Frequently Asked Questions

What is a credit union?

A credit union is a cooperative, not-for-profit financial institution organized to promote thrift and provide credit to members. It is member-owned and controlled by a board of directors elected by the membership. The board serves on a volunteer basis and may hire a management team to run the credit union. The board also establishes and revises policy, sets dividend and loan rates, and directs certain operations. The result: members are provided with a safe, convenient place to save and borrow at reasonable rates at an institution that exists to benefit them, not to make a profit.


I moved/changed jobs! Do I have to close my account?

No! If you move or change jobs, and are no longer within our service areas, you stay a member for life!


What are the terms of getting an account with Steel Strong Community FCU?

We began our journey 82 years ago as a Credit Union that catered to the needs of the local Steel Workers and their families. In June of 2021, we decided to expand our membership to individuals who live, work, or worship in the following areas:

  • The Townships of Elizabeth or Forward, Pennsylvania

  • The Boroughs of Braddock, Dravosburg, Jefferson Hills, Lincoln, North Braddock, or West Mifflin, Pennsylvania

  • The city of Clairton, Pennsylvania

Also, individuals who are immediate or extended family members of a current member are eligible to join.


What do I need for Direct Deposit?

Certain employers require a Direct Deposit form, which you can get at the office.

Otherwise, you will need our routing number (243380477) and either your 5-digit account # (for a share deposit) or your 10 digit Draft account # (for a draft deposit)


What is the purpose of a credit union?

The primary purpose of furthering their goal of service is to encourage members to save money. Another purpose is to offer loans to members. In fact, credit unions have traditionally made loans to people of ordinary means. Credit unions can charge lower rates for loans (as well as pay higher dividends on savings) because they are nonprofit cooperatives. Rather than paying profits to stockholders, credit unions return earnings to members in the form of dividends or improved services.


Are savings deposits insured?

Yes. All savings accounts are insured up to $250,000 by the NCUA, the National Credit Union Administration, an agency of the federal government.


Who can join a credit union?

A credit union exists to serve a specific group of people, such as a group of employees or the members of a professional or religious group. This is called a “field of membership.” The field of membership may include where they live, where they work, or their membership in a social or economic group.


What information do I need to wire funds to the credit union?

All incoming wires first go through Mid Atlantic Corporate FCU. You will need to provide the following information.

Vizo Financial Corp FCU – routing number: 231387550
Credit to: Steel Strong Community Federal Credit Union
Account # 243380477
Final Credit: Member’s name and account number (ex. 12345)


What account number do I use when authorizing a check by phone payment?

You will want to provide your checking account micro number with the credit union, which is the number on the bottom of your checks that starts with 140.