Vons Credit Union in El Monte, CA

I was hesitant to open an account through VCU, because even though I am a Vons employee- I prefer a more personal relationship with my financial institution and there are no VCU locations in my area- the closest one is still several hours away from me. However, they were able to create an account for me over the phone (faxing in my paperwork) that was designed to actually help me with my finances rather than the previous Banks/CUs which simply profit from my mistakes. Also their mobile app is by far the most convenient. I've never had any issue getting in touch with someone when I have a question/concern and frequently it is even the same person I speak with, or I'm given the direct number to someone who I can build that personal connection with. My only real complaint is just that they don't have any branches in my area so I can't go in and talk to someone personally.

I had one of the worse customer experiences at Vons Credit Union today. They are slower and lazier than the federal government in terms of getting things done with all their red tape. We simply had to update a signer on one of the many accounts we hold. Mr. Lee Pancoska was suppose to help us but instead was being inattentive and lazy. He was requiring more documentation from us as though we were applying for a home or auto loan. He looked like he was ready to go home and could care less about accommodating us. We asked to speak with the manager and a lady by the way of Cathy came to assist Mr. Pancoska. She basically gave us a stare down to intimidate us and then simply walked away from us without uttering a single word. We found this behavior odd. We thought credit unions had better service than compared to the big banks.

One of my best financial decisions was to become a member. They took the chance on my credit worthiness and extended reasonable rates where the mainstream banking establishment was ready to gouge me. I sing their praises to whomever is willing to listen.

They're okay. I missed a loan payment because I was out of work, and they harassed my sister and I until I threatened the person doing it, since then it's okay. They really need an operator after hours and/or on the weekend. Friday, I went to Best Buy to purchase a Surface 3 with accessories, which totalled $596 and change, that was declined by the credit union. About 30 minutes later I get an automated call confirming it was not fraud, and that I was in posession of the card. Experiencing that was quite frustrating, and I told the seller I would be back tomorrow(Saturday), but I am worried the same thing will happen again.*groan*

They've have always saved me from little mistakes and they take care of my finances so well. The only thing I would ding them on is when my card got hacked through my PayPal account on a Friday and it was after hours, so I had to call in and report it lost or stolen, but what sucks is i had to wait till Monday to present the dispute and wait two weeks for a new debit card.