The Seven Cooperative Principles

1. Voluntary and open membership. Credit unions are voluntary, not-for-profit financial cooperatives providing affordable financial solutions to those eligible and willing to accept the responsibilities and benefits of membership without discrimination.
2. Democratic member control. Credit unions are democratic organizations owned and controlled by their members, with equal opportunity for participation in setting policies and making decisions. Therefore, each member has one vote.
3. Member economic participation. Members are the owners of credit unions. As such, they contribute to the capital of their credit union and directly impact its financial success. Members realize benefits in proportion to their relationship with their credit union and use of its products and services.
4. Autonomy and independence. Credit unions are independent, self-reliant organizations controlled by their member-owners, not outside stockholders.
5. Education, training, and information. Credit unions educate and train members, employees and volunteers so they can contribute effectively to the development of the credit union. In addition, credit unions provide financial education for their members and the public.
6. Cooperation among cooperatives. Credit unions serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative principles by working with other cooperatives.
7. Concern for community. Credit unions work for the sustainable development of communities through policies developed and accepted by the members. Credit unions seek to achieve a greater good through responsible corporate citizenship.