Most modern credit unions represent specialized consumer cooperatives of citizens associated by the principle of social community: place of work, place of residence, profession, or any other shared interest. Credit unions also differ from the traditional consumer cooperatives. First Credit Union was savings unprofitable institution, or rather credit cooperative, providing services to its members. The difference between credit unions and banks is clearly is apparent when comparing the structure of assets and liabilities of credit unions and banks. Typically new members of the credit union become citizens having suretyship or recommendations from their friends - members of the credit union. Until the 70's there was a proliferation of the U.S. credit unions due to the increase of their number and the number of shareholders, although it must be acknowledged that there was also and a qualitative growth. Shareholders in corporate organizations are basic credit unions, besides the same union can be a shareholder of several corporate organizations. In the UK, credit unions are a source of financing of people groups. This tool is not widely used. Standards by which credit unions build their work do not coincide with the standards and regulations of consumer cooperation of the usual type. Unlike banks, in order to use the services of a credit union, you have to become its member, having written an application and having paid thus shares and membership fee.