a smiling customer service representative on a headset

From personalized connections to lower fees and higher returns, credit unions provide a client experience like no other financial institution.

As a seasoned commercial lender who partners with hundreds of credit unions to provide loans, Extensia Financial has a deep understanding of the advantages credit unions provide their members. While the list includes qualities like higher interest rates and insured deposits, one of the most impactful benefits credit union members experience is superior customer service. Credit unions provide advanced client experiences through more personalized interactions, training opportunities, ownership rights and profit returns—all of which we’re detailing below.

Faster, Live Connections

Whether you go into a physical location or call the 1-800 number, it’s quick and easy to access a live customer service representative. In addition to providing customer service help during regular business hours, most credit unions offer assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Many credit unions across the country have incorporated live chat options into their online banking and have designated call centers for each department. In most cases, customers merely need to enter their account number, and they’ll be transferred to a live representative, who is ready to help with the issue.

Other financial institutions, such as big banks, internet banks, or large-scale insurance companies, simply don’t offer the same level of one-on-one, fast service. When you call such institutions, you’re likely guided through an automated interaction with artificial intelligence, which may or may not understand your needs to quickly help you address and rectify them.

Personalized Education & Training

In addition to the basic checking account or credit card services credit unions offer, they also provide education and training for complex financial issues. Many credit unions employ financial advisors or financial wellness coaches to personally guide members toward financial health and wellness — both personal and business-related. Some credit unions provide resources and programs about important financial topics such as higher education financial aid, credit reports, and long-term post-retirement financial security.

Member Ownership Stake

When you become a member of a credit union, you also become a co-owner. That means you have a say in how it’s run, what services and programs are offered, and how to best serve the community. Every member can vote in credit union board member elections and other surveys. Voting ensures members dictate the type of customer service they receive, leading to a generally more personalized, collaborative and positive environment.

Lower Fees & Higher Returns

Credit unions are nonprofit organizations, so any profits are returned to the members. Those profits come in the form of lower fees and higher returns, making for more profitable members. Members can enjoy high interest rates on savings accounts and certificate of deposits (CDs). Plus, credit unions tend to have fewer and lower fees than other institutions. Additionally, select credit unions have little to no overdraft fees.

 

About Extensia Financial

Established in 1998 and headquartered in Simi Valley, CA, Extensia Financial offers competitive and collaborative commercial loans. For the past 20+ years, we have partnered with credit unions and brokers to connect them to investors across the United States. Additionally, we uniquely support and guide our partners through the entire full lifecycle of loans. Extensia Financial is a proud member of the AVANA Family of Companies.

For more information about Extensia Financial’s loan products, please call 1.800.894.8328 or contact us online.