Marine Credit Union Reports Over $800,000 Returned to Borrowers Through My Loan Rewards Program

LA CROSSE, WI, October 19, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Marine Credit Union, a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative based in La Crosse, Wisconsin, says it has returned over $800,000 to borrowers through its My Loan Rewards program since the program began late last year. The program returns a portion of the interest paid on eligible loans each quarter when borrowers make their payments on time.

Marine Credit Union serves 73,000 members throughout Wisconsin and neighboring communities in Iowa, Minnesota, and Illinois. Since 1931, the credit union has provided everyday financial products such as checking accounts, auto and home loans, credit cards, and one-on-one counseling with certified financial counselors. Around 80% of its lending is mission-based, helping borrowers with higher credit-risk profiles who might not qualify for a traditional loan.

“Through a network of community partners, we connect members with trusted resources and services that support financial well-being beyond traditional banking,” says Tom Knothe, president and CEO of Marine Credit Union. “One example of our member-focused approach is our My Loan Rewards program. We reward borrowers for making their payments on time, returning a portion of the interest paid on their loan each quarter. It’s a great way to reward responsible borrowing, and we’ve returned over $800,000 to members since the program began late last year.”

That approach reflects the cooperative structure behind Marine Credit Union’s broader member services. Unlike a traditional bank, any profits the credit union earns are returned to members through better rates, lower fees, and expanded services. Members can also work directly with their local branch to find creative, personalized solutions for other financial needs.

“We’re neighbors helping neighbors,” says Knothe. “As an organization, we share a passion for improving lives. We strive to be a force for good.”

Marine Credit Union says that service-focused mission is central to its operations, and Knothe provides servant leadership training for employees throughout the organization.

“We exist to meet the needs of our stakeholders,” explains Knothe. “Our culture is built around servant leadership. We’re focused on meeting the needs of our members, supporting our employees, and engaging with our communities. We believe strong communities create strong financial futures — that’s why we are focused on the entire community. While we proudly offer mission-focused solutions that expand access and provide additional support for those facing financial challenges, our purpose is to help every member build financial well-being and achieve their individual goals.”

Investing in Community

The same member-first philosophy also guides the credit union’s investments in the communities it serves. This includes homeownership programs such as Finding HOME, a free service that has helped 41 families from historically underserved communities qualify for home loans.

“Finding HOME helps people who would not be able to get a mortgage from a traditional financial institution,” says Knothe. “We pair prospective homeowners with a personal financial counselor to improve their credit score, reduce their debt load, and increase their savings. Once they graduate from the program, we help them qualify for a home loan.”

Through the Marine Credit Union Foundation, the organization has provided more than $2 million to support a wide range of local charities focused on financial education, affordable housing, and food insecurity.

“We have an entire division that is focused on giving back to our communities,” says Knothe. “We want to help our communities be as strong, healthy, and resilient as possible.”

Compassionate Underwriting

Marine Credit Union believes thriving communities depend not only on strong families and nonprofits, but also on successful local businesses. Many small businesses lack the credit history or financial track record to qualify for even modest loans from traditional lenders. As a result, many struggle to finance equipment purchases, facility improvements, or expansion.

Marine Credit Union takes what it calls a “compassionate underwriting” approach, applying the same emphasis on local knowledge and individualized solutions to business lending. The credit union says this allows its teams to consider the circumstances behind a financing request while supporting businesses that contribute to the communities it serves.

“Supporting local businesses is an essential part of being a true community partner,” says Knothe. “We know these communities, and we know what kinds of businesses help them become more vibrant.”

About Marine Credit Union

Marine Credit Union’s mission is to advance the lives of people from a place of financial need to a life of ownership and giving back in our communities. We are committed to providing financial services to all members of the community. Marine Credit Union is a full-service financial institution serving members with office locations in Wisconsin and Iowa. For more information, visit marinecu.com connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Disclaimer

Marine Credit Union is an Equal Housing Lender and is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines, and membership eligibility criteria. The terms, qualifications, interest rebate calculations, and conditions associated with the My Loan Rewards program and special financing options may vary and are subject to change without notice; individual borrower outcomes depend on specific loan types, account status, and payment timing.

Media Contact

Isabel Collins
isabel.collins@marinecu.com