You can open a Durat checking account online, but only if you are already a member of the credit union
Durat Credit Union (formerly Dubuque Employees Credit Union) does allow online account opening for existing members through their website or mobile app. If you are not yet a member, you must complete membership first, which requires an in-person visit to a branch or a phone call to their membership department. Once you hold a Durat membership, the checking account setup takes place entirely online and typically completes within one business day.
The membership requirement exists because Durat is a credit union, not a bank open to the general public. Credit unions restrict membership to people who meet specific criteria — in Durat's case, that usually means living or working in Dubuque County, Iowa, or belonging to certain employer groups. If you do not meet the membership requirement, you cannot open any account with Durat, including checking.
Key Takeaways
- Durat Credit Union requires you to be a member before you can open a checking account, and membership cannot be completed entirely online.
- If you already hold Durat membership, you can open a checking account online through their website or mobile app in one business day or less.
- New members must visit a Durat branch in person or call their membership department to join first, which takes a few minutes.
- You will need a valid ID, Social Security number, and proof of address to complete either membership or account opening.
- Durat offers multiple checking account types with different features and fee structures, so compare options before opening.
How to check if you meet Durat membership requirements
Durat membership is open to people who live or work in Dubuque County, Iowa. The credit union also extends membership to employees of certain employers and members of specific organizations. Visit the Durat website or call their membership line at the number listed on their site to confirm whether you fall into one of these groups.
If you do not meet the standard membership criteria, ask whether Durat offers a community charter membership or whether you can join through a family member who is already a member. Some credit unions allow this, though policies vary. If Durat cannot extend membership to you, you will need to open a checking account at a different financial institution.
Steps to become a Durat member if you are not one yet
Visit any Durat branch location in person with a valid photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease works). A membership representative will verify your information and open your membership account on the spot. This process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, call Durat's membership department during business hours to ask whether they can process membership over the phone for your situation.
Once your membership is active, you can proceed to open a checking account online. Durat will assign you a member number during the membership process — keep this handy for the account opening step.
Opening a checking account online as an existing Durat member
Log into your Durat online banking account or open the Durat mobile app. Look for an option labeled "Open an Account" or "Add an Account." Select checking from the account type menu. Durat offers more than one checking product, so review the features and fees of each before choosing — some have monthly maintenance fees, others waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Complete the online form with your personal information. Durat will pull most details from your existing membership record, so you may only need to confirm what is already on file. Review the account terms and disclosures, then submit. Your new checking account should be active within one business day, and you can begin using it immediately once Durat sends you confirmation.
What documents and information you need ready
For membership (if you are not yet a member): bring a valid government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and a recent document showing your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work.
For online account opening (as an existing member): you will not need to upload documents. Durat will use the information already in your membership file. Have your member number available when you log in, though the system usually retrieves it automatically once you sign into online banking.
Timing and what to expect after you submit
Online account opening at Durat typically completes within one business day. You will receive an email or notification confirming that your checking account is open and ready to use. Durat will provide you with a routing number and account number so you can set up direct deposit or transfer money in from another bank if you wish.
Physical debit cards and checks take longer — usually 5 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. If you need to access your account before the card arrives, you can use online banking or mobile banking to transfer funds or pay bills. Some Durat branches can issue a temporary debit card in person if you visit.
Comparing Durat checking account options before you open
Durat offers several checking account types, and the right choice depends on how you plan to use the account. Some accounts have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,000) or set up direct deposit. Others charge a small monthly maintenance fee but waive it under certain conditions. A few accounts are designed for students or seniors and have different terms.
Before opening online, visit the Durat website and review the fee schedule and features for each checking product. Pay attention to overdraft fees, out-of-network ATM fees, and whether the account includes bill pay or mobile check deposit. If you have questions about which account fits your needs, call Durat or visit a branch — membership representatives can walk you through the differences.
What to do if you cannot open an account online
If you log into your Durat account and do not see an option to open a checking account online, contact Durat directly. The online account opening feature may be temporarily unavailable, or your membership status may need to be updated. Call the number on the back of your Durat card or visit a branch.
If you are not yet a member and cannot visit a branch in person, call Durat's membership department and explain your situation. Some credit unions can process membership by phone or mail under certain circumstances, though Durat's policy may require an in-person visit. Ask what options are available to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Durat checking account if I live outside Iowa?
Durat's standard membership requires you to live or work in Dubuque County, Iowa. If you live elsewhere, you do not meet the primary membership requirement. Call Durat to ask whether you may have access to through an employer group or organization membership, or whether they offer any exceptions. If not, you will need to open an account at a bank or credit union in your area.
How long does it take to become a Durat member?
In-person membership takes about 10 to 15 minutes at any Durat branch. If you complete membership by phone, the call typically lasts 5 to 10 minutes. Once your membership is active, you can open a checking account online the same day or any day after.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Durat checking account?
Durat does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts. However, some account types waive monthly fees only if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,000) or set up direct deposit. Review the specific account terms before opening to understand any balance requirements.
Can I open a joint checking account with Durat online?
Joint account opening policies vary by credit union. Contact Durat to ask whether you can add a co-owner during online account setup or whether you need to visit a branch or call to complete a joint account. If the co-owner is not yet a Durat member, they will need to join first.
What if I forget my online banking password?
Use the "Forgot Password" link on the Durat login page to reset it. Durat will send a reset link to the email address on file. If you cannot access your email or have other login issues, call Durat's customer service line or visit a branch for help.