LANSING, Mich.–Credit unions continue to respond to the coronavirus threat with everything from branch visits by appointment only, to shorter branch hours, to emergency loans.
Saying it is seeking to protect the safety of its members and employees, LAFCU here said its branch lobbies are now open on an appointment-only basis. The credit union said the goal is to mitigate the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus. A California CU has separately announced shortened branch hours.
“The credit union is also following recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including social distancing, no handshaking and encouraging everyone to regularly wash their hands for at least 20 seconds,” LAFCU said in a statement.
The policy will remain in place indefinitely.
Members have been given a phone number to call to make an appointment and have also been directed to use the CU’s chat option.
In addition, members are being reminded LAFCU has multiple interactive teller machines in its drive-thru lanes at all branches.
“They visually connect members with a representative located at LAFCU headquarters who can assist with deposits, withdrawals and check cashing,” the credit union said.
Members are also being encouraged to use mobile and online banking, audio banking, and ATMs.
LAFCU has nearly $750 million in assets and more than 67,000 members.
Drive-Through Only in Texas
In Corpus Christi, Texas, Coastal Community And Teachers Credit Union is urging members to use its drive-through facilities only at five of its locations, and urging members not to come into the lobby if they feel sick.
Changed Hours in California
In California, meanwhile, SAFE Credit Union has announced a temporary change to its branch and call center hours, which are now open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. PT. Its Saturday hours will remain 9-2.
Emergency Loans
In the Evergreen State, Washington State Employees Credit Union is among those offering emergency loans as well as free financial counseling for folks worried about paying their bills.
"If they have concerns, they should be reaching out to their financial institutions and see what options they may have for them before things get too dire," Ann Flannigan, VP-public affairs, said in a statement.
Flannigan told local media workers in the gig economy already are feeling the pain, and WSECU has already helped one Uber driver in Kirkland who has seen a big drop in business.
"So we're making modifications to his loan payments so he can set up some smaller, more manageable payments since he's had a drop in his income," Flanagan said.
WSECU has announced its annual meeting will also be online only.