How is a credit union different than a bank? (2024)

FAQs

How is a credit union different than a bank? ›

Banks are typically for-profit entities owned by shareholders who expect to earn dividends. Credit unions, on the other hand, are not-for-profit, member-owned cooperatives that are committed to the financial success of the individuals, families, and communities they serve.

Credit unions can be ideal for a low-interest loan, lower mortgage closing costs, or reduced fees, but you'll need to qualify for membership. Larger banks may offer you more choices regarding products, apps, and international or commercial products and services, and anyone can join.

But compared to banks, credit unions tend to be smaller, operate regionally and are not-for-profit. In many instances, they offer lower rates on loans, charge fewer fees and offer better interest rates for deposit accounts than traditional banks.

Credit unions tend to have fewer branches than traditional banks. A credit union may not be close to where you live or work, which could be a problem unless your credit union is part of a shared branch network and/or a large ATM network such as Allpoint or MoneyPass. May offer fewer products and services.

Credit unions can have several potential advantages over traditional banks, including: Lower or fewer banking fees. Higher deposit interest rates. Better borrowing rates.

Just like banks, credit unions are federally insured; however, credit unions are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Instead, the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) is the federal insurer of credit unions, making them just as safe as traditional banks.

More financial products and services: Banks offer a variety of products and services, while credit unions tend to stick with a few core offerings, such as deposit accounts, credit cards and loans. Many banks provide investment accounts and financial advisory services in addition to standard banking products.

Any income the credit union generates through interest, fees and loans is then used to fund community projects, reinvest into the organization or provide services that directly benefit members, like paying higher savings interest rates.

Why do people not like credit unions? ›

Some have argued that credit unions are inherently inefficient because of their one-member, one-vote governance structure.

Through right of offset, the government allows banks and credit unions to access the savings of their account holders under certain circ*mstances. This is allowed when the consumer misses a debt payment owed to that same financial institution.

Credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). Just like the FDIC insures up to $250,000 for individuals' accounts of a bank, the NCUA insures up to $250,000 for individuals' accounts of a credit union. Beyond that amount, the bank or credit union takes an uninsured risk.

People choose banks primarily because of the convenience of multiple branches across the country, along with better technology. On the flip side, people choose credit unions primarily because of discounted loan rates, higher interest rates and better customer service.

According to a study by Informa Research Services, credit unions have lower average rates on credit cards, auto loans, personal loans, and home equity lines of credit. In addition, credit unions have higher average return rates on personal savings, checking, money market, and 1-year certificate accounts.

Because credit unions are not-for-profit, they can offer members numerous benefits that can directly and indirectly build an individual's credit score.

bank in a recession, the credit union is likely to fare a little better. Both can be hit hard by tough economic conditions, but credit unions were statistically less likely to fail during the Great Recession. But no matter which you go with, you shouldn't worry about losing money.

When choosing a bank, consider factors like security, bank fees, interest rates, location, ease of deposit, and digital banking capabilities. Other important considerations include minimum requirements, availability of funds, customer service, investment account options, and perks offered by the bank.