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COVID-19 Resource Center

COVID-19 Resource Center

Last Updated: May 15, 2020 at 8:30 PM

We’re Here to Help You

Circumstances surrounding Coronavirus (COVID-19) are constantly changing, and we know this is stressful. Please know that you can count on us. We’re closely monitoring the situation, we’re open for business, and we’re here to help you. You’re not alone. We’re your Member-owned Credit Union — and we will get through this together.

Health and safety comes first. Rest assured that we are strictly following CDC guidelines as well as those from local and state authorities to fight the spread of COVID-19. We are taking every precaution to make sure your health is prioritized, and our employees remain safe, while ensuring your financial needs are met.

Update: Our Lakeline drive-thru has reopened. Read More

Se habla español. Favor de llamar al (800) 252-8311 para dudas y preguntas. Nuestros representantes están a su disposición para ayudarle.

Get Financial Help for Yourself

  • It can be difficult to know where to turn for help right now. It can be even harder to ask for help. We’re in this together, and here to serve our Members whose daily lives have been affected by COVID-19. Here’s how:


    • Member Relief Loans — Low-interest, Member relief loans for current Members are available with no payment for up to six months. Call us to find out if you qualify (512) 498-2277 or apply online.

    • Skip Your Loan Payments — As needed, Members can skip payments on existing consumer loans and credit cards. Call us to learn how it works (512) 467-8080. If you would like to skip your payment on your auto, RV, boat, or personal loan, you may also apply online.

    • Get More Credit — Some Members may be eligible for increases to their credit card limits. Call us to find out more about raising your limit (512) 467-8080.

    • Mortgage Payment Assistance — Members may qualify for assistance with existing UFCU mortgage payments. Call us about your mortgage payment situation at (800) 240-4214, or email lossmit@midwestloanservices.com.

    • Suspension of Fees — Now through June 30, 2020, UFCU will temporarily suspend the following fees to ease the burden on those affected by the virus. We will continue to monitor the situation and may continue this suspension beyond June without additional notice.
    Fee Amount
    Account Overdraft Transfer (savings, money market, checking, and line of credit) $3.00
    Bad Address $5.00 (per quarter)
    Business Checking Transaction/Analysis Fee First 50 are free (per month, $0.10 for each additional transaction)
    Inactive Account $5.00 (per month starting 9 months after inactivity
    Premium Business Checking Service Fee $20.00 (per month)
    Wire — Incoming Domestic/International $3.00
    ABILITY Checking $5.00 (per month)

Get Financial Help for Your Business

  • Numerous businesses are facing financial difficulties right now, and yours may be one of them. We’re here to help.

    For our Members that need assistance related to business accounts, please call (512) 467-8080, and select option 5, then option 1. We’ll help you navigate products and services we’re offering right now, as well as other resources that may be available for your business.


    • SBA Paycheck Protection Loans — We have processed all previously submitted requests, and are gladly accepting new applications to help our Members during this uncertain time. Learn More about how this SBA program, offered through UFCU can help you.

    • Skip Your Loan Payments — If you’re a business and need help with your loan payments, please call us (512) 467-8080, Option 5, then Option 1.

    • Austin Chamber of Commerce — The Austin Chamber of Commerce has consolidated COVID-19 related resources for businesses to explore and utilize.

    • Texas Workforce Commission — Texas Workforce Commission is updating their website regularly with COVID-19 response and provides information regarding employment laws and regulations.

    • US Chamber of Commerce — The US Chamber of Commerce has a consolidated list of resources for small businesses.

    • Suspension of Fees – Now through June 30, 2020, UFCU will temporarily suspend the following fees to ease the burden on those affected by the virus. We will continue to monitor the situation and may continue this suspension beyond June without additional notice.

      • Fee Amount
      Account Overdraft Transfer (savings, money market, checking, and line of credit) $3.00
      Bad Address $5.00 (per quarter)
      Business Checking Transaction/Analysis Fee First 50 are free (per month, $0.10 for each additional transaction)
      Inactive Account $5.00 (per month starting 9 months after inactivity
      Premium Business Checking Service Fee $20.00 (per month)
      Wire — Incoming Domestic/International $3.00
      ABILITY Checking $5.00 (per month)

Call Us with Any Questions

  • We have extended Member Services hours by phone to 8 AM–7 PM, Monday–Friday to make it easier for you to reach us. (Saturday hours remain unchanged, 10 AM–2 PM). You can reach us at (512) 467-8080.

    Please know that demand is high right now and call wait times might be longer than usual. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

How to Access Your Accounts Anywhere, Anytime

  • For most transactions, it may be easier and faster to manage your accounts digitally, especially given the higher volumes of calls we’re receiving right now which means longer wait times than usual.

    As a reminder, you can access your accounts remotely 24/7 via Online Banking, Mobile Banking, and Phone Banking, or access our ATM network.  

All Drive-Thru Locations are Open. Lobbies are Closed.

  • For the health and well-being of our Members and employees, and in compliance with federal, state, and local guidelines, all financial center lobbies are closed until further notice.

    All drive-thru locations remain open, and we are ready to provide you with teller services, including instant-issue debit cards at the following drive-thru locations:

Some In-Person Services Are Available

  • Some financial needs require an in-person meeting. Limited in-person appointments are available at select locations. To make an appointment, please call (512) 467-8080.

    All Members must wear a face covering when entering a UFCU facility.

How to Protect Yourself from Fraud and Scams

  • Unfortunately, bad actors are taking advantage of circumstances surrounding the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please be wary of unfamiliar products or services, especially any that attempt to take your personal information. They might request donations, offer advice, or even solicit unproven treatments.

    If you think you have fallen victim to a scam or might have given your personal, payment, or account information to a bad actor, please call Member Services at (512) 467-8080. We are here to help.

    Follow these guidelines to keep your accounts secure:

    • Check your accounts online every day for unauthorized activity.
    • Contact your financial institution immediately to report any unauthorized activity.
    • Never respond to unsolicited requests for your credit or debit card number. When in doubt, call the number on the back of your card.
    • Do not click links in emails from sources you do not know. Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is up-to-date.
    • Be wary of emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying that they have information about the virus. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
    • Research before donating to charitable donations. It is best to rely on known organizations. Do not be rushed into a donation, and do not make a donation in cash.
    • Be aware of fraudulent “investment opportunities.” The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has warned of promotions via online and social media platforms that claim the products or services of publicly-traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure coronavirus and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These claims are untrue.
    • Do not take calls from unknown individuals or companies claiming to offer treatments or work-at-home opportunities. Do not press any keys or bother listening to robocalls. Simply hang up.
    • Rely on trusted sources for news and information. Misinformation and rumors abound during times like these. Scammers, and sometimes even well-meaning people, share information that has not been verified. Before you pass on any information, do some fact checking by contacting trusted sources.

Economic Impact Payments (AKA Stimulus Checks)

  • Many people are wondering when and how they will receive their stimulus checks. If the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has your direct deposit information on file from a previous tax return (2018 or 2019), your economic impact payment will be deposited directly into the same account into which your tax refund was deposited. UFCU does not have additional information about when payments will be issued, but we will post them to your account as soon as we receive the payment from the IRS.

    You can provide the IRS your account information or check the status of your payment using the Get My Payment website. Direct deposit will be the quickest way to receive your economic impact payment. If you did not file or weren’t required to file a 2018/2019 tax return, you can provide the IRS your account information at their website intended for non-filers only.

    If the IRS does not have your account information by the time they are ready to issue your payment, they will mail you a check. We recommend using Mobile Deposit to deposit your check when you receive it.

    Avoid becoming a victim of fraud or scam. We expect fraudsters to try and take advantage of these payments. Beware of anyone who contacts you promoting any other payment method, asking you for any personal or financial information, or asking you to return funds to the government.

    Learn More from the IRS

When Crisis Affects Your Finances

Here’s How You Can Become a UFCU Member Today

  • At UFCU, we strongly believe in fair and honest products and outstanding Member service. We credit these values with making us Austin’s largest locally owned financial institution, also serving Galveston County. We focus on people, not profits. And during this crisis, our commitment to our Members is stronger than ever.

    Become a UFCU Member Today

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Do I qualify for special relief because of COVID-19?

  • Yes. We are offering low-interest, Member Relief loans for existing Members. If you qualify, there will be no payment for up to six months. Please call (512) 498-2277 to share your situation and see how we can help or apply online.

May I skip my loan payments?

  • Yes. Members affected by COVID-19 may be able to skip payments on existing consumer loans and credit cards. Please call (512) 467-8080 to share your situation and see how we can help. If you would like to skip a payment on your auto, RV, boat, or personal loan, you may also apply online. To skip credit card payments, please call (512) 467-8080.

What if I need more credit?

  • Some Members affected by COVID-19 may be able to have credit card limit increases during these difficult times. Please call (512) 467-8080 to share your situation and see how we can help.

What if I cannot pay my mortgage?

  • We are working with Members affected by COVID-19 who need assistance with their existing UFCU mortgage payments. Please call (800) 240-4214 to share your situation and see how we can help.

Is our money safe at UFCU?

  • Yes. Your deposits with UFCU are federally insured by the NCUA for up to $250,000 per Member. Learn More

How long will lobbies be closed?

  • We are not certain. We will continue to monitor the situation and will open when the CDC and public health officials say it is safe to do so. Please call us at (512) 467-8080 with any questions. We have extended our Member Services hours, and are here to help during these difficult times.

What types of transactions can I do in the drive-thru?

  • The following transactions can be completed at select locations: Deposits, withdrawals, transfer of funds within UFCU accounts, loan payments, getting a new debit card, balance inquiries, and account history.

How do I get a new debit card if financial centers are closed?

How do I get a cashier’s check if the financial centers are closed?

Can I deposit checks without going to a drive-thru?

  • Yes. UFCU offers a mobile banking app you can use to make secure mobile deposits, access your account balance, view your account history, and more. Learn more, or check out our library of video tutorials.

Community Resources

We have compiled trusted online resources, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies offering various forms of support and important information. We hope you find this a helpful reference page and we will continue to update it with new information.

Basic Needs

  • Aunt Bertha is a social care network that connects people and programs — making it easy for people to find social services in their communities. Simply type in your zip code to find resources in your area.

    2-1-1 Texas, a program of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, is committed to helping Texas citizens connect with the services they need. 2-1-1 Texas is a free, anonymous social service hotline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

    No matter where you live in Texas, you can dial 2-1-1, or (877) 541-7905, and find information about resources in your local community. Whether you need help finding food or housing, childcare, crisis counseling or substance abuse treatment, one number is all you need to know.

    ConnectATX.org, a program of the United Way for Greater Austin, is very similar to 2-1-1 Texas and helps connect residents to resources in the community. It is also available in several languages.

    Galveston County United Way has established a dedicated page on its website with COVID-19 resources.

    Galveston County Daily News has a comprehensive list of resources of all kinds for residents of the Galveston area.

Food Banks

  • Central Texas Food Bank has created an online map and search tool to locate access to groceries, hot meals, and meals for children.

    Help-At-Home Kits. CapMetro’s MetroAccess clients can request free delivery to their doorstep of a Help-At-Home kit that includes shelf stable items such as vegetables, fruits, beans, soup, tuna, and peanut butter.

    Foodpantries.org provides a searchable list of Galveston-area food pantries along with information about subsidized groceries.

    Galveston County Food Bank (PDF) is operating its mobile food bank regularly.

Healthcare and Pharmacy

  • Central Health in Travis County has established a special COVID-19 page with information about symptoms, what to do, and access to care for under- and uninsured individuals.

    City of Austin has posted a list of telehealth services with major providers including Ascension, Baylor Scott & White, MDLive and others.

    Galveston County Health District has issued guidance and resources for COVID-19 management.

    UTMB is providing daily updates about COVID-19, along with information for the general public about steps to take if someone feels sick.

    Major pharmacies have set up a variety of services related to COVID-19 including some free home delivery, special hours for seniors, and online chat with pharmacists that can answer questions. Their dedicated pages for COVID-19 resources are here:

Higher Education

Housing: Homeowners and Renters

  • Texas Apartment Association has established a resource page for renters statewide and their rights and protections during the COVID-19 outbreak.

    Eviction Resources are available to assist residents with legal assistance, emergency grants for rent or utilities, alternate housing, short-term motel vouchers, or placement in a local shelter.

    Austin Tenants Council provides counseling related to the eviction process, tenant-landlord issues, mediates disputes, provides workshops, and identifies fair housing issues to resolve or minimize discriminatory housing practices.

    The following information is through the City of Austin and includes both local, state, and federal resources.

    The Neighborhood Housing and Community Development (NHCD) Department offers information and referrals to assist impacted community members with immediate housing needs including resources for homeowners and resources for renters.

    Avoiding Mortgage Foreclosure website provides information about refinancing or modifying mortgage loans, lowering payments, or other solutions to avoid foreclosure.

    Rental Payment Assistance website provides resources to help pay rent and utilities.

School Districts

Local Support for Small Businesses

Texas Workforce Commission

Utility Services

  • The City of Austin has taken steps to ensure customers have uninterrupted access to utility services. Immediate assistance is available to all our customers. Austin Energy, which manages customer care and billing for all City of Austin utilities, also offers several programs that help customers stay on track with their utility bills:

    • Deferred payment plan: This will ensure the customer receives uninterrupted utility services as they work with utility representatives to develop a long-term plan that meets their financial needs.
    • Customer Assistance Programs: Limited income customers and medically vulnerable customers may receive assistance for immediate and lasting utility bill relief for customers.

    Both City of Austin Utilities Payment Centers are closed as of March 18.Click here to learn more about other ways customers can pay their utility bill.

    Residential and commercial customers can contact the Customer Care Contact Center at 512-494-9400 with any questions.

    The following companies have temporarily suspended natural gas service disconnections due to non-payment for the Coronavirus situation:

Se habla español. Favor de llamar al (800) 252-8311 para dudas y preguntas. Nuestros representantes están a su disposición para ayudarle.


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