The difference between credit unions and banks is clearly is apparent when comparing the structure of assets and liabilities of credit unions and banks. As of the January 1, 2012 the national associations and confederations unite more than 196 million members participating in the 51,013 credit unions in 100 countries. Credit unions, like today's credit unions, emerged in the 19th century in Germany as a result of crop failure and famine. 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. To increase the number of credit unions in 1979 was adopted the corresponding law that serves as the legal basis of their activity.