Article

How Agent Credit Card Programs Relieve Pressure for Credit Unions

September 22, 2025
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In a recent webinar, Tim Kolk of TRK Advisors shared that although the total amount of U.S. credit unions and banks today is similar (around 4,500 each), only 16% of banks self-issue compared to 65% of credit unions.  For leaders searching for relief from rising costs, regulatory pressures, and growing technology demands, agent credit card issuing may be the answer.

Key questions to consider when evaluating whether an agent credit card program is the right fit include:

  1. Have we completed a thorough review of our existing credit card program or processor?  Could we benefit from reviewing an alternative strategy?
  2. How can we maintain a competitive credit card program that creates profitable growth for the next 5 years?
  3. What are the cardmembers’ expectations of our credit card program over the next 5 years?
  4. Do we have the expertise to properly manage the card program and its profitability?
  5. Do we understand the longer term (5–10 year) risks of managing a card program?

A trusted agent provider, like Elan, takes on the heavy lift — managing underwriting, servicing, compliance, and technology — while the credit union maintains a self-branded, competitive, credit card program that offers members the rewards and digital capabilities they seek.

Download the data-packed presentation and watch the webinar on demand here. Still have questions? Complete the form below to learn more about Elan or receive a complimentary, custom analysis for your institution showing the benefits of agent issuing.

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