The first day on campus hits different. You have a half-full coffee and a head full of questions. Where's the next class? Did tuition get paid? Can I afford another latte?
College is a mix of freedom and responsibility, and money touches almost every part of it. From grabbing late night pizzas to planning for next semester's supplies, this is where Golden 1 Credit Union comes in. We're not just here to hold your money, we're here to help you move through college life with financial confidence.
Start smart, stay in control
- Student Checking1
Think of this as your financial launchpad. No fees, no drama. Just a simple, flexible account for California students ages 13 to 24. Paired with our mobile app, you can check balances between classes, transfer money on the go, and even send a quick payment to cover your roommate’s share of the pizza.
- Growth Savings2
Savings doesn't have to mean setting aside hundreds of dollars every month. With Growth Savings, the highest returns come when your balance is under $1000. That's perfect for goals like a spring break trip, a new laptop, or even just building a safety cushion. It's about learning that small steps add up fast.
- Financial Wellness Center
Money doesn't come with a manual, so we built one you'll actually want to use. Our free online Financial Wellness Center is packed with short videos, podcasts, and tools that break down credit, budgeting, and big-picture money matters without all the jargon. It's like having a study buddy for your finances.
Build credit now, your future you will thank you
- Credit Starter Loan
Your first credit experience doesn't have to be stressful. Our Credit Starter Loan helps you begin building a strong history with low rates and no collateral required. That means you'll be in a better position when it's time to finance your first car or land your first apartment.
- Credit Sense
Free* within Online Banking and the Golden 1 mobile app, Credit Sense keeps tabs on your credit score, sends alerts when things change, and offers personalized tips. It's like a credit coach that never judges, only guides.
Fund your dreams and protect what matters
- Golden 1 scholarships
Books, tuition, housing, it all adds up fast. Our renewable scholarships can provide up to $20,000 over four years. It's our way of investing in the future of California students. Applications open each year at the end of the fall term.
- College Ave student loans
For the gaps financial aid doesn't cover, College Ave makes it an easy assist. With a simple three-minute application, get flexible repayment options and zero fees.
- CalKIDS partnership
Eligible California students may receive up to $1,500 in free college savings through CalKIDS. Golden 1 helps families unlock these funds and put them toward tuition, books, and other essentials.
- Cinch Home Services
Laptops crash. Game consoles glitch. Tablets get dropped. Cinch Home Services gives you affordable repair or replacement coverage for all your technology. No matter the brand, age, or model, they'll help fix it.
- SpringFour Resources
Sometimes money gets tight. When that happens, get connected with local resources that can help make a difference when you need it most. Get help with:- Finding employment and financial counseling
- Rental resources and utility cost assistance programs
- Transportation services
- Saving on groceries, health care, and childcare.
Enjoy the ride with perks
- G1 Rewards3
CashBack+ turns your everyday spending into rewards every day. Earn up to 20% cash back instantly at your favorite retailers, whether online or in-person.
- Exclusive member benefits
From the Sacramento Kings to amusement parks, and travel deals, Golden 1 membership gets you more than financial tools. It’s your ticket to experiences you can look forward to across the golden state.
Balancing work, school, and life
We see you: hustling between classes, working double shifts and side gigs, with the occasional family gathering. College isn't one-size-fits-all, and neither is money management. That's why we provide you with resources and tools to:
- Budget around unpredictable paychecks
- Set savings goals that fit your lifestyle
- Access to resources for when things get tight
It's not about getting everything right; it's about having support at every step.
Parental support without steering
College is a learning curve for the whole family. It's about finding a balance of freedom and support, for both sides. If you want to stay involved without micromanaging, we offer:
- Joint account options for younger students
- Low-balance alerts for your peace of mind
- Shared savings goals to keep everyone on track
Why Golden 1?
We’re more than a credit union—we’re a community. Built by and for our members, we’re rooted in California and committed to helping every generation thrive. Students count on us because we listen and respond to what matters most to them. Parents rely on us because we’re here when it counts. Whether you’re just starting out or planning what’s next, we’re by your side with tools, support, and care that make a difference.
Ready to start?
Whether you're budgeting your first paycheck, applying for scholarships, or just figuring out what APR means, Golden 1 is here to help and guide you. Say hello to your bright financial future and make college life a little easier along the way.
* Message and data rates may apply. Check with your mobile provider.
1 To be eligible for this account, you must be a student between the ages of 13 and 24. When you turn 25, your Student Checking account will convert automatically to a Free Checking account. Applicants under age 16 must have a parent or legal guardian as a joint owner. Individual applicants ages 16 and 17 and all applicants over 18 must affirm attendance at a high school, college, university, or trade school. This account does not earn dividends.
2 You must keep a minimum of $1 in a Regular Savings account to maintain membership. For more, see Fee Schedule and Disclosure of Account Information.
3 To participate in G1 Rewards with CashBack+ you must be 18 years of age or older; have an open and active Golden 1 membership, be the primary account holder of an eligible Savings or Checking account and enrolled in Online Banking. Must be a U.S. citizen residing in the United States and accept Golden 1’s terms and conditions for the G1 Rewards program. Eligible accounts include Student Checking, Regular Savings, and Growth Savings. Full list at G1 Rewards with CashBack+.
