WASHINGTON--The Defense Credit Union Council Wednesday sent a detailed letter to Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins outlining its 2026 legislative and regulatory priorities aimed at strengthening the financial well-being of America’s veterans.
In the letter, DCUC highlighted the importance of expanding veterans’ access to affordable, safe, and reliable financial services for veterans living in underserved or remote communities. DCUC applauded the VA’s support for initiatives such as the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) and urged continued collaboration to ensure no veteran is left unbanked or financially isolated.
With more than 30% of U.S. military personnel and veterans relying on credit unions, DCUC stressed that protecting the credit union tax status is critical to maintaining veterans’ financial stability; the historic tax-exempt status of credit unions enables these not-for-profit financial cooperatives to reinvest directly in their member-owners through lower loan rates, reduced fees, and expanded services.
Additional priorities DCUC outlined in its letter include opposing unfair “debanking” practices that deny veterans and veteran-owned businesses access to financial services; supporting bipartisan legislation such as the Veterans Member Business Loan Act (VMBLA) to expand access to capital for veteran entrepreneurs; and improving regulatory coordination to reduce unnecessary burdens that could limit service to veterans.
DCUC also highlighted the vital role credit unions play as “first financial responders” during crises, pointing to actions taken during recent government shutdowns when credit unions provided emergency 0% interest loans, fee waivers, and other relief to veterans, servicemembers, and VA employees facing delayed pay.
The letter concluded with a request for a meeting with Secretary Collins and senior VA leadership to discuss these priorities and identify opportunities for closer collaboration in 2026, including benefit delivery improvements, financial education outreach, and support for veteran entrepreneurship.
“Access to fair, affordable financial services is essential to veterans’ long-term stability and success after service,” said DCUC President/CEO Anthony Hernandez. “Credit unions are uniquely positioned to meet veterans where they are, whether in rural communities, banking deserts, or during times of financial hardship. We look forward to continue working with the VA to support those who have served our nation.”