What differentiates a credit union from a bank?

The distinguishing feature of a credit union is that it operates as a member-owned cooperative. This means that individuals who join a credit union are not just customers but also members who have a say in how the organization is run. Each member typically has an equal voting right, regardless of the amount of money they have deposited or their overall wealth.

This structure fosters a community-focused approach to banking, as credit unions are often established to serve specific groups or communities, promoting the interests of their members. In contrast, traditional banks are for-profit entities owned by shareholders, which can lead to different motivations in terms of service and product offerings.

While credit unions may have some unique loan products, such as low-interest or no-interest loans aimed at helping members, the central concept of ownership and control set them apart as cooperatives dedicated to serving their members' needs rather than prioritizing profit. Thus, the member-owned aspect fundamentally characterizes the difference between a credit union and a bank.