Credit unions are community-based cooperative organizations that offer the same products and services as other financial institutions. We offer a variety of products and services, just like banks, plus a network of surcharge-free ATMs and innovative online banking platforms and mobile apps.
But unlike banks, credit unions are owned and operated by our members. That means when you join a credit union, you have a say in how we operate and how your money is invested back into the community. And it means you get money back every year – when a credit union makes a profit, we share it back with members in the form of annual returns. In 2021, $84 million went back to members through patronage and share dividends.
In Alberta, there are 13 credit unions with nearly 200 branches serving more than 609,000 members. In 2021, Alberta credit unions had total earnings of $246 million (net income before tax and patronage bonus) and held more than $2.88 billion in equity. You can trust your money is secure with us – our deposits are subject to a deposit insurance regime that offers a 100% deposit guarantee through the Credit Union Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Alberta, which guarantees the repayment of all deposits with Alberta credit unions, including accrued interest to the date of payout*.
We care about what matters to you and give back the communities we operate in each year. In 2021, Alberta credit unions contributed more than $1.2 million in the form of charitable donations, sponsorships, scholarships and more. We are committed to supporting diversity, equity and inclusion, climate action, and truth and reconciliation. Explore our site under the topic “Community Matters” to learn more.
*Conditions apply, review the Credit Union Deposit Guarantee Corporation FAQs here for details.
