By SF Fire Credit Union

We’re Here for You: What to Expect from SF Fire Credit Union During a Government Shutdown

At SF Fire Credit Union, we remain open and ready to serve our members. Here are answers to common questions about how a government shutdown may affect you and how your funds are protected.

How might members be affected?

  • Pay delays or furloughs: Some federal employees may see delayed paychecks, which could affect bills or loan payments. (Note: SFFD and Cal Fire pay are not affected.)
  • Benefits: Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits are expected to continue.
  • Government-backed loans: FHA, VA, SBA, or USDA loans may face delays.
  • Other services: Programs tied to federal funding (e.g., flood insurance) could be delayed.

If you are affected, please contact us early; we can discuss relief options such as deferred payments or short-term assistance.

Will operations be interrupted?

No, we will conduct business as usual. You can continue to deposit, withdraw, transfer funds, and use loans, online banking, and ATMs. While government-linked services may face delays, your access to accounts will not be interrupted.

How are my funds protected?

  • Our deposits are insured by American Share Insurance (ASI), not the NCUA.
  • ASI is a private insurer, independent of the federal government.
  • Your deposits remain fully insured (up to $250,000 per account) even during a government shutdown.

Who regulates SF Fire Credit Union?

We are subject to:

  • Oversight by state credit union regulators
  • Federal consumer protection laws
  • Independent audits and regular examinations

These safeguards continue regardless of events in Washington, D.C.

Can SF Fire Credit Union help with my loan payments?

Yes, to help members affected by the government shutdown, we’re offering assistance with your current SF Fire loans. You may be eligible for assistance if:

  • Your pay is impacted by the shutdown
  • You are a federal government employee, or
  • You are a federal government contractor paid directly by the federal government

How can SF Fire Credit Union help with my loan?

  • No fee skip-a-payment option on existing consumer loans (Vehicle, Personal, Credit Cards, Student).
  • Loan deferments on consumer loans.
  • First mortgage hardship assistance through our 90-day forbearance program.
  • Financial counseling, as a member of SF Fire, you have access to free one-on-one financial counseling. The financial counselors can help build your budgeting skills, create financial plans, discuss your credit report and ways to alleviate debt. (via BALANCE)

If you have any questions, please reach out or visit us during regular business hours.