The benefits of credit union membership in uncertain economic times

In a time when financial uncertainty is top of mind, many people are rethinking their banking relationships. Amid rising interest rates, economic uncertainty, and increasing pressure to make smart financial decisions, you naturally seek out a trusted partner — not just a place to store your money, but a financial institution that genuinely invests in your success. 

That’s where Empeople Credit Union stands apart. We’re more than a place to open checking and savings accounts — we’re your financial partner for life. While big banks and for-profit organizations prioritize shareholder returns, credit unions typically focus on member well-being and local impact. At Empeople, that mission is more than just a philosophy — it drives every service we offer. 

Here’s why Empeople Credit Union is your best tool right now, and how we help you focus on the future while navigating today’s financial landscape. 

We rate shop for you — so you don’t have to 

We know that for our members, finding competitive rates on savings or loans can be overwhelming. Between confusing terms and fine print, even the most financially savvy consumers can struggle to make the right call. That’s why Empeople makes it easy. We rate shop on your behalf, comparing the latest dividend and interest rates across the industry – every single day – to ensure our members get the most competitive offers. 

Whether you’re looking for the best rates on savings, auto loans, mortgages, or credit cards, we take the guesswork out of the process. Credit unions typically offer better rates and lower loan rates than traditional big bank alternatives, and we go a step further by actively monitoring market conditions to bring those benefits straight to you, so you can focus on your other priorities.  

We also offer our most active members better rates on certain deposit and loan products. In fact, the average Empeople member keeps five times more money in their wallet than the average credit union member. 

We offer ongoing financial guidance through every life stage 

Your financial needs evolve, and your financial institution should evolve with you. From your first job to retirement, from buying your first home to funding your child’s college tuition, life brings countless changes. At Empeople, we provide ongoing financial guidance tailored to every life stage. Over 2,200 members have improved their financial lives with our financial guidance. 

We take the time to understand your complete financial picture and offer tools and support that match where you are and where you’re going. Need help budgeting? Thinking about buying a house? Planning for a family? We’ve got your back. We design our financial education resources, one-on-one consultations, and online tools to help you stay informed and empowered. 

This is one of the core benefits of our credit union: personalized service. We’re not trying to sell you one-size-fits-all products you don’t need; we’re here to guide you toward real solutions that work for your goals. 

Investment & Retirement Services that put you first 

Big banks may offer investment services, but their advisors often focus on generating commissions or reaching sales quotas. At Empeople, our Investment & Retirement Services team focuses on one thing: helping you build a stronger financial future. We’re not in it for profit — we’re in it for you.  

Whether you’re rolling over a 401(k), just starting to invest, or mapping your financial legacy, we’ll help you understand your options and make informed decisions. Our advisors — who manage more than $650 million of our members’ money — take a holistic view of your financial situation, offering unbiased recommendations aligned with your risk tolerance and future goals.  

Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming, but with Empeople by your side, you’ll have a clear roadmap. That’s what credit unions offer that big banks often don’t: honest guidance without pressure. 

We help you maximize for your future 

Right now, things are hard for a lot of people, but we’re not just focused on today’s stress. We’re helping our members plan for a future they can feel confident about. Our approach goes beyond everyday transactions — we’re here to help you build long-term financial health to prepare for all of life’s curveballs. 

That means optimizing your savings accounts with better rates, fitting you with loans that work with your budget, and helping you set and reach savings goals. As a member-owned financial institution, we reinvest our earnings into better services for you, not corporate profits. That’s one of the reasons that last year, our members paid over $1 million less in interest on their loans than they would have elsewhere. 

Built for you and your local community 

Credit union membership isn’t just about your finances, it’s about your values. When you join Empeople, you’re not just joining a financial institution. You’re joining a movement to support people over profit and community over corporations. 

Unlike for-profit banks, credit unions focus on helping their members and strengthening their communities. We invest in local programs, support small businesses, and create opportunities for our neighbors. By banking with us, you help us give back. 

We’re proud to invest in local communities because that’s where real impact happens. When our members succeed, our communities thrive, and that’s what drives us every day. It’s why our teams spend hundreds of hours in their local communities each year volunteering and giving back. 

Why joining a credit union makes sense now more than ever 

With the economy in flux, more people are questioning the role of traditional banks. Why stick with an institution that treats you like a number? Credit unions typically offer lower fees, enhanced service (our members rate us 9.58/10 in service!), and more transparency. And just like the big banks, your money is federally insured, in this case by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).  

Joining a credit union is more than a smart financial move — it’s a values-driven decision. You get access to better financial services, community-centered support, and long-term tools to help you thrive. 

Let Empeople be your financial advantage 

Now is the time to align your finances with an institution that truly has your back. At Empeople, we don’t just offer savings accounts, auto loans, and credit cards. We offer a relationship built on trust, support, and shared success. 

So whether you’re managing rising interest rates, planning for retirement, or simply trying to make better financial decisions, Empeople Credit Union is here for every step. From rate shopping and personalized advice, to investment services and community impact, we’re your best tool for today — and your greatest asset for tomorrow. 

Are you ready to experience the benefits of a credit union that’s built for you? Learn more about joining Empeople Credit Union and see how we can help you plan, grow, and thrive — right now and well into the future.