Delaware credit unions serving customers during COVID-19 crisis

While the state is under a stay-at-home order from Gov. John Carney, Delaware credit unions continue to provide valuable financial services to their 248,000 members across the state.

According to Carney's order, financial institutions such as credit unions are considered essential services and are not subject to closure.

"Delaware's credit unions serve as the financial first responders for consumers in a crisis such as COVID-19. They are working day and night to serve their members, helping them stay in their homes, waiving fees, offering loan modifications and making sure consumers have access to low-cost financial services," said Ronald McLean, president and CEO of the Cooperative Credit Union Association, which represents Delaware's 17 credit unions.

The safest place for your money right now is in your credit union where it is insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration. There are a lot of things to worry about these days, but the safety of consumers' money in their credit union account is not one of them."

Credit unions across Delaware are offering financial assistance to members impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Assistance includes 0 percent or low-interest bridge loans, loan modifications and payment deferrals, and numerous fee waivers.

Consumers are encouraged to contact their local credit unions, as some have temporarily closed branch lobbies and are providing member service via drive-through only. This is done out of an abundance of caution to protect the health and well-being of consumers and credit union employees. Credit union members also have access to their accounts through ATMs, debit/credit cards, and the many available digital and online banking platforms.

"If you are a consumer or a business, I encourage you to reach out to your local credit union for assistance. We want to help, and we can help," said McLean.