One of the core principles of credit unions is to "promote thrift." To me that means promoting thrifty habits. IMHO promoting Christmas loans which encourages longer term borrowing for a short term benefit is a questionable credit union practice.
I think the same holds true for skip-a-payment services. Sure skipping your loan payment is a standard option at many credit unions. However, I think that aggressive promotion and encouragement to use this program goes against the credit union grain. Skipping payments is hardly a good practice for any member since it keeps them in debit that much longer.
This news article touts the 400% increase in skip-a-pay fees by Redstone FCU and their partner. Thank you Redstone for sharing your success in getting members to extent their debt.
