Secure Banking | Bay Area, CA NCUA Financial Report

Here's why we're different from banks

We don't answer to shareholders. We answer to you—our valued member. You get a say in our matters because you became a part-owner when you opened an account with us. We're all about the people we serve, so you can be confident the decisions we make and actions we take are in your best interests. We'll leave the impersonal profit-chasing to the other guys because we think our way is a better way.

Message from the CEO

If you’re new to Stanford Federal Credit Union or just curious about our financial position, I want to reassure you that your money is safe with us. Our net worth ratio was 10.67% as of 12/31/25 and we continue to be a conservatively managed financial institution you can trust with your savings.

I’m passionate about the credit union difference and want to take this opportunity to remind you what it means for you. As a credit union, we’re different than a bank because we’re structured and operate as a non-profit financial cooperative. The foundation of this structure is that we don’t distribute net income to a small group of investors or shareholders. It’s important that we make net income to build capital for safety and soundness purposes. However, beyond that, our focus is on expanding our service offerings and providing strong value to you. Our value comes to you in the form of competitive rates and very minimal fees—much lower than our for-profit competition and very low compared to our credit union peers. Our value is also reflected in our service to you—we strive to be reachable and responsive!

As a financial cooperative, pricing and rebates are stronger the more you do with us, rewarding you as you deepen your relationship with us. If you’re not getting our best rates, reach out to our member care team for assistance.

We hope you feel reassured that your money is safe and secure at Stanford FCU. We’ve been in business serving the Bay Area since 1959, and we work every day to strengthen the trust our members have in us.

Geek out on more numbers

Get our financial performance report on NCUA's website. You'll find us searching Charter Number 13392.

Building confidence and security

The Credit Union leadership has been extremely good at communication during times of worry in the global and national economies, which helps build confidence and security for all of us members.

Benjamin

Peace of mind

Has allowed me peace of mind knowing how stable and trustworthy SFCU is. I keep my money here with confidence.

Catherine

Top-notch credit union

I'm so pleased that while Stanford FCU keeps me constantly up to date with pertinent security measures, it also provides the top interest rates and a very easy online presence that is easy to navigate. I've been a member since 1970.

Terry

Can I get a copy of your most recent Annual Report? Show

Yes, we’re proud of our financial strength! You can view our most recent Annual Report online.

Is the credit union insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC), like banks and thrifts? Show

The FDIC provides oversight and insurance for banks and thrifts, while credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). Both institutions insure accounts up to $250,000.

You can learn more about the difference between banks and credit unions by watching our short video.

Not a member yet? Join today!

If you want a banking experience that delivers lower home and vehicle loan rates, higher savings and investment rates, and leading-edge Digital Banking access, Stanford Federal Credit Union is the banking choice for you. We’re a member-owned financial cooperative providing personal service along with convenient nationwide access through Co-op shared branches.

Joining is easy! You can open an account online with as little as $5.00. Open your account today!

What's the difference between a credit union and a bank? Show

A credit union and a bank are both financial institutions that provide checking and savings accounts, credit cards and other financial services, but they have some key differences in how they are run and organized.

Credit unions

Not-for-profit
Members have a voice!
Board of Directors are volunteers
Income goes back to members (that's you!)
Low to no fees for members
Compelling savings rates
Federally insured by NCUA

Banks

For profit
Stockholders have a voice
Board of Directors are paid by the bank
Income goes to the stockholders (boo!)
Higher fees
Average savings rates
Federally insured by FDIC

Credit unions are member-owned. That means members have an active voice in how the credit union is run and the decisions the credit union makes. In contrast, banks are owned by their shareholders. Bank customers aren’t invited to shareholder meetings (unless they are also a shareholder), but all credit union members are regularly invited to the credit union’s annual meeting.

Another key difference is what the financial institutions do with their profits. Banks are for profit and need to pay their Board of Directors and shareholders. Since the goal is to make money, they may charge higher fees and offer lower savings rates. Credit unions, on the other hand, are not-for-profit. Any extra income they make goes back to the members in the form of better savings rates, lower loan rates, and reduced or waived fees.

Both credit unions and banks carry federal insurance for their members’ and customers’ money. Banks are insured through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and credit unions are insured through the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). The insurance limits through both agencies are the same.

Both credit unions and banks are safe places for your money, but we believe that credit unions are something truly special. A credit union like Stanford FCU cares about you as a person (and not just an account number) and will bend over backwards to find ways to say YES to your financial success. We put our members first, and we invite you to experience the credit union difference for yourself.

Join now.

Make educated financial decisions, protect your personal information, and more with help from these handy resources.

Explore

Strong. Safe. Secure.

Here's why we're different from banks

Our members and their stories matter most.

Frequently asked questions

Get smart about managing your money.