Because of the alarming rise in check fraud, scams and identity theft, we found it necessary to initiate a check cashing and check hold policy. We are doing this to protect not only the Credit Union, but you, our valued members.

Members 1st will delay the availability of deposited funds until the second business day after deposit for local checks or the fifth business day after the day of deposit for non-local checks under $5,000. For checks between $5,000 and $24,999, we will delay the availability of deposited funds until the fifth business day after deposit for local checks or the seventh business day after the day of deposit for non-local checks. Members 1st will delay availability for all local and non-local checks over $25,000 to seven business days.

In certain circumstances, Members 1st may extend the hold period for local and non-local checks an additional five business days:

• If there is a specific reason Members 1st feels an item is uncollectible.
• Check deposits total more than $5,000 on any one day.
• A previously returned check has been re-deposited.
• The account has had frequent overdrafts (negative balance, 6 or more days overdrawn, 6 overdrafts in the past 6 months).
• The account is less than 30 days old and is defined as a "new account."
• Us on Us checks that are deemed suspicious in nature or the collection of funds to pay the item could be in doubt.
• If an emergency condition beyond the control of Members 1st occurs where the suspension of payment from another institution occurs.
• If an emergency situation exists such as communications or computer failure.

Regardless of the above circumstances, in all cases the first $250 of all deposits must be made available on the first business day after date of deposit.

Funds granted next day availability include:

• U.S. Treasury Checks
• U.S. Postal Money Orders Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank Checks
• Checks drawn by a state or local unit of government in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
• Cashiers and Certified Checks (certain restrictions may apply based on drawee bank and member account relationship with Members 1st)

When you use direct deposit, your money is availably immediately.