Why Credit Unions Are the Smart Choice for 2026
The start of 2026 is a perfect time to consider whether your financial institution is truly working for you. If you’ve ever felt like just another account number at your bank, a credit union may offer a different experience—one built around people, not profits.
Unlike banks that are driven by shareholder returns, credit unions are nonprofit, member-owned organizations designed to serve the people who use them. At Texans Credit Union, that member-first philosophy guides everything we do, from how we support your financial goals to how we invest in the communities we serve.
WHAT SETS CREDIT UNIONS APART FROM BANKS
Why choose a credit union? When comparing credit union vs. bank, you might not think there’s much difference at first glance. After all, they both have bank accounts, make loans, and offer other financial products and services. But that’s where the similarities end. Credit unions offer some important benefits that can make them a better choice.
NONPROFIT STRUCTURE
Banks are typically structured as for-profit financial institutions. Credit unions, on the other hand, operate as nonprofit cooperatives that are owned by their members. When you open an account at a credit union, you become a part-owner with voting rights on major decisions. Any profits generated don't go to outside shareholders. They flow back to members through better rates, lower fees, and improved services.
REAL SAVINGS
Since credit unions aren’t focused on earning profits for investors, they often charge lower fees for their services and offer more competitive interest rates . This typically means higher rates on savings accounts and CDs, and lower rates on auto loans, mortgages, and personal loans. Over time, this could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars compared to banks.
PERSONALIZED SERVICE
Credit unions take the time to understand your financial situation, needs, and goals. You're also more likely to work with local decision-makers who have the flexibility to consider your circumstances, not just the numbers on a computer screen. This can make a difference when you're applying for loans or navigating financial challenges.
FINANCIAL EDUCATION
Credit unions help their members learn how to manage their finances by providing free workshops, financial counseling, and other educational resources. If you’re working to improve your credit score, building a long-term savings plan, or learning to budget effectively, credit unions offer guidance and support to help you achieve your goals.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The smiling faces you see when you visit a credit union are your neighbors. That’s why they’re committed to making the communities they serve better places to live and work for everyone. Credit unions often sponsor local events, bringing neighbors together and creating opportunities for community connection.. It’s rooted in genuine care for the community. A commitment to community is part of who they are, and it’s central to their mission.
WHY CHOOSE TEXANS CREDIT UNION
At Texans Credit Union, our mission is to empower members financially. It's reflected in every service and product we offer. Members can access practical checking and savings options, competitive loan products, and digital banking tools that simplify and enhance the convenience of managing their finances.
Our commitment extends well beyond the branch. We actively support local communities to create a positive, lasting impact across Texas. In 2025 alone, the Texans Credit Union team volunteered 1,018+ hours donating toys for the HopeKids Holiday Toy Drive, helping Patriot PAWS with facility maintenance, assisting at the Genesis Women's Shelter thrift store, and supporting Special Olympics athletes. When you bank with Texans Credit Union, you're supporting an institution that reinvests in the people and places that make Texas home.
Unlike national banks with distant headquarters, Texans Credit Union understands the unique needs of Texas families and businesses. Our local decision-makers know the communities they serve and have the flexibility to work with members on solutions that fit their situations. Whether you're buying your first home , financing a vehicle , or planning for retirement , Texans Credit Union offers the personal support that only a community-focused credit union can provide.
COMPARING CREDIT UNIONS AND BANKS
When you compare credit unions and banks, the differences become clearer. Credit unions are known for lower fees, stronger savings rates, and more competitive loan terms, along with personalized support that puts members first. The chart below shows how credit unions and banks compare across key areas.
CREDIT UNIONS VS. BANKS
HOW TEXANS CREDIT UNION EMPOWERS MEMBERS FINANCIALLY
Texans Credit Union offers a variety of practical tools and resources to help members budget, save, and reach their financial goals. The Texans Mobile App lets you check balances, view transactions, transfer funds, deposit checks, and pay bills. With Card Manager , you can instantly turn your card on and off, set spending limits, or receive real-time account alerts. Online Banking provides secure 24/7 access to your accounts so you can transfer funds, schedule payments, manage transactions, and take care of other everyday banking tasks.
Our accounts are designed to simplify banking and save you money. Whether you're looking for a basic checking account with no monthly fees, a money market account to grow your emergency fund, or an IRA to save for retirement, you'll find a variety of options that can help you reach your goals.
We also offer programs that make saving automatic and simple. With the Texans Roundup Program , your debit card purchases are rounded up to the nearest dollar, and the difference is transferred to your Texans Savings Account . You can also set up automatic transfers from checking to savings with Two-Step Checking to ensure your savings continue to grow, even when life gets busy.
Ready to take the next step? Reach out today to learn more about Texans CU and become a member. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and support you every step of the way.
