NCUA Letters to Credit Unions

Federal Credit Union Operating Fees Decrease for 2026

The NCUA announced that federal credit union operating fees will decrease by an average of 24.65% in 2026 due to budget reductions and repurposed funds. The exemption threshold for these fees has also been increased. Invoices will be issued in March 2026, with payment due by April 17, 2026.

NCUA 2026 Supervisory Priorities

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has released its supervisory priorities for 2026, focusing on areas posing the highest risk to credit union members and the Share Insurance Fund. Key areas include balance sheet management, particularly lending practices, due to recent declines in loan performance and rising delinquency rates.

NCUA Removes Disparate Impact References from Guidance

The NCUA has removed references to disparate impact liability from its Fair Lending Guide and other issuances, consistent with Executive Order 14281. Examiners will no longer request or review information related to a credit union's disparate impact risk.

NCUA Extends 18% Loan Interest Rate Ceiling for Federal Credit Unions

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has extended the temporary 18% interest rate ceiling for loans made by federal credit unions. This extension, approved by the NCUA Board, will now last through September 10, 2027, providing continued flexibility for consumer lending.

NCUA Removes Reputation Risk from Banking Guidance

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has removed reputation risk from its examination and supervisory guidance, effective September 25, 2025, in accordance with Executive Order 14331. This change directs NCUA employees to no longer base supervisory concerns on reputation risk when examining federally insured credit unions.