Credit Unions Gain Clarity on Card Fees
Published Date: 6/9/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting June 30, 2026, federal credit unions can charge fees like interchange fees on credit and debit cards, even if set with help from others. This rule clears up what fees they’re allowed to collect, making it easier for credit unions to manage their costs. If you have thoughts, you can share them by July 9, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
NCUA Preempts State Fee Limits
Starting June 30, 2026, the NCUA says federal credit unions may charge non-interest charges and fees, including interchange fees from credit and debit card operations. The rule states that state laws limiting those charges (including the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act) are preempted as applied to federal credit unions.
Fees Set by Third Parties Allowed
The rule, effective June 30, 2026, explicitly allows federal credit unions to assess non-interest charges and fees even when those charges are set by or in consultation with third parties (for example, payment networks). NCUA adds a definition of "charge" saying it includes assessing, collecting, receiving, reserving, or otherwise obtaining fees, including through intermediaries or fee-sharing arrangements.
NCUA Lists Fee-Setting Safety Factors
The interim final rule lists factors FCUs should consider when setting non-interest charges and fees, including (A) the FCU's cost to provide the service, (B) deterrence of misuse by members, (C) competitive position and business plan, (D) the use of third parties, and (E) maintaining safety and soundness. NCUA says considering these factors satisfies a requirement to set fees under safe and sound banking principles.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-21508, Conversion to State-Chartered Credit Union
The NCUA wants to simplify rules for federal credit unions switching to state charters by removing a duplicate, outdated regulation. This change affects federal credit unions converting to state-chartered status and won’t cost them extra money. Comments on this proposal are open until December 21, 2026, so stakeholders have time to weigh in.
2026-21512, Notification to Members/Shareholders
If you’re a member of a federally insured credit union, good news! The NCUA wants to make it easier for credit unions to tell you about your share insurance coverage. Instead of always getting paper notices, your credit union might share updates online, saving money and keeping info fresh. You can share your thoughts on this change until December 21, 2026.
2026-21509, Nonconforming Investment Special Reserve
The NCUA wants to make life easier for state-chartered credit unions by dropping the rule that forces them to set aside special reserves for certain investments. This change cuts red tape without risking the safety of the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund. If you’re involved with these credit unions, get your thoughts in by December 21, 2026!
2026-21444, Renewal of Agency Information Collections for Comments Request: Proposed Collections
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) is renewing its paperwork rules for credit unions about property and liquidity. This means credit unions must keep following certain rules about buying, using, and selling buildings, plus managing emergency funds. If you’re involved with a credit union, you can comment on these rules by December 21, 2026, to help shape the process—no big cost changes, just keeping things smooth and safe.
2026-21089, Central Liquidity Facility
The National Credit Union Administration is finalizing updates to the Central Liquidity Facility rules, making it easier for credit unions to join and manage their capital stock payments. These changes clarify rules, remove outdated steps, and improve timing for payments. Credit unions and their members should review these updates and can comment by December 14, 2026.
2026-21087, Corporate Credit Unions; Fidelity Bond and Insurance Coverage for Federally Insured Credit Unions
The NCUA wants to make it easier for federally insured credit unions to handle their insurance and fidelity bonds by cutting out complicated rules and giving them more flexibility. This means credit unions can save time and money while still staying safe and sound. If you’re involved with a credit union, get ready to share your thoughts by December 14, 2026!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-11531, Reducing Bureaucracy and Burden for Community Services Programs
Starting August 10, 2026, community service programs like the Community Services Block Grant and homeless assistance will get a big boost by cutting out old, confusing rules. This means less paperwork and easier access to funds for groups helping people in need. These changes save time and money, making it simpler for organizations to do their important work.
Next: 2026-11560, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
If you fly or fix Airbus Helicopters like the AS350 or EC130 models, listen up! The FAA fixed some timing mistakes in the old safety checks for the main gearbox parts and now wants you to keep inspecting and fixing them on a new schedule. These updated rules kick in July 14, 2026, and help keep your helicopter safe without extra costs beyond regular maintenance.