Federal Register #2026-11507

NCUA Final Rule: Dependent Care Reimbursement for Federal Credit Union Volunteer Officials

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) Board has finalized a rule change impacting federal credit unions (FCUs): - Allows FCUs to reimburse volunteer officials for reasonable dependent care costs incurred during board meetings and official duties - Dependent care costs are defined per the Internal Revenue Code - Reimbursements are optional and must be reasonable, properly documented, and in accordance with written FCU board policies - Revises the definition of compensation to specifically exclude dependent care costs, removing a barrier for individuals with caregiving responsibilities - Applies to all FCUs, including corporate FCUs - No products, equipment, or commercial services are being procured; this is a regulatory change - No OEMs or vendors are mentioned, as this is not a procurement action - Notable requirements: - FCU boards have discretion to set reimbursement policies tailored to their size, region, and operations - Reimbursements must align with federal standards and be reasonable relative to the FCU's resources - Ongoing requirement for FCUs to maintain written reimbursement policies and implement dependent care cost reimbursements as part of official expense policies

Description

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) Board is amending its regulations to allow federal credit unions (FCUs) to reimburse volunteer officials for reasonable dependent care costs incurred while attending board meetings and performing official duties. This amendment revises the definition of compensation to exclude these dependent care costs, removing barriers to volunteer service for individuals with caregiving responsibilities. The final rule provides flexibility for FCU boards to adopt family-friendly policies tailored to their size, region, and operations. The rule follows a proposed rule published on January 26, 2026, and considers public comments received.

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