Is Desjardins right for you? We review AccèsD online banking, mortgage rates, the caisse populaire network, and how it stacks up against Canada's Big 6.
Desjardins Group is Canada's largest cooperative financial institution and the dominant financial brand in Quebec. Founded in 1900, it operates through a network of caisses populaires — member-owned local cooperatives. It is headquartered in Lévis, Quebec.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Cooperative credit union (not a chartered bank) |
| Members | ~7 million+ members |
| Branches (caisses) | 900+ in Quebec and Ontario |
| ATMs | 3,700+ (including THE EXCHANGE network) |
| Online banking | AccèsD (web and mobile app) |
| Languages | French (primary), English |
| CDIC Coverage | No — covered by AMF and SADC up to $100,000 |
Desjardins's AccèsD platform is well-regarded among Quebec users. Key features include:
| Account | Monthly Fee | Transactions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modulo | $4.95–$15.95 | Tiered (12–unlimited) | Most members |
| Youth/Student | $0 | Unlimited | Under 25 / Students |
| 55+ Senior | Reduced | Unlimited | Members 55+ |
| Business | Varies | Custom | Small business owners |
Desjardins is one of Quebec's most competitive mortgage lenders. Rates change frequently — contact your caisse or use AccèsD for current offers.
| Term | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1-year fixed | Fixed | Competitive short-term option |
| 3-year fixed | Fixed | Popular mid-term choice |
| 5-year fixed | Fixed | Most popular, stable payments |
| 5-year variable | Variable | Tracks prime rate |
| HELOC | Variable | Home equity line, flexible access |
Always compare with National Bank, TD, and other lenders. Rates vary by caisse and member profile.
| Card | Annual Fee | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Desjardins Visa Cashback | $0 | 1–2% cash back on all purchases |
| Desjardins Odyssey World Elite | $130 | 3% cash back, travel insurance |
| Desjardins Flexi Visa | $0 | Low interest rate option |
| Desjardins student Visa | $0 | No-fee for students |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cooperative structure — profits returned to members | Not covered by CDIC (different deposit protection) |
| Dominant Quebec presence, local caisse ties | Limited national presence outside Quebec/Ontario |
| Competitive mortgage rates in Quebec | AccèsD can lag big bank apps for some features |
| Strong customer trust in francophone Quebec | Fewer branches outside Quebec for travelers |
| SADC insures deposits up to $100,000 | Less international banking infrastructure |
Desjardins is an excellent choice if you:
Consider a big bank if you travel frequently outside Quebec, need extensive international banking, or want the largest possible ATM network across Canada.