FAQ

Membership

Q: How do I become a member of Element FCU?
A: Joining is easy! You’re eligible if you live, work, worship, or attend school in Kanawha, County. If you’re employed with one of our employer groups, you also qualify. If you want to join Element but don’t see your group listed, we can help qualify your group for membership. Stop by any branch, call us, or start your application online here.

Q: Is there a fee to join?
A: There is no fee. There is just a one-time $10 deposit into a share savings account. That’s it. That $10 makes you an owner of the credit union!

Q: Can my family members join?
A: Absolutely! Immediate family members of current Element FCU members are eligible to join, regardless of where they live or work.

Accounts

Q: What types of accounts do you offer?
A: We offer checking, savings, share certificates (like CDs), money market accounts, and IRAs. We’d love to help you find the right fit. Just ask!

Q: Is my money safe at Element FCU?
A: Yes! Your deposits are federally insured up to $250,000 by the NCUA — the credit union equivalent of FDIC insurance. Your money is safe with us.

Q: What are your current savings rates?
A: Rates change periodically. For the most current rates, Visit Our Rates Page or give us a call. We’re always working to offer our members competitive returns!

Q: Do you have a mobile app?
A: Yes! You can manage your accounts, deposit checks, transfer funds, and pay bills right from your phone. Get the Apple or Google Play app.

Q: How do I set up direct deposit?
A: Easy! Just provide your employer with Element FCU’s routing number and your account number. Need those numbers? Log into online banking or call us and we’ll get them for you right away. Our routing number is 251984386.

Loans

Q: What kinds of loans do you offer?
A: We offer auto loans, personal loans, home equity loans, credit cards, and more — all at member-friendly rates. We’re here to help you find what works for your situation.

Q: How do I apply for a loan?
A: You can apply online at elementfcu.org, call us, or stop by any branch. Our team will walk you through every step — no pressure, just help.

Q: How long does loan approval take?
A: Many loan decisions are made quickly often within a few minutes but typically no longer than 24 hours. We’re 100% local so we work fast! A team member will reach out to you as soon as a decision is made.

Q: What credit score do I need to get a loan?
A: We look at the whole picture, not just a number. We work with members across all ranges of credit situations. The best way to find out is to apply. We’re here to help.

Q: Can I refinance my auto loan from another lender?
A: Yes! Refinancing with Element FCU could lower your rate and monthly payment. Give us a call or apply online. It’s worth a quick look.

Credit Cards

Q: Do you offer credit cards?
A: Yes! We offer credit cards with competitive rates and great member benefits. Ask us about the Pink Tax Payback Rewards Card  offering 7% cash back in select categories!

Q: What is the Pink Tax Payback Card?
A: It’s Element FCU’s newest credit card, designed to fight back against the pink tax — the extra cost women pay for everyday products. It offers 7% cash back on selected merchant codes and was launched in honor of International Women’s Day 2026. Ask us for details!

Online & Mobile Banking

Q: How do I enroll in online banking?
A: Visit elementfcu.org and click “Enroll” on the login page. You’ll need your account number and some basic information to get started. It only takes a few minutes! Contact us directly for more help.

Q:  I forgot my online banking password. What do I do?
A: Click “Forgot Password” on the login page and follow the prompts. If you get stuck, call us and a team member will help you reset it right away.

Q: Can I deposit a check with my phone? Yes! Mobile deposit is available in our app. Just endorse the back of your check, open the app, and follow the prompts. Most deposits are available within one business day.

Branches & Hours

Q: Where are your branches located?
A: You can find our branch locations here https://www.elementfcu.org/contact-us/#sec-locations. We have locations in Kanawha City, South Charleston, Downtown Charleston and the Westside.

Q: What are your hours?
A: Branch hours vary by location. You can find our branch hours here https://www.elementfcu.org/contact-us/#sec-locations. We also offer 24/7 access through online and mobile banking!

Q: Do you have ATMs or ITMs?
A: Element has full service ITMs at each branch. You can deposit checks, deposit or withdraw cash, and other functions. As an Element FCU member you also have access to a large network of ATMs across the United States. You’ll find ITMs at these location https://www.elementfcu.org/contact-us/#sec-locations. Visit elementfcu.org for locations near you. Go here to find shared ATMs and shared branches https://co-opcreditunions.org/locator/.

General

Q: What makes a credit union different from a bank?
A: Great question! Unlike banks, credit unions are not-for-profit and member-owned. That means you’re not a customer, you’re an owner. #YouOwnTheJoint. Our goal is to serve you, not shareholders, which often means better rates and lower fees.

Q: How do I report a lost or stolen debit card?
A: Call us immediately at 304-721-4145 and we’ll deactivate your card and get a new one issued right away. After hours, call 888-241-2510.

Q: How do I contact Element FCU?
A: You can call us at 304-721-4145, chat with us right here, visit any branch, email us at team@elementfcu.org.

Q: I have a question the chatbot can’t answer. What do I do?
A: No worries at all! Just say “speak to someone” or “connect me with a team member” and I’ll bring in one of our friendly staff right away. We’re always happy to help personally!