SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - Long Beach (2nd Street)

"I don't usually leave reviews, but I felt compelled to share my experience today. I stopped by SchoolsFirst FCU to use the Coinstar machine. The staff was helpful and explained how it worked: "Push the cash voucher button and start pouring in your coins." Everything went smoothly until I headed to the teller to get my cash. That's when I was informed about the 15% fee (just for perspective, my $145.26 turned into $123.75). Quite the shocker! But, as I was standing there, the teller then tells me, "Sir, we don't have change to give you the remaining 75 cents, but I can issue you a money order." I couldn't help but laugh at the situation, but it did leave me feeling a bit short-changed (pun intended). So, a heads-up to everyone: while the Coinstar is convenient, it comes with a hefty fee. Just be aware before you pour in your hard-earned coins!"

"I have heard positive things about SchoolsFirst but I didn’t really take it to heart. However, I found myself in an unexpected situation suddenly where I needed an auto loan and they were amazing. I never banked with them before but I told them what I needed, my situation and they delivered. I am usually skeptical about financial institutions but I feel they work with you to get the best rates. I am a new teacher and I am so happy to have found a place that meets my financial needs!"

"This Credit Union was terrible for non-member customers. It’s atm took my checks, had some failure to roll them back, gave me a receipt, but then took my card. They had just closed. How does a bank close for a weekend without making sure their atms are in working order? When I panicked and attempted to contact the institution to find out how to address the issue, I was greeted with condescension. When I wished to complain about how I was treated, “Veronica” from their telephone customer service essentially told me that I couldn’t because I’m not a customer of their specific credit union. Some customer service. Well, if I ever was going to consider opening an account it most certainly would NEVER be here."

"I don't know how a bank can be better the Schools First for personal banking. Always A+ Service. and I have been a customer for 20+ years. (OCTFCU days) My Last visit is an example of how they really stand out. We are going through a Home Purchase and Home refi (at same time) we needed a Transaction History for November to be signed by them. Because it was just me and we needed both my account and wife account, this required some work for them to call and validate with my wife. However, Jonathon said they would take care and email me and my wife the transaction histories within the hour. 15mins later I got the email. 20 mins after that I received a call from Jonathon Making sure that I had everything I needed...the extra call at the end was really what puts this banks CS over the top."

"I’ve never felt so good about a bank before. I actually feel good about putting my money here as opposed to a giant corporation, but also I have had a great experience every time I have been to this branch. They’re super helpful (and I have some random requests), and always incredibly friendly. The last time I went I ended up chatting with the teller for 10-15 min just for fun. Plus they have a lovely bathroom and water, which is nice if you’ve been walking around 2nd Street. Plus their app had been super useful, and any emails or phone calls I’ve made have been super easy too. I can’t imagine anywhere else I’d like to keep my money!"