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5 Reasons Why Credit Unions are Better than Banks (and How to Switch)
Why Credit Unions are Better Than Banks
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of dealing with a large bank, you know how frustrating it can be.
Long lines, strict rules, and impersonal service make it seem like the customer is always last. Credit unions were created as an alternative to traditional banks, and they offer many advantages for customers.
Traditional banks make it hard to get ahead. They have high fees, and their interest rates are laughable.
It feels like the deck is stacked against you when you’re trying to save money or get a loan. Banks want you to think that they’re your only option, but that’s not true.
Credit unions are different than banks. They offer lower fees and better interest rates on savings accounts and loans. Plus, they’re nonprofit organizations, so they’re always looking out for their members’ best interests.
Here are reasons why credit unions are better than banks.
Lower Fees and Better Interest Rates
One of the biggest advantages of credit unions is that they tend to have lower fees and better interest rates on savings accounts and loans. This is because credit unions are not-for-profit organizations, so they don’t have to worry about making a profit for shareholders. Instead, they can focus on giving their members the best possible deals.
For example, let’s say you have a savings account with a traditional bank. The bank might charge you a monthly maintenance fee just for having the account. And if your balance falls below a certain amount, they might charge you even more fees.
With a credit union, there are no monthly maintenance fees and no minimum balance requirements. This means that you can keep more of your money in the account and earn interest on it.
Credit unions also tend to offer better interest rates on loans. So if you need to borrow money, you’ll probably get a better deal at a credit union than at a traditional bank.
Better Customer Service
Another advantage of credit unions is that they usually offer better customer service than traditional banks. Credit unions are typically smaller than banks, so they can offer a more personal touch.
Plus, since credit unions are not-for-profit organizations, their members are owners. This means that the credit union is accountable to its members, not to shareholders. As a result, credit unions are usually more responsive to customer needs and concerns.
If you’ve ever had to deal with a bank’s customer service department, you know how frustrating it can be. You’re often put on hold for long periods, and it’s hard to get a human being on the phone.
With a credit union, you can usually just walk into the branch and talk to someone. If you have a problem, the credit union will work with you to find a solution.
More Flexible Rules
Traditional banks often have strict rules that make it difficult for customers to get ahead. For example, some banks charge high fees for using out-of-network ATMs. Others charge monthly maintenance fees, even if you have a low balance.
Credit unions are different. They typically have more flexible rules that make it easier for members to save money and avoid fees. For example, many credit unions offer free ATM use, even if the ATM is out-of-network. And as we mentioned before, credit unions often don’t charge monthly maintenance fees.
This flexibility can make a big difference, especially if you’re trying to save money. With a credit union, you’ll have more opportunities to grow your savings without having to worry about fees eating into your balance.
Fewer Restrictions on Loans
Banks usually have strict guidelines for who can qualify for a loan. And if you don’t have perfect credit, you might not be able to get a loan at all.
Credit unions are different. They’re typically more willing to work with members who have less-than-perfect credit. And even if you don’t have great credit, you might still be able to get a loan with a reasonable interest rate.
This is because credit unions are not-for-profit organizations. They’re focused on helping their members, not making a profit. As a result, they’re usually more willing to take risks on loans.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to get a loan from a credit union with bad credit. But if you have good credit, you should be able to get a loan from a credit union even if you don’t have perfect credit.
More Personalized Service
Another advantage of credit unions is that they offer more personalized service. Since credit unions are usually smaller than banks, their staff gets to know their customers by name and can offer more flexible solutions to problems. Banks, on the other hand, often have strict rules that they have to follow, which can leave customers feeling frustrated.
How to Switch to a Credit Union
If you’re ready to make the switch from your big bank to a local credit union, there’s good news: it’s easy! Just follow these simple steps:
- Research local credit unions in your area to find one that fits your needs. Make sure to look at things like fees, interest rates, and services offered.
- Open an account with your chosen credit union. This can usually be done online or in person at a branch location.
- Close your account with your old bank and move your money over to your new credit union account.
- That’s it! Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be enjoying all the advantages that credit unions have to offer.
Why Credit Unions Are Better Than Banks
There are plenty of good reasons to switch from a big bank to a local credit union. Credit unions offer lower fees, better interest rates, and more personalized service than banks. And since they’re not-for-profit organizations, they’re typically more willing to work with members who have less-than-perfect credit.
If you’re ready to make the switch, just follow these simple steps: research local credit unions in your area, open an account with your chosen credit union, and close your account with your old bank.
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