Alliant Credit Union Review 2025: Checking, Savings and CDs

Alliant's share certificates come with way above-average rates, and the minimum opening deposit of $1,000 is somewhat low compared to other institutions'.

» COMPARE: See our list of the best CD rates

Alliant offers teen and high-rate checking accounts, neither of which charges a monthly fee. Qualify for High-Rate Checking's APY by enrolling in free e-statements and receiving at least one electronic deposit per month. The account also offers up to $20 per month in reimbursements for out-of-network ATM fees.

Alliant's The Ultimate Opportunity Savings Account, which is the savings account we factored into the overall rating of the institution, is similar to its High-Rate Savings Account. It pays a competitive rate and is free if you opt into e-statements (otherwise, paper statements will cost you $1 each). Customers can make up to 19 supplemental accounts to save for specific goals.

Alliant's High-Rate Savings account, which did not factor into our overall rating of the credit union, earns an above-average rate and doesn’t charge a monthly fee if you select e-statements. Alliant also lets members open as many as 19 separate, supplemental accounts — each with its own nickname.

The credit union also offers a special savings account for parents who want to teach kids about money management.

Alliant's rates are commendable, but its inclusion is also impressive. Other credit unions restrict membership to people who work for certain companies or live in specific communities. With Alliant, you can apply for membership after making a one-time $5 donation to a nonprofit. Alliant will even pay the donation on your behalf.

Alliant has some drawbacks for those looking to bank in person. Unlike over 1,600 credit unions, it doesn't participate in shared branching, and is completely online. But it does offer a solid online banking platform and a highly rated mobile app, and customer support is available 24/7 by phone.

Members have access to online bill pay and can check their credit scores for free.

Alliant does not charge overdraft fees. Other banks and credit unions still charge overdraft fees of around $30-$35, up to several times per day. Customers can link their Alliant savings account for free overdraft protection as well.

If you have a personal line of credit with Alliant, you may be able to set it up to function as overdraft protection. In addition to the annual percentage rate that accompanies your line of credit, Alliant charges a $3 fee for line of credit overdraft protection.