Going to a credit union rather than a bank is your decision.
Joining a credit union means that you are a sort of partner with the group.
Rather than having stockholders, the institution has people like you.
Whether or not you can be a part of a particular banking institution may depend on where you work, live, go to school, or go to church.
Some are more specific than others.
If you find one that you would like to be a part of, make sure that you meet their qualifications, and that they offer the benefits that you want in banking.
If you decide to go to a credit union rather than a traditional bank, it will probably be important to you that you have the same or better options available to you.
One of the perks of being a part of this type of institution versus a bank is that money earned at the bank goes back to the people who keep it going.
It might mean lower interest rates for loans and fewer fees.
A credit union should offer online banking, debit cards, direct deposit, and more.
It is important that the benefits that are the norm in banking also be available with this type of institution as well.
Before joining anything, make sure that you have read up on it.
Make sure that it is going to be a reliable place to put your money.
If the ones banking there hold it together, then it might be a good idea to know what type of person goes there.
You would not want to risk joining a financial institution only to have them go under.
If you do join an institution like this, be sure that your money is guaranteed to a certain amount.
They should have insurance on your money.
Financial institutions often have perks to keep people using their particular business.
Make sure to find a place that believes it is a good idea to offer these rewards as well.
Some will offer perks for using certain cards.
Others might have perks for opening a checking account or getting someone else to join.
Make sure that the place you choose has a few of these reward options.
In the end, when you choose a credit union over a traditional bank, the main thing is that you are confident with your decision.
Do not sign onto anything that makes you uncomfortable.
The place that you choose should offer everything you need.