Here’s something you don’t see every day: a mobile phone service that’s actually designed to save you money instead of nickel-and-diming you to death.
Members Mobile Inc. just launched nationwide, and they’re taking a completely different approach to wireless service—one built specifically for credit unions and their members.
Think of it as the anti-big-carrier. Instead of confusing plans, hidden fees, and customer service that makes you want to throw your phone out the window, Members Mobile is offering something refreshingly straightforward: high-speed 4G/5G service bundled with fintech features that connect directly to your credit union account.
What Makes This Different?
Members Mobile isn’t just another MVNO (mobile virtual network operator—basically a company that leases network access from the big players). They’ve built their entire platform around credit union members, which means the whole experience is designed to integrate with the financial institution you already trust.
“Credit unions have earned a unique level of trust with their members, and we believe mobile service is a natural extension of that relationship,” said Gary Brandt, Co-founder and Chairman of Members Mobile. Translation: if you trust your credit union with your money, why not let them help you save on your phone bill too?
The Numbers That Matter
Let’s talk savings, because that’s what really counts. According to J.D. Power, Americans are shelling out an average of $141 per month on wireless when you factor in device payments, fees, and all those other charges that magically appear on your bill.
Members Mobile surveyed over 1,235 credit union members and found something pretty compelling: 66% could save more than $300 annually by making the switch, while 43% could pocket over $540 in yearly savings. That’s real money—the kind that could fund a weekend getaway or knock out a chunk of debt.
How It Actually Works
The company operates as a credit union service organization (CUSO) and is kicking things off with MSUFCU as its founding partner. They’ve already signed up a dozen credit unions representing more than 2.5 million members across the country, so this isn’t some tiny pilot program—it’s a full-scale launch.
The secret sauce is their proprietary platform called VIMplicity™ (yes, they really love their trademark symbols). This tech connects mobile activation with digital account onboarding in a single app. You can sign up for service, activate through eSIM or a physical SIM card, and either link your existing credit union account or open a new one—all in just a few minutes.
Beyond Phone Service
Members Mobile isn’t stopping at basic wireless. They’re rolling out perks like Cash ShareBacks™ (money paid directly into your credit union account), Data SafetyNet™, and what they call VIM Support—or “Very Important Member” support, for those keeping track of the acronyms.
Luis Jimenez-Tunon, Co-founder of Members Mobile, put it simply: “Members are looking for simpler, more transparent ways to manage everyday expenses. Members Mobile gives credit unions a new way to help members save money, stay connected, and align more of their financial life with the credit union.”
What’s Next?
The company has bigger plans on the horizon. They’re looking to expand their fintech capabilities to include additional credit union products and services—think cards, savings accounts, lending options, and even device insurance and financing.
For members ready to make the switch, the process is straightforward: choose a plan through the app or website, bring your own compatible smartphone, keep your current number (or grab a new one), and activate digitally. And if you hit any snags? Actual support is available to walk you through it.
In a world where “disruption” gets thrown around more than a frisbee at a college quad, Members Mobile might actually be onto something. By connecting mobile service with credit unions—institutions people actually like and trust—they’re offering a genuine alternative to the carrier oligopoly. And if they can save members hundreds of dollars a year while doing it? That’s the kind of disruption we can all get behind.
Related:
Greg Post and Ben Maxim on how mobile benefits serve credit union members