The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) commends the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) Board for approving the agency’s Operating, Capital, and Share Insurance Fund administrative expense budgets for 2026 and 2027.
“We want to thank the NCUA for implementing a streamlined budget that significantly reduces overall expenses while enhancing financial stability for credit unions nationwide,” says Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO. “This budget reflects a thoughtful and disciplined approach to fiscal stewardship, reducing costs while supporting the core mission of credit union safety and soundness. We are grateful to the NCUA Board for prioritizing efficiency and member impact, and for the leadership shown throughout this process.”
The newly approved combined budget for 2026 of $316.2 million represents a substantial reduction of approximately $79.2 million compared to the 2025 combined budget, along with 288 fewer authorized staff positions. The adjustment also resulted in a 24.65 percent decrease in the NCUA operating fee rate for 2026, an important relief for federally insured credit unions and their members.
DCUC looks forward to continued collaboration with the NCUA as the agency implements the budget and maintains its focus on prudent regulation, operational efficiency, and credit union sustainability.
Trump Announces $1,776 ‘Warrior Dividend’; DCUC Prepares Credit Unions for Member Inquiries
Following President Donald Trump’s announcement of a one-time $1,776 “1776 Warrior Bonus” for eligible U.S. service members, DCUC issued guidance to help credit unions prepare for increased member questions and deposit activity.
The Administration has said the payments will be delivered through the military pay system and funded by repurposed military housing assistance dollars.
DCUC urged credit unions to brief frontline staff, reinforce clear member communications, and prepare operationally for higher call volumes and account activity. DCUC also shared a detailed advisory (attached) outlining eligibility considerations, potential tax and policy questions, liquidity impacts, and fraud-prevention awareness. DCUC also provided a sample memorandum for credit union leaders to educate and inform their staff. *Disclaimer* This information reflects the most current publicly available guidance.
“Defense credit unions are often the first and most trusted financial touchpoint for military members and their families,” said DCUC President and CEO Anthony Hernandez. “Our goal was to ensure credit unions had timely, accurate information to confidently support service members during the rollout of this payment.”
“By equipping credit unions with clear guidance, DCUC is helping ensure military members receive this benefit smoothly, especially during the holiday season, when financial decisions can be more complex,” Jason Stverak, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer, adds.