Build your credit, one step at a time.
Build your credit with a structured 12-month loan that features a fixed rate, manageable payments, and funds set aside in your savings until the end of the term. It’s a clear, steady way to establish or improve your credit.*
Build Credit and Save
- 5.00% APR1 fixed rate
- $300 - $5,000 credit limit
- 12-month term
How to Get Started
- Apply in-branch or online
- Attend a Credit Essentials session
- Make monthly payments while we hold the total loan amount pledged in your Membership Savings account
- In 12 months, you’ll establish or increase your credit score, and the funds will be yours to keep!
Upcoming Event:
Saturday, June 6th 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
476 Hinano Street, Hilo, HI 96720
To sign up, email [email protected]
If you have any questions, please call (808) 933-6700. We're excited to support you on your journey to better credit!
Learn more about the SmartScore Program by reviewing some frequently asked questions:
What do I need to apply?
Must be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of three months of employment.
What’s a Credit Essentials session?
The Credit Essentials session offers insights into healthy financial habits, tips for improving your credit score, and information about the SmartScore program and its benefits. You can attend a session before or after applying for SmartScore. Attendance at a session is required for loan closing.
What documents do I need to apply?
Identity verification documents, such as a Driver’s License or Government-issued ID. You may also be asked to verify employment. Proof of income is required to determine your ability to pay.
Can I apply with no credit?
Yes! The loan is designed for individuals with no credit or those looking to rebuild their credit.
What if I have poor credit?
You can still apply! The loan aims to help improve your financial situation.
How does it help my credit?
Making regular, on-time payments can help you build a positive credit history, which boosts your credit score. The Credit Essentials sessions will also provide valuable tips to help you manage your finances wisely!
How long can I take to repay the loan?
The term for repayment is 12 months. This shorter term helps you stay on track with a consistent repayment pattern.
What happens if I miss a payment?
We understand that life happens! However, if you miss a payment, it could result in a late charge. To avoid this, we recommend setting reminders or automatic payments to help you manage your loan smoothly. If you do not pay within 30 days, your loan will be settled using your secured shares, which helps protect your credit score. Just remember, you might need to pay more than the secured amount due to interest.
If I don't pay on time, will there be a late charge?
If payment is not received in full within 10 days after it is due, you will pay a late charge of 5% of the payment that is due, with a minimum of $10.00.
What happens if I pay off my loan early?
You’re welcome to pay off your loan early! Just keep in mind that it may not lead to an increase in your credit score.
Can I apply for this loan if I have other loans?
Absolutely! You can still apply for our loan even if you have other loans, as long as you meet our eligibility criteria and are comfortable managing your repayments.
Can I have a co-borrower?
Unfortunately, no. But the good news is that each person can apply for their own SmartScore loan to build credit individually!
Why choose SmartScore?
Our SmartScore program provides the opportunity for you to build your credit score while you save money that will be earned back at the end of the program.
*Your credit score will depend on your timely payments and financial habits. Results cannot be guaranteed. Please note that this product will not eliminate any negative credit history from your credit report.
1APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Applicants must qualify under CU Hawaii’s membership and lending guidelines. Rates are subject to change. Loan rate of 5.00 effective 07/01/2025. Your Membership Savings account is used as collateral for your SmartScore loan. As of 07/01/2025, the APY (Annual Percentage Yield) for a Membership savings account is 0.05% and is subject to change without notice. Payment example: A loan of $300 with 5.00% APR with a 12-month term will have 12 monthly Principal and Interest payments of $25.69, which includes $8.28 total interest paid. A loan of $5,000 with 5.00% APR with a 12-month term will have 12 monthly Principal and Interest payments of $428.08, which includes $136.96 total interest paid. After successful repayment of the loan, the balance in your Membership Savings account will be made available. If you fall 30 days delinquent, your SmartScore Loan will be settled and closed, using the funds previously pledged in your Membership Savings account. Certain restrictions apply. Insured by NCUA
Use this calculator to determine your projected earnings from our Kasasa Cash account. Move the sliders or type in the numbers to see your potential rewards.
- Estimated Annual Rewards $0
- Estimated monthly dividend earned* $0
- Monthly ATM fees refunded**$0
This calculator compares the costs of buying or leasing a vehicle. There are three sections to complete, and you can adjust and experiment with different scenarios.
- Net cost of buying $0
- Net cost of leasing $0
A fixed-rate, fixed-term CD can earn higher returns than a standard savings account. Use this calculator to get an estimate of your earnings. Move the sliders or type in numbers to get started.
- Total value at maturity $0
- Total dividend earned $0
- Annual Percentage Yield (APY)0.000%
Whether it's a down payment, college, a dream vacation...a savings plan can help you reach your goal. Use the sliders to experiment based on length of time and amount per month.
- Monthly deposit needed to reach goal $0
This calculator can help you get a general idea of monthly payments to expect for a simple loan. Move the sliders or type in numbers to get started.
- Estimated monthly payment $0
- Total paid $0
- Total interest paid $0
Auto Loans
| Type | APR |
|---|---|
| New Auto | As low as 4.49% |
| Used Auto | As low as 4.99% |
- APR determined by applicant's score
- No prepayment penalty
Business Credit Card
| Type | APR |
|---|---|
| Business Credit Card | 11.00% |
- No annual fees
Certificates & IRA Certificates
| Term | Dividend Rate | APY |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Month | 3.500% | 3.500% |
| 12 Month | 3.700% | 3.700% |
| 18 Months | 3.250% | 3.250% |
| 24 Month | 3.250% | 3.250% |
| 36 Months | 2.750% | 2.750% |
| 48 Months | 2.750% | 2.750% |
| 60 Months | 2.750% | 2.750% |
The maximum permitted to be deposited into a Certificate is $1,000,000.00 in aggregate per Taxpayer Identification Number.
- No setup charges or annual maintenance fees
- Dividends credited monthly
- Additional deposits not permitted
- Early withdrawal penalties apply
- Please consult your tax advisor
Checking
| Account | APY |
|---|---|
| Regular Checking | 0.000% |
| Plus Checking* | 0.050% |
- No monthly fee
- Unlimited check writing
- Regular Checking - no minimum to open
- No fees for Debit Card usage
- *Earns dividends by maintaining an average daily balance of $2500.00 or more
- *Dividends compounded and credited monthly
- *Minimum to open Plus Checking is $2500.00
- *Minimum to earn dividends is $2500.00
Construction Loans
| Type | Term | Interest Rate | Points | APR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Construction - Contractor (Balloon) | 12 Months | 5.625% | 1.0 | 8.085% |
| Construction - Contractor | 372 Months | 7.500% | 1.0 | 7.762% |
| Construction - Owner Builder (Balloon) | 12 Months | 6.125% | 1.5 | 9.167% |
| Construction - Owner Builder | 372 Months | 8.000% | 1.5 | 8.330% |
| Construction - Investor - Contractor (Balloon) | 12 Months | 6.625% | 1.5 | 9.131% |
| Construction - Investor - Contractor (Balloon) | 192 / 372 Months | 9.125% | 1.5 | 9.517% |
- 1 year construction period
- Construction Permanent Financing
- Construction Loan converts to a 30 year term 1st Mortgage
- LTV for Contractor and Owner Builder is 80%. LTV for Investor is 70%
- * 12 month construction period followed by 180 month term with 360 month amortization. Balloon payment due at end of 180 months
Green Loans
| Type | Term | APR |
|---|---|---|
| Solar (Up to $15,000) | Up to 60 Months | As low as 6.00% |
- Call for current rates, terms and programs
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
| Type | Interest Rate | Points | APR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Year Introductory Rate | 5.500% | 0.000 | 5.500% |
| 5 Year Introductory Rate | 6.000% | 0.000 | 6.000% |
- The Introductory Rate is fixed for the specific term and adjusted annually thereafter
- After the initial term, the APR will be based upon the 6-month US Treasury Bill constant maturity rate plus a margin of 3%
- 3% margin based on CLTV (Combined Loan to Value) of 80% or less (rounded up to the nearest 0.125%)
- Price floor is 5.000%, max rate not to exceed 18%
- CU Hawaii Federal Credit Union will pay for all necessary closing costs on approved lines up to $2500.00; however, if the line is closed within 3 years, the member is responsible for reimbursing the credit union for all fees. Estimated closing costs will approximately be between $0-$3,000
- No prepayment penalty
- Certain restrictions apply
IRA Savings
| Type | APY |
|---|---|
| Traditional & Roth | 0.050% |
- No setup charges or annual maintenance fees
- Dividends compounded and credited quarterly
- Please consult your tax advisor
Kasasa Rewards Checking
| Account | |
| Kasasa Cash | Click "Learn More" for APY rate and disclosures |
Kasasa accounts must meet the following account qualifications to earn the qualifying dividend rate and APY:
- A minimum of 10 debit card purchases post to your Kasasa Cash or Kasasa Cash Back account;
- You receive monthly e-Statements for the account; and
- You have a direct deposit, ACH credit, or ACH payment on your account at least once during the cycle.
- If qualifications are not met the account will earn 0.010% APY
- Dividends are compounded and credited monthly
Kasasa Rewards Savings
| Account | |
| Kasasa Saver | Click "Learn More" for APY rate and disclosures. |
Kasasa accounts must meet the following account qualifications to earn the qualifying dividend rate and APY:
- A minimum of 10 debit card purchases post to your Kasasa Cash or Kasasa Cash Back account;
- You receive monthly e-Statements for the account; and
- You have a direct deposit, ACH credit, or ACH payment on your account at least once during the cycle.
- If qualifications are not met the account will earn 0.050% APY
- Dividends are compounded and credited monthly
MasterCard® Credit Cards / Line of Credit
| Type | APR |
|---|---|
| MasterCard® Classic | 17.25% |
| MasterCard® Gold | 13.00% |
| MasterCard® Platinum (Rewards Card) | 11.00% |
| Overdraft Protection | 17.75% |
| Line of Credit | As low as 12.50% |
- Rates are fixed
- No Annual fees. For additional details on credit card fees, please CLICK HERE.
Money Market
| Account Balance | APY |
|---|---|
| $0 - $24,999.99 | 1.000% |
| $25,000 - $49,999.99 | 1.150% |
| $50,000 - $99,999.99 | 1.250% |
| $100,000 - $499,999.99 | 1.350% |
| $500,000 or more | 1.500% |
- Money Market is a tiered rate account
- $2,500.00 minimum opening balance
- $2,500.00 minimum balance to earn interest
- Excess withdrawal/transfer fees apply
- Dividends compounded and credited quarterly
Personal Loans
| Term | APR |
|---|---|
| 12 - 60 Months | As low as 5.49% |
- APR determined by applicant's score
- No prepayment penalty
Residential Mortgage Loans
| Program | Rate* | Points | APR* | Down Payment | Monthly Payment (principal & interest)* per $100,000 borrowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15Yr Fixed | 6.000% | 0.000 | 6.137% | 20% | $844.17 |
| 30Yr Fixed | 6.500% | 0.000 | 6.584% | 20% | $632.44 |
| 5Yr ARM** | 6.000% | 0.000 | 6.219% | 20% | $599.55 |
ADDITIONAL MORTGAGE OPTIONS AVAILABLE. PLEASE INQUIRE FOR MORE DETAILS.
- No prepayment penalty
- Certain restrictions apply
*Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and monthly principal and interest payments are based on a borrowed amount of $100.000. Payments do not include the required down payment, applicable maintenance fees, real estate taxes, insurance premiums, if appicable, and your actual payment obligation may be greater. Rates and Terms may change at any time without prior notice and are provided for informational purposes. Subject to credit approval. Certain restrictions apply.
**Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) is a thirty year term with an intial fixed rate for the first five years, then adjusts annually thereafter. Your interest rate can increase or decrease every 12 months according to the current index. Monthly payments may change when the rate is adjusted. Adjustments are based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) 30 day average plus 2.750% rounded up to the nearest 0.125%. Interest rate adjustments are subject to a floor rate of 4.750% and a maximum rate of 9.750%. Maximum annual adjustment is 2%.
Savings
| Account | APY |
|---|---|
| Membership Savings | 0.050% |
| Special Savings | 0.050% |
- No early withdrawal penalty
- Earn dividends by maintaining an average daily balance of $100 or more
- Dividends compounded and credited quarterly
- $50.00 to open
- $100.00 to earn dividends
Savings / Certificate Secured
| Type | APR |
|---|---|
| Savings | Savings Rate plus 3.00% |
| Savings (Balloon: Interest Only Payments) | Savings Rate plus 3.00% |
| Certificate | Certificate Rate plus 3.00% |
- Savings Secured: Floating APR
- Certificate Secured: Fixed APR
- No prepayment penalty
SmartScore Credit Builder Loan
| Term | APR |
|---|---|
| 12 Months | 5.00% |
- No prepayment penalty
- Certain restrictions apply
Our SmartScore loan is an exciting way to help you build or rebuild your credit!* Whether you’re starting fresh with no credit history or looking to improve a less-than-stellar credit score, this loan is designed for you. Plus, you’ll have the added benefit of saving some funds along the way!
*Your credit score will depend on your timely payments and financial habits. Results cannot be guaranteed. Please note that this product will not eliminate any negative credit history from your credit report.
Your Membership Savings account is used to pledge the collateral for your SmartScore loan. After successful repayment of the loan, the balance pledged in your Membership Savings account will be made available. If you fall 30 days delinquent, your SmartScore Loan will be settled and closed, using the funds previously pledged in your Membership Savings account.
Vacant Land Loans
| Type | Term | Interest Rates | APR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Future Primary Residence | 180 Months | 6.750% | 6.984% |
| Future Primary Residence (ARM**) | 180 Months | 6.000% | 8.619% |
| Future Primary Residence (Balloon) | 36 Months | 6.250% | 6.772% |
| Future Primary Residence (Balloon) | 60 Months | 6.500% | 6.844% |
| Investor Residential | 180 Months | 7.250% | 7.577% |
| Investor Residential (ARM**) | 180 Months | 6.500% | 9.207% |
| Investor Residential (Balloon) | 36 Months | 6.750% | 7.269% |
| Investor Residential (Balloon) | 60 Months | 7.000% | 7.339% |
- Balloon: Interest Only Payments
- Price floor is 8.125% APR, max rate not to exceed 18% APR
- LTV for Future Primary Residence is 80%. LTV for Investor is 75%
- No points for Future Primary Residence. 0.50 point for Investor
- No prepayment penalty
