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Q. What’s the difference between a bank and a credit union?

Published on January 7, 2016

A. Banks and Credit Unions similar products and services; it is important to choose one that will offer the services that are most important to you.

The main difference between them is that a Bank is a company owned by shareholders.  The Bank aims to maximize the profits for shareholders.  A Credit Union is owned by its customers (members). They aim to focus on members needs and attempt to provide members with credit at reasonable rates.

In the end you need to do your homework.  Decide what services and accessibility is important to you. Then determine the cost to get what you need and expect from your financial institution. There is no clear winner in the Bank versus the Credit Union debate.