Innovation: Credit unions provide the modern tools Millennials and Gen Z expect – but with the added trust and personal service you want.
Community Impact: A unique operational structure that focuses on financial well-being – not maximizing shareholder profits.
Affordability: Cost effective ways to borrow, refinance, and eliminate payments without getting trapped in a financial spiral.
For Millennials and Gen Z, money management looks a lot different than it did for generations before. Rising housing costs are setting back home purchases, student loan debt is delaying major milestones, inflation and stagnant wages are making it nearly impossible to afford life’s necessities.
While traditional banks, neobanks, and flashy fintech apps might grab attention, credit unions offer something unique and longstanding – a balance of innovation, affordability, community impact, and real solutions for financial independence. Here’s why credit unions are the ideal financial partner for Millennials and Gen Z.
Between never-ending student loan payments, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) traps, and predatory payday lenders with misleading terms, finding an affordable way to live may feel unreachable. When it comes to borrowing money or shifting high-interest rate credit card balances into an affordable monthly payment – don’t ignore the cost-saving benefits that your local credit union has. What may seem like an old fashion way to bank – because your grandparents and parents still use it – doesn’t mean it should give you the ick. A credit union’s practices have withstood the test of time and during the most severe economic downfalls for a reason…people come first, not profits.
Did You Know: Credit unions are able to offer lower fees and better rates than their competitors because unlike traditional profit driven institutions, they don’t have the financial pressure to maximize profits for shareholders. This isn’t a flex – it’s a fact.
Gen Z and Millennials are digital natives – convenience, speed, and mobile-first access is a must. Credit unions provide the same modern tools you’d expect from the other guys – but with the added trust and personal service that comes locally. Digital banking, mobile apps, and mobile wallets are only some of the ways your local credit union measures up to its competitors.
Did You Know: Banking on the go with convenience and ease is a real thing for credit unions. When you have questions, you still have the option to talk to someone in person or over the phone (big green flag).
Budgeting is already stressful when rent, groceries, credit card, and car payments are taking up a large chunk of your money. Finding ways to save a dollar means getting creative with your financial decisions. While the other guys offer flashy savings promos with limited time offers, credit unions offer real life solutions for long-term financial success. They understand that the key to reaching your goals extends beyond just a basic savings account, which is why they offer tools like financial counseling, debt consolidation options, and personal support so you can make real financial headway towards your financial goals.
Did You Know: Credit unions offer many ways to help you save right now – so you don’t have to feel pressed about the future. You can create a secure blueprint for your money through different saving strategies that’ll keep it growing.
Unlike banks or other financial institutions owned by shareholders, credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives owned by their members. This unique operational structure focuses on member well-being – which means every decision is about serving its members and community – not maximizing shareholder profits. Credit unions are purpose driven, catalysts for positive change, and above all else – they're committed to affordable, accessible and fair banking for all.
Did You Know: In 2021, Peach State FCU introduced the Peach State FCU C.A.R.E.S. Foundation with a goal to make meaningful impacts in local communities. It helps combat food insecurity, supports the arts, provides scholarships to high school and adult students, and so much more! The Peach State FCU C.A.R.E.S Foundation is supported by our C.A.R.E.S. Visa Debit card as well as contributions from outside donors. For every purchase made with a Peach State Visa Debit Card, Peach State will donate a nickel to the C.A.R.E.S. Foundation.1
We understand your desire for autonomy, flexibility, and sense of purpose. For some Millennials and Gen Zer’s, traditional 9-5 jobs and career models may not be a vibe. You may prefer a more entrepreneurial route with side hustles, startups, and freelancing as a better way to shape your future. Credit unions offer entrepreneurs significant advantages like lower costs, better rates and a more personalized banking experience. When it comes to starting, growing or expanding business ventures – consider your local credit union for business accounts, auto and commercial real estate loans, credit cards, and other financial tools that support your ambitious dreams.
Did You Know: Aside from standard business account offerings, Peach State also has merchant services – credit card processing, accounting software as well as employee benefits. You’re on your hustle – generating new ideas, doing big things - and we’re here for it!
Credit unions are more than just the place your parents and grandparents go to for affordable loans, savings and checking accounts – they’re a place that provides real solutions for helping people afford life, strengthening communities and cultivating financial empowerment.
Choosing a credit union – like Peach State – means choosing a financial partner that understands your struggles, supports your goals, and shares your values. It's something that goes beyond banking – it’s about partnership and building a future together.
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1 $0.05 per transaction of Peach State Federal Credit Union’s merchant interchange income from our Visa Debit Card program is used to benefit the communities we serve. We will determine where/how funds are disbursed. This does not affect members’ accounts nor will any member information be disclosed. You will not incur any additional fees or charges from this program. Merchant interchange income is derived from fees that a merchant pays to accept credit/debit card payments. The C.A.R.E.S. program may or may not apply to ATM transactions, certain commercial transactions, or other transactions not processed by Visa.