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Frequently Asked Questions

Use the search bar below to sort through our library of FAQs to learn more about a specific product, service, or process.
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When will the money come out of my account for each Bill?

Your account will not be debited until the payment has been either delivered electronically or until the check is cashed.Reminder will be sent at 60 days if the check remains undeposited. Should an undeposited check extend to 90 days, Bill Pay will automatically void the check and refund the money to the member’s account at no charge.

Why use a HELOC?

Home Equity Lines of Credit combine flexibility with lower rates than most unsecured loans. You only pay interest on the portion of the line you actually use.

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I authorized a check over the phone, why do I not see the check copy?

In some cases merchants do not submit the physical check for payment.  The check is converted into an electronic check (eCheck).  This is also known as a digital version of a paper check (Image replacement Document).  eChecks use the Automatic Clearing House (ACH) to debit from a members checking account.

I would like to open a home equity loan or line. What is the minimum or maximum amount I can apply for?

With Direct Federal, you can open a Home Equity Loan or Line for:

Primary Residences: Any amount between $20,000 and $500,000.

Second Homes and Investment Properties: Any amount between $20,000 and $200,000.‍

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How do I transfer a balance to my credit card?

Log in to Online Banking or our Mobile App Hover over Menu item "Tools"Select "Card Management"Select your Visa Credit Card. Select "Balance Transfer", input Card Issuer Details and Submit!

Transfer Balance Now >

What assumptions does the HELOC calculator use?

The calculator assumes standard HELOC terms, including a variable interest rate, interest‑only payments during the draw period, and repayment of principal and interest during the repayment period. Actual terms may differ based on your specific loan agreement.

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Will fraud alerts contain any personal information?

We will not transmit sensitive personal information through alerts.

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How can I get my 1099 Tax Forms online?

Your IRS forms will be available under Statements within Digital Banking.

‍View Statements >

Do you have safety deposit boxes?

We currently do not offer safety deposit boxes at this time.

Is there a credit card cash advance fee?

There is no cash advance fee.

How do I update my contact information (phone numbers, email addresses, etc.)?

You can update your contact information by updating your account profile in Digital Banking, by calling Member Services, or by visiting our branch.

Update in Digital Banking >

Can my card be added to a digital wallet?

Yes, Direct Federal debit and credit cards can be added to Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

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Can I use talk-to-text(Dictation) to talk to a live chat associate?

Our live chat platform supports the talk-to-text (dictation) feature available on your smart device. To use talk-to-text to chat with one of our live associates click on the “live chat” button found on the bottom left of your screen. Upon establishing a connection with a live chat associate, you may initiate the use of the talk-to-text feature.


The method for accessing the talk-to-text feature on your device's keyboard may vary depending on the type of smart device you are using. To assist you in locating the talk-to-text feature on your device, we have provided additional resources below.

Click here for Apple Keyboard
Click here for Google assistant (gboard)

*Other keyboards may support this feature. Contact your phone provider for additional assistance.

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What does my credit score need to be to qualify for a mortgage?

Different Mortgage programs will have varying qualifications. Please contact a mortgage specialist to discuss your options.

‍Send message to Mortgage Specialist >

I have a joint account with another cardholder. Why did I not receive a fraud alert? Why am I receiving fraud alerts when someone else on my account is making a transaction?

Fraud Alerts are transmitted to the phone number(s) and/or email address associated with the card used at the time of the transaction. If a joint cardholder is receiving alerts, it is because that cardholder’s phone number and/or email address is associated with the card transacting. If the fraud alerts should have gone to another cardholder on your account, we ask that you update the contact information for that cardholder.

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Can I cancel a payment sent with Zelle?

You can only cancel a payment if the person you sent money to hasn't yet enrolled with Zelle®. To check whether the payment is still pending because the recipient hasn't yet enrolled, you can go to your activity page, choose the payment you want to cancel, and then select "Cancel This Payment". If you do not see this option available, please contact our customer support team at 7814556500 for assistance with canceling the pending payment.

If the person you sent money to has already enrolled with Zelle®, the money is sent directly to their bank account and cannot be canceled. This is why it's important to only send money to people you trust, and always ensure you've used the correct email address or U.S. mobile number when sending money.

If you sent money to the wrong person, please immediately call our customer support team at 7814556500 so we can help you.


Do you offer HSAs?

We currently do not offer Health Savings Accounts.

‍View our banking account options >

What is the home equity line repayment period?

At the end of your 15-Year Draw Period, you will enter the Repayment Period. The Repayment Period is 15 years of principal and interest. The rate remains variable based on your Home Equity agreement.

Is my information secure using Zelle?

Keeping your money and information safe is a top priority for Direct Federal Credit Union. When you use Zelle® within our mobile app​, your information is protected with the same technology we use to keep your Direct Federal Credit Union account safe.

What types of properties qualify for a Direct HELOC?
Can I get the introductory rate on my existing Home Equity Line of Credit?

Only new HELOCs are eligible for the introductory rate. Increases/refinances of an existing HELOC at Direct Federal do not qualify.

How much can I borrow for my auto loan?

You can borrow 120% of the value of your car (subject to our maximum auto loan limit of $100,000). This allows you to finance the entire purchase price, plus GAP insurance and the sales tax.

What information needs to be on the Title?
I made a Loan payment, and I am still seeing a notification that my Loan is due. Did it not go through?

The notification will disappear once your payment has posted to the Loan. Please allow 4-5 days for your payment to process before queuing another payment.

Do you offer foreign currency exchange?

We do not offer foreign currency exchange services at this time.

What is considered a "new auto" versus a "used auto"?

New Retail Auto:
New Retail Autos are defined as vehicles from the current or previous model year. Also, a vehicle is considered new if it has not been previously titled or has fewer than 7,500 miles (i.e. dealer demonstrators).

Used Retail Auto:
Used Retail Autos are defined as vehicles no more than eight model years removed from the definition of new.

How do I use Zelle?

You can send, request, or receive money with Zelle®. To get started, log into the Direct Federal Credit Union App​. In the main menu, select "Transfer and Pay". Then "Send money with Zelle®".

To send money using Zelle®, simply select someone from your mobile device's contacts (or add a trusted recipient's email address or U.S. mobile number), add the amount you'd like to send and an optional note, review, then hit "Send." The recipient will receive an email or text message notification via the method they used to enroll with Zelle®. Money is available to your recipient in minutes if they are already enrolled with Zelle®.

To request money using Zelle®, choose "Request," select the individual from whom you'd like to request money, enter the amount you'd like, include an optional note, review and hit "Request". If the person you are requesting money from is not yet enrolled with Zelle®, you must use their email address to request money. If the person has enrolled their U.S. mobile number, then you can send the request using their mobile number.

To receive money, just share your enrolled email address or U.S. mobile number with a friend and ask them to send you money with Zelle®. If you have already enrolled with Zelle®, you do not need to take any further action. The money will be sent directly into your Direct Federal Credit Union account, typically within minutes.

If someone sent you money with Zelle® and you have not yet enrolled with Zelle®, follow these steps:

  1. Click on link provided in the payment notification you received via email or text message.
  2. Select Direct Federal Credit Union.
  3. Follow the instructions provided on the page to enroll and receive your payment. Pay attention to the email address or U.S. mobile number where you received the payment notification - you should enroll with Zelle® using that email address or U.S. mobile number to ensure you receive your money.

Will my credit be pulled if I need a Home Equity increase?

Yes, you will need to submit a HELOC application and select "Home Equity Increase (Refinance)" as the purpose.

Home Equity Line Refinances/Increases have a $295 fee.

Click here to apply to refinance/increase your existing Home Equity Line >

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What is the Direct Federal routing number?

Our Routing & Transit Number is: 211381783

What if I or the RMV lose my Title while doing a state or name change?

One of the following must be done if you have lost or misplaced the title that was mailed to you while the loan is still open:

Contact Direct Federal at 888.2DIRECT to request a duplicate title. Processing time will depend on the RMV. You will be responsible for the state’s duplicate title fee.

Contact your state’s RMV if you live in an owner retained title state for a duplicate title. You will be responsible for the state’s duplicate title fee.

What if I need more money?

If you realize you need more money to finance your purchase once you start shopping for your car, simply call us at 781.455.6500.

How long does it take to apply and receive a decision for a HELOC?

It takes about five minutes to apply and you will have an answer within one business day.

Where can I find my account number online?

You can find your account numbers within Digital Banking under Account Details.

View Account Information >

What is the credit limit on a Direct Federal Visa®?

You can apply for a credit limit of up to $25,000.

Do you offer loans for commercial/business vehicles?

Yes, we do finance commercial vehicles!
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View Business Loans >

What is "ACH"?

An ACH, or Automated Clearing House, transaction is an electronic transaction that allows merchants to access your account. For example, payroll direct deposits are ACH deposits. Additionally, things like gym membership dues can be set up as ACH withdrawals.

Are the HELOC calculator results guaranteed?

No. Calculator results are estimates provided for informational purposes only and do not represent a loan offer or approval. Actual rates, payments, and terms are based on a full application review and may vary.

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What is the "normal" interest rate on a Direct Federal Visa®?

Rates vary based on your creditworthiness. The rate can vary monthly and is based on the Prime rate published in The Wall Street Journal.

I have a Joint on my account, can he/she/they have their own online banking?

Yes! The Joint account holder can create their own user login.

What is Direct Federal's lienholder information?

Direct Federal Credit Union
ISAOA/ATIMA

P.O. Box 2092

Carmel, IN 46082

Do you offer student loans?

We do not offer Student loans at this time, but click below to learn more about what personal loans and lines of credit we offer!

View Home Equity >

View Personal Loans >‍

View Credit Cards >

How much of my home equity can I borrow?

The amount you can borrow depends on the property type and the equity you have in your home.

Primary Residences: Up to 80% Combined Loan-To-Value (CLTV). Any amount between $20,000 and $500,000.

Second Home and Investment Properties: Up to 70% Combined Loan-To-Value (CLTV). Any amount between $20,000 and $200,000.

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Can I withdraw my CD dividends?

Monthly dividends are available for withdrawal without penalty.

How do I know what the Principal and Interest breakdown is on my loan payment?

Within Online Banking, select your Loan and click on the specific payment you would like more information on. Then select "Breakdown" and you will be able to view the Principal and Interest breakdown of your loan payment.

What does it mean to have a returned check?

A Returned Deposited Item (RDI) -  is a check that has been returned to a depositor because it could not be processed against the account which it was drawn on.  Deposited items can be returned for many reasons, such as insufficient or unavailable funds (funds on hold), stop payment, closed account, missing signature, etc.

Is there a credit card over limit fee?

There is no over limit fees.

Is there a balance transfer fee for credit cards?

There are no balance transfer fees.

What types of vehicles can I finance?

You may finance automobiles, SUVs, pickup trucks, and minivans for consumer use. For commercial vehicles, visit the Business Loans page.

What happens if interest rates change between the time I apply and the time I purchase a vehicle?

If rates rise from the time you apply until the time you use your loan, you will get the lower rate that was in effect when you applied. If rates fall from the time you apply until the time you use your loan, you will get the lower rate in effect at the time of purchase.

How are Money Market dividends compounded?

Money Market dividends are are compounded monthly, and posted monthly.

How are CD dividends compounded?

CD dividends are compounded daily and posted monthly.

What happens after my mortgage application is approved?

Once you’ve submitted your application, you will have a personal Mortgage Specialist follow up with you to provide additional help and guidance. Your Mortgage Specialist will be your single point of contact from here. He or she will send you an approval letter, order an appraisal from a licensed appraiser familiar with home values in your area, and prepare your loan for closing. The closing will take place at the office of our attorney in your area, who will act as our agent. Before closing, your Mortgage Specialist will contact you to walk through the final information and answer any questions you might have.

How can I upload proof of insurance for my vehicle?
What is the HELOC Early Termination fee?

$395 if the line is closed during the first two years.

What documentation is required to close a home equity loan or line?

Required documentation will include but is not limited to: an insurance binder or insurance declaration page, income verification, mortgage statement, and valid license or identification.

What is a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)?

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a revolving line of credit secured by your home. It lets you borrow what you need, when you need it, up to your approved credit limit. During the draw period, you typically make interest‑only payments on what you’ve borrowed. Once the draw period ends, the remaining balance transitions into repayment over a set term.

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Does using the Home Equity calculator impact my credit score?

No. Using the calculator does not affect your credit score and does not initiate a credit inquiry.

Can I Use Zelle Internationally?

In order to use Zelle®, the sender and recipient's bank or credit union accounts must be based in the U.S.


How do I get pre-approved?

Submit an application online or call to speak with Mortgage Loan Officer.

What if you do not receive my Title with Direct Federal listed as lienholder?

You will receive three letters notifying you that your title, with Direct Federal listed as lienholder, has not been received. If the title is not received within 90 days of your loan funds being disbursed, your interest rate may be increased to 18.00% APR (Annual Percentage Rate). Once we receive the perfected title, we will revert the rate to the rate on your loan agreement. This will not affect your credit history.

Do you offer SBA loans?

Yes, we offer SBA loans!

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Request more information >

Where do HELOC closings take place?

HELOC closings take place at our Branch located in Needham, MA.

50 Cabot St. Needham, MA 02494

What do I need to do with my Title if I am moving to another state?

If you are moving to a different state within the U.S., a state change request should first be submitted through Online Banking or by calling our Contact Center at 888.2DIRECT.

IMPORTANT: Direct Federal cannot process the state change for you. You must complete this process with the applicable RMV.

This request allows us to print/prepare the title so you can process the state change at the RMV. We will mail the title to you at the address we have on file. Then bring it to the RMV to complete the title and registration in your new state. We cannot do this for you.

IMPORTANT: The process is different for owner retained states. If you live in an owner retained state, you do not have to file a state change with us. Simply go to your new RMV to title and register there. Please make sure all Direct Federal’s information is correct on all documentation so that we get notified of the state change.

Going to the RMV before filing a request with us will result in delayed processing of your forms. The RMV will contact us to request that the title be mailed to them, resulting in a higher chance of title loss. In this case, we will not be able to provide you with a duplicate title unless Direct Federal is listed as lienholder.

Do you offer FHA loans?

We currently do not offer FHA loans.

What are fraud alerts?

Fraud alerts are automated phone calls, text messages and emails that are sent when potentially fraudulent purchase activity has been detected on a credit/debit card account. Messages are triggered by Direct's fraud detection system.

Text messages will be sent to cardholders in the 50 United States at no charge.

Customers with international telephone numbers will only receive emails. They will not receive text messages or phone calls.

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What is the Recording fee for a HELOC?

$0 unless property is in a trust and/or there are unrecorded discharges that need to be recorded.

Who can I send money to with Zelle

Zelle® is a great way to send money to family, friends, and people you are familiar with such as your personal trainer, babysitter or neighbor.1

Since money is sent directly from your Direct Federal Credit Union account to another person's bank account within minutes1, Zelle® should only be used to send money to friends, family and others you trust.

If you don't know the person or aren't sure you will get what you paid for (for example, items bought from an online bidding or sales site), you should not use Zelle®. These transactions are potentially high risk (just like sending cash to a person you don't know is high risk).

Neither Direct Federal Credit Union nor Zelle® offers purchase protection for payments made with Zelle®- for example, if you do not receive the item you paid for, or the item is not as described or as you expected. Only send money to people and small businesses you trust and always ensure you've used the correct email address or U.S. mobile number when sending money.

Can I pay off a home equity loan or line with another lender using a Direct Federal Home Equity Loan or Line?

Yes. In the application, please select "Refinance Home Loan" as the "Loan Purpose".

How do I change or remove names from my Title?

If you are adding, changing, or removing a name on the title, you can submit a name change request through Online Banking or by calling our Contact Center at 888.2DIRECT.

IMPORTANT: Direct Federal cannot process the name change for you. You must complete this process with the applicable RMV.

This request allows us to print/prepare the title so you can process the name change at the RMV. We will mail the title and permission letter to the address you have on file with us. Then bring those documents to your RMV so they can process the name change and send the title back to us.

Can I request a stop payment on a check online?

You can submit a Stop Payment Request through Online Banking via Tools > Check Services.
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Submit Stop Payment Request >

How do I set up Recurring Payments?

Login to Digital Banking and access the transfers widget. After choosing your account and loan from the dropdown menus, you can then specify the frequency for your recurring payments.

Login to Digital Banking >

Do you offer motorcycle loans?

We do not offer motorcycle loans at this time, but click below to learn more about what personal loans and lines of credit we offer!

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View Home Equity >

View Personal Loans >‍

View Credit Cards >

Do you charge to use the coin machine at the branch?

We do not charge for the coin machine but you must be a member to use it.

The coin machine is available Monday-Friday (8am-3pm) and Saturday (8am-12pm).

Please contact us at 888.2DIRECT if you plan on coming into the Branch to use the coin machine.

Why am I receiving a fraud alert?

Fraud alerts are sent to cardholders when potentially fraudulent transactions are detected on their accounts. We want to ensure that any questionable transactions were authorized by the cardholder.

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A legitimate transaction triggered a fraud alert. How long should I wait after responding to an alert to reattempt the transaction?

Upon confirming that a transaction is valid, you may retry the transaction immediately.

How do I track the status of my Bill Payments?

The status of your payments is located under “Payment activity” within the “Payments” tab of the Bill Pay widget. Click on each individual payment to obtain details and the status of your payment.

What are my credit card billing rights?

Information on your rights to dispute transactions and how to exercise those rights is provided in the Agreement.

Visa Credit Card Agreement (Consumer)

How do you calculate my credit card balance?

We use a method called “average daily balance.” Refer to the section “Finance Charges” within the Agreement for more information on how your balance is calculated.

Visa Credit Card Agreement (Consumer)

I accidentally marked a valid transaction as fraudulent. What do I do now?

When you mark a transaction as fraudulent, the response message you receive will include our fraud detection department’s toll-free number and it asks that you call to review the card activity, or you will receive a call from a fraud detection agent to review. The agent will be able to review the activity with you and clear the card for use.

Can I hide payees I do not use often?

Unfortunately, you are unable to hide payees. If you have a payee that you do not use or do not use often you can add a “z” in front of the payee nickname to add it to the bottom of the list. Alternatively, when setting up Payees, you can add “tags” to each payee. This will allow you to sort by tag. For example, for Payees you pay each month you could add the tag “Monthly Payment”. You will then be able to sort by all Payees with the tag “Monthly Payment”.

Do you offer land loans?

We currently do not offer land loans but please check back in with us in the future!

How do I stop receiving fraud alerts? What should I do if I don’t want to get a fraud alert at a certain phone number?

1. You can opt out of text alerts by replying “STOP” to the text message

2. You can opt out of phone calls when the alert system calls you.

3. Click on the Unsubscribe link in the email to stop the emails.

4. Contact our Call Center to ask to stop receiving fraud alerts.

5. Visit a branch to ask to stop receiving fraud alerts.

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How can I get in touch via email?

If you'd like to get in touch with us via message, please utilize our secure Message Center in Digital Banking.

‍Log in to access Message Center >

Can my HELOC rate change?

Yes. HELOC rates are variable and may change as the Prime Rate changes.

Can I pay a small business with Zelle?

Some small businesses are able to receive payments with Zelle®. Ask your favorite small business if they accept payments with Zelle®. If they do, you can pay them directly from your Direct Federal Credit Union App​ using just their email address or U.S. mobile number.

Neither Direct Federal Credit Union nor Zelle® offers purchase protection for payments made with Zelle® - for example, if you do not receive the item you paid for, or the item is not as described or as you expected. Only send money to people and small businesses you trust and always ensure you've used the correct email address or U.S. mobile number when sending money.

How long is the payment grace period for a HELOC?

The Home Equity grace period is 10 days.

Can I pay my Direct Federal Visa® bill online?

Yes. You may pay your Direct Federal Visa bill online using any checking account.

View Payment Options

What should I do when an unauthorized check clears my account?

Speak to a Direct Federal Member Service Representative. This can be done by visiting the branch or calling us at 781-455-6500. Once it is established that the item is unauthorized, an affidavit of forgery needs to be completed and either mailed to Direct Federal or taken into the branch for processing. Once the process is complete, the funds will be returned to your account.

Affidavit of Forgery

When is the dividend rate in effect?

Dividends start to accrue on the date the  account is funded.

What is the difference between a Title and Registration?

The title proves that you own the vehicle. The registration is permission from the state to operate it on the road. It will come to you with license plates and/or a sticker to display on the vehicle. In most states, your registration should always be with your vehicle, just like your license plates.
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The final step of owning your new vehicle is to register and title it at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (RMV). It may also be known as the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), or the Department of Transportation (DOT), depending on your state. For simplicity here, we will refer to it as the RMV.
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Direct Federal only holds onto the title while your auto loan is open if you do not live in an owner retained state. If you live in an owner retained state, the RMV will send you the title to keep safe until your loan is paid in full.

How do I make a payment on my Direct Federal Loan from a Direct Federal Account?

To make a payment to your Direct Federal Loan from a Direct Federal Account, navigate to the “Transfers” feature. For the most payment options, including Principal only payments, click on the “Classic” tab. From there you will be able to select which account you want the payment to come from, which loan it should go to, how much you want to pay, and other payment options.

If I already have a home equity line am I eligible for an increase?

Depending on the assessed value of your home, and the amount of equity you have in it, you may be eligible to refinance/increase your existing Direct Federal Home Equity Line. You will need to submit a HELOC application and select "Home Equity Increase (Refinance)" as the purpose. Home Equity Line Refinances/Increases have a $295 fee.

Click here to apply to refinance/increase your existing Home Equity Line >

Do I need to sign up to receive fraud alerts?

You will automatically be enrolled to receive all fraud alerts via the contact methods on your account, ie., email address, cell phone, home phone, work phone, etc.

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How long will it take to receive my Direct Federal Visa® card?

Once your application has been approved, you can expect your new card in the mail within 1-2 business days.

How do I make a Principal only payment?

Navigate to the transfers and pay tab and then click on transfers and loan payments. Please note, that Principal payments CANNOT be made from external accounts. Once you have navigated to the transfers widget, select which accounts you'd like the money to come out of and which loan you will be paying. Once the accounts are selected the "Principal Payment" option will appear. Your loan must be up to date.

How can I check the status of an application?

If you are an existing member, the easiest way to check the status of an application is through the Application Center within Digital Banking.

Check Status as a Member > ‍


If you are not a member, please visit our Application Status Center.

Check Application Status >

Why might my final HELOC payment be different from the calculator estimate?

Final payments may differ due to changes in the Prime Rate, approved loan amount, property value, credit profile, or selected repayment options.

What if I want to send money to someone whose bank or credit union doesn't offer Zelle

You can find a full list of participating banks and credit unions live with Zelle® at Zellepay.com.

If your recipient's bank or credit union isn't on the list, don't worry! The list of participating financial institutions is always growing, and your recipient can still use Zelle® by downloading the Zelle® app for Android and iOS.

To enroll with the Zelle® app, your recipient will enter their basic contact information, an email address or U.S. mobile number, and a Visa® or Mastercard® debit card with a U.S. based account (does not include U.S. territories). Zelle® does not accept debit cards associated with international deposit accounts or any credit cards.

What if I lose my Title after my loan is paid in full?

The following must be done if you have lost or misplaced your title after the vehicle loan is paid in full and our lien is released:

Bring the paid loan letter, which includes the lien release statement, to your RMV to request a new title.  

You will be responsible for all fees. The RMVs does not allow Direct Federal to apply for a duplicate title on your behalf since we are no longer a lienholder.

How do I make a payment on my Direct Federal Loan from another financial institution?

You will first need to link your external account to online banking. To link your external account navigate to the transfers and pay menu option and then click on transfers & loan payments. Once you are in the transfers widget click on "more actions" and then "add account." Once your account has been added it will appear in the dropdown menus within the Transfers and loan payment widget.