With so many financial institutions soliciting for your business these days, why should you join a credit union? The answer is simple…….the credit union focus is to help members succeed financially!
Credit unions exist to help people, not make a profit. Our goal is to serve all of our members to the highest standard, including those of modest means - every member counts. Members remain loyal for this reason. They know their credit union will be there for them in bad times, as well as good. The same people-first philosophy causes credit unions and their employees to be there for the community.
A credit union is a not-for-profit cooperative, which means they are owned by their members, not stockholders. A credit union’s board of directors consist of a dedicated group of volunteers. Profit cycles back to the members for better rates on deposits and loans. In other words, credit unions are an economic democracy. Each member has equal ownership and one vote -- regardless of how much money a member has on deposit. At a credit union, every customer is both a member and an owner. Banks can’t claim that exclusive benefit!
All credit unions have membership requirements, so do your homework to find out where you are able to join and which best fits your financial needs. Many products offered are similar to a bank but tailored to fit the needs of their general membership.
Above all, the most important credit union difference is customer service! For the past 5 years, credit unions have ranked higher than banks in this category, according to the American Customer Service Index. ECU Credit Union, for one, is always looking for solutions and ways to provide the best experience. When was the last time you were able to pick up the phone and have a conversation with a local person about your banking needs or a financial concern? Personal service is truly the top benefit over modern day financial institutions.
What are you waiting for? Jump feet first into the credit union movement and see what the hype is all about! Explore new credit union products and services that exist to help you, our members, prosper!
Contact ECU Credit Union at 1-800-382-2400 or www.ecucreditunion.com for information about opening account or adding additional services to your current account.
Authored by Misty Blakeway
