Soarion Credit Union (Formerly Air Force Federal Credit Union)
Soarion Credit Union, formerly Air Force Federal Credit Union (AFFCU), began as a small, base-focused institution but has since grown into a regional credit union. It continues supporting military families while opening its doors to a broader community.
Soarion Credit Union (Formerly Air Force Federal Credit Union)
Soarion’s story began in 1952 at Lackland Air Force Base, where ten airmen each pitched in $5 to create a credit union for airmen, then called Lackland Federal Credit Union. With just a one-room office and a few hundred members, it sprang from a shared need for better banking on base.
Over the decades, the credit union evolved, merging with others, expanding its branch footprint, and changing its name to Soarion in April 2024 to reflect a growing community presence. It now serves around 55,000 members.
Soarion Eligibility
Soarion still serves its original base population, including active-duty, reserve, and retired military personnel and their dependents stationed in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Alongside its military roots, Soarion also welcomes civilians living, working, studying, or worshiping in its service areas, as well as through community associations such as the Airman Heritage Foundation.
What Kind of Banking Products Does Soarion Offer?
Soarion offers accounts and lending options that match a military lifestyle. They include:
Free Checking
There’s no minimum balance requirement and no monthly maintenance fee with Soarion’s Free Checking, which includes a Visa debit card with tap-to-pay and early direct deposit. It also includes digital banking tools such as free e-statements, mobile check deposit, P2P transfers, and bill pay.
Rewards Checking
Soarion offers some checking perks. You may earn a little extra every month with dividends on your balance, and card purchases bring back 12¢ per qualifying transaction. Set up a direct deposit and get paid a day early. You get unlimited digital banking, P2P transfers, bill pay, a tap-to-pay Visa debit card, and access to thousands of fee-free ATMs.
Savings
It takes $5 to open a primary savings account. You’ll earn a little interest paid monthly, have no service charges, and get access to digital banking tools like e‑statements and 24/7 account access. It can also serve as overdraft protection if needed. Plus, it unlocks other products, from CDs and IRAs to money market accounts and loans.
Auto Loans
Soarion’s auto loans include new or used car to refinancing one you already have, even if it’s a private-party sale. You can apply online and get pre-approved for terms up to 84 months.
Home Loans
Soarion offers mortgage loans for buying or refinancing a home, with flexible term options (usually 15 or 30 years) and support from loan officers every step of the way.
It offers standard loan types, like conventional, VA, and USDA loans. There’s no application fee, and you can lock in a rate while you go through the steps. You’ll typically have a choice between 15- or 30-year terms.
Digital Tools
Soarion’s mobile app connects you to e‑statements, bill pay, Zelle, mobile deposit, and early deposit, all built to keep up whether you’re stateside or overseas.
Customer Service
- Phone Assistance: Call your local center in San Antonio (210‑673‑5610) or Del Rio (830‑488‑6322), or use its toll-free number, 1‑800‑227‑5328. Dedicated lines handle debit/credit card issues and mortgage queries.
- Digital Messaging: Secure messaging in its online banking system is designed for non-urgent questions; you’ll typically get a response within two business days.
- Appointments: You can schedule a time with a Member Advisor, either virtually or in person.
- FAQs and Guides: Soarion offers clear guides such as “How to Pay Your Loan” and “How to Set Up Direct Deposit,” plus tools like calculators and budgeting tools.
- Hardship Help: If a deployment, furlough, or medical situation interrupts your finances, Soarion’s Credit Solutions team can offer temporary extensions or modifications. They will even refer you to GreenPath for free financial counseling support.
For quick cash or deposits, over 55,000 ATMs in the Allpoint Network are available, whether you’re at home, on base, or traveling internationally.
Visit Soarion Credit Union
