How are credit unions different from traditional banks?

Hi, welcome to the site. :D

I am a member of a credit union, I have been for about 7 years now. I would never go back to a bank! Credit unions are "owned" by the members, so fees are lower. The level of service is usually much better, also, since it is a smaller community. As far as catering to lower incomes, I don't know that that's necessarily true; their standards may not be quite as stringent, but you would still have to meet normal credit criteria in order to get a loan. Their interest rates are generally better, though, and I have found that they will go the extra mile to help you out.

I belong to Pentagon Federal Credit Union and love them.The quality of support and customer service is unmatched compared to major banks. The only non credit union bank that comes close are the local small home town banks near my house. They are also great for rebuilding credit as they are willing to manual underwriting and speak with you versus just running a computer program to deny you.

Navy Federal sucks. Have bad or Fair credit, beware of getting a personal loan.