WASHINGTON--The Defense Credit Union Council has launched a new geofencing advertisement campaign to reach policymakers and legislators throughout the Capital region.
Funded by DCUC’s Defending Credit Unions National Advocacy Fund, the campaign, DCUC said, reaffirms the importance of preserving the federal tax status of credit unions.
DCUC’s campaign, a short video highlighting this issue, spotlights the critical role credit unions play in their communities by providing essential financial services and access, especially when supporting the unique challenges faced by service members, veterans, and their families.
The ad warns that eliminating or altering the long-standing tax exemption could hinder credit union's capacity to fulfill their mission.
Whether it's providing loans during deployments, offering financial education tailored to military life, or shielding families from predatory lending, credit unions serve as a lifeline to those who protect our country, DCUC noted.
“Through this campaign, we're making sure the voices of military families are heard loud and clear,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC president/CEO. “Taxing credit unions may seem like a policy shift on paper, but in practice, it risks cutting off a critical support system for those who serve. We're calling on lawmakers to preserve what Congress has recognized for decades serves a critical purpose, and protect the very institutions that stand behind our nation's defenders.”
Reflection Of Not-For-Profit Mission
“The credit union tax exemption isn’t a loophole — it’s a reflection of our not-for-profit mission to serve members, not shareholders. For defense credit unions, this means delivering trusted, affordable financial services to the men and women who wear our nation’s uniform, as well as their families and veterans,” said Jason Stverak, DCUC chief advocacy officer. “Preserving this exemption ensures that credit unions can continue to provide lower fees, better rates, and vital community programs that benefit millions of Americans.
“DCUC is proud to lead the charge in defending this foundational policy. Through our National Advocacy Fund, we’re not just raising awareness — we’re producing compelling materials, like our latest video, that remind policymakers what’s at stake,” continued Stverak. “We thank our members and partners for their unwavering support, and we call on Congress to stand with credit unions and protect the tax status that allows us to put people before profit.”
DCUC and its member credit unions continue to advocate for the military community through location outreach of financial services that align with their distinct needs. DCUC’s campaign is part of an ongoing effort to ensure credit unions and their members' stories remain front and center in the national policy conversation, DCUC said.