SRI Federal Credit Union

SRI Credit Union was established in 1957 when a small number of SRI International employees decided to pool their savings together in order to borrow from one another at low rates. Membership has now been extended to a number of other partner institutes but is still limited to a small number of companies in California.

SRI Federal Credit Union
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    How do SRI Credit Union auto loans work?

    Once signed up as a member, you’ll be able to access auto loans with interest rates from 2.99% on new cars and 3.25% on used cars.

    Usually, repayment terms extend to 72 months, but you may take out a loan for longer if you meet certain criteria.

    Credit score

    SRI doesn’t state the minimum required credit score on its auto loans.

    However, members are usually assessed on a number of different criteria before being approved.

    How Much Can You Borrow?

    You may finance up to 100% of the market value of the vehicle. However, if you decide to choose repayment terms for longer than 72 months, you must borrow a minimum of $32,000.

    What types of vehicles are eligible for financing?

    Most cars are eligible, alongside motorcycles, recreational vehicles, and even boats.

    How do I qualify?

    Auto loans are only available to members of the SRI Credit Union. To become a member you must be a current or past employee of SRI international.

    You may also apply if you work for one of around 22 affiliate organizations based across California.

    What documents do I need?

    You’ll need your driver's license and social security number.

    What are the fees?

    Fee information isn’t disclosed by SRI. However, Credit Unions generally don’t charge fees.

    Contact them directly to confirm.

    How long does the loan process take?

    The online application form is all completed on one page and should only take a few minutes.

    From approval to the money being deposited in your account, you could be waiting for up to 5 business days.

    How to apply for an auto loan?

    Most applicants will apply via the online form on the SRI website.

    You can also call customer services directly if you have any questions.

    What payment methods are supported?

    You can pay via monthly bank transfers, deductions made from your payroll, and through coupon book payments.

    Pros and Cons

    Pros

    • 0.26% reduction in interest rates on zero-emission cars
    • A simple-to-follow online application process

    Cons

    • Auto loans are only available to a very limited number of applicants
    • Fees and credit score information aren’t clear

    Is SRI Credit Union right for you?

    Given the very restrictive membership eligibility criteria, this credit union will only be suitable for a small number of people.

    Outside of SRI International and California, you’d be much better off trying out one of the major auto loan financers.

    If you like the sound of the low-interest rates a credit union can offer, try the Consumer Credit Union.

    It offers fair rates and good repayment terms but is also available in all 50 states.

    Or, you could go with Capital One, which has generous credit score requirements.