Built by our members, guided by community.
Since 1936, Northwoods Credit Union has been helping members build stronger financial futures. What began as a small credit union serving local workers has grown into a trusted financial partner for individuals, families, and businesses across northern Minnesota. As a member-owned cooperative, we're committed to providing personalized service, competitive financial solutions, and a genuine investment in the communities we serve.
Our story
From our beginnings in 1936 to serving communities across northern Minnesota today, Northwoods Credit Union has continued to grow while staying true to our commitment to members.
1936
Humble beginnings
Northwest Paper Employees Credit Union opened in a small trailer on mill property. We grew so fast, that same year we moved into a larger space inside the mill.
1992
A new name
The credit union became Potlatch Employees Credit Union, reflecting changes within the local mill and workforce.
1995
Moving up
Northwoods moved into its newly constructed office on Avenue B, establishing a permanent home for members.
2002
A big expansion
Following another mill ownership change, the credit union became Northwoods Credit Union and expanded membership eligibility to include many local businesses.
2004
Carlton expansion
Northwoods expanded its Avenue B office and opened a branch in Carlton, extending service to more communities.
2012
Cloquet move
The Carlton office relocated to Stanley Avenue in Cloquet, improving accessibility and convenience for members.
2018
Moose Lake & Floodwood
NCU opens a new branch in Moose Lake and merges with the Floodwood Area Credit Union. Continuing our commitment to serving members, strengthening services and expanding reach across northern Minnesota.
2026
Hinckley
NCU opens a new branch in Hinckley, continuing our commitment to serving members in small communities.
Send us a message at ncu@northwoodscu.org.
NOTE: Email is not a secure method of communication.
Your community credit union
For generations, Northwoods Credit Union has been committed to serving the people, families, and communities that make Northern Minnesota home.
Built around our members
As a member-owned credit union, our focus is on serving people—not generating profits for shareholders. Every decision we make is guided by what's best for our members and the communities we serve.
Join today!Local people, local decisions.
From Cloquet and Moose Lake to Floodwood and beyond, our team lives and works in the communities we serve. That means personalized service, local expertise, and people who understand your financial goals.
Find a branchPlanning for what's next
Whether you're preparing for retirement, investing for the future, or navigating a major life event, our team can connect you with trusted financial guidance tailored to your goals.
Explore Retirement & Investment ServicesProud to support the Northland
Giving back is part of who we are. Through local partnerships, volunteer efforts, sponsorships, and community involvement, we're committed to helping northern Minnesota thrive.
Learn moreMembership with Northwoods Credit Union
At Northwoods Credit Union, membership is built around community. If you live, work, attend school, volunteer, or worship in any of the following counties, you’re eligible to become a member:
- Carlton County
- Pine County
- St. Louis County
- Douglas County
- Burnett County
- Aitkin County
- Kanabec County
- Itasca County
Membership is also available to immediate family and household members of current Northwoods Credit Union members, including spouses, children, parents, siblings, and other qualifying relatives. Additionally, employees of our Select Employer Groups may be eligible to join.
As a member, you’ll enjoy access to trusted financial products, personalized service, and a credit union that is committed to supporting the communities we call home.
We invite you to share the benefits of membership with your family, friends, and coworkers. Together, we’re building stronger financial futures throughout northern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.
Select employer groups
Northwoods Credit Union proudly continues to serve employees and families connected to our select employer groups. If you work for one of the organizations below, you may be eligible to become a member.
- Carlton County Employees
- Carlton School District
- Casino Pizza & Sub Shop
- City of Carlton/Carlton Fire Department
- City of Wrenshall/Wrenshall Fire Department
- Potlatch
- Cloquet Terminal Railroad
- Cloquet Transit/LCS Coaches
- Community Printing
- Esko School District
- Inter-Faith Care Center
- RAM Mutual Insurance Company
- Ray Riihiluoma, Inc.
- Re/Max of Cloquet
- Sappi North America
- Upper Lakes Foods
- WKLK Radio Station
- VFW of Carlton Members
The local credit union difference
At Northwoods Credit Union, we're member-owned and community-focused. That means our priority is serving our members, not shareholders.
We reinvest in better rates, lower fees, personalized service, and the communities we call home. Every member has a voice, every relationship matters, and every decision is made with our members' best interests in mind.
Experience the difference of a financial institution that's built around people, not profits.
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Credit unions are member-owned financial cooperatives.
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Many people value local service and member-focused benefits.
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Eligible deposits are insured by the NCUA up to applicable limits.
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Membership eligibility requirements apply.
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Yes. Credit unions offer many lending products.
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Yes. Checking account options are available.
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Credit unions are owned by their members.
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Credit unions operate as member-owned cooperatives.
Our credit union
Member-driven, community reinvestment, personalized service, local focus
Traditional banks
Profit-driven, shareholder profits, one-size-fits-all, corporate priorities
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Membership is available to individuals within our eligible service area.
If you live, work, go to school, volunteer, or attend church in the following counties or townships, you are now eligible to open an account at Northwoods Credit Union!
- Carlton County
- Pine County
- St Louis County
- Douglas County
- Burnett County
- Aitkin County
- Kanabec County
- Itasca County
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Visit one of our offices in Cloquet, Moose Lake, Floodwood and Hinckley
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Government ID, Social Security Number
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Family members of eligible members may qualify.
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Contact us for current membership requirements.
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Members enjoy local service and a full range of financial products.
Become part of the Northwoods family
For nearly a century, Northwoods Credit Union has been helping neighbors, families, and local businesses achieve their financial goals. When you become a member, you're joining a community-focused financial cooperative built on service, trust, and local relationships.
Our story
People helping people
SPICE values
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