Five Reasons People Love Credit Unions (2024)

Credit unions may look a lot like banks at first glance since they both offer checking accounts, car loans, student loans, and other financial products you need, but these member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperatives offer some major differences and big benefits.

Credit unions provide affordable, everyday banking and loan solutions for millions of people, serving those who share a common connection like living in the same community or working for a certain employer. While credit unions once had limiting membership requirements, the great news is that now just about anyone can join one!Don’t miss out!

Credit Unions Are Member-Owned, Not-For-Profit Entities

Unlike a bank, there are no outside investors or stockholders at a credit union. That means all profits can go straight back to members’ pockets or be invested to benefit the members and communities the credit union serves.

When you open an account at a credit union, you’re not a “customer.” You’re a member-owner. That’s why regular savings accounts are called “share” accounts – they establish your membership and represent your share of the credit union. While this amount is typically low (as low as a $5 deposit at First Financial) being a part owner in your financial institution is a big deal.

Member-owners of the credit union elect their board of directors, typically volunteers, to help govern the organization. Credit unions are democratically controlled with each member getting one vote, regardless of how much they have on deposit. This is just one of the differences that make being a credit union member something special.

1. Higher Savings Rates and Lower Loan Interest Rates

Everyone loves saving money! That’s why so many people are drawn to the lower loan interest rates and higher savings rates most credit unions offer.

A credit union’s not-for-profit structure means it can offer better deals on the financial products and services members need – saving the average member household hundreds of dollars each year or thousands over the term of their lower-rate loan!

Make credit unions your first stop when considering other types of loans, too. From car loans to mortgages and business loans, you may be surprised by how much more affordable your local credit union’s offerings are compared with traditional big banks.

Want a better deal on a student loan? Learn more about our private education line of credit to make sure your costs are covered for the semester:First Financial Student Choice.

2. Fewer Fees Overall

No one likes having unexpected fees hit their account and wipe away their hard-earned savings.

Credit unions tend to offer fewer fees, such as:

• Free checking with no monthly maintenance fees
• Surcharge-free ATM network access
• Automatic transfers from savings to cover overdrafts
• More affordable fees for wires, non-sufficient funds, and more

3. The Friendly, Caring Service You Deserve

Credit unions aren’t just known for their money-saving products. Members love their credit unions because of the friendly, caring people who serve them every day.

The credit union mission to serve and “people helping people” philosophy creates an atmosphere where members are respected and often treated like family members. Many members share stories about how credit union representatives had their best interests at heart, saving them thousands of dollars by refinancing higher-rate loans or guiding them through major financial events.

If you’re looking for someone who will listen and work with you to help improve your financial health, look no further than your local credit union. Contact us now!

4. Financial Education

Credit unions exist to benefit their members and communities. Providing financial education programs is a natural part of the cooperative mission. In fact, providing “Education, Training & Information” is one of the cooperative principles for credit unions.

From free online tools and resources to one-on-one financial counseling and formal education programs for adults and children, credit unions are taking a leading role in helping their members and communities move financial education forward.

First Financial provides a variety of financial education resources. Check out our Financial Wellness Center for webinars, articles, financial counseling, and more!

5. Community Impact

“Concern for Community” is another cooperative principle that guides credit unions. This takes many forms from charitable donations to active volunteerism and even large-scale community revitalization partnerships. Employees are often encouraged to give back through paid volunteer time and community event participation, while members can get more involved by donating to the credit union’s foundation or non-profit community partners.

Regardless of the approach, credit unions across the country are working for the sustainable development of communities, including people of modest means. As a credit union member, you can contribute directly to this positive community impact through your active participation.

For more information on how First Financial is serving the community, visit our Community Site.

So, what are you waiting for?

If you’re not already a credit union member, now is a great time to find one that you’re eligible to join and start experiencing all the advantage membership has to offer. You could save hundreds, or even thousands of dollars, through your credit union membership thanks to lower interest rate loans, higher savings rates, and fewer fees.

Not a member, but ready to join First Financial? It's easy! Get started now - Join First Financial.

Source: Student Choice