<prompt> Human: Ive been with Chase for years but they dont have a branch in my city. Im considering leaving and joining a local bank and wanted to know more about credit unions.What are the major proscons one should know? Would you recommend a credit union? Are local banks better? Not really interested in keeping my money with such a large financial institution. Thanks for the help!  <response>: I personally made the switch from a national bank BBT to my local federal credit union for my car loan, and I couldnt be happier. My interest rate was more than cut in half its now 1.5, and my monthly payments went down. I was so pleased that I ended up switching to my credit union for banking purposes as well, even though I was banking with a local bank before. The credit union gives me a lot of cool perks, such as no minimum balance, 5 yes, 5! interest earned on my balance of up to 2,000 per month, and a debit card that signals my credit union to donate money to my chosen LOCAL charity every time I use it.So, all in all, my experience has been a good one. I hope that helps! 