Canadian Credit Union Association

Canada’s credit unions put people above all. Whatever your hopes, dreams, needs and wants are—that’s what we put first. Banking is just how we make it happen.

Credit unions provide traditional banking services

Credit unions are full-service financial co-operatives. Like other financial institutions, we provide chequing and savings accounts, mortgages, business loans and investment advice. Looking to start a registered savings plan? Invest in mutual funds? Bank online? Credit unions offer that too.

Credit unions are regulated & deposits are protected

Credit unions in Canada are either provincially or federally regulated. Regulators have oversight over individual credit unions; and credit unions are required to meet standards and work with public agencies to ensure they are among the country’s soundest financial institutions.

All provinces have deposit guarantee frameworks that provide credit union members with deposit protection equal to, or higher than, the big banks. In some provinces that coverage is unlimited. Learn more

How are credit unions different from a bank?

Credit unions are owned by the people who bank with them

As financial cooperatives, credit unions are owned by their members – the people who bank with them – which means you and your financial well-being are the credit union’s top priority. All members have an equal say in how their credit union operates and can democratically vote for its board of directors.

Credit unions are guided by the cooperative principles and hold strong ethical values such as honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.

Any profits earned by a credit union are re-invested in the credit union or directed to support members and the community .

Credit unions provide award-winning service

Canada’s credit unions have ranked first among all financial institutions in overall Customer Service Excellence for 19 years in a row. We’re great at a lot of things, but we’re the best at putting you first.

Credit unions provide access to thousands of Ding Free® ATMs across Canada

Credit union members also have access to thousands of Ding Free ATMs across Canada through THE EXCHANGE® and ACCULINK® networks. It’s an ATM network bigger than most banks! Learn more here.

Credit unions champion financial literacy through the Each One, Teach One (EOTO) program

The Each One, Teach One (EOTO) program, trains employees of Canadian credit unions to deliver financial education workshops in their communities. Workshops are delivered in plain language without any ties to products or services, with the sole goal of empowering Canadians to take control of their financial decisions, goals and plans. Learn more here.

Credit unions support our communities and strengthen our national economy

Credit unions contribute to our economic, social, and environmental well-being. Read our 2022-2023 ESG Report to learn more about what sets credit unions apart from other financial institutions.

What are you waiting for?

Join over 10.9 million Canadians who trust their local credit union as their partner for day-to-day banking.