If you’re a Dakota West member, then you already know that we pride ourselves on helping you grow with comprehensive, competitive financial products partnered with personal, professional service. We live and work in the same neighborhoods as you, and we are committed to building and strengthening our relationships with our members and the communities we serve. But, if you aren’t a current member, you may be wondering, “Why should I consider membership at Dakota West?” or “Okay, but how are they different from a traditional bank?” Well, we hope the reasons listed above get you thinking, but we’ll dive into what truly sets us apart, and how we’re different from a traditional bank.

• Community Involvement

We are proud sponsors and donors for multiple community organizations and events each year, including Dollars for Scholars, Turtle Days, the Watford City Eagles Aerie #3543, the McLean County Fair, the Harding County Fair, the Best of Dakota Foundation’s 4H and FFA, Children’s Miracle Hospital, and the Dickinson Noon Lions Club, as well as various local high school After-Prom parties. We also offer annual scholarships each spring to our younger members pursuing a secondary education after graduating high school.

• Dividend & Interest Rates

Because credit unions are not-for-profit institutions, they are owned by its members. Any profits generated by Dakota West are returned to our members in the form of higher deposit rates and lower loan rates than what they would receive at a traditional bank.

• ATM Fees

Dakota West is part of a CO-OP network, which allows its members to easily locate any of the 30,000+ surcharge-free ATMS nationwide. In addition, members have the convenience of accessing their funds at any one of the 5,600 shared branches nationwide. And, with our Kasasa® checking accounts, you’ll also receive refunds on withdrawals from ATMs that are not part of the CO-OP network. To compare our Kasasa® checking accounts and learn how you can start earning refunds, cash back and more, click here.

• Customer Service & Flexibility

At Dakota West, you’ll often find that our staff members greet you by name and enjoy getting to know you on a personal, one-on-one basis, while still expertly attending to and taking care of your financial needs. We also offer flexibility when determining loan rates and qualifications. Our lenders are happy to work with members who may have a blemished credit history, issues with their employment status impacting their loan approval, and more. After all, we are here for YOU, and will always work with our members to find a solution that helps them succeed.

 

If you’ve always banked at a traditional financial institution, making the switch to a credit union can be a big decision. The customer service, rates, and ownership that you’ll experience by becoming a Dakota West member, in addition to becoming a part of an organization that gives back, is second to none. We work hard to take care of you and our communities, and value your input and involvement— after all, Dakota West is owned by its members, so you are always the top priority. To learn more about us and our products and services, we invite you to stop into any of our eight branches to visit with a member service representative!