ALEXANDRIA, Va.–NCUA has issued a final rule for Dependent Care and Board Member Reimbursement.
The agency said it amended its regulations concerning the reimbursement of reasonable expenses for federal credit union officials to remove potential barriers to volunteer service.
“This final rule provides flexibility for a federal credit union’s board to adopt more family-friendly policies tailored to its size, region, and operations,” NCUA said.
Previously, dependent care costs had not been considered reasonable expenses under NCUA regulation 12 C.F.R. 701.33, the agency added, noting the final rule applies to all federal credit unions, including corporate federal credit unions. It will not apply to federally insured, state-chartered credit unions, which remain subject to state law.
The final rule is effective 30 days from the date of publication in the Federal Register and takes into consideration public comments received from the proposed rule that was issued on January 26, 2026.
Find the final rule here.
DCUC Responds
“DCUC commends the NCUA for finalizing this important rule and recognizing the need to modernize regulations to better reflect the realities facing today’s volunteer officials,” Jason Stverak, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer, said in a statement. “By providing federal credit unions with greater flexibility to reimburse reasonable dependent care expenses, the NCUA is helping ensure that qualified volunteers from diverse backgrounds can serve on credit union boards without facing unnecessary financial obstacles. DCUC appreciates the agency’s thoughtful consideration of stakeholder feedback and its commitment to policies that support strong, effective leadership within the credit union system.”
“This is a practical, common-sense regulatory improvement that expands opportunities for service while respecting the autonomy of individual credit unions,” sys Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO, Ret. U.S. Air Force Colonel, said in a statement. “Volunteer board members dedicate significant time and expertise to serving their institutions and communities. Removing unnecessary barriers to participation helps ensure credit unions can continue attracting talented leaders who reflect the diverse needs of the members they serve.”
