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To the employees of West Orange, the community members and local organizations, being a member of a credit union is not merely about opening an account but rather being a part of a financial family that they can trust. Credit unions such as the West Orange Municipal Federal Credit Union (WOMFCU) have served the local employees and associations with pride and have been doing so over decades with a personal touch and community-first approach which the traditional banks just cannot keep up with.
Have you ever asked yourself how to become a member of a credit union, what are the benefits of being a member and whether you are eligible to join one? This guide will take you through all you need to know to be a member.
Credit unions are member-owned, not-for-profit financial institutions. That means they return earnings to members in the form of better interest rates, lower fees, and personalized service. Unlike banks, which are driven by shareholders, credit unions focus on helping members achieve their financial goals — whether that’s saving for a home, buying a car, or planning for retirement.
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) regulates and insures credit unions in the U.S., ensuring your deposits are protected up to $250,000 per individual account. So, when you join a credit union like WOMFCU, your money is just as safe as it would be in a large national bank.
Credit unions are also deeply local — rooted in their communities and built to serve specific groups, such as employees of local municipalities, school districts, or associations in the West Orange area.
Membership eligibility is one of the most important differences between a credit union and a bank. While anyone can open an account at a commercial bank, credit unions have what’s called a “field of membership”, which defines who is eligible to join.
At WOMFCU, membership is open to:
If you’re unsure whether your employer or association is included, you can contact the credit union directly through West Orange Municipal Federal Credit Union or visit in person to verify your eligibility.
This community-focused membership structure ensures that everyone who joins shares a connection to West Orange — keeping the spirit of local service strong.
Joining a credit union is a simple process, and most steps can be completed in a single visit or even online. Here’s how to get started:
1. Confirm Eligibility
First, verify that you qualify for membership based on your employer, association, or family relationship to an existing member.
2. Complete the Membership Application
Visit WOMFCU’s website or branch to fill out a membership application. You’ll typically need to provide:
A government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license)
Proof of employment or affiliation (for example, a recent pay stub or employee ID)
Your Social Security Number or Tax ID
3. Open a Share (Savings) Account
To officially become a member, you’ll open a share account, which establishes your ownership in the credit union. This account usually requires a small minimum deposit — typically between $5 and $25 — and acts as your share in the cooperative.
4. Explore Additional Services
Once your membership is active, you’ll gain access to a full range of products, including:
Checking accounts
Auto and personal loans
Online and mobile banking
Direct deposit and bill pay
For comparison, the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) highlights that credit unions often offer lower interest rates on loans and higher yields on savings than commercial banks.
Becoming a member of a local institution such as WOMFCU has more than superior rates in terms of tangible benefits. Personalized attention, flexibility, and an authentic desire to belong to the community are enjoyed by the members.
Absolutely. Many associations, unions, and local organizations in West Orange are eligible to become part of WOMFCU’s extended field of membership. Once a group is approved, all of its members or employees can join individually.
If you represent an association or organization and would like to establish eligibility for your members, you can contact WOMFCU’s staff to discuss partnership options. This is a great way to provide your employees or members access to affordable financial services while strengthening community ties.
You can also explore examples of group memberships and benefits through the National Association of Federally-Insured Credit Unions to understand how credit union partnerships enhance financial wellness across communities.
After joining WOMFCU, take advantage of everything your membership offers. Set up direct deposit for your paycheck, use mobile banking for easy transfers, and explore auto loans or personal financing options with lower rates.
As your financial needs evolve, WOMFCU is here to help — with competitive rates, helpful staff, and the security of NCUA insurance. Whether you’re just starting your savings journey or planning a major purchase, your credit union membership is a tool for long-term success.
Becoming a member of the West Orange Municipal Federal Credit Union means more than opening an account — it means joining a community that looks out for one another. For West Orange employees, associations, and families, WOMFCU offers a trusted, local alternative to impersonal big banks.
By joining, you’re choosing personalized service, financial education, and a cooperative spirit that helps everyone thrive. Whether you live, work, or serve in West Orange, your membership is an investment in your future and your community’s well-being.
Ready to start? Visit West Orange Municipal Federal Credit Union to apply today and experience the difference of community-based banking — where you’re not just a customer, you’re a member-owner.
