Unlike big banks, credit unions require membership. Eligibility is often based on where you live, where you work, or organizations you belong to.
Buying a car is a major financial milestone, and while most people default to dealership financing, your local credit union might actually be the smartest way to get behind the wheel. Because they are member-owned and not-for-profit, credit unions typically return their "earnings" to members in the form of lower interest rates and better service.
: Some may require you to have an account for a certain period before you can access the best loan rates.