‘Don’t Tax My Credit Union’ postcards activate credit union members in support of tax status

Credit unions are using every method at their disposal to reinforce the “Don’t Tax My Credit Union” message with policymakers as tax reform discussions are underway. While credit union staff, board and members have sent more than 350,000 grassroots email messages to Congress so far, credit unions and leagues are also asking members to sign postcards to help reinforce the effort.   

A printable Don’t Tax My Credit Union postcard is available in America’s Credit Unions’ Member Activation Program resources, which includes a “how to” guide. The cards contain a QR code directed to the Don’t Tax My Credit Union site.

Eastman Credit Union placed their own "Don't Tax My Credit Union" cards in its Tennessee, Virginia, and Texas branches, with more than 11,000 members and employees signing the cards in a matter of days. 

“A fight to retain the tax-exemption status is really a fight for our members," said Kelly Price, president/CEO of Eastman Credit Union. "It’s a fight we’re more than willing to take on in order to preserve the way we’ve served our members for 90-plus years. We know the power of the credit union movement is in our membership. We wanted a quick way to tap into that strength and collective voice...It’s just a start, we’re not finished yet, and we’re working in concert with our area credit union friends to make the message even stronger.”

Another way to drive the message is by taking photos of the postcards, whether it’s showing the sheer volume generated or by members holding up their card.

“When you see a photo with thousands of cards piled on a huge boardroom table, and put it in the context that every postcard represents a member who depends on their credit union to achieve their financial dreams, and one who would be harmed by and opposed a change to the credit union tax status, that’s a powerful visual for lawmakers,” said Tennessee Credit Union League Chief Advocacy Officer Sarah Waters.