Anyone can belong to a credit union, just not the same one. It's about fit. Unlike banks, credit unions are organized by a common bond, whether it's where you work, worship or live.

"We are owned by our members, not by stockholders, and our board of directors is made up of volunteers who receive no payment for their stewardship of our members' finances," says Suzanne Dusch, vice president of CFE Federal Credit Union in Lake Mary, Fla.

According to the Credit Union National Association, or CUNA, 7,536 credit unions existed in the United States as of November 2010. When you're narrowing your choices, you'll need some guidelines on what you can expect from a credit union checking account.

Here are some tips on what to look for in a credit union.