Pros And Cons Of Credit Unions

A credit union is a not-for-profit bank owned by its members. Credit unions typically offer better savings rates and lower loan rates than regular banks because they give profits back to members instead of shareholders. But you have to qualify for membership and might deal with fewer locations and older technology.

Weigh the pros and cons of credit unions before you commit to banking with one. You may find that qualifying for membership is worth the extra work.

Benefits of a credit union

Credit unions offer a few key advantages over regular banks. The biggest benefit is better rates because they work for members, not outside investors.

Better rates and lower fees

Credit union profits go back to members, who are also shareholders. Additionally, banks pay federal and state taxes on their profits, while credit unions enjoy tax-exempt status as not-for-profit organizations. This structure allows credit unions to offer higher savings account rates and lower loan rates. You’ll often find better yields on certificates of deposit (called share certificates at credit unions) and more competitive rates on mortgages and auto loans.

Large credit unions like Navy Federal Credit Union offer product lineups that rival many banks. You’ll find checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, share certificates, mortgages, auto loans, student loans and credit cards.

Enhanced safety and security

Credit unions often provide greater stability during financial crises because they focus on serving members rather than maximizing profits for shareholders. This member-focused approach typically leads to more conservative investment strategies and lower-risk lending practices.

Credit unions are federally insured up to $250,000 per person through the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). That’s the same protection you get at banks via FDIC insurance.

Personalized services and member focus

Credit unions typically provide more personalized customer service because they’re locally focused and member-owned. You’re more likely to speak with the same representatives and receive customized financial advice based on your specific situation.

Disadvantages of using a credit union

Credit unions have a few disadvantages that might make traditional banks or online banks a better choice for your needs. These limitations primarily stem from their smaller size and regional focus.

Membership requirements restrict access

Credit unions require customers to meet specific eligibility criteria, which might include living in a certain area, working for a particular employer or belonging to a specific organization. While many membership requirements are lenient — sometimes requiring only a small deposit or donation — this still creates an extra step that banks don’t require.

Limited branch and ATM networks

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, such as CO-OP, or a large ATM network such as Allpoint or MoneyPass. 

But many credit unions offer access to such networks. For example, more than 5,500 credit union branches and 30,000 ATMs are part of CO-OP. MoneyPass has about 40,000 ATMs, and AllPoint more than 55,000. Bank of America, by comparison, has only 15,000 ATMs. Membership at one of these credit unions gives you access to fee-free banking with the entire network. 

Online banks offer better rates

While credit unions typically beat traditional bank rates, online banks often offer even higher savings account yields and more competitive loan rates due to lower overhead costs.

Technology limitations

Because credit unions are generally smaller than major banks, they may offer less advanced digital banking tools. You might find fewer mobile banking features, less sophisticated online platforms or limited integration with popular financial apps and services like Zelle for peer-to-peer payments.

Are credit unions good for savings?

Credit unions are good for savings, but not always the best choice. They usually pay better rates than regular banks but often less than top online banks.

Compare current rates on high-yield savings accounts to see what pays the most.

How to choose a credit union

Selecting the right credit union requires evaluating both your eligibility and how well the institution matches your financial needs and preferences.

1. Research membership requirements. Start by identifying credit unions you’re eligible to join. Check whether you qualify through your employer, location, military service, family connections or membership in specific organizations. Many credit unions have broadened their membership criteria, so you might have more options than you initially think.
2. Evaluate convenience factors. Consider the credit union’s branch locations, ATM networks and digital banking capabilities. If you prefer in-person banking, ensure branches are conveniently located. For digital banking, test their mobile app and online platform to ensure they meet your needs.
3. Compare rates and fees. Look at savings account rates, loan rates and fee structures. Use Bankrate’s comparison tools to see how credit union offerings stack up against traditional banks and online banks.
4. Verify insurance coverage. Ensure the credit union is federally insured by the NCUA. This provides the same $250,000 protection per depositor that FDIC insurance offers at banks.
5. Access product offerings. Make sure the credit union offers the specific products and services you need, whether that’s particular types of loans, investment services or specialized accounts.

Bottom line

Credit unions can be great choices if you want better rates than regular banks, plus more personal service. But they’re not automatically better than every other option.

Before you decide on anything, compare current rates and fees everywhere. The goal is finding the mix of products that puts the most money in your pocket while giving you the banking experience you actually want.