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The Daily Insight Hub

What are the main differences between a bank and a credit union?

Author

Jackson Reed

Updated on February 01, 2026

The main difference between a bank and a credit union is that a bank is a for-profit financial institution, while a credit union is a nonprofit. The main financial services a credit union offers – including loans, checking accounts and savings accounts – are also available with traditional banks.

What are three main differences between commercial banks and credit unions?

A credit union is created for the benefit of its members. All depositors are owners, regardless of balance, and get a vote in board member elections. A commercial bank is a for-profit institution, often times traded on the stock market. They are owned by shareholders and look to turn a profit for those shareholders.

What is the difference between a bank and a credit union quizlet?

A key difference between commercial banks and credit unions is that: commercial banks are for-profit and credit unions are not-for-profit.

What are three characteristics of a credit union?

The members of the credit union are it’s shareholders, depositors, and borrowers. Its features are that it’s not for profit basis, it is subjected to lower taxes when compared to other financial institution.

Is money put aside for future use?

Terms in this set (9) Savings is money put aside for future use. The amount of money you save depends on how much of your income you’re willing not to spend. is interest earned only on the money you deposited into your savings account, or the principal.

How are credit unions different from traditional banks?

Credit unions are different from traditional banks in that they are non-profit, cooperatively-owned institutions that take deposits and make loans. Account holders are considered members of the credit union and deposits are seen as “buying shares” in the credit union.

What can you do with a credit union account?

At a credit union, you are a member. Banks offer both personal and commercial banking products, including business credit cards and business loans. Banks may offer investment and saving vehicles like Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), certificates of deposit, and money marketing accounts.

How to become a member of a credit union?

Eligibility requirements vary by credit union, but in general, you can become eligible for credit union membership in a few different ways, including: Credit unions differ from banks in a few key ways. Unlike the way banks are run, a volunteer board of directors is elected by members to manage a credit union.

Is the FDIC insured for credit union accounts?

No. Accounts in banks and credit unions are both insured for amounts up to $250,000 via either the FDIC (banks) or the National Credit Union Administration. If you have more than $250,000 to deposit at either a bank or credit union, you should speak to account managers. What is a Major Advantage of Credit Unions?