• Credit unions are not-for-profit organizations that exist to serve their members. Like banks, credit unions accept deposits, make loans and provide a wide array of other financial services. But as member-owned and cooperative institutions, credit unions provide a safe place to save and borrow at reasonable rates.
• Credit unions are owned and controlled by the people, or members, who use their services. Your vote counts. A volunteer board of directors is elected by members to manage a credit union.
• Credit unions operate to promote the well-being of their members. Profits made by credit unions are returned back to members in the form of reduced fees, higher savings rates and lower loan rates.
• Members of a credit union share a common bond, also known as the credit union’s “field of membership.”
• Members often have shared interests and appreciate participating in an institution designed to help other members. Credit unions may provide: financial education and outreach to consumers; in-school credit union branches; and small business needs.
• The cooperative structure of credit unions creates a cycle of mutual assistance towards the common goal of the financial well-being of members.

To learn all about the perks of being a Credit Union member, visit www.mycreditunion.gov!