1st Gateway Credit Union2536 E Lincolnway, Sterling, IL

Sterling, IL
(815) 564-0367
NCUA Insured

About 1st Gateway

This branch of 1st Gateway is located at 2536 E Lincolnway in Sterling, Illinois, and can be reached at (815) 564-0367. 1st Gateway is a federally insured financial cooperative serving the Sterling, Illinois community. Established to provide a secure alternative to big banks, they focus on member service rather than profits. If you are comparing options, you can also browse other credit unions in Sterling or review your personal loan options.

Not-for-Profit

Profits are returned to members via better rates & lower fees.

Community Focus

Local decision making and support for the Sterling area.

Key Member Benefits

  • Financial Counseling

    Expert guidance on budgeting, debt reduction, and wealth building to help you achieve financial stability.

  • First-Time Homebuyer Program

    Special mortgage programs with lower down payments or rate assistance to help you buy your first home.

  • Low-Cost Wire Transfers

    Affordable wire transfer services, making it easier to send money domestically or internationally.

  • Free Checking

    No-cost share draft accounts (checking) with no monthly maintenance fees.

Location & Branch Hours

Visit Branch

2536 E Lincolnway

Sterling, IL 61081-3052

Lobby Hours
Open

Today: 9am-5pm

SundayClosed
Monday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Drive-Thru Hours

Need Funds Before You Join?

How to Join

Membership at 1st Gateway is typically open to individuals who live, work, worship, or attend school in Sterling and surrounding areas.

Standard Requirements:

  • Valid Government ID (Driver's License, Passport)
  • Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Proof of Address (Utility bill, Lease)
  • Small opening deposit (Usually $5 - $25)

We recommend contacting the branch at (815) 564-0367 to confirm your eligibility before visiting.

Membership and underwriting can take time. If you need funds while your application is in progress, you can explore installment loans or, if your credit history is still developing, review loan options for bad credit.

Services and Loan Types

Like most credit unions, 1st Gateway typically offers the following services. If you want to weigh these against online options, you can compare debt consolidation loans or, for those rebuilding their score, look at loans for fair credit:

Loans & Credit

  • Personal Loans: Unsecured loans for debt consolidation or emergencies.
  • Auto Loans: Financing for new and used vehicles.
  • Home Loans: Mortgages and Home Equity (HELOC).
  • Credit Cards: Low-rate Visa/Mastercard options.

Banking & Savings

  • Checking Accounts: Often free with no minimum balance.
  • Savings Accounts: Share accounts with dividends.
  • CDs & IRAs: Long-term savings options.
  • Online Banking: Mobile app and remote deposit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 1st Gateway federally insured?

Yes, as a federally chartered or insured credit union, accounts are insured by the **NCUA (National Credit Union Administration)** up to $250,000. This offers the same level of protection as FDIC insurance at traditional banks.

Who can join this credit union?

Field of membership typically includes residents of Sterling, employees of specific local companies, or family members of existing members. Contact the branch directly for the most current eligibility list.

Other 1st Gateway Locations

6 additional branches in 2 states

IllinoisCurrent State

3 locations

200 N Base St

15 mi away(815) 772-2200

334 Washington St

17 mi away(815) 537-2620

415 10th Ave

26 mi away(815) 589-9053

Iowa

3 locations

1504 N 2nd St

27 mi away(563) 243-4121

1504 N 2nd St

27 mi away(563) 243-0524
1st Gateway Credit Union in Camanche, IAMain OfficeOpen

2603 Camanche Industrial Park Dr

30 mi away(563) 243-4121

Credit Unions Near Me in Other Illinois Cities

Looking for credit unions near me in other Illinois cities? Browse credit unions in nearby locations:

View all credit unions in Illinois

If 1st Gateway Credit Union isn't the right fit

To borrow from 1st Gateway Credit Union you generally need to qualify for membership and meet its lending criteria, and not every applicant is approved. If you don't qualify, need to compare rates, or want to review more options, you can connect with online lenders serving Illinois. Applying is quick, and funds may be available as soon as the next business day after approval.

Fast Fair Loans is not a lender, does not make credit decisions, and cannot guarantee loan approval or amount. Loans are not available in all states.