America First logo

America First in Riverdale, UT

4.2/5

American First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative serving consumers and businesses since 1952, offering checking, savings, loans, and digital banking services.

Data compiled from public sources · Rating from CreditDoc methodology

America First Review

American First Credit Union originated in 1952 as a credit union serving grocery store workers and has since evolved into a community-focused financial institution offering services to the general public. The organization maintains its mission to improve financial well-being and help members reach their goals while enriching the communities it serves. As a credit union, it operates as a member-owned cooperative rather than a for-profit bank, with governance and profits directed toward member benefit.

The credit union offers a comprehensive suite of retail financial products including personal checking and savings accounts, home loans, vehicle loans, credit cards, share certificates with special interest rates, and mobile banking access. For business members, American First provides business checking accounts, business savings accounts, SBA 7(a) loans, and commercial real estate lending. All members gain access to over 30,000 fee-free CO-OP ATMs nationwide and 24/7 digital banking through their mobile app and online platforms.

American First distinguishes itself through its credit union structure, which emphasizes member service over profit maximization, and its longevity in the market since 1952. The institution highlights financial wellness advisory services, exclusive digital coupon benefits through Advantage Checking accounts, and guaranteed returns on share certificate specials. Their fraud alert protocols and emphasis on direct verification demonstrate attention to member security.

As a credit union, American First's primary limitation is membership eligibility, which typically requires membership in the credit union to access most services. The website provides limited detail on specific loan terms, interest rates, or eligibility requirements, requiring prospective members to contact the institution directly. Digital service quality and mobile app functionality are not extensively detailed on the public-facing website.

Services & Features

Business checking accounts
Business savings accounts
Commercial real estate loans
Credit cards
Home loans
Mobile banking app
Online banking and digital bill payment
Personal checking accounts (including Advantage Checking with digital coupons)
Personal savings accounts
SBA 7(a) business loans
Share certificates with special interest rate terms
Vehicle loans

Feature Checklist

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

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Access to 30,000+ fee-free CO-OP ATMs nationwide for members
  • Credit union structure means member-owned with profits directed back to members rather than external shareholders
  • 24/7 mobile banking app and digital services for account access and bill payment
  • Comprehensive product offerings including home loans, vehicle loans, SBA loans, and commercial real estate financing
  • Share certificate specials offering guaranteed returns with attractive interest rates
  • Advantage Checking accounts include exclusive digital coupons and financial wellness benefits
  • Established institution with 70+ years of operating history since 1952

Cons

  • Membership eligibility requirements likely restrict access (typical for credit unions)
  • Website lacks transparent pricing, APR ranges, and specific loan terms for major products
  • Limited information about approval requirements, credit score minimums, or eligibility criteria
  • Business services appear more limited compared to offerings from larger financial institutions
  • No details on membership fees, minimum deposit requirements, or account opening specifics

Rating Breakdown

Value
5.0
Effectiveness
3.5
Customer Service
4.0
Transparency
4.5
Ease of Use
4.0

Consumer Complaint Record

America First received 221 consumer complaints in the past 12 months. All complaints received a timely response from the company.

221

Complaints (12 months)

0.0%

Resolved with relief

Stable

Complaint trend

Most Common Complaint Categories

Managing an account
18.7%
Incorrect information on your report
16.7%
Managing the loan or lease
10.3%

SBA Lending Record

Ranked #2 in NV for SBA 7A lending in FY2026.

Source: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau · SBA

Frequently Asked Questions

Is America First legitimate?

Yes. America First is a registered company, headquartered in Riverdale, UT, founded in 1939.

How long does America First take to show results?

Membership approval and account opening typically takes 1-3 business days. Loan decisions are usually faster than traditional banks.

Quick Facts

Founded
1939
Headquarters
Riverdale, UT
BBB Accredited
No
Certifications
NCUA Insured Charter #24694
Starting Price
Contact provider
Setup Fee
None
Money-Back Guarantee
No
Visit America First

CreditDoc Diagnosis

Doctor's Verdict on America First

American First Credit Union is best for consumers and small business owners who qualify for membership and seek comprehensive financial services from a member-owned institution with low fees and broad ATM access. The main caveat is that membership eligibility requirements apply, and the website provides minimal transparency on specific rates, terms, and approval criteria—requiring direct contact to the institution for detailed information.

CFPB Transparency Report

Public data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Issues Resolved
100%
Timely Responses
97.5%

Source: consumerfinance.gov | Last checked 2026-03-24

Best For

  • Individuals seeking lower-cost financial services through member-owned cooperative structure
  • Consumers needing comprehensive lending products (auto, home, personal) from a single institution
  • Small business owners looking for SBA loans and commercial real estate financing
  • Members wanting broad ATM access and 24/7 digital banking convenience
Updated 2026-05-14

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