Press

New CUNA Mutual Online Resource Offers Insight Into Pricing, Claims And Coverage

NEWS RELEASE:
From CUNA Mutual Group Public Relations
www.cunamutual.com

For more information:
Phil Tschudy 608/231-7188 philip.tschudy@cunamutual.com
Rick Uhlmann 608/231-8940 rick.uhlmann@cunamutual.com

MADISON, Wis. – CUNA Mutual Group is talking “straight” to its Credit Union Protection customers through a new Web-based resource that provides a first-hand look at how the insurer prices its coverages, adjusts and pays claims and insight into the insurance buying patterns of credit unions.

“The ‘Straight Talk’ program has one goal – to provide credit unions with a transparent look into the Credit Union Protection division,” said Chad Nitschke, CUNA Mutual vice president of commercial products.

“Credit unions are going through perhaps the most difficult period in their history. We realize our customers don’t always agree with some of our decisions, but our intent is to make decisions that are in the best interests of all our collective policyowners. We also understand credit union leaders are busier than ever, which is why we created Straight Talk. It provides them with meaningful information that is quickly and easily accessible – ultimately on their schedules.”

Located at www.cunamutual.com/straighttalk, this program offers a series of education and training tools for credit union management and boards of directors. The site features “You Be the Judge!” which presents claims scenarios and the nuances that mark the fine line between insurable and uninsurable risks. After reading the scenario and points that influence decisions to approve or deny a claim, readers can cast their vote and then learn the verdict.

Other key Straight Talk components include:

The Watercooler – CUNA Mutual product leaders and risk managers will regularly present articles, ideas, trends and data that can make a big difference in credit unions’ financial security.
Board.edu – This feature contains a series of short, focused Q&A videos to help credit union boards of directors get current information on risks relevant to their credit union’s success and their personal liability. Videos are less than 10 minutes in length and can be viewed individually, making them ideal for board meetings.
Peer Data – This simple tool allows credit unions to see exactly what credit unions in their peer group are purchasing, outlining limit and deductible levels for 13 different coverages.
Risk Management Services – This section features updates on new and emerging risks, including access to RISK Alerts, white papers, Webinars, online assessments, and a link to “Meet Your Risk Manager.”

Straight Talk was developed based on direct customer input. A group of 10 credit union policyowners nationwide that make up CUNA Mutual’s Credit Union Protection Advisory Panel not only tested and validated the concept, but two of the features, Peer Data and Board.edu, were their original ideas.

“Collaboration and transparency between an insurer and a policyholder are important for any insurance product, especially for one as sensitive as the bond,” said advisory panel member Brent Lister, president & CEO of First Florida Credit Union. “CUNA Mutual is to be commended for reaching out to customers to get feedback in creating ‘Straight Talk.’ It’s a wonderful resource that will help credit unions reduce risk and feel safe with their bond provider.”

Operating transparently is something CUNA Mutual is striving to do as a company and something it owes policyowners, Nitschke added. “Credit unions are entitled to have a clearer view into their Bond provider and understand why we’re investing in products such as Fraudulent Mortgage Loan Documentation, Management & Professional Liability insurance and the Cyber & Security Incident Package. While other carriers come and go from the credit union space, we are dedicated to be the time-tested and committed choice for credit union protection insurance.”

CUNA Mutual Group insurance, retirement and investment products provide financial security and protection to credit unions and their members worldwide. With more than 75 years of true market commitment, CUNA Mutual’s vision is unwavering: To be a trusted business partner who delivers service excellence through customer-focused products and market-driven insight. More information on the company is available on the company’s Web site at www.cunamutual.com.

CUNA Mutual Group is the marketing name of CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, its affiliates and subsidiaries, including CUMIS Insurance Society, Inc. Product availability and features may vary by jurisdiction and are subject to actual policy language. Corporate headquarters are located in Madison, Wisconsin.