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Member Relief Center

We’re Here to Help You

Severe weather in Texas has created a difficult situation for many communities across Texas. You are not alone. If you have been affected by the recent weather event, review important information and opportunities for relief in the 2021 Winter Storm Relief section below.

Additionally, the COVID-19 coronavirus is an ongoing force in our community, affecting our lives and livelihoods. You can count on us to serve your financial needs with care and compassion. If you can benefit from pandemic-related information or opportunities, please see the Covid-19 Relief section below.

Regardless of what you might be struggling with, UFCU is offering current Members low-interest, Member relief loans. Apply online, or call (512) 498-2277 to find out if you qualify.

We are tracking the best information available from government sources and others to make operational decisions that promote your wellbeing and that of our employees. We will get through this together.

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

2021 Winter Storm Relief

Get Financial Help for Yourself

  • UFCU is offering current Members low-interest, Member relief loans. Apply online, or call (512) 498-2277 to find out if you qualify.

Storm-Related Community Resources

  • Please consider these resources if you have been affected by severe weather in Texas:

    • If you need a warming center, visit Texas Division of Emergency Management for a list of locations closest to you. If you go, please call to confirm availability before you get on the road as resources are limited in many areas. It is best to travel during daylight hours as travel is extremely hazardous after dark.
    • For information on road conditions, visit Drive Texas.
    • For general assistance, food access, and other non-emergency needs, call 2-1-1.
    • In case of a health emergency, please call 9-1-1.

    COMMUNITY RESOURCES – TRAVIS/HAYS/WILLIAMSON COUNTIES

    • The City of Austin has set up a shelter and cold weather assistance hotline at (512) 305-4233.

    • If a water line breaks and you are not able to shut off the water, call Austin Water’s 24-Hour Emergency Hotline at (512) 972-1000, option 1

    COMMUNITY RESOURCES – GALVESTON COUNTY

    The City of Galveston’s municipal utilities department is continuing to assist turning off water at vacant properties. If your property is vacant or if you have had a pipe burst and needs the water turned off, please contact (409) 797-3971 for assistance.

File an Insurance Claim

  • If you have been affected by the recent weather event, we are here to help. UFCU Insurance Services™ is open 8 AM – 6 PM, seven days a week until further notice. If you need assistance, please call (512) 421-8100. We are currently receiving a high volume of phone calls. Please leave a message and rest assured that we will return your call as quickly as possible.

Safety First In Case of Water Damage

  • As the temperatures rise, the propensity for water damage increases. At UFCU Insurance Services™, we are already assisting Members with losses from broken pipes in attics and upper floors of homes. During these types of events, water leakage into light fixtures and walls is not uncommon. Everyone knows that water and electricity do not mix! But for your safety, please be aware of these facts and best practices.

    • If pipes burst in your attic, there is a high probability of water leaking into your light fixtures and walls. This is extremely dangerous when your power is on. Do not rely on your breaker panel to trip! Take these actions immediately for your safety:
      • Turn off the power to your home. You can usually take care of this at your breaker box. (Many homes have more than one.)

      • Turn off the water to your home. The shut-off valve is typically underground in your front yard. The valve may be difficult to move, and you might need a tool to close it properly.
    • Even when you remove all of the water from your home, moisture can remain in the electrical lines. For your safety, do not make an uninformed decision to turn your power back on. Have an inspection done by an electrician to make sure it’s safe for you and your family.

    • Call your insurance company and file a claim. Learn more about filing a weather-related claim.

    • Take photographs and videos of the damage and make a list of damaged items. It might seem obvious to discard these items as they might be ruined, but do not throw them away. Keep them in a safe place in case the insurance company requests them.

    • Many people across Texas will need specialists for clean-up and repairs. There may be a significant wait to get professional help. Try to sweep or move as much water as possible out of your home.

    • Proceed as soon as you can with obtaining services from a water mitigation company if you need it.

    • If you need to remove insulation, flooring, or dry wall, save the damaged materials. It might seem obvious to discard these items as they might be ruined, but do not throw them away. Your insurance adjuster may want to examine the damaged materials. Proceed as soon as you can with obtaining services from a water mitigation company if you need it.

    • Save any and all receipts for examination by your adjuster.

    We are here to assist you during this trying time, please contact UFCU Insurance Services at (512) 421-8100. We are available seven days a week 8 AM – 6 PM. We are anticipating high call volume, so please leave a message, and rest assured that we will return your call as quickly as possible.

    Consider these additional tips for filing a weather-related insurance claim.

COVID-19 Relief

Get Financial Help for Yourself or Your Business

  • If your daily life has been affected by COVID-19, please consider taking advantage of any of these services:

    • Member Relief Loans —UFCU is offering current Members low-interest, Member relief loans with no payment for up to 90 days. Apply online, or call (512) 498-2277 to find out if you qualify.

    • 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.

    If your business is among the many that are facing financial difficulties, we’re here to help. Members who need assistance with their business accounts can call (512) 493-0531 or (800) 252-8311, and select option 5 then option 1. We’ll help you navigate options that we’re offering right now, as well as other resources that may be available for your business.

    • Skip Your Loan Payments — If you have a business and need help with your loan payments, please call (512) 493-0531 or (800) 252-8311, and select Option 5 then Option 1.

    • Austin Chamber of Commerce — The Austin Chamber of Commerce has provided a list of COVID-19 related resources for businesses.

    • Texas Workforce Commission — Texas Workforce Commission is updating its website with information for employers in response to COVID-19.

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

    • SBA Paycheck Protection Loans — The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was reinstated and will be in place until March 31, 2021. Eligible businesses will be able to apply for their first PPP loan or for a second draw for their existing PPP loan. We are accepting applications from our small business Members who qualify to participate in this program. Get more details about UFCU’s PPP.

     

Economic Impact Payments (AKA Stimulus Payments)

  • The new COVID-19 Relief bill was signed into law on December 27, 2020. The US Treasury has delivered the first payment to the Federal Reserve and many Americans will start receiving economic impact payments as early as December 30, 2020. Federal stimulus payments will arrive to recipients on a rolling basis.

How to Protect Yourself from Fraud and Scams

  • Unfortunately, swindlers 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 (800) 252-8311. We’re here to help.

    Follow these guidelines to keep your accounts secure:

    • Check your accounts online every day for unauthorized activity.

    • Set up alerts to receive a text or email whenever there is activity in your account or on your card.

    • 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.

    • Avoid clicking links in emails from sources you do not know. Learn the warning signs to recognize imposters who send emails pretending to be a familiar business.

    • Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is up-to-date.

    • 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 the coronavirus and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These claims are untrue.

    • Avoid taking calls from unknown individuals or companies claiming to offer treatments or work-at-home opportunities. Do not press any keys or listen to robocalls. Simply hang up.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

      Yes, depending on your situation. We are offering low-interest, Member Relief loans for existing Members. If you qualify, there will be no payment for up to 90 days. Please call (512) 498-2277 to share your situation and see how we can help.


    • May I skip my loan payments?

      Yes, depending on your situation. Members affected by COVID-19 may be able to skip payments on existing consumer loans and credit cards. Please call (800) 252-8311 to share your story 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.

General Relief Resources

Access Your Accounts Anywhere, Anytime

In-Person Services

  • We appreciate your patience during this time. We recognize that some financial needs require an in-person meeting or a drive-thru teller. A complete listing of services at each UFCU location can be found in the Quick Service Guide. Check this guide before you visit a lobby or drive-thru to confirm you can get the service you need. In general:


    • Limited in-person appointments are available at select locations. To make an appointment, please call (800) 252-8311. All Members must wear a face covering when entering a UFCU facility. If you do not have your own mask, we will be happy to provide one for you. We ask that you refrain from visiting a lobby if you feel unwell.

    • Drive-thru locations remain open for most teller services, including instantly issued debit cards. See the Quick Service Guide for more information.

When Crisis Affects Your Finances

Call Us with Questions

  • Call Member Services at (800) 252-8311. Please know that demand is high right now, and call wait times might be longer than usual. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Become a UFCU Member

  • 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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

      Yes. UFCU offers the Mobile Banking app, which lets you make secure mobile deposits, transfer funds, view your account balances and recent activity, and more. Check out our library of video tutorials, or visit our Mobile Banking page.


    • 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


    • What types of transactions can I complete 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. Our Quick Service Guide covers the most up-to-date details about locations and services, so you can quickly discover where and how to get your financial errands done.


    • How long will lobbies be by appointment only?

      We are not certain. We will continue to monitor the situation, considering guidance from the CDC and public health officials, and will open when it is safe to do so. Please call us at (800) 252-8311 to schedule an appointment.


    • Is there a limit on coin orders?

      Due to a nationwide disruption of coin circulation, the Federal Reserve has temporarily placed limits on coin availability. There is a limit of one roll of quarters per Member per day.


Community Resources

We have compiled trusted online resources, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies that offer support and important information. Please take advantage of these services if you need them.

General Assistance

  • 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, helps Texas citizens connect with the services they need. 2-1-1 Texas, or (877) 541-7905, is a free, anonymous social service hotline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

    ConnectATX.org, a program of the United Way for Greater Austin, helps connect residents to resources in the community. It is available in several languages.

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

Food, Necessities, and Personal Protective Equipment

  • 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.

    Central Texas families needing child or adult diapers can find a list of distribution sites at Austin Diaper Bank. This organization’s site also lists many other helpful resources. In Galveston, you can contact the Galveston Diaper Bank to learn more about where to get diapers.

    Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Distribution offers free hand sanitizer, masks, and informational materials. For a list of PPE distribution locations and dates in Austin, visit austintexas.gov/ppe.

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, disputes, and fair housing issues.

    The following information is through the City of Austin and includes 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 its customers have uninterrupted access to utility services. Immediate assistance is available to its 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.

    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 utility customers can contact the Customer Care Contact Center at (512) 494-9400, apply at austinbillhelp.com, or email customercare@coautilities.com with any questions. Options include emergency assistance, special payment arrangements, and discounts according to income guidelines.

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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