Ellafi FCU Partners With Salus for Stress Score to Proactively Support Members

James Chemplavil

Ellafi Federal Credit Union (Ellafi) is deepening its commitment to member financial wellness by partnering with Salus to deploy the company’s Stress Score. This member-first solution helps credit unions identify financial stress before members say anything so they can offer timely support before members reach a crisis point.

“Salus’ Stress Scores will allow us to provide valuable resources to our members before they find themselves in crisis situations,” Kristen Jensen, AVP of Loan Operations at Ellafi, explained. “Members may not have the time to research financial options, and this tool ensures we get the right solutions in front of our members in need at the critical time.”

Ellafi offers a holistic, self-paced financial wellness program that empowers members to take control of their finances, Jensen said. Members can meet with our member advocates to receive a personalized financial wellness score and actionable next steps. Ellafi “proudly offers products designed specifically for individuals often excluded from traditional banking models. Our staff is trained to approach financial wellness with empathy, helping members build confidence and long-term security.”

The credit union’s goals with Stress Score are to reduce courtesy pay usage, boost overall credit quality and increase and deepen member engagement. By delivering help early, Ellafi can build stronger, longer-lasting member relationships and protect its most vulnerable members from falling behind.

Jensen added, “We intentionally partner with mission-aligned vendors who help us serve our members with integrity and innovation. Salus offers a creative, cost-effective solution for expanding access to emergency funds. More importantly, they’ve become a trusted partner who shares our commitment to empowering members and solving real- world challenges.”

In addition to leveraging the Stress Score, Ellafi will also implement Salus’ microloans offering for fast, low-barrier emergency funding to members who might otherwise resort to high-cost, predatory payday lenders. These small-dollar loans provide relief and help members build credit, confidence and long-term financial security at an affordable price.

“Salus was built for the type of work credit unions are doing and want to do, but aren’t sure how to offer these services cost-effectively,” Salus Founder/CEO James Chemplavil said. “When a member is experiencing financial stress, the right support, delivered early and with dignity, can change lives. We’re proud to help Ellafi make members for life.”

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