USE Credit Union: Our Story

USE Credit Union was established in 1936 as California State Credit Union #17, with the primary goal of helping employees of the San Diego branch of the Division of Highways.  In the 1970's, the Credit Union became known as University & State Employees Credit Union, reflecting USE's expanded legacy of serving the financial needs of university and state employees. And in 1999, when its charter was expanded again to include members of the community at large, the credit union began using the shortened "USE" acronym in most of its business dealings.

Today, USE is the fifth largest credit union in San Diego County (where it is headquartered) and among the top 50 in asset size of more than 700 credit unions in the state. USE serves five counties in California, including Alameda, Sacramento, San Diego, Santa Clara and Yolo. And anyone who lives or works in any of these communities can now join the Credit Union. The Credit Union's key member groups include the faculty, staff, students and alumni of the University of California and California State University systems, the employees of the State of California, and residents within the five counties it serves.

USE has distinguished itself from other financial institutions as a leader in delivering superior consumer financial expertise, approachable and friendly service, progressive hi-tech solutions, and superior financial value. USE was among the first financial institutions in the world to offer online banking and debit cards to its members. These technological advancements, among others, have helped USE remain on the forefront of excellent member service, where "people helping people" remains USE's focus and commitment.

USE offers its members a safe and secure place to conduct their financial business. At USE Credit Union, while money matters, people come first. Nothing is more important at USE than being a trusted financial partner to all who join.