Federal Government Shutdown: Credit Unions Ready to Support Members

The federal government officially shut down at midnight, after Congress failed to reach an agreement on funding legislation. With thousands of federal workers and contractors affected, credit unions remain committed to their member-first mission and stand ready to help ease financial challenges.

To support members, the Association has created a Federal Government Shutdown Resource Page, which highlights credit union assistance programs available during this time.

Meanwhile, the NCUA announced this morning that it will remain open throughout the shutdown. The agency emphasized that individual accounts will continue to be federally insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund. Because the NCUA is an independent federal agency funded by fees from credit unions-not congressional appropriations-its operations will continue uninterrupted.

In guidance to credit unions, the NCUA encouraged institutions to:

• Ensure policies allow flexibility to meet members' financial needs.
• Prepare for potential service interruptions if branches are located on federal property.
• Work prudently with affected members, including offering advances to those awaiting federal deposits.
• Develop contingency plans for government programs that may be disrupted.
• Communicate response plans promptly to members, staff, and volunteers.

Read the NCUA press release