About Ascension Credit Union
At Ascension Credit Union, we believe banking should feel personal, local, and built around you. For more than 50 years, we’ve been owned and operated by our members, the people who live and work in Ascension, Assumption, Iberville, Livingston, and St. James Parishes. Unlike big banks, we don’t answer to shareholders. Every decision we make is about putting our members first, keeping money local, and helping our communities thrive.
We’re proud of the recognition we’ve earned. Voted “Best Credit Union” and “Best Mortgage Lender” year after year, we put people, not profits, at the center of everything we do. As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), we’re committed to reaching families and small businesses that are often left behind by traditional banks. That means fair, affordable loans, second-chance accounts, credit-building programs, and financial education designed to create opportunity for everyone.
From checking and savings to auto loans, mortgages, small business support, and retirement planning, we’re here for every stage of life. And with branches in Gonzales, Donaldsonville, and Prairieville, plus a growing digital platform, managing your finances is easy, convenient, and always backed by local service you can trust.
Most importantly, we reinvest directly into our communities through scholarships for students, support for teachers, partnerships with non-profits, law enforcement, veterans, and small business owners. When you join Ascension Credit Union, you’re not just opening an account. You’re joining a movement to build stronger communities, one family, one member at a time.
Who Can Join?
Becoming a member of Ascension Credit Union is easier than you think, and chances are you already qualify. If you live or work in Ascension, Assumption, Iberville, Livingston, St. James Parish, or if you are an immediate family member of a current member, you are eligible to join. All it takes is opening a Share Account. From there, you will unlock better rates, local service, and financial solutions built to support your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Credit Union?
A Credit Union is a not‑for‑profit financial cooperative owned by the people who use its services. Instead of paying profits to shareholders, credit unions return earnings to members through better rates, lower fees, and personalized service. They focus on meeting members’ financial needs and supporting the communities they serve.
| CREDIT UNION vs. BANK | |
|---|---|
| Ascension Credit Union (People-First) |
Traditional Banks (Profit-First) |
| Owned by Members You’re an owner, not just a customer | Owned by Shareholders Profits go to investors, not you |
| Not-for-Profit Earnings go back to you in better rates & fewer fees | For-Profit Model Higher fees, lower savings returns |
| Local Impact Money stays in our 5 parishes, supporting schools, small businesses, and families | Money Leaves the Community Decisions often made outside the parish |
| Personal Service Relationships matter; every member has a voice | Customer, Not Owner Service can feel corporate and transactional |
What is the diffference between Ascension Credit Union and a bank?
Ascension Credit Union is a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative where earnings go back to members through lower fees, better rates, and personalized service. Banks are for-profit institutions owned by shareholders, with profits leaving the community. At ACU, money stays local, supporting families, schools, and small businesses in the parishes we serve.
How are the Credit Union’s earnings used?
At Ascension Credit Union, earnings are returned to members through better rates, lower fees, and free ATMs. Banks distribute profits to shareholders instead of customers.
Is money in a Credit Union insured the same way as a bank?
Yes. Credit Union deposits are insured by the NCUA up to $250,000, similar to FDIC coverage at banks.
ESI is a free service that allows members to deposit funds over the NUCA insurance threshold. NCUA covers up to $250,000.00 anything more than that the member will not be covered. ESI steps in and now the member can be insured up to $1,000,000.00 including the $250,000.00 from NCUA, that’s an additional $750,000.00 of coverage.
Who makes the decisions at a Credit Union?
Credit Unions are democratically governed with one‑member, one‑vote elections, while banks’ decisions are made by shareholders based on ownership stakes.
How many locations can I use for transactions?
Credit Union members have access to over 5,600 shared branches nationwide. Banks usually limit access to their own branch network.
How does banking with a Credit Union help the community?
Ascension Credit Union reinvests in the community and supports local initiatives, unlike many larger banks that focus on broader markets.
Am I considered a member or just a customer?
At Ascension Credit Union, you’re a member and an owner. At a bank, you’re a customer/number whose fees and interest help generate profit for shareholders.