MADISON, Wis. (11/8/10 CUNA)–Consumers who conduct their financial transactions at credit unions have a more positive view of their personal finances than those who don’t, according to a recent survey. And that has prompted Bankrate to look at what causes the correlation between belonging to a credit union and being financially sound.

“According to credit union data released from the Discover U.S. Spending Monitor in September, 38% of credit union members rate their personal finances as good or excellent, compared to 30% amongst noncredit union members surveyed,” said a blog posting on Bankrate.com (Nov.4). “Just 17% of credit union members rate their finances as poor, while 29% of noncredit union members feel the same way.

“Twenty-one percent of credit union members feel their finances are getting better compared to 19% of noncredit union members, a two-point difference,” the blog continued. “Both groups also differ when it comes to whether their personal financial situation is getting better or worse; 48% of credit union members feel their finances are worsening compared to 51% of noncredit union members, a three-point difference.”

What causes the correlation between being financially sound and belonging to a credit union?

The likely reason is that people who belong to credit unions tend to seek them out for more generous interest rates and lower loan rates, the blog said. Also, because credit unions generally lack the resources large banks have to build more branches and provide ubiquitous ATMs, consumers eschew convenience to conduct their financial business at credit unions, the blog added.

“It follows then, that credit unions are attracting a consumer who is more proactive and diligent when it comes to financial matters, and one who is willing to do a little more legwork and sacrifice some convenience to get credit unions’ better deals,” the blog concludes.