In the United States, credit unions are not-for-profit organizations that exist to serve their members rather than to maximize corporate profits. Like banks, credit unions accept deposits, make loans, and provide a wide array of other financial services. But as member-owned institutions, credit unions focus on providing a safe place to save and borrow at reasonable rates. Unlike banks, credit unions return surplus income to their members in the form of dividends.
Favorable Rates and Customer Service
Fees and loan rates at credit unions are generally lower, while deposit dividend and interest rates are generally higher than banks and other for-profit institutions. Credit unions are democratically operated by its members (those joining the credit union), allowing account holders an equal say in how the credit union is operated, regardless of how much they have on deposit at the credit union.
Membership Access
The credit union’s Board of Directors, who are elected by the members, decide who the credit union will serve. In order to join a credit union, potential members must be part of a field of membership, which is typically based on one’s employment, community, or membership in an association or organization. As credit unions serve members of modest means, many will actively expand their field of membership to serve other select groups and/or geographic areas when identified as needing access to affordable financial services. Credit unions designated low-income predominately focus on providing financial services at reasonable rates in areas that are often underserved or unserved by banks.