Collage showing a military family holding a US flag and a volunteer planting trees with a child. Mentions service and community.

ABOUT US

Empowering Members. Strengthening Communities.

From military families to communities across the country, PenFed welcomes everyone. Together, we're helping members build stronger financial futures.

90+

Years Serving You

2.8M+

Members Served

$29B

In Assets

85K+

Free ATMs

Our Mission

PenFed's mission is to deliver financial value to help our members achieve their dreams.

A large, diverse group of smiling people of various ages and backgrounds sitting closely together outdoors.
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Members come first

Every decision we make is guided by what's best for our members.

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Empowering your future

Whether you're building credit, buying a home, or planning ahead, we're here to help every step of the way.

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Military roots, community impact

Through service and community partnerships, we honor our military heritage while helping communities thrive nationwide.

A large, diverse group of smiling people of various ages and backgrounds sitting closely together outdoors.
membership icon

Members come first

Every decision we make is guided by what's best for our members.

future icon

Empowering your future

Whether you're building credit, buying a home, or planning ahead, we're here to help every step of the way.

community icon

Military roots, community impact

Through service and community partnerships, we honor our military heritage while helping communities thrive nationwide.

90+

Years Serving You

2.8M+

Members Served

$29B

In Assets

PenFed: A story of service

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1935

Our Beginning

Founded as the War Department Federal Credit Union to serve the civilian employees of the U.S. Department of War, we started small—built on a shared belief in people helping people. From the beginning, our focus was simple: put members first, offer practical financial solutions, and build trust that lasts.

1935: The Munitions Building on Constitution Avenue, the birthplace of today’s PenFed Credit Union.
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1947

Post-War Growth

We became Pentagon Federal Credit Union, a name that reflected our growing community and expanding reach. As membership increased, so did our commitment to serving more people with the same care and integrity.

 PenFed transitioned to its new home within the newly completed Pentagon.
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1970

Community Expansion

We began serving all Department of Defense employees and their families nationwide. From coast to coast, military families found a trusted financial partner who understood their needs—your mission became our mission.

PenFed began serving all Department of Defense (DoD) employees and their families nationwide.
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2001

Heroes First

The PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes was established to give back to those who serve and sacrifice. We empower Veterans with the tools and resources, so their transition from military service to civilian life is successful.

PenFed launched its Foundation to provide financial support and stability for military heroes.
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2015

Fresh Forward

We refreshed our brand to reflect who we had become—a modern, national credit union rooted in service. This evolution marked our readiness to meet changing member needs while staying true to our values.

PenFed launched a comprehensive brand refresh to modernize its identity for a growing national membership.
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2019

Open to All

We opened membership to everyone, expanding our reach to welcome more members into the PenFed family. We made it easier for people nationwide to benefit from great rates and trusted financial guidance.

grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new PenFed credit union branch
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Today

Leading with Purpose

Serving nearly million members with $ billion in assets, we remain committed to our values. From humble beginnings to a national community, we’ve never forgotten what matters: you. Better rates, fewer fees, and service that puts your needs first.

Leading with Purpose

Supporting what matters most

Our commitment goes beyond financial products through community impact, trusted resources, and meaningful careers.

Secure Together

Get tips, tools, and resources that help protect your personal information and keep your finances secure.

Secure together

Community Service

See how we're giving back through volunteer service, community partnerships, and support for meaningful causes.

Community service

PenFed Careers

Explore opportunities to grow your career while helping members, families, and communities thrive.

Penfed Careers
James Schenck
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At PenFed, our mission is to help our members achieve their financial dreams. Every day, our team works to earn your trust through competitive value, dependable service and a commitment to doing what is right for our members. I am proud of PenFed's legacy of helping people, and even more proud of the impact we continue to make together to strengthen our community.

– James Schenck, PenFed President & CEO

Membership that works for real life

Join with a $5 savings account or automatically with an auto loan, credit card, home loan or eligible product.

Credit Cards

Whether you're earning rewards or making everyday purchases, we'll help you find the right credit card for your needs.

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Mortgages

Whether you're buying, building, or refinancing, we're here with mortgage options and expert guidance at every step.

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Auto Loans

Shop for vehicles, compare offers, and secure financing through PenFed's Car Buying Service, all in one place.

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PenFed Annual Report

Discover our financial strength and community impact. The latest Annual Report becomes available every May.