Open Your Eyes To A Credit Union

Written by: Andrew Jason

Photos by Hillary Ehlen

The question gets asked time and time again, “What is a credit union?” 

You may know that credit unions are different than banks, but how and why? Credit unions are a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution. They’ve been around for more than 100 years. First Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in North Dakota and has been proudly serving its members for 80 years. As a credit union, profits are returned back to members in the form of better rates, products and quality customer service. As member-owners, you get a piece of the pie.

Unfortunately, there are often five common misconceptions about credit unions. This article is here to help combat these myths.

 Kris Hanneman, Brian Gramer, Chris Howell and Nate Medhus with First Community Credit Union
Commercial Team (L to R)
Kris Hanneman, Brian Gramer, Chris Howell and Nate Medhus

Myth #1

I can’t join a credit union. This myth is simply not true! Becoming a member of a credit union is easy. For FCCU, you simply have to live in the region. Credit unions have what’s called a Field of Membership and FCCU’s is the eastern side of North Dakota and western Minnesota. Also, the process of opening an account or switching from your current financial institution is easy and can be done online. For more information, visit myFCCU.com. 

Myth #2

Credit Unions don’t have the technology I need. They may be a local, community-based credit union, but local doesn’t mean you’re limited. FCCU offers free mobile apps, online banking, bill pay, mobile check deposit, business online banking and more. Technology is important in managing your finances in today’s world and FCCU has made an investment to make sure you can manage your money anytime and anywhere. 

Myth #3

Credit Unions don’t have multiple locations. FCCU has 28 branch locations across 23 cities in North Dakota and Minnesota. They serve more than 45,000 members.

Myth #4

Banks have more ATMs. Nearly all of their branches have ATMs and FCCU checking account holders can take advantage of no ATM fees at thousands of locations with shared networking and Kasasa checking. FCCU wants members to travel and enjoy life, knowing their money is always nearby.

Myth #5

Credit Unions don’t offer many products. Each and every day, credit unions help people like you achieve your financial goals, faster. You might be surprised to hear FCCU offers the same products, and in many cases, more than your other financial institution. From business checking and loans, to mortgages, agriculture lending, credit cards, checking, savings and IRAs, they provide a full array of financial services. FCCU was the first in the area to offer a unique, free checking account called Kasasa; this high interest earning checking pays cash rewards each month and offers free ATMs.

There are countless reasons why one should join a credit union, but most importantly with FCCU, you’re a person and not just an account number. They believe in providing a better financial future for all members. 

Nate Medhus, VP of the Fargo Region says “Here at FCCU, our staff is proud to serve our member-owners, each and every day.” He continues, “It’s a privilege they chose our financial institution. We get excited to develop relationships and help make a difference in people’s lives, throughout our Fargo/Moorhead area.” 

Jeremy Lindell and Darin Engstrom  with First Community Credit Union
Mortgage Lenders (L to R)
Jeremy Lindell and Darin Engstrom


Where You Can Find Them

With 28 branch locations across 23 cities in North Dakota and Minnesota, FCCU serves more than 45,000 members. 

Come see Nate and staff at one of their three Fargo locations to find out more about what credit union can offer you. 

Fargo Northland
1404 12th Ave. N
South of NDSU

Fargo 45th
4521 19 Ave. South
Across from large Petro gas station

Fargo 52nd
5201 42nd St. S
Near south Walmart

myFCCU.com
1-800-850-7676

Eric Post, Connie Olgaard, Nick Halfmann, Cali Sailer, Carolyn Holtgrewe, Mitch Volk, Angie Thomas and Laura Wickham with First Community Credit Union
Financial Services (L to R)
Front Row: Eric Post, Connie Olgaard and Nick Halfmann
Back Row: Cali Sailer, Carolyn Holtgrewe, Mitch Volk, Angie Thomas and Laura Wickham

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