First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU), a member-owned financial cooperative serving more than 75,000 individuals across Maryland, has launched a new Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) program designed to improve financial flexibility and promote long-term financial wellness for its members.
This new program enables members to divide eligible purchases into predictable, manageable installment payments directly through their existing checking accounts and debit cards. With this BNPL feature embedded into First Financial’s online and mobile banking platforms, members now have access to a seamless, transparent financial tool designed to support budgeting and reduce financial stress.
“Our members’ needs are diverse, and we are constantly seeking solutions that provide them with greater control over their financial lives,” said First Financial Assistant Vice President and Member Experience Officer Arturo Leon II. “This new Buy Now, Pay Later program reflects our commitment to delivering practical tools that empower our members to make confident and informed financial decisions.”
Launched with equipifi, a leading BNPL platform for financial institutions, the program supports both pre-purchase planning and post-purchase flexibility. Eligible debit card transactions can be easily converted to pay over time. The program also makes extra funds available upfront to members who need to make purchases.
Unlike many third-party BNPL providers, First Financial’s program remains entirely within the credit union’s ecosystem. This approach ensures that member engagement and any revenue generated are reinvested into initiatives, services, and programs that directly benefit members and strengthen community financial health.
“Credit unions like First Financial are redefining how financial tools can uplift and empower communities,” said Bryce Deeney, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of equipifi. “By offering BNPL in a way that aligns with financial wellness, First Financial is setting a higher standard for responsible and member-centric financial services.”
As BNPL adoption continues to increase, with usage in the United States projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 25.5 percent through 2026, First Financial is ensuring that this trend aligns with its mission. The credit union remains focused on providing innovative, accessible financial solutions that address the evolving needs of its members and help them achieve lasting financial stability.
About First Financial Federal Credit Union: First Financial Federal Credit Union serves the employees, students, and parents of the Baltimore, Carroll, Somerset, Worcester and Accomack County Public School systems, as well as the employees and families of many area businesses, hospitals, private schools, and colleges in the Baltimore, Carroll, and Eastern Shore communities. The Credit Union’s product offerings include free checking, online and mobile services, auto loans, credit cards, and home loans. Don’t Just Bank, Belong; visit www.firstfinancial.org for details.
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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