Student Loans
Great Lakes Credit Union has everything you need to help manage your money and plan for the future.
Checking Accounts
No-Fee Checking with Benefits You'll Love
Simplify your finances with a hassle-free checking account that doesn’t have any fees. Manage your account online, with our mobile app, or at one of over 5,600 partner branches throughout the country.
Open an account today to experience the credit union difference!
Credit Union Checking Accounts Near Chicago, IL
At Great Lakes Credit Union, we're dedicated to supporting the unique needs of our members. That’s why we offer different checking account options. Whether you want a checking account that earns dividends or you need a checking account that lets you build your banking history, we provide flexible solutions and personalized service to help you achieve your goals.
Flexible Checking to Fit Your Lifestyle
No-Fee Checking
Say goodbye to monthly fees and hello to a checking account that works for you, not against you.
Free eStatements and eAlerts
Stay on top of your finances with timely account information to help you make informed decisions.
Shared Branching
Enjoy account access at over 5,600 branches and nearly 30,000 ATM locations through CO-OP Shared Branching.
Online and Mobile Banking
Take advantage of 24/7 online and mobile account access and do your banking anywhere, anytime.
Free High-Yield Checking Account
Earn a competitive APY* on balances up to $10,000. Enjoy no monthly maintenance fees, no out-of-network ATM fees, and many additional benefits that make it easy to manage your money. Earn even greater rates when you combine a GLCU Free Checking Account with a Money Market Account.
Fresh Checking Account
Whether you need to establish or rebuild your banking history, Fresh Checking gives you access to many of the same features of regular checking accounts. Enjoy no fees, 24/7 online and mobile account access, debit card transactions, and no minimum monthly balance requirement.
Spend and Save Program
Automate your savings! Every time you use your debit card, Bill Pay, or write a check, we'll round up your "change" to the nearest dollar and transfer that amount from your checking account to a savings account. Watch your savings grow effortlessly every time you make a purchase.
Checking Referral Program
Invite someone to GLCU and receive a $25 gift card when they open a checking account. Spread the word about the benefits of credit union checking accounts to earn some extra cash. It's a win-win for you and your friends!
Select the Best Checking Account for Your Needs
Free High-Yield Checking Account Checking that goes the extra mile. | Your path to better banking. | |||||
Best For | Everyday checking needs | Establishing or rebuilding | ||||
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Minimum Deposit to Open | $0 | $25 | ||||
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Access to Online Banking |
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ATM Debit Card Provided |
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ATM and Mobile Deposit |
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Access to Over 5,600 Surcharge-free ATMs |
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More Ways Our Checking Accounts Stand Out
Mobile Check Deposit
Deposit checks anytime, anywhere with your mobile device to save time and eliminate trips to the bank.
Fraud Protection
With CheckArmor® Fraud Protection by Vericast, your account is safeguarded with fraud protection to detect and address suspicious activities.
Online Bill Pay
Simplify your finances by setting up automatic bill payments to ensure you never miss a due date or get hit with a late fee.
Personalized Service
Our members are our top priority! We’re here to support you in reaching all of your financial goals.
Peace of Mind
Accounts are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) for up to $250,000.
Early Direct Deposit
Depending on when direct deposit funds are sent, you may qualify to receive your paycheck one day early.¹
Open a GLCU Account in 3 Easy Steps!
Step2
Select a Checking Account
Select the GLCU checking account you want to open and then review and submit your application.
Step3
Account Approval
Your new checking account may be approved in as little as one day.²
Why Choose Great Lakes Credit Union?
Great Lakes Credit Union is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to serving the needs of our members, who are the owners. Because we don’t have to earn a profit for investors, we can pass the savings on to you in the form of better rates and lower fees.
We're also community-focused. The same smiling faces you see when you visit us at a branch are also your neighbors, and we understand that supporting our community benefits everyone. Whether you're saving for the future, buying a home, or managing your daily finances, you can trust us to provide personalized service to help you achieve your goals.
“I've gotten great customer service from Great Lakes Credit Union - when I go into the branch there is always someone there with a smile ready to help.”
Credit Union Checking Account FAQ
Is overdraft protection available with your checking accounts?
Yes, you can sign up for our Overdraft Protection Program, which transfers money from your other GLCU accounts to cover overdrafts. We also offer SafetyNet, which will pay overdrafts for you for a $30 fee per occurrence. A deposit is required within 30 days to cover the courtesy pay.
Do your accounts have monthly fees?
No, our checking accounts don’t have monthly fees. A free checking account lets you keep more of your hard-earned money instead of watching fees slowly reduce your account balance.
Is there a mobile app I can use with my checking account?
Yes, we have a free mobile app that you can use to do your banking regardless of where you are. The app is available for iPhones, Android, and other devices.
Do I get ATM access with a GLCU checking account?
Yes, we partnered with over 5,600 branches through a Shared Branching agreement. This lets you make ATM transactions at nearly 30,000 ATMs throughout the country.
Do your checking accounts have minimum balance requirements?
Our checking accounts do not have minimum daily balance requirements, although our Fresh Checking has a $25 initial deposit requirement to open an account.
Can I make a debit card transaction with a GLCU checking account?
Yes, all of our checking accounts come with a free debit card. Our checking accounts can be used for all of your daily transactions. You can make a debit card purchase, ATM withdrawal, and pay your credit card and other bills online.
More Ways We Can Serve Your Banking Needs
Share Savings Account
Earn a competitive APY* on balances of $100 or more. A $1 minimum deposit is all that’s required to open an account.
Youth Savings Account
Encourage smart money management from a young age with a savings account that makes saving rewarding and fun.
Holiday Savings
It’s never too early to start saving for the holidays. A dedicated fund for events and gifts keeps you on top of your savings goals.
We're Ready to Assist! Contact Us for More Details.