Learn About Credit Unions

What is a credit union?

A credit union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution. Because a credit union is owned by its members and does not have stockholders, it returns earnings to members in the form of more competitive rates of return on accounts and loans, lower fees and improved services.

More than two million Wisconsin residents belong to credit unions - cooperatives distinguished by their:

• Purpose – to serve members
  
• Governance – volunteer directors elected by members
  
• Member benefits – earnings invested in members and the community
  
• Values – in people, not profits

Click on the logo to view the CU Difference video

Other financial education efforts by Wisconsin credit unions

Aside from brass, Wisconsin credit unions have been leaders in promoting and providing financial education to youth within their communities. Credit unions:

• Sponsor more than 109 youth-run credit union branches
• Teach financial concepts
• Sponsor financial education events
• Provide scholarships, student loans and other services
• Develop Youth clubs, publications and online tools
• Shape personal finance instruction and support financial education legislation