Credit unions are member-owned and operated not-for-profit financial cooperatives. These cooperatives join members together, pooling financial resources to meet the needs of all. The pooled resources provide the capital to run a strong and efficient operation.

Success of a cooperative is dependent upon the commitment of its members. The more members that use their credit union, the stronger the cooperative becomes, giving it the ability to return more value to its members.

Unlike banks, earnings are returned to members in the form of higher dividend rates, lower interest rates on loans, and lower fees. In fact, an independent study conducted by the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) estimated that Wright-Patt Credit Union provided over $23 million in direct financial benefits to its members in 2008 by charging less for loans and paying more for deposits, as compared to for-profit banking institutions in the state of Ohio. These benefits are equivalent to $265 per member household, and almost $800 for those member households who do a majority of their financial business with the credit union.

Member-Owned, Member-Focused, Member-Driven
Something truly different about Wright-Patt, and other credit unions, is that our members are the owners of the credit union. Our sole reason for existence is to serve the financial needs of our member-owners. Because credit unions are democratic, member-owned cooperatives, members also have the power to direct credit union policy. As a member, you have a vote on major issues that affect your money. Each member of the Board of Directors is elected serves voluntarily and without pay.

Is it any wonder studies consistently show that credit union members are more satisfied with the quality of service they receive than do customers of banks?