Financial Education - Red Rocks Credit Union

How is a Credit Union Different from a Bank?

Written by Red Rocks Credit Union | Nov 4, 2025
Most people don’t think twice about where they bank—until something makes them stop and wonder if there’s a better way. Maybe it’s wanting a more personal experience. Or maybe it’s realizing that your money could be doing more for you and your community.

At Red Rocks Credit Union, we believe where you bank matters. Because when you choose a credit union, you’re choosing an approach built on people, not profits. Credit unions exist to serve their members rather than shareholders. That means your money stays local, your voice matters, and every decision we make is designed to help you reach your goals.

So, what really makes a credit union different from a bank? Here’s our breakdown.
 

What’s the Difference Between a Bank and a Credit Union?

At first glance, banks and credit unions might look similar. They both offer checking accounts, savings options, loans, and credit cards. But the real difference lies in who they’re built for and who benefits from the money you deposit.

Banks are for-profit institutions. They’re owned by shareholders and designed to make profits for those investors. That means decisions, from interest rates to fees, are driven by what’s best for the bottom line.

Credit unions, on the other hand, are not-for-profit and member-owned. When you join Red Rocks Credit Union, you become a member and part-owner. That means profits are reinvested directly back into the membership community through better rates, lower fees, and improved services.

It’s a small shift that makes a big difference. At a bank, you’re one of millions of customers. At a credit union, you’re one of us.

How Credit Unions Give Back to the Community

When you bank with a credit union, your money stays close to home, supporting the people, businesses, and neighborhoods that make our community strong.

Unlike big banks that send profits to shareholders, credit unions reinvest earnings locally. That might mean offering lower loan rates, supporting local schools, sponsoring community events, or helping families find financial stability through education and advocacy.

At Red Rocks Credit Union, we’ve been part of Colorado since 1979. Our team volunteers locally, partners with community organizations, and looks for ways to make a tangible difference where we live and work. Because when our members thrive, our community thrives.

Banking local isn’t just convenient. It’s also powerful. Every deposit helps build something lasting right here in Colorado.

What You Can Expect from Banking With Red Rocks CU

Banking with Red Rocks Credit Union means having a financial partner who’s genuinely on your side. One that supports your goals and helps simplify your everyday money decisions.

Here’s what you can expect when you’re part of Red Rocks CU.

Personal, people-first service.

When you call or walk into a branch, you’ll be greeted by real people who know your name and care about your story.

Better value, fewer surprises.

As a not-for-profit credit union, we return profits to members through competitive rates, lower fees, and honest communication.

Modern, secure banking tools.

From our upgraded digital banking platform to mobile check deposit and bill pay, you can manage your finances anytime, anywhere (without losing that personal touch).

A community that has your back.

Whether it’s volunteering locally or providing financial education, we’re committed to strengthening the Colorado communities we call home.

At Red Rocks CU, banking is about trust, belonging, and helping every member move forward with confidence.

Common Myths About Credit Unions

Even though credit unions have been around for decades, a few misconceptions still keep people from joining. So let’s clear them up.

“You have to belong to a specific group to join.”

That used to be true for some credit unions, but not anymore. Most people who live or work in Colorado can become a Red Rocks Credit Union member, no special qualifications required.

“Credit unions are small and limited.”

Red Rocks CU offers everything you’d expect from a big bank, from checking and savings accounts to home loans, credit cards, and digital banking, but with more personal service and fewer fees.

“Credit unions don’t have the latest technology.”

Think again. Red Rocks CU is always working to make digital banking simpler, safer, and more convenient, so you can manage your money anytime, anywhere.

“It’s harder to access my money.”

Not at all. Red Rocks CU members have access to thousands of shared branches and surcharge-free ATMs nationwide, so you’re never far from your money when you need it.

We're not trying to be banks. We're focused on being better partners.

Choose a Place That Puts You First

These days, where you bank truly matters. At Red Rocks Credit Union, we’re here to make banking feel personal again.

We’ve been helping our members reach milestones big and small for decades. And whether you’re saving for your first home, paying off debt, or planning for the future, we’re here to help you move forward, without judgment, pressure, or fine print.

Because here, you’re not just a customer. You’re a member, an owner, and one of us.

Ready to experience the credit union difference?