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America First Credit Union

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4.8

Overall Score

LAST UPDATED: December 11th, 2023

Utah-based America First Credit Union offers a variety of banking services and credit cards to its members. With all credit card products backed by Visa, America First provides cards with competitive rates, as low as 6.99 to 13.49 percent. In addition, Visa cards offer worldwide acceptance.

Seeking to meet the needs of consumers of various credit and financial backgrounds, America First offers traditional cash back and rewards options, but also offers a secured credit card option for borrowers looking to build or rebuild their credit. 

It is important to note that America First credit cards are only available to members residing in Utah.

Continue reading for pros and cons, and America First credit cards reviews from real customers.

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The Good

  • Variety of Cards
  • Benefits and Features
  • Card Guard Mobile App
  • Online Banking and Bill Pay
  • Customer Reviews

Variety of Cards

America First Credit Union offers a variety of Visa cards, including cash back, low rate, and rewards credit cards. If you do not have an established credit history, or perhaps damaged credit, America First Credit Union offers a secured Visa credit card option. With no annual fee and low rates, the secured Visa can be a good option for those seeking to build credit.

A variety of cards provides greater flexibility to consumers to get the best credit card for their needs and financial circumstances.

Benefits and Features

America First offers Classic Visa and Platinum Visa credit cards that offer an extensive selection of benefits with no annual fee. An America First Credit Union account holder can earn between one percent to 1.5 percent cash back or one point for every dollar spent on eligible purchases. Other Visa benefits include travel insurance and credit limits up to $15,000 depending on card selection and your credit history. Cash back rewards are automatically deposited into the cardholder's personal banking account on a regular basis. All cards feature the following benefits:

  • Identity theft recovery services
  • Select entertainment discounts
  • No balance transfer fees
  • Card Guard mobile app
  • EMV security chip technology
  • Mobile wallet
  • ABC Deals cash rebate program
  • No minimum finance charge
  • Fraud safeguards

In addition to these card benefits and features, America First also has an option to easily apply for a credit limit increase. However, to qualify for this increase, you must be a responsible member who pays off their credit card balance on time each month; there may be other factors taken into consideration that could also affect approval.

Card Guard Mobile App

The Card Guard mobile app gives cardholders the ability to manage accounts directly from any mobile device at no cost. 

Cardholders can set spending limits per transaction, turn off credit card use capability when desired, and choose specific merchants near their location where the card is only allowed to be used. Cardholders must be enrolled in the company's online banking services in order to use these included features.

Online Banking and Bill Pay

Consumers can enroll in free online banking services with America First for easier management of their credit card accounts, through which they can review online statements, transfer funds, and set up automatic payments. Consumers can also apply for additional lending, link multiple accounts, track spending, and create household budgets safely and securely. 

In addition, cardholders can also create customized text and email alerts to be reminded when bills are due or to be notified of any transaction activity. Customers will also receive their current FICO credit scores on each month's billing statement.

Customer Reviews

America First Credit Union reviews are currently limited, but the majority of customers give the company a 4 or 5-star rating. Of these positive reviews, many customers highlight excellent and reliable customer service and competitive rates on credit cards.

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The Bad

  • Service Limitations
  • Interest Rates
  • Additional Fees

Service Limitations

America First Credit Union only provides credit card services to Utah residents who meet certain undisclosed credit eligibility requirements. In order to access provided services, consumers must first open a personal bank account which may require a minimum deposit. 

America First does not offer detailed information up front regarding the specific reward options that may be earned, or if there are any maximum earning caps or expiration timeframes with the reward points. 

The credit union does not offer 24/7 customer service or a live chat option to speak with a customer service representative.

Interest Rates

America First does not offer a zero percent introductory APR on credit cards, a feature that is often included in many other competiting card issuer offerings. 

Depending on the credit card, the lowest interest rate available ranges from 6.99 percent to 13.49 percent APR depending on current market rates, card selection, and the cardholder's overall credit score. These percentages are reflective of the lowest rates offered on Visa cards and are subject to change. Because America First Credit Union credit cards have variable rates, interest rates are subject to change on a quarterly basis.

Additional Fees

America First charges up to $35 for late payments and a $10 fee for returned items, and a 1 percent fee for foreign transactions. The financial services company also charges a 1.5 percent cash advance fee for the total amount of each transaction of this type. 

These fees are within the average range for the industry norm but can be quite expensive for cardholders with imperfect credit histories. America First's Visa cards are generally accepted worldwide and the foreign transaction fee is better than some other competitors, but it can still be costly for travelers who make frequent purchases internationally.

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The Bottom Line

America First Credit Union offers a comprehensive range of Visa credit card options for its Utah-based customers to choose from. These credit cards offer cash back on eligible purchase or redeemable non-cash rewards through the accumulation of points. With limited interest fees, these cards can be suitable for consumers who need to rebuild their credit histories and can also be pretty decent for consolidating large amounts of debt from multiple cards. The financial services company also provides online banking services, a mobile app, and various other financial products and services.

There are some limits on America First's services, including the fact that it does not provide 24/7 customer service. In addition, the company does not provide specific details on the rewards that can be earned or if there are any caps on the number of points that can be earned within a certain timeframe on a rewards credit card. Interest rates are within the industry norm but are most suited for consumers with excellent credit histories who have an established banking relationship with the credit union.

We recommend researching other credit card lenders before deciding on whether or not to open a credit card with America First Credit Union, but if you currently bank with this financial institution, its credit card offerings could be a good option for you.

If you have borrowed from American First Credit Union, please tell us about your experience by leaving a review.

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Star Rating

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4.1

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59 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

64%

4 grade

15%

3 grade

2%

2 grade

3%

1 grade

15%

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Altschul Construction Tooele, UT

These guys are horrible for businesses. I've been fighting for years to get any sort of reasonable credit limit for my business. It took years to even get the credit card in the first place and now the limit is so low I have to pay it off almost weekly just to be able to use it. Their reasoning is that I personally don't make enough money to cover the card if the business fails to do so. So they require you to make more money than your business uses? That is absolutely ridiculous. What a waste is my time.

3 months ago

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Lindsey Newman American Fork, UT

I really love banking with America First! Everything is always so straightforward whether it’s setting up a new account, using the mobile app (awesome) Or trying to get ahold of their customer service- they are just so on top of things and make me feel very secure with their Fraud protection help as well!

4 years ago

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Steven Whites West Valley City, UT

I love using America First Credit Union for my financial needs. They are a credit union rather than a bank so they do not make a ton of money off of you. They offer a lot of products for free. For example you can have multiple bank accounts and barely have to have any money in them and they do not charge an outrageous fee every month if you go below that amount like a bank would. Plus their personal loans on vehicles are always the lowest out on the market. I would highly suggest using them over any bank any day.

2 years ago

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DeborahAnn Magnusson Midway, UT

We have been banking with American first for years. They have always been great to work with. Unlike banks, they dont really have any fees that I'm aware of, that's the biggest reason to go with America First. Also, all the local credit unions have an agreement where if you pull money from an ATM from another credit union, there are no ATM fees. So it's just a great place to keep your money wtihout paying fees.

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Magnum0970 Cerritos, CA

I love America first credit union, and have used them for many many years. I have friends that work there, and they love the work atmosphere. I love the idea of a credit union much more than a bank, their fees are fair and I like that all credit unions work together so I don’t get charged at ATMs of other credit unions when I pull money. I would never use a bank

3 years ago

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Kylie Howes Provo, UT

America First's credit card options are all pretty straightforward, and the interest levels are fairly low. I've liked having an AFCU credit card, because then all of my credit card information is kept with my regular banking info, and it's super convenient to pay off my charges before interest rates are applied. I've never had any issues with my payments on this credit card, nor have I had any security issues. It's a great tool to have.

4 years ago

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Anne Sainsbury Payson, UT

Three weeks ago I went into America First with my Fiancé to be added to his account and receive a credit card as a joint account holder. We were there for about an hour and had everything set up. Unfortunately there were some hiccups along the way and the cards were delayed a week because they never let us know that the paperwork had been approved and we needed to come in and sign. We worked through the glitch and just got our cards yesterday. Overall, even with the hiccup, I am really excited for these services. Getting added to my fiancé's savings and checking accounts was super simple and then approval for the credit went fairly quickly as well. I would recommend this Credit card to anyone!

4 years ago

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Chad Salt Lake City, UT

I found out the hard way that your money is not safe at America First Credit Union. My child’s account was hacked by a known hacker. Using simple and standard hacking techniques they transferred all of his money from his savings account to his checking account and then withdrew the money. The fact that this happened using such simple techniques tells me that either AFCU doesn’t have a fraud prevention department or if they do they are incompetent. Any other bank would have caught this with ease. On top of this they chose not to refund my child’s money because it took place over a period of time and WE should have noticed it. I hate to break it to you AFCU, but people put their money in banks because we expect you to keep it safe from simple hackers. Now I have to tell my child that someone stole his money, America First Credit Union let it happen, and he has to pay the price.

11 months ago

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Duley Braza Roy, UT

It's morphing into a for profit bank. It used to be a great CU, if your interest rate dropped on your car loan, you could adjust it at no cost. Now there's a fee. Due to "money back" Visa programs, there's no incentive to use the AFCU debit card. What did AFCU do? They tried to put all members into a fee program if you fail to use their debit card. Now they have the ABC deals program that you're automatically signed up for, but can opt out. I get cash back from my non AFCU Visa card. The ABC program provides discounts to stores with an expiration date. My cash back from my non AFCU Visa card is good anywhere, why would I use a limited usage reward program like ABC deals? How about this...increase the interest earned on my accounts or provide lower interest rates on loans from long standing members. I don't know what's happened to CU's in the last 20 years, but they no longer appear "owner driven". I think all CU's are going this way, which makes shopping around for another institution difficult. I've been a member since 1987.

2 years ago

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Megan Rigby

A member to America First for 15 + year. Very helpful with settling credit card fraud and getting out money back. Customer service was always kind, patient and willing listen to your needs.

6 years ago

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Hayley Lambdin Orem, UT

I have had a credit card with America First since I was 15 years old. They always send me a credit card when it is about to expire. I also really like my dancing shopping girl design on my credit card. It's real fancy!

6 years ago

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Andrea Simon Billings, MT

Im using this site for the first time, love the reviews. and lists. I fixed my credit with best company's help, now im going to see if I can get some credit here. Ill post what happens with this company.

7 years ago

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Erin Williams Midvale, UT

They were very helpful when I went in to get a credit card, answered all my questions and sent me their answer very soon. The other place I applied to wouldn't let me get a card since I didn't have a credit score yet (I needed a credit card so I could actually start building a credit score), but no problem here.

2 years ago

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Morgan whiting Los Angeles, CA

My first ever loan was from here. It was a great experience and I was happy to work with them. They reported my monthly payments and my credit score went up! I would use them for credit cards, Banking, and loans. They are awesome!

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Ashley Ulibarri Los Angeles, CA

I have been banking with America First Credit Union for 20 years, I have many car loans and credit cards through them. Their customer service is amazing and have never had a problem in the many years I’ve been banking with them.

3 years ago

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Tiauna Anderson Salt Lake City, UT

My America First card has been so great. I love that I'm not dealing with a bunch of hidden fees and I've never had to wait long periods of time for a customer service representative. I had an issue with a grocery store charge recently and they reversed my charge and got me taken care of with no real hassle. I definitely recommend!

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Rickey Lehi, UT

I've had AFCU since I was a teenager in high school. They are great, almost totally lovely. No monthly or annual fees, they're accredited / backed by the federal govt so you know your money is extra safe (well, as it can be), and their employees are nice. Their website is easy to navigate. Their app is good too. Though I really wish you could resize the type.

3 years ago

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Nicole Jones Sandy, UT

I have been a customer of America First Credit Union for the last 17 years. They are my main source of banking. I have multiple credit cards through them and when I found fraudulent charges on one of my cards last year, they were extremely helpful through the process. Their rates and level of service truly are top notch!

4 years ago

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Jocean

Unfortunately, due to Covid pandemic, inflation, and car repairs I needed to file for bankruptcy. I had 2 checking accounts, 2 savings accounts, a credit card, and a personal loan through them. After my paperwork for the bankruptcy was filed, they took my money from my checking accounts and transferred it all to my saving accounts. They then took the little bit of money I had in the one savings account and put it towards the personal loan. The other savings account they, created a check and sent it to me via mail (I found out they mailed it to me after talking to them over the phone). They did all of this without my knowledge, and without letting me know they were doing this. I went to log into my accounts on my phone app and noticed the transfers. I tried to log in through my computer, and it showed I had no accounts except the loan and the credit card. I called them, and they told me that since they were losing money they closed my accounts, and it was ok for them to take my money from my accounts and put it towards the loan (after I filed for bankruptcy) since it was under $50. They closed my accounts, without notifying me. I had part of my paycheck being direct deposited into those accounts. So, now I am scrambling to figure out where my money is that was supposed to be deposited into these accounts. As of today, 5 business days later only 2 of the smaller direct deposits have bounced back to my work. The larger deposit and the other small auto deposit still have not bounced back. I just logged back in today, and see they re-opened the accounts connected to the credit card and loan. They excepted the direct deposits that were supposed to go into the other checking and savings account, and it will not let me transfer the money out. I need to buy food for the week with that money. They are stealing my money at this point.

1 year ago

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Brittany Wilkinson Herriman, UT

I love America First! They have always been my go to bank for credit cards, loans, checking, savings. etc. Great customer service and banking options.

4 years ago

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Dayna Brown Logan, UT

I am a long-time member of AFCU and I will never go anywhere else for banking! Their app is easy to navigate and I love being able to see where I'm spending my money each month...makes budgeting SO MUCH easier!

3 years ago

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Wendy Rowlette Morgan, UT

We have been America First members for years. Its nice to have banking without extra fees. We have had car loans along with checking and savings accounts. We will continue to use this credit union because of the good customer service and banking experiences we have had.

3 years ago

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Leisha Logan, UT

I’ve been an America First member for over 20 years!! I appreciate how they treat their customers. They are loyal, kind, and so wonderful to work with. Their debt and credit card system is great!

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Patrick Curry Salt Lake City, UT

Love the customer service I'm always presented with. They always have the best financing and rates. We've had two car loans through them and just financed our current vehicle

3 years ago

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Eric Wilkinson Herriman, UT

We have an America First Credit Union credit card for our business. I love the customer service that America First offers and it's super easy to pay payments with our online business checking account.

3 years ago

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Dre35 West Valley City, UT

Great credit union with great rates! This is our go to local bank and our signature visa is our go to credit card. Great interest rate, which we never really leave balances on our card. The benefits and protections are top notch!

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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BeauCarl South Jordan, UT

When Mtn America denied me the ability to open an Account, I walked in America First and have been a customer for 20 years, with CC, Home Equity line of credit, and Auto Loans, they have been great to work with

4 years ago

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Eric Smith Riverton, UT

I only have good things to say about AFCU. I have only had positive experiences in the branches and on the phone with their personnel and service has always been outstanding.

4 years ago

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gaby burian Rush Valley, UT

This CU is the biggest joke out there: * Phone hold times mostly over 1 hour * customer service reps are rude * if you have fraud - you're up the creek without a paddle - they don't care about helping. Pending fraud charges will get paid and it will take aprox 6 to 8 weeks to get your $ back

10 months ago

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Lindsey Geraci Pleasant Grove, UT

Worst banking experience ever! They forgot to mention 4 numbers at the start of our account number. Number that were not on our paperwork, checks, or mobile app or anywhere else, they LOST 2 direct deposits! Their excuse? It's a new thing to add those numbers, the person setting up you account must have forgotten to mention it. Wow!!

10 months ago

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ryan byrne Surprise, AZ

The absolute WORST finance company I have ever delt with.. I have never had such a hard time trying to pay a bill as I have with this company. There phone /customer service is horrible. I'm to the point where I I will either refinance thru a different company or turn my vehicle in just to not have to deal with this bank anymore. If you have a choice, don't use America first

2 years ago

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Christina Kaysville, UT

I have banked with America First for several years and have always been happy with all of their services. Would highly recommend to anyone.

4 years ago

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Jeff Barton Layton, UT

Best Credit Union in Utah! Every time I've had a need for credit they've been there. Every time I had an issue with fraud they had my back. I love these guys.

1 year ago

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Elite Empire Salt Lake City, UT

Great auto loan process and low rates. Used by more than once and would use again. Everyone I worked with was happy to be there and made me feel welcome

3 years ago

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Mykahla Nelson Managua, MN

America first is the only way to go ! By far the best card service ever ! I would highly recommend using this bank! My card will work anywhere even in a third world country.

4 years ago

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Amy Christian Sandy, UT

My only complaint is the app is not very easy to use and comprehensive. I so enjoy the ease to make several saving accounts and am able to transfer $$ easily into them. Great service and excellent fraud control and help.

4 years ago

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Adrianne murray Brigham City, UT

I have had a credit card through them for 22 years. I love this bank and suggested to all my kids. Using their online system to pay off the card is very easy

4 years ago

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Ranin Yusuf Salt Lake City, UT

today i went to Herriman brach to withraw cash. the cleark Payten asked me for ID and refused to give me my money. they have never asked me for ID before . she was unproffessional .she did not asked if i need an enveloppe or like usuall telling customer have a good day

2 years ago

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ratliffp83 Phoenix, AZ

Multiple issues with their online system. Autopay has messed up 3 times now. Every time I have to resubmit the paperwork to start it again and each time. Also there is an $8 fee for making payments with a debt card. This place is a hair above a pay day loan place.

2 years ago

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Della Green Salt Lake City, UT

I had an account with AF since I was 16 years old so for almost 30 years. For the first time I was unable to make my mortgage payments due to loss of employment because of medical issues. They refused to work with me and gave false information. This is not what I expected and would not suggest getting an account with them.

5 years ago

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Marilynn Holland Salt Lake City, UT

I have been a customer of America First for many years . They have always been friendly and always ready to help in any way.

3 years ago

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Justin McMurtrey South Jordan, UT

America First is a great company. I use their credit cards for all of my business accounts and they give great cash back rewards.

4 years ago

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PessoaJ Herriman, UT

We had America first accounts for a long time with no problems. We had their credit card right along with our account and it was great

4 years ago

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Tony Riverton, UT

I do my business banking with America First Credit Union and am happy with the customer service. However, the web portal is horrible and I can't recommend using the card if you depend on doing online banking.

4 years ago

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Emily Walker Provo, UT

America First has been super great to work with. They are so friendly and helpful and ready to answer any questions when needed.

4 years ago

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Gabe Burton Riverton, UT

Easy to set up, easy to transfer money between accounts and pay off balances, especially with automatic payments. Rates could be lower though

2 years ago

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Andrew Peterson Brigham City, UT

I have been with America First Credit Union for over 10 years now and the customer service has always been great.

3 years ago

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Nicholas Cloward Salt Lake City, UT

Great company. Always taken good care of us. Always have better rates than other places. Highly recommend

4 years ago

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Cam McClellan Magna, UT

We opened up accounts at America First credit union for our kids. It is awesome they help them to save with a higher interest rate.

4 years ago

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Rischelle Mikkelson American Fork, UT

America First Credit Union is a great company. The people are great and very helpful. When I had some fraud on my card, they took care of everything.

4 years ago