The Credit Union Difference
Credit unions are not-for-profit financial institutions created to serve their Members financial needs. They are owned by their Members and democratically governed by a board of directors. Their mission to serve consumers and not-for-profit, cooperative structure earns credit unions a federal tax exemption. As a result, Members see earnings as higher savings returns, lower loan rates and lower, fewer fees. Credit unions serve a common membership field based on characteristics such as a geographical area, employee groups, or membership in an organization. Becoming a credit union Member is simple and easy.
Our main focus is our Members and our local community.
| Credit Unions | Banks |
|---|---|
| Not for profit. |
For-profit corporations that offer a full range of financial products and services. |
| Credit unions are democratically governed, and elections are based on a one-member, one-vote philosophy. |
Banks are governed by paid shareholders. Voting rights depend on the number of shares owned. |
| Credit unions have members, not shareholders. |
Banks have customers and shareholders. They must make money from their customers to please shareholders. |
| Earnings are returned to members through services like free ATMs, better rates and lower fees. |
Earnings go to outside stockholders in the form of dividends. |
| Credit unions are local, community-based financial institutions. Members support their local communities when they bank at a credit union. |
Banks are big! The average size of a bank is double that of a credit union. |
| More than 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs. |
Banks require customers to use their branded ATMs and branches for services or pay fees. Some services are unavailable outside the bank. |
| Deposits insured by NCUA up to $250,000. |
Deposits insured by FDIC up to $250,000. |
The Value of Membership
- A Sense of Loyalty – Credit union members often feel a stronger sense of loyalty and a familiar connection because of a shared sense of community.
- Better Rates and Lower Fees – A credit union’s bottom line is to benefit its membership; earnings are returned through lower loan rates, higher savings rates and contributions to offset fees.
- Invest in Financial Education – Because credit unions aren’t focused on making a profit, they value educating each of their members on which financial option would be best for their situation rather than what would better the credit union.
- A Personal Touch – Many credit unions are willing to work with their members through unexpected (or unforeseen) circumstances to benefit the member and their community.
View this information and more at aSmarterChoice.org.
Credit Union Advocacy
Speaking up in the political process is a big part of credit union history. There are various ways you can ask your elected officials to support credit unions nationwide, and your voice is important!
- The Credit Union National Association (CUNA) is a great resource for those interested in political affairs concerning credit union policies.
- America’s Credit Unions advocates for a common-sense, bipartisan set of solutions to transform the financial lives of all Americans.
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Rates effective as of: November 21, 2024
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