What is a credit union?

What is the best credit union to use in NYC?

• I want to open a basic checking account with debit card. I am not a government worker so I need a credit union that basically anyone can join. I am also looking for a credit union that is pretty has alot of locations in Manhattan and the other boroughs, but at least a lot of locations in Manhattan. Some of the credit unions I have seen look good but only have a few locations. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks! :)

• Answer:

  Most credit unions do not have a lot of branches, so you aren't going to find one with many branches in Manhattan. However, I have been researching credit unions as well, and most or all of them are affiliated with ATM networks so they offer free ATMs all over the city, often at McDonalds and other convenient locations. Also, most make it easy to make deposits by mail and do online banking, so the only time you really need to go into a branch is to open your account. You mentioned you are not a government worker. There are credit unions serving other types of workers as well, for instance if you are a university employee, part of the entertainment industry, in a union, and many other categories. Also, if you or any of your close relatives have been in the military, there are good credit unions you can join. There are also credit unions serving different neighborhoods, particularly neighborhoods with a lot of low-income people. Try typing your zipcode and "credit union" into google and checking out the ones that appear on the map. Even if they are affiliated with a church or other organization you aren't part of, you might be eligible to join if you live in the neighborhood. Go to the credit union's website or call them and ask.