Why Credit Unions Are Still the Best Financial Choice in 2025
What is the difference anyway?
At first glance, banks and credit unions might seem the same. They both offer checking accounts, loans, and friendly tellers behind the counter. So what’s the real difference—and why should it matter to you?
It all comes down to who owns the institution and where the profits go.
Banks are owned by shareholders who expect a return on their investment. That means profits come first. Credit unions like Straits Area Federal Credit Union are member-owned and not-for-profit. That means we exist to serve you, not to boost profits.
Lower Fees, Better Rates, Because Members are the Priority
One of the biggest benefits of being a member of a credit union? Fewer fees and better rates. Because we’re not-for-profit, we pass savings directly back to our members.
That often means:
- Lower interest rates on loans and credit cards
- Lower account fees
- Higher dividends on savings
When your financial institution is working for you, you feel the difference in your wallet every day.
Service with the Personal Touch
You’re not just an account number at SAFCU—you’re a member! Of our credit union, and of our community. Credit unions are known for providing personalized, neighborly service. When you call us, you’re likely to speak with someone who lives right around the corner, and who actually knows your name.
We’re proud to say our team members are also members themselves. We live here. We shop here. And we care deeply about empowering our neighbors to succeed.
Staying Local and Lifting Up Our Community
When you bank local, your money stays local. As a community-based credit union, SAFCU is proud to invest in the people and places we serve. In April 2025 alone, we supported 11 local causes through donations.
Whether it’s sponsoring youth sports, donating to food pantries, or supporting local schools, your membership helps us make a meaningful impact right here in the straits area.
Safe, Secure, and Built to Last
Worried that a smaller financial institution may be less stable? SAFCU will be celebrating its 75 year anniversary next year. Credit unions across the country also benefit from shared resources and support through national networks like CO-OP Shared Branching, making your money safer and more accessible. And we’re federally insured, so your money is secure with a credit union.
Modern Banking that Keeps Up
With credit unions often being smaller and not profit-driven it may seem likely that they would be behind when it comes to financial technology, but that is not always the case!
At SAFCU, we offer:
- Mobile banking & remote deposit capture
- Early ACH/direct deposit posting
- 24/7 account access
- Fee-free ATM access nationwide through the CO-OP Network
- And more!
So whether you’re at home or halfway across the country, your money is always within reach.
Credit Union is the Way to Go!
Credit unions like SAFCU prove that you don’t have to choose between modern banking tools and personal, community-centered service. With a track record of nearly 75 years of empowering members, we’re proud to continue being a financial partner you can trust.
In 2025 (and beyond!) the choice is still clear: credit unions are better for your finances, your future, and your community.
