The main difference is whether the permit to do business as a credit union was granted by the state government or the federal government.  Whenever a new credit union is established, the organizers apply for either a state or national (federal) credit union charter.  Both types of credit unions offer NCUA insured deposits and both are regulated in much the same manner.  The important difference for credit union members and other consumers is where they should go for regulatory assistance.  Because Arizona state-chartered credit unions are the only credit unions supervised by DIFI , concerns and complaints received about federal credit unions or out-of-state chartered credit unions must be forwarded to the appropriate regulator.  A list of all credit unions chartered as Arizona state chartered credit unions can be found at Look up a Licensee on DIFI ’s website.  A list of state and federal agencies that govern credit unions located in Arizona but not chartered as an Arizona state chartered credit union is included in the Other Regulator Referral List.