Credit union guides
A credit union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, which is why it tends to pay higher deposit rates and charge lower loan rates than a bank. These guides explain what a credit union is, how it compares with a bank, how the NCUA's $250,000 share insurance protects your money, and how to join one. General information, not financial advice.
Source: NCUA Credit Union and Bank Rates. Data as of December 26, 2025.
How member-owned, not-for-profit cooperatives differ from banks - and why that shows up in rates.
Credit union vs bank: pros & consThe full average-rate comparison plus the trade-offs on branches, apps, eligibility and service.
NCUA share insurance explainedHow the $250,000 NCUSIF coverage works and how it parallels FDIC insurance at banks.
How to join a credit unionFields of membership, the easy open paths, and the steps to open your first account.
Looking for the numbers? See the credit union vs bank rate tables or the savings & loan calculator.
Last updated: 2026-06-22