HOW YOUR CREDIT UNION IS DIFFERENT FROM OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU.
NOT-FOR-PROFIT:
The Credit Union Difference
To understand what makes your credit union different, it helps to know more about just what a bank and a credit union are. While there are exceptions, each institution can be described in a general way.
A Bank is a financial institution, chartered by the state or federal government, which accepts deposits and makes loans to people and corporations for a profit.
A Credit Union is a cooperative, not-for-profit financial institution chartered by the state or federal government, which is owned and controlled by its members and organized to promote thrift and provide credit to those who belong. A credit union may only serve members who share a common bond such as that of employment, community or organization.
Your credit union may offer many of the same services as other financial institutions. Unlike them, your credit union is not in business to make a profit. It exists to provide you with a safe, convenient place to save and to obtain loans at a reasonable rate. And since it is a cooperative, your credit union is not owned by a company, by an individual, or by some distant corporation with little interest in you beyond how much profit it can make. You own your credit union or at least a share in it.
SERVICE TO MEMBERS:
People Helping People
The credit union commitment to service is as old as the credit union movement itself. Ever since the first one was formed in the United States in 1908, credit unions have grown and prospered because of a deep-rooted belief in the idea that peoples dreams can become real when they work together.
The dedication to this principle is just as strong today as it ever was. But what does that mean to you? Simply put, its your assurance of a fair deal. Here are the facts:
Credit Unions Offer an Attractive Rate on Savings. Dividend-paying share and share draft accounts (similar to checking accounts with interest) provide competitive and often higher rates when compared to other financial institutions
Credit Unions Have Affordable Loan Rates. While rates may vary from place to place and time to time, credit unions consistently offer affordable rates. Just as important, your credit union can often cut through much of the unnecessary red tape to get you that loan faster.
Credit Unions Have Fewer Costly Fees. Your credit union isn't looking to "nickel and dime" you with service charges simply to make a little extra profit. If fact, it is widely known that credit unions, unlike some other financial institutions, usually charge only a nominal fee, or none at all, for many services.
FULLY INSURED:
Your Safety Net
Credit unions are ideally suited to be your first choice in financial matters.
If your money is entrusted to your credit union, it couldn't be in a safer place. Like other insured financial institutions, your credit union is covered by an insurance fund established and maintained to protect your money.
NCUA-National Credit Unions Association