1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc. logo

1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc. in Walterboro, SC

4.2/5

FDIC-insured South Carolina bank established in 1963, offering checking, savings, CDs, IRAs, and loan products with competitive rates and local community focus.

Data compiled from public sources · Rating from CreditDoc methodology

1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc. Review

1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc. was founded in August 1963 as First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Walterboro. Over six decades, the institution has evolved through name changes while maintaining its founding principle of community service.

The bank operates as "The Family Bank" with deep roots in South Carolina, emphasizing long-term staff relationships and customer dedication. The bank offers a comprehensive range of deposit and loan products. Deposit options include personal checking, business checking, savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and IRAs.

Their loan products span mortgages, consumer loans, and commercial lending. 15% APY, requiring a $1,000 minimum opening balance. They also offer Kasasa branded products including Kasasa Cash, Kasasa Cash Saver, Kasasa Cash Back, and Kasasa Cash Back Saver accounts.

Customers can access funds through online banking, mobile app, and in-person locations with extended hours. S. Government, demonstrated staff longevity (many employees with 20+ years tenure), and a strong community orientation.

The bank emphasizes customer education through video tutorials and an online education center. They support modern banking through eStatements, mobile apps, and online banking platforms, while maintaining accessibility features for low-vision users. The bank is straightforward about CD terms and conditions: early withdrawal penalties apply, promotional rates may be withdrawn without notice, and fees can reduce earnings.

Their website lacks extensive information about business services, loan terms, or detailed product specifications beyond CDs. No specific information is provided about minimum balances for other accounts, APR ranges for loans, or competitive advantages beyond community presence.

Services & Features

Business checking accounts
Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
Commercial loans
Consumer loans
Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)
Kasasa Cash Saver accounts
Kasasa Cash checking accounts
Mobile banking app
Mortgage lending
Online banking platform
Personal checking accounts
Savings accounts
eStatement enrollment

Feature Checklist

Mobile App
Online Portal
Score Tracking
Credit Education
Personal Advisor
Identity Theft Protection

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • FDIC-insured deposits backed by full faith and credit of U.S. Government
  • Established 1963 with 60+ years of community service track record
  • Staff longevity with many employees having 20+ years tenure
  • Multiple deposit products including CDs, IRAs, savings, and checking accounts
  • 12-month CD rate of 3.15% APY (as of 11/13/24) with daily compounding
  • Modern banking access via mobile app, online banking, and eStatements
  • Free customer education center with video tutorials

Cons

  • Limited geographic presence (South Carolina-focused, not national)
  • Minimal product details on website regarding APRs, terms, and loan options
  • CD early withdrawal penalties apply with potential yield impact not specified
  • No specific information about checking or savings account minimum balances and fees
  • Promotional CD rates subject to withdrawal without notice

Rating Breakdown

Value
5.0
Effectiveness
3.7
Customer Service
3.8
Transparency
4.0
Ease of Use
4.5

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc. legitimate?

Yes. 1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc. is a registered company, headquartered in Walterboro, SC, founded in 1962.

How long does 1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc. take to show results?

Account opening typically takes 1-3 business days. Loan decisions vary by product.

Quick Facts

Founded
1962
Headquarters
Walterboro, SC
BBB Accredited
No
Certifications
FDIC Insured FDIC Cert #31410
Starting Price
Contact provider
Setup Fee
None
Money-Back Guarantee
No
Visit 1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc.

CreditDoc Diagnosis

Doctor's Verdict on 1st Federal Savings Bank of SC, Inc.

Best for South Carolina residents and businesses seeking traditional community banking with FDIC protection and relationship-focused service. Primary caveat: Limited web transparency on loan products, account minimums, and fees; customers should contact the bank directly for specific terms and competitive rate comparisons.

Best For

  • South Carolina residents seeking FDIC-insured deposit accounts with local banking relationships
  • Customers prioritizing relationship banking with experienced, long-tenured staff
  • Conservative savers interested in CDs and IRAs with transparent FDIC protection
Updated 2026-05-08

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