COLUMBIA, MD (November 10, 2025) |
As the federal government shutdown shows signs of nearing an end, credit unions across the Maryland, Delaware and the Washington, DC metropolitan area remain committed to helping individuals and families recover from weeks of financial uncertainty. Through no-interest and low-interest loans, loan modifications, fee waivers, and other assistance programs, credit unions have offered relief options to consumers struggling to pay their bills.
A membership survey recently conducted by the MD|DC Credit Union Association reveals that since October 1, 2025, credit unions have provided over $208 million in assistance to 11,364 members, including:
- $20 million in no-interest or low-interest loans to 4,378 members.
- Over $76 million in mortgage forbearance/deferments to 398 members.
- Nearly $112 million loan payment extensions to 6,588 members.
- 2,815 fee waivers granted.
“Credit unions mobilized quickly to support their members, activating assistance programs to provide financial lifelines in response to the shutdown,” said John Bratsakis, president and CEO, MD|DC Credit Union Association. “As the government moves closer to reopening, credit unions remain focused on helping members recover financially and plan for the weeks ahead. We encourage consumers to contact their credit union to explore available relief and payment flexibility options.”
Credit unions have played a vital role in helping members navigate missed paychecks, while also providing financial counseling and supporting community initiatives.
“Our priority is making sure members know we’re here to help them through the current federal government actions,” said Rick Wieczorek, president and CEO, NIH Federal Credit Union. “Many of the loans we’re providing are helping members bridge the gap from missed paychecks and maintain stability during an uncertain time. It’s gratifying to hear from members who appreciate their credit union’s commitment to going above and beyond to help. That’s the credit union difference.”
"2025 marks the 90th anniversary of FedChoice serving the Federal community,” said Brett Noll, president and CEO, FedChoice. “We've been through government shutdowns before and understand the financial challenges our members face. That’s why we, and many other credit unions, immediately activated support measures from day one. And we’re approaching this holistically – it’s not just people’s wallets that are impacted. When we hosted our onsite event offering lunch, we also offered the ability to sign up to work with a Certified Financial Planner and mental health support was onsite. It’s not about profit at a credit union; it’s about helping people."
Consumers are encouraged to contact their credit union directly to learn more about available assistance programs. Additional information can also be found on the MD|DC Credit Union Association’s Federal Government Shutdown Resource Center.