7 Ways Credit Unions Are Better Than Banks

As the Occupy Wall Street movement takes full swing, many Americans are expressing their anti-corporate sentiments by supporting local businesses and boycotting all types of consumer goods altogether. When it comes to money matters, you might have considered the real value of working with a corporate bank versus a local financial institution. Could moving your hard-earned dollars out of the larger, Wall Street-operated banks also be good for your wallet?

Credit unions are essentially cooperative organizations owned by their depositors, not stockholders. Most offer exactly the same set of financial products as a bank, yet only some Americans have accounts solely at a credit union.

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Here are seven ways credit unions are better than banks:

1. Making you a top priority. Unlike corporate banks, credit unions are working in the best interest of depositors, not stockholders. This is why most can offer much better customer service and will go out of their way to make you, the depositor, happy. They’re less focused on turning a profit and more focused on ensuring they’re providing depositors with a high level of service and competitive rates. They even have a nonprofit status so they’re exempt from many taxes.

2. Low or no minimum balance requirements. As corporate banks continue charging high fees for dropping below a minimum balance on savings and checking products, credit unions are doing the opposite–lowering balance requirements so that maintaining an account is less stressful. Many only require a minimum balance of $5 to $10 and have very few rules or provisions for keeping your account in good standing. If you’re fed up with the complex rules and requirements of larger banks in your area, consider opening up an account at a credit union.

[See Is Free Checking Going Extinct?]

3. Lower fees on banking products. Shop around for a loan or a checking account and you’ll find that credit unions usually offer lower fees on basic transactions. Whether you’re interested in opening a primary savings account or a new checking account, your local credit union can probably offer the best financial products and packages in town. Most credit unions still offer truly free checking without strings attached.

4. Lower interest rates. Credit unions typically offer lower interest rates on mortgages and even credit cards. When you’re looking to make some larger investments, don’t forget to shop the credit union for the best rates. Many will extend the most competitive rates for mortgages, personal loans and credit cards. Remember that the credit union is a nonprofit organization and isn’t going to raise fees just to turn a profit. They’re also less likely to tack on excess fees for different loan products.

5. Secure funds. Just like the FDIC, deposits at a credit union are insured up to $250,000. You don’t have to worry about losing your money when you set up accounts at a credit union. You’re investing in the same level of risk as a regular bank, but can enjoy several other perks and services while doing so.

[See 7 Ways to Earn an Extra $1,000 This Month.]

6. Bonus checks. Profits aren’t shared with stockholders but can be divided up into bonus checks for members. Check with your local credit union to find out what types of bonus programs are extended to members on an annual basis.

7. Less restrictive credit eligibility requirements. If you’ve been denied for a loan from a corporate bank, consider applying for a loan through a credit union. Many credit unions have less stringent loan eligibility requirements and may be willing to work with you when you have a low credit score. They can also make exceptions for unique circumstances, such as being self-employed or having a bankruptcy on your record.

Sabah Karimi is an award-winning Yahoo Contributor and WiseBread.com’s guide to the credit union benefits.