Student Loans
Great Lakes Credit Union has everything you need to help manage your money and plan for the future.
How to Open an Account
Quick Account Setup, Big Rewards
There’s no need to stress about how to open a credit union account. With Great Lakes Credit Union, it's quick and easy. Our application can be completed in just a few minutes and new accounts are typically approved in as little as one day.
Open an account today to take advantage of our competitive rates, low fees, and dedicated service!
Best Credit Union In Chicagoland
Unlike other financial institutions with distant corporate offices, Great Lakes Credit Union is local. We live in the same community as you and understand the unique needs and challenges of Chicago residents. We are committed to supporting our members and the community to make sure Chicago continues to be a great place to live for everyone.
We also strive to provide unmatched personal service to help you achieve all of your financial goals. If you’re already a member, the question of how to open a GLCU account is easily answered. New accounts for existing members can be opened quickly and easily anytime within our online banking platform. Just click the link below to get started.
Experience a Member-First Approach to Banking
Nonprofit Banking
As a nonprofit organization, we pass the savings on to you in the form of better rates and lower fees.
Access to Over 5,600 Branches
Through our Shared Branch partnership, we’re local to you in every state. Enjoy access to nearly 30,000 ATMs!
Personalized Service
At GLCU, you’re a valued member! We provide personalized service to help you reach your financial goals.
24/7 Account Access
Manage your accounts online or with our mobile banking app anytime, anywhere.
Open a GLCU Account in 3 Easy Steps!
Step1
Apply Online
To establish membership, fill out our short application online or visit a local branch.
Step2
Choose an Account
Select the account you want to open (e.g., savings, checking, etc.) and submit the application.
Step3
We’ll Contact You
We’ll reach out to you when your new account is ready, which is typically within one business day.
Your account can be approved in as little as 1 business day!*
Fast account approvals mean you don’t have to wait to take advantage of member benefits. Since it only takes a few minutes to fill out our short application, there’s no need to delay in becoming a Great Lakes Credit Union member. Apply today to enjoy better rates, lower fees, and personalized service that puts your needs first.
Manage Your Accounts While You Are On the Go
With online access and our mobile banking app, you can conveniently take care of your banking wherever you are. Without visiting a branch, you can:
- View your account balance
- Receive eAlerts
- Pay bills
- Transfer funds to another account
- Apply for a loan
- Deposit a check with your mobile device
- And more!
Our mobile banking app is FREE for iPhone, Android, and other devices. Just follow the prompts to download and install the app for quick account access.
Better Rates, Better Service
At Great Lakes Credit Union, we’re focused on serving the needs of our member-owners instead of making a profit for investors. As a nonprofit organization, we offer better rates, fewer fees, and superior service.
We’re also community-focused. As a local organization, we want to see the greater Chicago economy thrive. We support local businesses, partner with community initiatives, and invest in the neighborhoods where we live and work.
“I recently opened my savings account with GLCU, and have nothing but positive things to say! From the moment I walked in the door everyone was so prompt, polite, and made me feel like a valued client!”
More Ways We Can Serve Your Banking Needs
Free High-Yield Checking Account
Put your money to work and earn a competitive APY¹ on balances of up to $10,000. Earn reward points for using your debit card for your daily purchases.
Certificates
Lock in a great rate with flexible terms of six months to five years. Guaranteed returns help you meet your savings goals and plan for the future.
High-Interest Savings Account
Grow your savings faster with a higher APY¹ than other savings options. Easily keep up with your savings progress with free eStatements and eAlerts.
*Anyone interested in opening a GLCU account can now do so typically within one business day, thanks to GLCU’s partnership with Plaid, a fintech company that facilitates communication between financial services apps and users' banks and credit card providers. Read GLCU’s privacy policy as it relates to Plaid here.
¹APY = Annual Percentage Yield. All dividend rates and APY may change at any time, as determined by GLCU Board of Directors. The APYs shown above assume that all principal and dividends remain on deposit for the entire term. Fees could reduce earnings on the above accounts. The dividend rate may be calculated using two different rates. The dividend rate will appear as a blended APY on your monthly statement.
Federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.
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