LA Financial is a credit union (now part of CU SoCal) offering checking, savings, certificates, credit cards, and wealth management services to members in Southern California.
Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks
LA Financial operated as an independent credit union serving Southern California members before merging with Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal). The merger was completed with member accounts and services transitioning to CU SoCal's platform as of early 2024. LA Financial members now access all services through CU SoCal's digital banking infrastructure while maintaining continuity of their accounts and membership numbers.
LA Financial offers traditional credit union products including share savings accounts, share certificates (currently promoting 7% APY on 4-month certificates), checking accounts, Elan Financial Services credit cards, and Zelle money transfer capabilities. The credit union also provides wealth management services through CU SoCal Wealth Management and access to online and mobile banking platforms with self-service tools for account management, bill payment, and fund transfers.
As a credit union rather than a traditional bank, LA Financial operated on a member-owned cooperative model, potentially offering member-focused rates and services. The organization maintained local Southern California operations and community focus before the merger. Current distinguishing factors include the transition to CU SoCal's platform, which automatically transferred profiles for members who had logged in since January 1, 2024, and the preservation of existing account nicknames and recurring transfers during the conversion.
Members should be aware that the transition to CU SoCal's system introduced some operational changes: account presentations are now based on individual accounts rather than aggregated by Social Security number, requiring separate logins for multiple accounts. Members who had not accessed online banking since before January 1, 2024 needed to re-register as new users. The merger represents a significant platform migration, though most existing credentials and preferences were preserved.
Yes. Financial Bank Card Services is a registered company headquartered in 3361 W 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90004. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.
CreditDoc Diagnosis
LA Financial is best for existing members in Southern California who were part of the credit union before its merger with CU SoCal and want to maintain continuity of service. The main caveat is that the platform migration to CU SoCal introduced operational changes requiring account number updates for automated payments and separate logins for multiple accounts, so members should be prepared to update their banking procedures and verify all transfers continue working correctly.
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