A credit union is a not-for-profit financial provider that serves the saving and borrowing needs of the individuals – or members – who qualify to join it. Similar to banks, most credit unions offer checking, credit and debit cards, online services, loans and mortgages, IRAs, and ATMs. Banks, however, are owned and managed by corporations, individuals, or businesses, whose goal is to enrich company or personal profits. Credit unions are owned by the very people who belong to it -- members. As non-profit financial providers, profits are reinvested in the credit union’s owners – or members – with better rates on loans and lower fees. As owners, members have the annual right to vote for the individuals (volunteer directors) who lead and guide the credit union’s policies, procedures, and long-term goals.