The focus really shouldn't be on whether or not the creditor is a bank, credit union or whatever but on whether or not specific products suit you regardless of who provides the products. A dedicated topic really isn't necessary. The only difference with a credit union is that you have to join as a member and typically you need to deposit a $5 (or more) share to establish your membership. Membership eligbility is restricted but some CU's have easy membership eligibility requirements (e.g. join an organization).
@MontegoMack wrote:
It seems as though it's such a different relationship than with any other entity.
IMO there's far too much obsession over "realtionship". With any creditor your credit profile and your income are the primary considerations that will determine the products and terms that you qualify for. With smaller organizations where the important employess may actually know you by name relationship may provide additional benefit but generally speaking, relationship with most creditors isn't going to overrule signfiicant issues with credit and/or income.
You don't need to estalbish a relationship with most creditors. If you qualify you qualify. If you qualify with a CU you can join when you apply. Joining doesn't improve your credit or income. As an example, I joined PenFed back in 2009. Back then I still had a BK reporting and other issues with my credit. Not surprisingly I was denied for the card I applied for at the time. It wasn't unitl 2013 when I had taken steps to improve my credit and my BK fell off that PenFed (and other creditors) approved me and for favorable limits and terms. Don't rely on the "relationship" and "foot in door" memes.
