, information, or recommendations provided by third-party vendors or third-party linked sites.