Education First Federal Credit Union (Education First), a member-owned financial cooperative serving more than 32,000 members across Texas, has launched a new Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) program designed to help members manage their spending more effectively and build long-term financial wellness. The program reflects Education First’s mission to deliver innovative, accessible tools that promote financial empowerment for all members.
In partnership with equipifi, the leading BNPL platform tailored for credit unions and banks, Education First’s new BNPL offering enables members to split eligible purchases into predictable, manageable installment plans through their existing checking accounts and debit cards. By integrating this solution into its digital banking experience, Education First is providing a practical and transparent way to support responsible budgeting and reduce financial stress.
“At Education First, our mission has always been to improve the financial lives of our members,” said Carolyn Ridout, Vice-President of Marketing at Education First. “Our BNPL solution is another step in that direction, giving members a smarter way to manage their expenses without resorting to high-interest credit options or falling into unmanageable debt.”
The program offers both pre-purchase planning and post-purchase flexibility, allowing eligible debit card transactions to be converted into installment payments through a seamless digital experience. Fully embedded within Education First’s online and mobile banking platforms, the tool promotes greater transparency, control, and personalized financial management.
Unlike third-party BNPL providers, Education First’s program keeps the full experience and its benefits within the credit union ecosystem. This ensures that any revenue or engagement gained is reinvested into services, tools, and programs that support member success and community financial health.
“Credit unions like Education First are redefining how financial tools can uplift and empower communities,” said Bryce Deeney, co-founder and CEO of equipifi. “By delivering BNPL in a way that prioritizes financial wellness, Education First is setting a new standard for how responsible credit options should be offered.”
As BNPL adoption continues to rise, with U.S. usage projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 25.5 percent through 2026, Education First’s member-first approach ensures this trend serves as a meaningful and mission-aligned tool for improving everyday financial health.
About Education First Federal Credit Union
EFFCU is a community credit union serving over 32,000 members and has assets exceeding $600 million. With seven convenient locations throughout Southeast Texas, our field of membership includes Angelina, Chambers, Jefferson, Jasper, Hardin, Liberty, Newton, Orange, Polk, Trinity, Sabine, San Augustine and Shelby counties.
About equipifi
equipifi is the leading Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) platform built for financial institutions in the United States. Its white-label solution integrates with core banking and digital platforms, aligning BNPL offerings with consumers’ financial goals and banking preferences. equipifi enables institutions to boost engagement, grow market share, and deliver transparent, manageable installment options directly through their own apps. Learn more at www.equipifi.com.
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