 More than 80 million Americans are members of credit unions. But credit unions rarely advertise, so if you want a credit union, you have to look around to find one by yourself.
Credit unions are member organizations, so by depositing any money you become a stakeholder in the institution.
The members of first credit unions were usually bounded by profession, but nowadays their common bound can have geographic, social, civic, professional or even religious character.
These tips shows you some ways, how to find a proper credit union you can join.
Web.
As you read this, you can most probably use internet to look for credit union: go to The Credit Union National Association's site. There you’ll find links to lists of community credit unions, corporate credit unions and more. You can sort it by name, city, ZIP code, area code or state.
Work.
Many professions or professional organizations, for instance trade associations, have credit unions. Many employers have their own credit unions or have joined one.
Yellow Pages.
Start with the name of your community. Many areas have their own community credit unions based on geographic location.
Phone.
Ever heard about credit union league or credit union trade organization? Many states have them. You might call the National Credit Union Administration at (703) 518-6330, they will find it for you, or go to the CUNA Web site to find your state league.
Religious community.
Some houses of worship, like churches, synagogues or mosques have their own local credit unions. Also try some clubs or local chamber of commerce.
Relatives.
In the end ask your mom. If your going to have a dinner with your parents, ask them. Maybe some of your aunts or uncles, siblings, in-laws, cousins and so on, is a member of credit union. The point here is that many credit unions will let you in if you are related to someone who is already a member. Even your sister, who teaches, might be your passport into the local teachers credit union. Just ask.
Ready to become a stakeholder in the credit union institution? You might do it by depositing as little as $5. Hold your financial reins.
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