National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)
Candlefocus EditorThe NCUA is an independent agency of the federal government, chartered by congress for the purpose of providing credit unions with a secure and effective regulatory framework. The NCUA is primarily responsible for the charter and supervision of federal credit unions and the administration of their insurance program, called the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), which is also administered by the NCUA. The NCUA also provides assistance to state and federally-chartered credit unions in areas such as compliance, asset and liability management and other related services.
In its regulation and supervision of the federal credit union system, the NCUA regularly reviews member and credit union activities. It has the authority, acting through its board of directors, to issue a range of regulations and guidelines that serve to ensure the soundness and efficiency of credit union operations.
The NCUA also provides guidance to credit unions when assisting members in need, such as those affected by natural disasters or experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19. Its Office of Small Credit Union Initiatives focuses on credit unions with assets of less than $50 million. The NCUA also develops consumer education materials to assist credit union members in understanding financial services and steps to take for responsible use of credit.
The NCUA has a vital role in bolstering the credit union system, enabling consumer protection and economic opportunity for credit union members. By providing a secure and efficient regulatory framework, the NCUA is helping to ensure that credit unions remain vital, trustworthy sources for consumer savings, loans and investments.