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Protect credit unions: Take action now

Deer Park, TX (May 6, 2025) |

Shell Federal Credit Union (Shell FCU) is urging members, employees, and community supporters to take immediate action in support of preserving the credit union tax-exempt status, which is under threat by proposed legislation in Congress.

As a Low-Income Designated Credit Union, Shell FCU proudly serves over 156,000 members, with more than half considered low-income. This federal designation allows Shell FCU to provide vital financial services to individuals and families who might otherwise be left behind by traditional banking institutions.

Shell FCU’s not-for-profit model reinvests earnings into its members and the community—not Wall Street shareholders. In 2024, despite already paying over $4.8 million in taxes, Shell FCU also gave back through $50,000 in scholarships and nearly $25,000 in charitable donations, while continuing to offer low-rate loans, high-yield savings, and no or low fees.

“You chose Shell FCU because we put people before profits,” said Jose Rodriguez, President and CEO of Shell FCU. “If this legislation passes, we would be forced to raise costs or cut programs—directly hurting the people who rely on us most.”

What’s at Stake 

If Congress eliminates the credit union tax exemption:

  • Member costs could rise.
  • Community support programs could shrink.
  • Access to affordable financial services for low-income families could disappear.
  • Credit unions could be forced to operate more like for-profit banks.

“A tax on credit unions is a tax on everyday Americans,” said long-time Shell FCU member Michelle G. “They helped me when no one else would.”

“Shell FCU gave me a scholarship when I needed it most. It helped me become the first in my family to graduate college,” added member Carlos R.

 Take Action in 60 Seconds 

Shell FCU is asking everyone to take one minute to protect what matters:

Click Here to Take Action Now – Don’t Tax My Credit Union

A prewritten message is provided—it’s quick, impactful, and goes directly to your elected officials.

Or, make an even greater impact by calling your representative. Use this simple script:

Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a Shell FCU member from [City]. I’m asking you to oppose any effort to tax credit unions.

Credit unions serve people like me—not shareholders. A tax on credit unions is a tax on everyday Americans. Please protect our tax-exempt status. Thank you.

Need help finding your representative? Click here to visit the Cornerstone Action Center and click “View Your Election Center.”

 Credit Union vs. Bank – Why It Matters 

Feature

Credit Unions (CUs)

Banks

Ownership

Member-owned, not-for-profit

Shareholder-owned, for-profit

Purpose

Serve members & communities

Generate profit for shareholders

Profits

Returned to members

Paid to shareholders

Governance

One member, one vote

More shares = more votes

Shell FCU is governed by an unpaid volunteer board—dedicated to service, not profits.

Protect what matters. Take action today—because when credit unions thrive, communities do too.

Shell FCU

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