What is a Credit Union? Key Advantages Over Traditional Banks

October 12, 2025 By: Greenville Heritage FCU

How is a credit union different than a bank? 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.  Unlike banks, credit unions return surplus income to their members in the form of dividends.

Member-Owned

You are more than a member, you are a part owner.

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.

Not-for-Profit

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.

Membership

Members of a credit union share a common bond, also known as the credit union’s “field of membership.” You may be able to join based on your:

• EMPLOYER: Many employers sponsor their own credit unions.
• FAMILY: Most credit unions allow members’ families to join.
• GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION: Many credit unions serve anyone that lives, works, worships or attends school in a particular geographic area.
• MEMBERSHIP IN A GROUP: Membership in a group, such as a place of worship, school, labor union or homeowners’ association may qualify you to join.

Community Involvement

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.

Cooperative

The cooperative structure of credit unions creates a cycle of mutual assistance towards the common goal of the financial well-being of members. One member’s savings becomes another member’s loan.

Credit Union and Bank Rates

On average, credit unions offer higher saving rates and lower loan rates, which could help your savings grow faster and your loan will cost less. Credit unions also tend to charge lower fees, require lower deposit balances and offer tailored services and products to their members. Compare the current interest rates offered by credit unions and banks.

Credits: MyCreditUnion.gov