DCUC Urges Congress to Protect Servicemember Pay as Shutdown Impacts Grow, Credit Unions Step Up to Assist Those Impacted

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the federal government shutdown continues, the Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) has issued a renewed call to Congress for swift action to protect the financial stability of U.S. servicemembers and their families.

In a letter sent to House and Senate Armed Services Committee leaders, Jason Stverak, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer, urged lawmakers to include the Pay Our Troops Act of 2026 and the Pay Our Coast Guard Parity Act of 2025 in the final Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).​

“Those who defend our nation deserve financial certainty and should never be used as bargaining chips in a budget standoff,” says Stverak. “Including these provisions in the NDAA will ensure that our servicemembers and their families are never again left in financial limbo because of a government shutdown.”

As of this week, roughly 1.3 million active-duty servicemembers face missing their first paycheck on October 15. DCUC’s letter highlights the deep and lasting effects of pay interruptions on military families, from missed mortgage payments and late fees to long-term credit impacts.
 
The Coast Guard’s unique vulnerability—stemming from its funding through the Department of Homeland Security rather than the Department of War—was also noted. During the 2018–2019 shutdown, nearly 50,000 Coast Guard members went unpaid, an inequity the Pay Our Coast Guard Parity Act would address.
 
Both legislative measures have strong bipartisan support and are endorsed by leading military and veterans’ organizations, including the National Military Family Association, Blue Star Families, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Military Officers Association of America, National Guard Association, and DCUC.
 
“Credit unions have always been a source of stability for military families, especially during times of uncertainty,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO. “Their swift action is once again demonstrating the credit union difference—people helping people—ensuring those who defend our nation have the financial support they deserve.”

​While credit unions nationwide are mobilizing to support affected families (see overview below), DCUC stressed that temporary relief should not replace a permanent solution.
 
“No family serving our nation should have to depend on emergency loans or charity to put food on the table during a political impasse,” Stverak added. “Congress must ensure our troops’ financial security just as they ensure our national security.”
 
Credit Unions Step Up to Support Members Nationwide
In tandem with its advocacy efforts, DCUC has compiled examples of how many of its member credit unions are providing direct relief to servicemembers, federal employees, and their families during the shutdown. Please note, this is not an exhaustive list of all credit unions and DCUC members offering support at this time.
 
ABNB Federal Credit Union

• Short-term 0% loans
• Waived overdraft, late, penalty, and early withdrawal fees
• Skip-a-Pay programs with no fees or penalties

 
Altra Federal Credit Union

• Supporting active military, veterans, and federal government employees impacted by the shutdown
• Offering loan extensions, deferrals, and tailored financial solutions based on individual needs
• Waiving fees for all members affected by the shutdown
• Actively reviewing assistance programs weekly to adjust and enhance member support as the situation evolves

America’s Credit Union
America’s Credit Union Government Shutdown Loan Program

• Offering eligible members a zero percent loan; loan amount will be based on the member’s direct deposit of pay processed into America’s Credit Union deposit account(s) immediately before the government shutdown. To be considered for this loan, members must contact the credit union by calling 866-968-7128 or by visiting an ACU location.

​American Southwest Credit Union (ASCU)

• 0% APR emergency loans up to $6,000 for federal employees, contractors, and active-duty Coast Guard members
• Waived early withdrawal penalties on CDs

“We understand the stress and uncertainty a government shutdown can bring,” said Jay Williamson, ASCU President/CEO. “Our goal is to provide immediate financial relief and peace of mind to our members during this time.”
 
Andrews Federal Credit Union

• Financial Assistance Loans: Up to $5,000, no interest or payments for 90 days; fixed 6.00% APR thereafter
• Penalty-Free Share Certificate Withdrawals
• Skip-a-Pay: Up to two skipped payments per year on eligible loans
• Consumer Loan Flexibility: Extensions, repayment plans, or modifications
• Mortgage Assistance: Deferred payments, forbearance, repayment plans, loan modifications, and other options to avoid foreclosure
• Free Financial Counseling through GreenPath™

AmeriCU Credit Union

• 0% APR loans to cover income gaps
• Fee and penalty relief
• Postponement of loan payments without penalties
• Penalty-free share certificate withdrawals

“We have been here to support our members for 75 years, and this time of uncertainty is no different,” said Ron Belle, President/CEO of AmeriCU Credit Union.
 
Blue Federal Credit Union
“Blue Federal Credit Union has always stood beside those who serve our nation. We’re continuing that legacy—offering compassion, flexibility, and financial solutions to help our members navigate this challenging time with confidence and care.”

• Skip-a-Payment: Members affected by the shutdown can skip eligible loan payments with no penalties, helping them free up funds for daily essentials.
• Unsecured Loans: Blue is offering special unsecured loans to help cover expenses during the shutdown—0% APR for the first six months. Payments are deferred for 90 days.
• Term Share Early Withdrawal: Members can withdraw early without penalties during the shutdown period.
• Financial Guidance & Support: Through Blue University, we’re helping members navigate budgeting, debt management, and emergency planning.
• Community Care: Blue FCU teams remain ready to listen, guide, and create personalized solutions for members who need financial relief.

Camp Shelby Federal Credit Union

• Furlough Loan Program: Eligible government workers can borrow up to one month’s net pay
  • Two payment installments
  • First payment due 60 days after issuance; second due 90 days after
  • 0% interest rate
• Skip-a-Payment Program: Extends existing loan terms by two months for temporary relief

Cobalt Credit Union
In response to the federal government shutdown, Cobalt Credit Union announced the launch of its Furlough Relief Loan and Loan Assistance Program to provide financial relief for impacted members.

• Furlough Relief Loan: 0% APR for 90 days, up to $5,000, no setup or processing fees, no payment due for 60 days.
• Loan Assistance: 30-day and 60-day payment extension options on qualifying loans booked prior to October 1, 2025.

“At Cobalt, our members are our top priority,” said Robin Larsen, President and CEO of Cobalt Credit Union. “We understand the strain that furloughed employees are facing. Our mission has always been to stand with our members in times of uncertainty, and this program reflects our ongoing commitment to providing both compassion and practical solutions.”
 
Credit Union West
Credit Union West is committed to standing by members during the ongoing government shutdown. In alignment with their mission to inspire members, employees, and communities to achieve their financial goals and enhance their quality of life, Credit Union West is providing immediate relief solutions to help ensure financial security for those impacted by pay or benefit delays.
 
Credit Union West’s Financial Relief Program includes:

• No-Interest Loans (0% APR): Emergency financial support for members impacted by missed paychecks.
• Skip-a-Pay Options: Flexibility to pause payments on existing loans.
• Flexible Loan Extensions: Short-term extensions to ease financial strain.
• More details: cuwest.org/relief

 
Financial Center First Federal Credit Union

• Financial Center has activated its Boost Loan, providing short-term assistance for anyone in a layoff situation (including government furloughed workers). Impacted members can borrow up to their gross monthly income (max $6K) with 0% APR and no payments for 90 days. After 90 days, the loan adjusts to a competitive interest rate with terms up to 18 months.
• More information: fcfcu.com/boost

Frontwave Credit Union

• Government Shutdown Loans to bridge income gaps
• Penalty-free loan extensions and skip-a-payment options on existing loans
• One-on-one personalized solutions for financial relief

“A government shutdown doesn’t just affect the government, it affects the lives and wallets of the hard-working men and women that serve our community and country,” said Bill Birnie, President/CEO of Frontwave Credit Union. “That’s why we’re 100% committed to fight for our members through these uncertain times.”
 
Instep Federal Credit Union 
Instep FCU is offering assistance to eligible members currently employed by impacted federal agencies through our Furlough Assistance Program:

• Relief Loan - Borrow up to $4,500 for 12 months at 4.95% APR, with the option to delay the first payment for up to 60 days.* 
  
• Loan Payment Deferments - Eligible members may defer existing loan payments. 
  
• Additional Support - Members may also qualify for other relief options, including special payment assistance on products such as auto and signature loans. Please contact Instep FCU to review which options work best for you and your family.

Keesler Federal Credit Union

• Keesler Federal is offering Paycheck Relief for all eligible federal employees affected by the shutdown. *This is not a loan. Keesler will advance the amount of direct deposit paychecks for eligible members during the shutdown for up to three months, with no fees or costs.
• Registration form here

“At Keesler Federal, our members are at the heart of what we do. That’s why we want to provide extraordinary service during this uncertain and stressful time by offering immediate assistance for members facing payroll interruptions due to the government shutdown.”
 
Kinetic Credit Union
Support Options for Members with Direct Deposit:

• Furlough Loan: Up to two weeks of net pay, 0% APR for the first 60 days (adjusting to 4.1% APR thereafter), and flexible repayment terms up to 12 months.
• Additional Support: Personal loans, penalty-free withdrawals, and payment extensions.

“We understand the vital role our federal workers and civilian members play in supporting our military and government,” said Mark Littleton, Kinetic Credit Union President and CEO. “We are committed to helping them navigate this challenging time with financial solutions tailored to their needs.”
 
Kirtland Credit Union
Kirtland Credit Union (KCU) is taking action to support members—including active-duty service members, civilian employees, and families connected to Kirtland Air Force Base—who may be affected by delayed pay or furloughs.
 
The Member Assistance Program provides:

• Flexible payment deferments and grace periods
• Short-term bridge loans with low or no interest
• Fee relief and waived service charges
• Free financial counseling

“During times like these, financial uncertainty can weigh heavily on families who serve and support our nation,” said Matt Rarden, President and CEO. “Our mission is clear: to stand by our members and help them navigate these challenges with confidence and stability.”
More info: KirtlandCU.org/assistance
 
Keys Federal Credit Union

• Government Shutdown Assistance Loan: Borrow up to one month’s net pay or $5,000 (whichever is lower) at 0.00% APR for 90 days.
• Loan Payment Deferment: Skip a payment with no fee.
• Share Certificate Withdrawal: Withdraw without penalty.
• Free Balance Transfers and Cash Advances.

“At Keys Federal Credit Union, we recognize the real financial strain that a government shutdown places on our local servicemen and women,” said Maggie Sayer, President/CEO of Keys Federal Credit Union, and DCUC Board Chair. “Our team is prepared to help with special relief programs and personalized support. Anyone serving locally is eligible for membership, and we encourage those impacted to reach out, stop by a branch, or apply online so we can find the best way to assist.”
 
Marine Federal Credit Union

• Multi-tiered assistance program to support members affected by the government shutdown
• Payroll Advancement Program for active-duty military, DoD, and federal employees whose direct deposit goes to Marine FCU—members receive their regular payroll on October 15 at no cost
• Small-dollar, low-cost loan options and Skip-a-Pay program available for those needing additional assistance
• Certified financial counselors available at no cost to help members navigate financial challenges

Members 1st Federal Credit Union

• Payment-deferred personal loans for up to six months
• No-fee Skip-a-Pay program on existing loans
• One-on-one financial counseling for members’ unique needs

"We understand that every member’s situation is unique. That’s why our team is dedicated to providing personalized support and guidance to help our members navigate life’s financial challenges with confidence.” – Michael Wilson, Members 1st FCU President/CEO
 
PenAir Credit Union

• Members impacted by the shutdown who receive their federal direct deposit payroll into a PenAir account may be eligible for a 4-month, 0% APR loan up to $5,000.
• Assistance with existing loans and skip-a-payment options are also available.
• More info: penair.org/Shutdown.

 
“In times of uncertainty, PenAir’s priority is always our members,” said Lee Morgan, PenAir’s President & CEO. “Our purpose is enhancing lives, and we believe in going beyond just financial solutions. We believe in taking care of our community.”
 
Derrick Aguilar, SVP & Chief Experience Officer, added, “Alongside our Furlough Relief Loan program, we have certified financial counselors ready to provide personal guidance and ensure every member feels supported. In addition, we are offering flexible payment relief solutions, including the option to skip a payment on existing loans, to help alleviate financial stress during this period.”
 
R-G Federal Credit Union
To support military, Department of Defense, and civil service members, R-G FCU is offering an interest-free short-term “paycheck” loan equal to a member’s most recent government direct deposit.

• Zero interest, no fees, no impact on credit, and automatic repayment once pay resumes.

Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union (RBFCU)

• Government Shutdown Consumer Relief Loan: Available once a member’s normal pay schedule is interrupted; eligibility includes federal employees or benefits recipients with existing government ACH direct deposit at RBFCU.
• No credit pull required, with fee waivers and early withdrawal penalty waivers on certificates.

"While we are hopeful our elected officials will find a timely resolution to this issue, RBFCU will remain focused on serving its members working for the federal government."

Sea Air Federal Credit Union

• Direct Deposit Program: Paying members 75% of their normal deposit at 0% interest until income resumes
• Fee relief: Waiving late fees and early withdrawal penalties on certificates of deposit
• Payment support: Extension agreements for up to three months or payment reduction plans
• Emergency Fund Access: Removed restrictions on Emergency Fund Savings accounts
• Low-rate credit option: 5% line of credit for up to $2,500, with a 12-month term

Suncoast Credit Union
As the largest Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in the country, Suncoast Credit Union serves over 1.3 million members, including active-duty military and federal employees impacted by the shutdown.

• Suncoast offers loan extensions, consolidations, and personalized support, working one-on-one with members to address unique needs.

 
“As the economic consequences of the shutdown become a reality for our members, Suncoast stands at the ready with comprehensive solutions to help them navigate with confidence and ease.”
 
DCUC and its members continue to advocate for congressional action to prevent future shutdowns from jeopardizing military families’ financial well-being. We encourage impacted individuals to contact their local credit unions to explore available programs. Members can use the NCUA’s locator tool here: mapping.ncua.gov.
 
Additional resources are available on DCUC’s Government Shutdown Resource Page: dcuc.org/govtshutdown.