Do you know who makes sure credit unions are safe places for people to keep their money? When credit unions are running low on coin or paper money, where can they get more? Who helps credit unions figure out their interest rates? The answer to all these questions is: The Federal Reserve System!

The Federal Reserve System is also known as "The Fed." Congress created the Fed in 1913. Is is the central bank of the United States. This means it is a bank for other banks and credit unions, and for the federal government. Some people who work at The Fed study the economy. They work to keep prices stable and unemployment low.

The Fed is divided into 12 regions, called Districts. Each District has one Reserve Bank.