Overdraft Protections
Overdrafts happen – but understanding your options can help you avoid surprises. We’ve updated our overdraft services to make them clearer, more consistent, and easier to manage, so you can choose what works best for you.
What’s Changing (Effective May 5, 2026)
We’re enhancing our overdraft programs and the system behind them. With automated decisioning and review periods, getting the protection you need, and understanding which option is right for you, is easier and simpler than ever. These updates will begin appearing in communications and disclosures on April 1, with system changes taking effect May 5, 2026.
Key changes:
- Automated assessment of eligibility for PlusPay Overdraft Protection at account opening
- A short review period for new accounts before PlusPay becomes active
- Ability to manage all overdraft preferences in online banking
- Flexibility to utilize most share types for Overdraft Transfer Protection, not just the Membership Savings Account
- Clearer distinction between overdraft options
Understanding Your Overdraft Options
A+FCU offers three related overdraft services. You can choose one, combine options, or opt out – depending on what fits your needs.
Overdraft Transfer Protection
What it is: A funds-based option that automatically transfers available money from a designated share or other eligible account to help cover transactions before overdraft services are used.
How it works:
- Transfers are made in $50 increments* (or the amount needed if less is available)
- $4 fee per transfer occurrence
- Often the lowest cost way to help avoid overdraft fees
Good to know: If there aren’t enough funds available to transfer, PlusPay may apply if you’re eligible.
*For example, if you make a $158 purchase and your account balance is $0, a total of $200 will be transferred from your designate share to cover the purchase and a $4 transfer fee will be charged.
PlusPay Overdraft Protection
What it is: PlusPay is an A+FCU-discretionary overdraft service that may authorize and pay certain transactions when there isn’t enough available balance, up to an approved limit.
What PlusPay may cover:
- Checks (paper and electronic)
- ACH payments
- Bill payments
- Recurring debit transactions
PlusPay does not cover ATM withdrawals, in‑person teller transactions, or person‑to‑person payments such as Zelle®.
Important reminders:
- PlusPay is not a guarantee – items may be paid or returned at A+FCU’s discretion
- Overdraft Transfer Protection is always used first when available
- Transactions that exceed your PlusPay limit would be declined and may result in an NSF (non-sufficient funds) fee
Debit Card Overdraft Protection
What it is: Controls whether everyday debit card purchases can be approved when there aren’t enough funds.
If you opt in:
- Everyday debit card purchases that fall within your PlusPay limit may be paid and cause an overdraft
- When a purchase is covered, the standard PlusPay fee applies
If you opt out:
- Everyday debit card purchases are generally declined
- No overdraft fee is charged for declined debit card transactions
Everyday debit card transactions are one‑time debit card purchases – such as shopping or dining – that are not part of a recurring or preauthorized payment.
Some recurring debit card payments, such as subscriptions, may still be processed even if you opt out of everyday debit card overdraft protection.
Eligibility note: Debit Card Overdraft Protection requires active PlusPay Overdraft Protection.
How Eligibility Works For PlusPay
New Accounts
PlusPay does not activate immediately. New accounts that have been pre-approved go through a standard 30-day review period before PlusPay becomes available, if eligibility requirements are met.
Ongoing Eligibility
PlusPay eligibility is monitored automatically and may be suspended or removed if account requirements are not met, such as extended negative balances or significant loan delinquency.
Which Option Is Right For Me?
Not sure where to start? Many members use more than one option – or choose different options at different times. Here’s a simple way to think about what might work best for you:
I want to make everyday purchases and avoid larger fees.
Start with Overdraft Transfer Protection. It uses your own available funds from a linked account and is typically the lowest cost option.
I want help covering important payments if I come up short.
PlusPay Overdraft Protection may help with checks, bill payments, and other recurring transactions when transfer funds aren’t available. Remember, PlusPay is discretionary and not guaranteed.
I want control over debit card purchases.
Debit Card Overdraft Protection lets you decide whether everyday debit card purchases can be approved into overdraft. If you don’t opt in, those purchases are generally declined – helping you avoid fees.
I want maximum coverage and flexibility.
Many members combine Overdraft Transfer Protection and PlusPay, then choose whether to opt in to Debit Card Overdraft Protection based on their spending habits.
You can review or change your preferences at any time in A+ Online Banking.
Compare Your Options
| Overdraft Transfer Protection | PlusPay Overdraft Protection | Debit Card Overdraft Protection | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What It Does | Transfers funds from a linked account to help cover transactions before an overdraft occurs | A+FCU may authorize and pay certain transactions when there are insufficient funds | Controls whether everyday debit card purchases may be approved into overdraft |
| Best Used For | Avoiding overdrafts using your own available funds | Covering important payments when other funds aren’t available | Preventing or allowing debit card overdrafts, based on your preference |
| How It Works | Funds transfer automatically from a designated account in $50 increments (or the amount needed if less is available) | Discretionary coverage up to an approved limit after transfer options are used | Requires member opt-in; applies only to everyday debit card transactions |
| Transactions Covered | Any transaction supported by available linked funds | Checks, ACH payments, bill payments, recurring debit transactions | Everyday debit card purchases only |
| Order Of Use | First line of defense | Second, if transfer funds aren’t available | Applies only if PlusPay is active and member has opted in |
| Fee | $4 per transfer occurrence | $19.50 per paid overdraft item | Same PlusPay fee if a debit transaction is paid |
| If Funds/Coverage Aren’t Available | Transaction may overdraft or be declined | Transaction is declined and may result in an NSF (non-sufficient funds) fee and the member must work with the merchant to resolve the payment | Transaction is declined; no overdraft fee charged |
| Opt-In Required? | No (must be set up by member) | Member must sign, opt in and accept PlusPay if they conditionally apply | Yes – required by regulation |
| Eligibility | Linked account must have available funds | Subject to account history and ongoing eligibility requirements | Requires active PlusPay Overdraft Protection |
| New Account Availability | Available once a linked account is established | Available after a standard 30-day review period if eligibility requirements are met | Available only after PlusPay becomes active |
Manage Your Preferences
You’re in control. Members can:
- Opt in or out of Debit Card Overdraft Protection
- Set up or modify Overdraft Transfer Protection
- View PlusPay status
All options can be managed securely in A+ Online Banking.
Monitor Your Accounts
Set Up eAlerts
Use eAlerts to receive notifications when transactions and activity happen on your account. Even set up balance alerts when your account falls below a certain threshold.
Monitor Debit Card Transactions
Use Card Management to set up notifications regarding your debit card including alerts for transaction limits, transaction types, and merchant types.
Review Recurring Payments
Make a plan to regularly log in to the A+ Mobile App to review recurring transactions, payments, and more.
Resources
Make the most of your A+FCU membership with these resources to help you manage your accounts and better your finances.
Budgeting
Ready to take control of your finances? See what steps to follow to develop a spending and saving plan and follow through on it.
Fraud Protection
You work hard for your money. We want to help protect it by sharing tips to help recognize scams, deter fraudsters, and take appropriate action if you fall victim.
Related Articles
5 Good Uses For Your Tax Refund
Expecting a tax refund? Here are 5 ideas on how you can make your money work for you.
How To Apply For A Personal Loan At A Credit Union
Learn how to apply for a personal loan at a credit union, what documents you need, and why it may be a better option than a traditional bank.
HELOC Or Personal Loan In Texas: Which Borrowing Option Fits You Best?
Trying to choose between a HELOC and a personal loan in Texas? Compare rates, risks, and regulations before applying.
Give Us A Shout
We can assist you when you need financial help. With multiple ways to contact us, find the one most convenient for you.