Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Financial Partner in Allentown, PA
People First was founded in 1950 with a clear purpose: to empower members through accessible, community-focused financial services. As a member-owned credit union, we prioritize people over profits, offering competitive rates, low fees, and personalized solutions tailored to the Lehigh Valley and surrounding regions. Our team combines decades of local expertise with cutting-edge technology, ensuring 24/7 access to accounts through online and mobile platforms. Federally insured by the NCUA, we safeguard deposits up to $250,000 while reinvesting earnings to benefit members. With 7 branches and a nationwide network of surcharge-free ATMs, we deliver convenience without compromising the personal touch that defines our service.Our leadership team brings extensive industry experience, guiding strategic growth while maintaining financial stability. Through community initiatives like scholarships and financial literacy programs, we strengthen the neighborhoods we serve. This commitment to member success and community development has sustained us for over 70 years. Today, we continue evolving to meet modern financial needs while upholding the cooperative principles that made us trusted partners in prosperity.
Services
Checking Accounts
Auto Loans
Mortgage Loans
Credit Cards
Savings Accounts
IRAs
Online Banking
Mobile Banking
Bill Payment
ATM Access
Details
- Year established: 1950
Highlights and features
- Member-owned cooperative returning profits to account holders
- Competitive rates on loans and higher savings yields
- 24/7 access through advanced online and mobile banking
- Community-focused financial education and local initiatives
- Federally insured deposits up to $250,000 per account
Associations and certifications
- National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)
Services
Checking Accounts
We offer free checking with no monthly fees or minimum balances, plus specialized Hometown Heroes accounts earning up to 4.00% APY on balances up to $25k. Our accounts provide unlimited check writing, debit card access, and seamless integration with bill payment systems. Members benefit from fraud protection and convenient mobile banking features.
Auto Loans
Our auto loans feature rates as low as 5.59% APR with 100% financing available to qualified borrowers. We offer both new and used vehicle financing, lease buyouts, and motorcycle/RV loans. Competitive terms up to 72 months and optional auto protection plans ensure comprehensive coverage for your investment.
Online Banking
24/7 digital access includes account management, fund transfers, bill payment, and loan applications. Our platform supports real-time alerts, eStatements, and secure messaging. Mobile app features include mobile check deposit, Zelle transfers, and card controls through Card Suite Lite for enhanced security.
Savings Accounts
We provide multiple savings options including Smart Saver accounts with up to 3.50% APY and Money Market accounts offering 2.30% APY on qualifying balances. IRA savings accounts at 0.15% APY and certificate terms up to 60 months provide flexible wealth-building opportunities for short and long-term goals.
Credit Cards
Our credit card portfolio includes a Signature Card with 3% cashback for three months and Platinum Cards offering 2.9% introductory APR. Features include zero liability protection, 3D secure authentication, and mobile wallet integration. No balance transfer fees enhance debt management capabilities.
People
Howie Meller
President & CEO
Leading People First since 2010, Howie Meller brings 30+ years of financial leadership experience. He oversees strategic growth while maintaining our community-focused mission.
Steven Mertz
EVP
Steven Mertz directs operational excellence with 25 years in credit union management. He focuses on expanding service capabilities while preserving member-centric values.
Nina Bonavita
COO
Nina Bonavita manages daily operations with expertise in process optimization. Her 20-year track record emphasizes efficiency improvements and member satisfaction initiatives.
Questions
Who can join People First Federal Credit Union?
Residents of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio, or West Virginia qualify for membership. Immediate family members of existing members also qualify.
Are my deposits insured at People First?
Yes, all deposits are federally insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF) through NCUA.
What digital banking services do you offer?
We provide 24/7 online banking, mobile apps with check deposit, Zelle transfers, card controls, and bill payment systems for member convenience.
Do you charge ATM fees?
No fees for using People First or CO-OP Network ATMs. Over 30,000 surcharge-free locations available nationwide at retailers like Wawa and 7-Eleven.
How do loan approvals work?
Applications receive quick decisions with options for online pre-approval. Our team provides personalized guidance for mortgages, auto loans, and personal financing.
Reviews (5)
Sherry Greenawalt
Jan 26, 2022
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I got the main branch when I called. It took 45 minutes to get a person. All I wanted was a transfer to another branch. The phone rang and rang. Finally a voice said this mailbox is not accepting mail at this time. Click. They hung up. I wasted an hour for that kind service.
Bearded Glasses
Jan 17, 2022
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I'm told by a separate provider mortgage lender your pre approved for 120k FHA home loan at 900+$ a month. But that I have a thin report and recommends getting a credit card. See online credit unions and your own bank are the best chance of approval. The bank associate was nice and personable. It felt like a smooth process. I have a clear history, no debt or collections other than 1 medical bill. And a credit rating of B. I have a good income and thought for sure that after holding a secured card for almost 2 years at 0$ balance I would be approved. I wasn't approved and told because I don't
Drew Schwindenhammer
Nov 02, 2021
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The absolute worst bank I have ever been apart of, seen or heard of from other customers. They do not get back to you until about a week later. Will not cooperate when your card is stolen or used unlawfully. When depositing any cash they have constantly messed up the amount almost by half. Nobody is available when you call and their answering service is very unhelpful. Whoever owns this bank should strongly consider selling it and picking a new career choice.
Kyra Lea
Nov 01, 2021
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How am I supposed to set something up or ask a question if no one answers the phone because the robot Mike can't answer a dang thing, it's super frustrating when you're "on the line" for 2.5 hours and still no call no emails being responded to what am I supposed to do just ask questions through the drive through this is ridiculous!
John Reilly
Aug 02, 2021
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Absolutely horrid... long wait times, took over a month to get a new debit card from mine getting lost... not easy to access your information, not saturday or sunday help with transactions... WOULD NOT RECOMMEND
