If you’re looking for a more personal, community-focused way to manage your finances in Minnesota, credit unions offer a unique alternative to traditional banks. As not-for-profit, member-owned cooperatives, credit unions exist to serve the people who belong to them, not outside shareholders.

Understanding credit union membership and the requirements to join a credit union like Northwoods Credit Union can help you decide whether becoming a member is right for you.

What Does It Mean to Be a Credit Union Member?

When you join a credit union, you become more than an account holder—you become a part-owner. This means the credit union operates with your best interest in mind. Earnings are returned to members through:

• Competitive loan and deposit rates

• Lower fees

• Community programs

• Personalized, people-first service

At Northwoods Credit Union, every member has a voice in the cooperative and benefits from decisions made locally, right here in northern Minnesota.

Why People Choose Credit Unions

Credit unions are known for their people-centered mission. Many members appreciate:

• Local decision-making: Loan decisions and services come from people who understand the area and local needs.

• Community support: Credit unions often support local events, nonprofits, and financial education efforts.

• Member-focused service: Staff get to know members personally and help them make confident, informed financial decisions.

• Long-term relationships: Members often stay with their credit union for decades because of local trust and continuity.

Requirements to Join Northwoods Credit Union*

Usually, every credit union has a field of membership—a set of guidelines that define who is eligible to join. Northwoods Credit Union follows federal guidelines to ensure membership is offered to those within our approved community.

You are eligible for credit union membership at Northwoods Credit Union if you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in one of the following counties or townships:

Eligible Counties:

• Carlton County, MN

• Pine County, MN

• St. Louis County, MN (south of Whiteface Reservoir)

Eligible Townships:

• Feeley
• Wawina
• Goodland
• Ball Bluff and Unorganized Township 52-22

Other Eligibility Options:

You may also qualify for membership if:

• You are an immediate family member or household member of an existing NCU member.

• You are associated with an employer or organization that participates in our membership field.

These guidelines help ensure Northwoods Credit Union continues to serve and support the communities that have been at the heart of our mission since day one.

What You Need to Become a Member

Becoming a member is simple, and most people can complete the process in just a few minutes. To open an account, you will typically need:

• A valid form of identification (driver’s license, state ID, passport, etc.)

• Social Security number or taxpayer identification number

• Proof of eligibility (such as address or employer information)

• A small deposit to open your share/savings account

This deposit establishes your ownership share in the credit union.

Is It Hard to Join Northwoods Credit Union?

For eligible individuals, joining is straightforward and flexible. Many members begin the research process at home, while others prefer stopping by one of our branches in Cloquet, Moose Lake, or Floodwood. The process includes standard identity and eligibility verification to comply with federal regulations, ensuring the safety and integrity of your accounts.

View our requirements HERE.

Why Choose a Credit Union Over a Bank?

Both banks and credit unions offer essential financial products like checking accounts, savings accounts, auto loans, mortgages, and more. The key difference is the mission:

For many, the people-first approach makes credit unions the clear choice. Our staff in Cloquet, Moose Lake, and Floodwood are always happy to help you in person, over the phone, or online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Credit Union Membership

Does Northwoods Credit Union check your credit when you join?

Credit checks are used when opening brand-new accounts.

Can anyone join Northwoods Credit Union?

Membership is available to individuals who meet the eligibility criteria listed in our field of membership.

Does joining cost anything?

A small opening deposit (typically $5–$25) is required to establish your membership share in the credit union.

Is Credit Union Membership Right for You?

If you live or work in northern Minnesota and want a financial partner that invests in the same communities you do, Northwoods Credit Union may be a great fit. Understanding the requirements to join a credit union and what credit union membership means can help you make an informed choice about your financial future.

If you meet our eligibility requirements, joining is simple—and we’d be happy to help you get started.

*Not all applicants will qualify. Membership eligibility required. NCU is insured by NCUA.