Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union Launches Member-Centered BNPL Program to Enhance Financial Flexibility

Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union (GCEFCU), a trusted financial institution dedicated to serving the financial needs of educators and school district employees in Texas, has introduced a new in-house Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) program. This program is designed to empower over 60,000 members with flexible, manageable payment options to support their long-term financial well-being.

GCEFCU’s BNPL solution allows members to divide qualifying debit card purchases into predictable installment payments, seamlessly integrated into their existing checking accounts. Accessible through GCEFCU’s secure online and mobile banking platforms, this tool gives members greater control over spending and budgeting, helping reduce financial stress without relying on third-party providers.

“Building lifelong relationships, one member at a time, is at the heart of everything we do,” said Matt Connell, SVP Lending at Gulf Coast Educators FCU. “This new BNPL program reflects our ongoing commitment to providing practical, secure financial tools that make our members’ lives easier and more financially stable.”

Powered by equipifi, a BNPL platform designed for credit unions and banks, GCEFCU’s program offers both pre- and post-purchase flexibility. Members can convert eligible debit transactions into installment payments and access funds up front for larger or unexpected purchases, all within their familiar, trusted GCEFCU digital banking environment.

Unlike other BNPL services, GCEFCU’s solution is fully integrated into the credit union’s ecosystem. This ensures that all benefits, from user experience to revenue, stay within the credit union, reinvested into initiatives that directly serve the membership and strengthen community financial health.

“Gulf Coast Educators FCU is raising the bar for how financial tools should support real member needs,” said Bryce Deeney, Co-Founder and CEO of equipifi. “By offering BNPL in a way that promotes financial wellness and trust, they are leading by example among credit unions nationwide.”

With U.S. BNPL usage projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 25.5% through 2026, GCEFCU is ensuring that this trend aligns with its mission of delivering secure, member-first financial services. As always, the credit union remains focused on providing innovative, accessible solutions that foster lifelong relationships and lasting financial confidence.

About Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union
Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union serves the dedicated employees of the educational community throughout Texas. With a focus on maintaining a secure financial institution while providing exceptional service, GCEFCU is committed to building lifelong relationships, one member at a time. The credit union offers a full suite of financial services including checking, savings, loans, credit cards, and digital banking tools. To learn more, visit www.gcefcu.org.

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