Both Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU) and Alliant Credit Union offer compelling benefits, but they cater to slightly different needs. DCU stands out for its high APY on initial savings and a broad range of loan products. Alliant, on the other hand, excels with its 24/7 customer service, no overdraft fees on checking, and extensive ATM network. The best choice depends on individual priorities, such as maximizing initial savings returns (DCU) or prioritizing accessibility and fee-free banking (Alliant).
| Attribute | Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU) | Alliant Credit Union |
|---|---|---|
| Membership Eligibility | — | You can become a member if you are a current or retired employee of an Alliant partner business, a domestic partner or immediate family member of a current Alliant member, or live or work in a community near Alliant's Chicago headquarters. If you don't meet these criteria, you can become a member by joining the Alliant Credit Union Foundation as a digital inclusion advocate. Alliant will even make a one-time $5 donation on your behalf. Non-US residents can become members if they have a Social Security number or an unexpired ITIN. |
| Minimum Deposit Requirements | — | High-Rate Checking: $0; High-Rate Savings: $100 to earn APY. A minimum balance of $5 is required to keep the account open; CDs (Share Certificates): $1,000. |
| Checking Account Options and Features | — | High-Rate Checking: Earns 0.25% APY. It has no monthly service fees, overdraft fees, or minimum balance requirements. Members can get up to $20 in ATM fee rebates per month for out-of-network ATM use. To earn interest, you need to enroll in e-statements and set up at least one monthly electronic deposit. It comes with a Visa debit card and is eligible for free overdraft protection when you link an Alliant savings account. Alliant also offers a free first box of checks. Teen Checking: Available for teens aged 13 to 17 who can be a joint account holder with their parents. It has no minimum balance requirements or monthly service fees. It also earns 0.25% APY. The Visa debit card has a daily limit of $500 for ATM withdrawals and $500 for purchases. |
| Savings Account Options and APY | — | High-Rate Savings Account: Earns 3.10% APY with a minimum balance of $100. There are no monthly fees if you opt for e-statements. Kids Savings Account: For kids ages 12 and under with a parent, grandparent, or legal guardian as a joint account holder. Alliant covers the initial $5 deposit, and there are no monthly fees if you opt for e-statements. It currently offers 3.10% APY. Supplemental Savings Account: This account also offers 3.10% APY. You can open multiple accounts for different savings goals. |
| Loan Products Offered | — | Alliant offers a variety of loan products, including auto loans, mortgages, personal loans, credit cards, RV loans, and home equity loans. |
| Credit Card Options and Rewards Programs | — | Alliant offers credit cards. For Visa credit card fees, refer to the Visa credit card disclosures and agreements. |
| Online and Mobile Banking Features | — | Alliant is an online credit union with robust online and mobile banking tools. The mobile app is available for iOS (rated 4.7 stars out of 5 on the App Store) and Android (rated 4.5 stars out of 5 on Google Play). You can deposit checks, monitor balances, make payments with bill pay, and ask questions via secure messenger. The app also features a planning tool to create and monitor budgets and set financial goals. |
| ATM Network and Fees | — | Alliant provides access to 80,000 surcharge-free ATMs. The High-Rate Checking account offers up to $20 in monthly out-of-network ATM reimbursements. |
| Customer Service Channels and Availability | — | You can contact customer service 24/7 by calling 800-328-1935. Full-service hours are Monday - Friday: 7 AM - 8 PM CT and Saturday - Sunday: 9 AM - 6 PM CT. You can also send a secure message via online banking and receive a response within 1-2 business days. |
| Financial Planning and Investment Services | — | Alliant offers financial planning and investment services through Alliant Retirement and Investment Services. They provide access to financial consulting with customized plans. |
| Mobile App Rating (iOS and Android) | — | The Alliant mobile app has a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 on the App Store (iOS) and 4.5 stars out of 5 on Google Play (Android). |
| FDIC or NCUA Insurance Coverage | — | Alliant deposit accounts are NCUA-insured, protecting funds up to $250,000. |