Top Rates From Top Credit Unions

Whether you’re shopping for a mortgage, or a CD, a local credit union could have the best deal.

They often match or beat the best nationally-available rates for all types of deposits and loans.

Membership rules have been changed so that they’re easier to join. You no longer have to work for a single company, or practice a certain trade, to qualify.

Melrose Credit Union, for example, has excellent rates and is open to anyone who lives in New York state.

Here are some examples of the competitive interest rates you can find:

Certificates of deposit:

• 12-month: Wings Financial FCU, 3.04% with a $500 minimum deposit
• 24-month: Police & Fire FCU, 3.25% with a $500 minimum deposit
• 30-month: Alliant CU, 2.90% with a $1,000 minimum deposit
• 36-month: PenFed FCU, 3.50% with a $1,000 minimum deposit

Mortgage:

Security Service FCU is offering a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage for 4.5%, no points

Home equity loan:

Eastern Financial Florida CU, 4.75% for a 5-year loan of at least $5,000

Home equity line of credit:

Randolph-Brooks FCU, 2.75% (prime minus 0.50%, no floor), $5,000 min.

Credit cards:

Municipal Credit Union, 8.90% APR on purchases (4.9% for first six months), 16.9% APR on cash advances, no annual fee

Auto loan (new and used):

First Tech Credit Union, starting at 3.99%

Here’s where to find a credit union in your area.