ASE Credit Union was established in 1954 as the Alabama State Employees' Credit Union and has evolved into a community-focused financial cooperative. Originally chartered to serve state employees, ASE later obtained a community charter, expanding membership to anyone living, working, worshipping, or attending school in the eight counties surrounding Montgomery, Alabama. Today, it operates as a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative chartered under federal law with branches in Montgomery, Millbrook, Wetumpka, Prattville, Clanton, Greenville, and Selma.
ASE Credit Union offers a comprehensive suite of personal and business financial products. Personal offerings include multiple checking account options (Kasasa Cash Checking, Kasasa Cash Back Checking, Your Rewards Checking, and ASE Checking), savings accounts (Regular Share, Club Account, Super Saver, Kasasa Saver), share certificates with competitive rates (currently 3.85% APY for 9 months or 3.55% APY for 15 months), individual retirement accounts, and lending products including personal loans, home mortgages, auto loans, and VISA credit cards. Business members can access business checking and business savings accounts with VISA debit cards and online banking capabilities.
ASE distinguishes itself through member-ownership benefits, emphasizing that "when the credit union wins you win" through profit-sharing with members. The institution advertises no monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements on checking accounts, competitive rates compared to traditional banks, and 24/7 account access via online banking, mobile apps, and phone support. Members gain access to the CO-OP Shared Branch network and surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. Additionally, ASE offers member benefits including complimentary accidental death and dismemberment insurance, GAP advantage for auto loans, extended warranty programs, virtual health programs, and financial wellness services.
ASE Credit Union is well-suited for individuals with ties to Alabama's Montgomery area who value local banking relationships and member-ownership benefits. The institution's federal charter ensures NCUA insurance protection. However, membership is geographically limited to those meeting specific residency, employment, or school attendance criteria within eight surrounding counties, which restricts access for out-of-area consumers. As a regional credit union, it may have fewer technology features or product breadth compared to larger national institutions.
