Happy 2026! We’re wishing you all a healthy and happy new year. In our latest blog, we’re announcing registration for EXCEL26 and an upcoming webinar from the Association. Then, see which credit union was recognized for its marketing, plus insights from InfoSight360. Get the latest statewide industry updates in the New York Minute!
Now Open: Register for EXCEL26 Today!
Registration is officially open for EXCEL 26, the New York Credit Union Association’s Annual Meeting & Convention. Save your spot early for our most anticipated event of the year!
This four-day event brings together credit union leaders, volunteers, and industry professionals for learning, collaboration, and connection. Attendees can expect:
- Engaging keynote speakers
- Practical, credit union–focused Learning Labs
- Networking with peers from across New York
- Opportunities to support important causes within the movement
Event Details
Dates: June 11–14, 2026
Location: Saratoga Hilton, Saratoga Springs
Early-bird deadline: March 31
A three-night minimum stay (Thursday–Saturday) is required for the room block, with lodging reservations due by May 15. Vendor and exhibitor registration and lodging details will be released on Tuesday, January 20. Visit the EXCEL26 homepage for full details and to register.
Association Webinar: Recent State Legislation Affecting Credit Unions
The Association is hosting an important webinar to help credit unions navigate recent New York State legislative actions following decisions by Governor Kathy Hochul.
Webinar Details
Date: Wednesday, January 14
Time: 11:00 a.m.
This session will provide a clear, practical overview of four key bills affecting credit unions, including legislation related to health information privacy, artificial intelligence, business practices, and coerced debt. Association experts will explain:
- Compliance and operational impacts
- Implementation timelines and upcoming chapter amendments
- Areas of risk, opportunity, and regulatory uncertainty
Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain guidance on how to prepare for 2026 and beyond. Credit unions are strongly encouraged to attend this timely and informative session.
SeaComm Awarded Gold by the Marketing Association of Credit Unions
Congratulations to SeaComm Federal Credit Union on earning a Gold Award from the Marketing Association of Credit Unions for its member magazine, The Advisor.
Produced by SeaComm’s Marketing and Communications team, The Advisor is mailed twice a year to more than 56,000 members, delivering relevant financial insights and credit union updates. This year’s recognition is especially meaningful, as a record 458 entries from nearly 100 credit unions nationwide were submitted for consideration.
This award is a reflection of the team’s creativity, consistency, and dedication. Congratulations to the SeaComm team for this recognition!
InfoSight360: 2026 Annual Threshold Adjustments
Each year, a number of federal agencies are required by law to adjust regulatory threshold amounts to account for inflation. Most adjustments are based on the annual percentage change in the Consumer Price Index. The adjustments effective January 1, 2026, are below:
Regulation Z Exemption
An extension of credit greater than $73,400 is exempt from Regulation Z unless it is:
- Secured by any real property, or by personal property used by the consumer as his/her principal dwelling, or
- A private education loan.
Regulation M Exemption
A consumer lease with a total contractual obligation in excess of $73,400 is exempt from Regulation M.
Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac Conforming Loan Limits
$832,750
$1,249,125 for high-cost areas
Qualified Mortgage Pricing
First Lien Loans
The APR charged in connection with the transaction does not exceed the value of the APOR index by more than:
- 2.25% for loans greater than or equal to $137,958
- 3.50% for loans greater than or equal to $82,775 but less than $137,958
- 6.50% for loans less than $82,775
Subordinate Lien Loans
The APR charged in connection with the transaction does not exceed the value of the APOR index by more than:
- 3.50% for loans greater than or equal to $82,775
- 6.50% for loans less than $82,775
Qualified Mortgage Points and Fees
| Loan Amount | Points and Fees Cap |
| $137,958 | 3% of the loan amount |
| $82,775 to $137,958 | $4,139 |
| $27,592 to $82,775 | 5% of the loan amount |
| $17,245 to $27,592 | $1,380 |
| <$17,245 | 8% of the loan amount |
Higher Priced Mortgage Loan Appraisal Requirement
Generally, in connection with a higher priced mortgage loan, the credit union must obtain a written appraisal of the subject property. However, if one of the following exceptions applies, an alternative method of valuation may be used:
- The higher priced mortgage loan also meets the definition of a qualified mortgage,
- An extension of credit equal to or less than $34,200,
- A transaction secured by a mobile home, boat, or trailer,
- A construction loan,
- A bridge loan with a term of 12 months or less, or
- A reverse mortgage.
High-Cost Mortgage Points and Fees
A loan is considered high cost if the points and fees charged in connection with the transaction exceed:
- 5% of the loan amount for loans of $27,592 or greater
- For loans of less than $27,592, the lesser of –
- 8% of the loan amount, or
- $1,380
Home Mortgage Disclosure Act Institutional Coverage Test
A credit union that meets the following four-part test is subject to HMDA:
- Assets in excess of $59 million as of 12/31/2025,
- Home or branch office in a Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA),
- Originated at least one home purchase or refinance transaction in the preceding calendar year, and
- Federally insured or regulated.
Small Creditor Definition
A credit union that meets the following two-part test is considered a small creditor:
- During the preceding calendar year, the credit union and its affiliates together originated 2,000 or fewer covered transactions secured by a first lien, and
- Excludes loans retained in the credit union’s portfolio
- At the end of the preceding calendar year, the credit union and its affiliates together had total assets of less than $2.785 billion.
Content updates have been made to the following topics on InfoSight360 to reflect the changes:
- Truth in Lending Act,
- Ability to Repay,
- Appraisals,
- Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act, and
- Accounts (Health Savings Accounts).
In addition, the following model policies have been updated in CU Policy Pro:
- 2210.14 – Health Savings Accounts,
- 7302 – Real Estate Appraisals,
- 7350 – Ability to Repay,
- 7370 – HOEPA Rule Requirements, and
- 9220 – Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act.
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