All Thrift and Loan Co-ops operate on a self-financing basis. On admission, a member pays a small entrance fee and undertakes to subscribe, according to his financial ability, a regular monthly saving towards the Subscription Capital. The minimum amount, required to be subscribed, is fixed in the by-laws of the Co-op.

Subscription cannot be withdrawn except on termination of membership or under certain specific conditions laid down in the by-laws. The Subscription Capital serves as the guarantee capital for loans to members. Dividends are declared annually at the co-op's annual general meeting. Depending on the net surplus available for distribution, members may decide by democratic vote, to declare a dividend on the subscription standing to the credit of members at a rate of not exceeding 10%.

If a member is in need of financial assistance, he may apply for a loan from the Co-op. The maximum amount of loan that can be granted to a member is specified in the bye-laws. A loan is normally granted on the personal security of the following member. If the loan applied for exceeds his subscription credit, the borrower has to obtain two sureties, who are also members to guarantee the loan. Low interest is usually charged by the Co-op for loans granted. Repayment is usually made within 12 months but the Management Committee has the discretion to extend the repayment period to 36 months or more.

In addition to the compulsory subscription, a member may make a monthly savings to deposit towards his Specific Deposit Account. Specific deposits are savings made by members for expenses in connection with specific purposes such as education, marriage, house renovation, holidays, insurance premium, hospital charges etc. Interests are usually paid half yearly on specific deposits and withdrawals of deposits can be made at regular intervals.

In accordance with bye-laws 10.4 three months notice in writing is required for the withdrawal of Specific Deposit. However, the Committee may at its discretion accept shorter notice.