Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here you can see a list of our most Frequently Asked Questions organised by category. If your question is not listed, please feel free to submit a question via our contact form or call us on: 1850 277 377

To apply for a loan you should have a minimum of €100 in your shares account, you may also need to provide supporting documents depending on the amount and purpose, please see loan purposes.

TO SIGN DOCUMENT/S ONLINE - (CAN NOT BE DONE THROUGH THE APP)

Please log in to your online account, then choose ‘launch online banking’, and an option ‘documents to sign’ will appear. Under documents to sign, please proceed to sign the credit agreement.

When the documents are signed we will transfer them to your nominated account.

You will know when your loan has been paid out as it will appear active in your online area.

If your loan is issued before 1.30 pm in the day, funds should be in your account by close of business the same day. Otherwise, it will be the following working day.

You can apply for your loan online via our Mobile App(hyperlink), you can apply online through our website (hyperlink to loan calculator), by visiting one of our branches, by calling our loans team or by emailing our loans team at loans@pscu.ie. Our application process is straightforward and user-friendly.  If you are not currently a member with us, you will need to join (hyperlink) first and then apply.

To apply for a loan, you'll need to provide photo proof of identity (such as a passport or driver's licence), proof of income (such as payslip), and recent bank statements. Depending on the loan type, additional documents may be required.  Hyperlink to loans page

We offer a wide range of loans to suit different needs, including our Welcome Loan, Standard Loan, Car Loan, Home Improvement Loan, Secured Loan, Green Loan, Education Loan, Holiday Loan, and Christmas Loan.

We also do mortgages.  For more information on our loan products, visit Hyperlink to loans page

Yes, Public Service Credit Union offers mortgages with personalised guidance throughout the process. We provide loan amounts up to €500,000, with repayment terms of up to 35 years, and a maximum age limit of 70 years at the end of the loan term.

No, there are no penalties for repaying your loan early. You can repay your loan ahead of schedule without incurring any additional fees.

Our loans offer many benefits, including affordable rates, no hidden fees, loan protection insurance at no direct cost, flexible repayment plans, personalised service from our team, quick approval processes, and the option for salary deduction for added convenience.

Technically, you don't need savings before applying for a loan. However, having regular savings demonstrates your ability to set aside money and can show affordability, which may positively impact your loan application. A savings habit is something that always helps.

Your loan application is assessed based on your overall financial situation, including your credit history, income, and the documents you provide. These demonstrate your ability to repay.

The loan assessment process typically takes between 24 to 48 hours after we receive all the necessary support documents. We work hard to provide a fast and efficient service to our members.

Credit Unions in the Republic of Ireland are covered by the Deposit Protection Scheme which is administered by the Financial Regulator. This is a scheme that can provide compensation to depositors if a credit institution is forced to go out of business. It covers deposits held with banks; building societies; and credit unions. The maximum amount a credit union member can receive under this scheme is €100,000.
The Deposit Protection Scheme covers:

  • flexi accounts;
  • demand deposit accounts;
  • term deposit accounts;
  • share accounts and deposit accounts with building societies; and
  • share accounts and deposit accounts with credit unions.
In addition to this, the Savings Protection Scheme (SPS) owned and operated by the Irish League of Credit Unions is also available to proactively intervene to protect members’ savings by making available financial assistance to help any credit union which may experience difficulties.

Every share you hold with your credit union for the year is eligible for a dividend when declared. A dividend is the return on your shares and it is paid by your credit union out of surplus.*
The amount of your dividend will depend on:

  • The amount of shares you have saved (one share is equal to €1).
  • The surplus income available for distribution by your credit union to members.

Only members of your credit union receive a dividend from your credit union. The amount paid to members varies from one credit union to another.

You can withdraw your savings provided they are not pledged as security on a loan. However, you are encouraged to keep your savings intact, so that:

  • They continue to earn a dividend.
  • They continue to benefit from the Life Savings Insurance protection.

PSCU will be happy to talk to you about suitable alternatives to withdrawing your savings.

The common bond defines the membership criteria of whom can join PSCU. The common bond of PSCU consists of all employees of government departments, offices and bodies under their aegis and retired staff previously employed in those organizations. Children and spouses of those in the common bond as defined above can join and save with the PSCU.


Managing Your Money Supplement created by the Irish League of Credit Unions and Irish Examiner - a useful guide in managing your money.

The credit union has a savings cap of €75,000.

The credit union continues to be very healthy, with high reserves, strong annual surpluses and a large loan book. The savings cap helps to ensure that the credit union continues to have a strong balance sheet over the years ahead.

In a credit union, each €1 of your savings is the equivalent of one share. The term “share” refers to the fact that a credit union is a cooperative that is owned by its members who have “shares” in the credit union. The more savings you have in the credit union, the more shares you own.

Yes, your savings in Public Service Credit Union are insured up to €100,000 at no direct cost to you, providing you with peace of mind that your money is protected.

As a member of Public Service Credit Union, you also benefit from Free Life Savings Protection. In the event of your death, Public Service Credit Union provides insurance cover up to €20,000 on savings (subject to terms and conditions). This benefit can be paid to your nominee (up to €27,000) or to your estate.  A nominee is chosen by you as part of your nomination form (hyperlink to services/nominations).  You can choose to change the person nominated throughout your lifetime, simply speak to a member of our team.

Public Service Credit Union offers various types of savings accounts, including share accounts, flexi accounts, fixed term deposit accounts (launched at certain times in the year).  Each account type is designed to meet different financial needs and goals.

Yes, you can set up regular payments into your savings account from your bank account using methods such as SEPA, Direct Debit, or standing orders, making saving convenient and automated. To setup a regular payment (hyperlink services automated payments)

Yes, there is a maximum deposit limit of €100,000 across your Public Service Credit Union savings account to ensure financial stability and regulatory compliance. The maximum balance you can have in your Share account is €100,000, the balance can be made up from funds held across your Flexi Account, Current Account, Fixed Term Deposit Account.

In the event of your death, your shares and savings are covered by Life Savings Protection. This means that your nominated beneficiary or estate will receive the value of your shares along with any insurance benefits applicable.

Current Account, from your trusted credit union is a full service account that allows you to access a range of facilities, such as receiving your salary, paying bills setting up direct debits and standing orders to make regular payments. You can operate your account online and using the mobile app.

With Current Account, from your credit union, you get a dedicated IBAN (International Bank Account Number). You also get a Mastercard Debit Card with Contactless payments which allows you instant access to your money so you can make a payment or withdraw money whenever or wherever you need.

You can open a Current Account in your sole name or in joint names with another person if you are a member of the Credit Union and resident in the Republic of Ireland.   If you are aged between 12 and 16 years of age, we require the consent of your parent or guardian for you to open an Account.

* Credit unions all around the country are introducing the current account service for their members. To find a credit union offering Current Account, click here.

If you are registered online with your credit union, you can open a Current Account in your sole name online. Simply click here and we’ll help you to open your Current Account

If you are not registered online or wish to open a joint account, you will both need to drop into your credit union office.

To open your Current Account either online or in your credit union office, you will require one proof of identity and one proof of address.

Acceptable Proof of Identity:

  • Current valid signed passport/passport card
  • National EU Identity Card
  • Driving Licence – Full licence or learners permit

Acceptable Proof of Address*:

  • Bank, building society or credit card statement (paper/e-format)
  • Household utility bill (paper/ e format)
  • Revenue Commissioners current balancing statement or Notification of Determination of Tax Credit/Tax Notification

*Note: These documents must have been issued in the previous six months

A joint account can be opened but not online. Both parties to the account must call into your credit union office with their proof of identity and proof of address to sign the application form.

Once your Current Account is opened you will receive a welcome letter from your credit union detailing your BIC and IBAN. You will need your IBAN to arrange to have your salary, benefits or other payments paid into your account and to set up payment of bills by direct debit etc.

If you are registered for online access your Current Account is immediately available to view and use online or on the mobile app. If you are not already registered for online access, you can register or visit your local Credit Union.

Yes, Public Service Credit Union (Public Service Credit Union) offers a comprehensive current account. This account includes features such as a globally accepted Mastercard® Debit Card, contactless payment options, mobile and online banking, and automated payment setups. It also provides transparent fees and 24/7 customer support, making it a convenient and reliable choice for managing your daily finances.

For more details, visit the Current Account page.

Yes. Our current account includes features such as a globally accepted Mastercard® Debit Card, contactless payment options, mobile and online banking, and automated payment setups.

  • To be eligible for membership, you must be a current, former, or retired staff member of any Public Sector body, Civil Service department, An Post, or Dublin Bus. This also includes shareholders or employees of any company where our member employers have a shareholding. In formal terms, this is referred to as Under the Aegis of.
  • Additionally, family members of any of the above, regardless of where they live, are eligible for membership. This means that if a member of your family is employed by or was employed by any of the organisations outlined, you can also apply for membership. Family members of existing or qualifying members includes spouses, civil partners, cohabitants, parents, siblings, children, and grandchildren
  • Staff of the Public Service Credit Union
  • Members must live within the Island of Ireland. Special arrangements can be made for families working in the EU or Irish Diplomat Service.
  • If you are unsure, please email info@pscu.ie and a member of our team will help you.
  • You can Join Online (hyperlink) by using our secure online platform, or via our mobile app. You can call into any of our 3 branches and a member of our team will be happy to welcome you. You will need 3 documents – Photo ID, Proof of address and Proof of PPS number. Documents must be dated within the last 6 months.

To open an account with Public Service Credit Union you will need 3 items:

  1. Photo ID – A current form of photographic ID – Driver’s Licence, Passport
  2. Proof Address – a utility bill, official letter, or bank statement in your name and to your home address dated in the last 6 months.
  3. Proof of PPS Number – a payslip, correspondence from a Government Office (e.g., Revenue, Dept of Social Protection), An EHIC card (formerly an E111 Card) or on some medical cards. Please note, we are unable to accept the Green Public Services Card.

Being a member of Public Service Credit Union gives you instant access to a range of savings products, a full featured current account, a range of loans and mortgage products. In addition, at no direct cost to you, your savings are insured and protected, death benefit insurance, loan protection insurance is there for your peace of mind. You can avail of Salary Deduction, a Monthly Members Car & Cash Draw with amazing prizes, access to our generous Annual Education Bursary, no hidden fees, online access, the list keeps on going! Find out more here (hyperlink to membership page).

Yes of course, many of our members will be a member of Public Service Credit Union because of their employment and then may be a member of a local credit union where they live. Being part of one of the largest credit unions in the country, Public Service Credit Union has a greater range of products and services, all available to members both online and in our offices. Public Service Credit Union has the added benefit of offering Salary Deduction – meaning that you can choose to save or pay into your loan account directly from your salary, for that extra peace of mind.

We ask members to lodge a minimum of €17 when they first join.  This is to pay the €1.27 membership fee and then to maintain the minimum membership balance of €13.  It is a fantastic peace of mind habit to save regularly, helping you build a healthy credit history with us and also to be able to cope with unexpected or planned expenses.

Yes, we do. Every month, one lucky member in the draw wins a brand-new car and then we have €20,000 in Yes cash prizes too! All for only €4 per month (T&Cs apply) – Why not download an entry form here (hyperlink to download form) and you never know, it could be you!

Yes. We welcome new members online every day. Our secure online onboarding portal uses facial recognition technology to protect your identity, allows you to upload the required ID documents and gets you started as our newest member with Public Service Credit Union.

Find out more about becoming a member with Public Service Credit Union here. hyperlink to membership page.

Yes, you can. We're delighted to offer a convenient way to apply for a loan from the comfort of your own home 24/7. Whether you're an existing member or looking to join Public Service Credit Union, we've got you covered. Simply choose the option that best fits your situation here (loan application page), and let's start your loan application.

Yes, Public Service Credit Union has a mobile app that you can download from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. The Public Service Credit Union Mobile App allows you to manage your account, view balances, transfer funds, pay bills, and access eStatements securely from your smartphone or tablet.

For more information and to download the app, visit the Public Service Credit Union Mobile App page – like to services/mobile app page

A nominations form is a document that allows you to designate who will receive up to €27,000 of your credit union savings and insurance benefits in the event of your death. It ensures your wishes are clearly stated and respected.

Yes, you can change your nomination at any time by filling in a new Nomination Form. A nomination becomes invalid if you get married or if the nominated person dies. It is a good idea to review your nomination form regularly to ensure that the nominated person(s) is/are appropriate. Note that divorce or legal separation will not revoke a nomination.

You can nominate anyone—family, friends, or a group of people. It is important to review your Nomination Form regularly

Yes, you can nominate up to €27,000 of your savings and insurance benefits. Any amount over this limit will be distributed according to your will or, if there is no will, according to the laws of intestacy. (Intestacy happens when someone dies without a will. In this case, the law decides who gets their belongings, usually starting with the closest family members.

Completing a nominations form ensures that your savings and benefits are quickly and easily passed on to your chosen beneficiary/nominee without the need for probate, up to the limit of €27,000. (Probate is the process of sorting out a person’s belongings and money after they die.)

To complete a nominations form, you can download a form here or visit one of our branches or contact our member services team. They will provide you with the form and assistance if needed.

Yes, our staff can confirm whether you have completed a nomination and who your nominee is.

If you joined as a child, you would not have completed a Nomination Form. Once you reach the age of 16, you should fill out a Nomination Form.

You can download a Nomination Form here. The form requires two people to witness your nomination, neither of whom can be a beneficiary.

We recognise it can be very difficult and stressful when your circumstances change, and you find yourself unable to meet financial commitments.  This can happen if you lose your job, become ill or find your personal circumstances have changed.  Sometimes, these can be addressed easily but if ignored, can be damaging.  For example, missing a payment will increase the cost of your loan over the long term and may also affect your credit history. This may limit your ability to access credit in the future. That is why if you find yourself in this position, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.

Each member’s situation is different and as a responsible lender we try to find the best solution for our member.  However, we have a duty to recover monies borrowed, as these are the savings deposited by other members.

You can contact our dedicated Credit Control team at 01 6622177 (option 4) or email creditcontrol@pscu.ie.

You may also contact an independent advisor such as the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS).

At Public Service Credit Union, we are committed to a more sustainable, greener credit union for all our members.  By opting to receives news, updates, and obligatory notices like eStatements, AGM notices by email, you are helping to reduce overhead costs, leaving more funds available to build a better future for all our members.

The quickest way to update is through online banking under the personal settings – on the top right of the page.  Here you can update your Marketing Preferences and Obligatory Notices.

Alternatively, you can update your preferences the next time you call into our office.

Open Banking gives you the option to securely share your online payment account information with authorised providers you trust. These are known as third party providers (TPP's).

Open banking is a secure way of sharing financial information with other financial providers. It came into place in the European Union in 2018 to give consumers more control over their financial information. If you give your credit union open banking access, you can control what information you give and for how long.

Yes. A TPP will be regulated in the same way that a Bank is, and so must follow the same laws to keep your information safe and secure. We take your privacy very seriously. We do not share any of your bank account data for marketing purposes.

At no point do we ever see or have access to your banking passwords. Public Service Credit Union cannot in any way affect your bank account. CRIF can only gain read-only access to your data once you approve the request in your banking app.

No. You are in control. If you do not wish to share your data with Public Service Credit Union CRIF Open Banking services, you can choose our manual upload option and supply PDF’s of your bank statements instead.

Please be advised that providing your bank statement information to us in PDF format will lead to a delay in getting your application processed. The Open Banking option is faster.

If you have insufficient funds, the premium will not be deducted, and insurance cover will not apply.

There are no medical questions. If you die as the result of an illness or injury that occurs within the first six months of cover and where you received medical advice, consultation or treatment of that illness or injury within the six-month period prior to the commencement of cover, no benefit will be paid.

Also, there is a restriction during the first twelve months of cover in the terrible event of somebody taking their own life. Otherwise, a benefit will be paid regardless of your age, assuming you continue to pay the premium and assuming that the insurance company continues to provide the cover.

The insurance is open to those from age 18 to your 71st birthday but once you join you can stay insured after age 71, assuming you pay the premium each year.

It is planned to open the scheme until 15 January at the start of each year but only those under age 71 will be able to apply.

When the scheme re-opens at the start of each year, it is likely that communication to members about the re-opening each year will be via email, ezine, the credit union annual report and social media. If you are not communicating with the credit union in these ways, consider signing up now.

The benefit would be added to your credit union account on death.

The credit union does not offer joint accounts except in the relatively small number of cases where a credit union mortgage is in place. The first named person under a joint account would be covered for the member-pay death benefit. Both named persons often have individual memberships as well the joint account and this is probably the best route to apply for the death benefit.

If your proof of ID and address are not up to date, this is a good opportunity to send copies to the credit union to comply with anti-money laundering regulations. If you apply for the member-pay death benefit and your proof of ID and address are not up to date, the credit union will be in contact.

The insurance is arranged by CMutual who have arranged similar schemes for a number of other Irish credit unions. The programme is underwritten by Utmost PanEurope dac. The policyholder is Public Service Credit Union, but the beneficiary is whoever receives the member’s funds after their death. The credit union is not registered as an insurance intermediary and is acting as an introducer in this case. No commission or other incentive will be earned by the credit union.

You can sign-up by completing the application form below and returning it to the credit union. Alternatively, you can upload the completed application form to the credit union using the Document Upload facility on the PSCU web site or mobile app. As a third option, you can scan the application form and email it to deathbenefit@pscu.ie

Some terms and conditions apply, but not many. A copy of the key facts are below.