[The following is a paid advertisement.]

Did you know that credit union membership could result in an unexpected bonus? That’s right, bonus dividends are just one of the exceptional benefits that set credit unions apart. As member-owned financial cooperatives, credit unions are able to share exceptional profits with their members. Recently, two Illinois credit unions did just that.

For the second consecutive year, CEFCU, with 20 locations throughout central Illinois, has distributed an extraordinary $40 million dividend. The amount each member received was determined by dividends earned and interest paid during the first 11 months of the year, and deposited into member accounts in early December.

Likewise, Scott Credit Union, based in Edwardsville and serving 15 metro east locations, declared a bonus dividend and loan interest rate in November, giving $1.3 million back to its members. SCU gave active members an additional 3% annual percentage yield bonus dividend on their deposits, and a rebate of 3% of the interest they paid this year on any loan or credit card to thank members for their loyalty.

Share in the success by joining a credit union today! Visit ASmarterChoice.org to locate a credit union in your area.