Sometimes in life, our finances can come up a bit short. At SAFE, we completely understand that there are times when our members may have expenses that are a bit more than what they have available in their account that day. That’s why we have our members’ backs with SAFE’s Courtesy Pay service.*
What is Courtesy Pay
SAFE offers standard overdraft practices (Courtesy Pay) options to cover transactions when a member may not have enough available funds in their account. The available balance includes any transfer accounts set up under SAFE’s optional overdraft protection plan.
SAFE automatically provides Courtesy Pay to members in good standing to cover ACH transactions, checks, and recuring debit card transactions.
Members who also opt in to have Courtesy Pay cover ATM and everyday debit card transactions may avoid declined transactions at the register. If a member wants SAFE to authorize and pay overdrafts on ATM and everyday debit card transactions, call (800) 733-7233 or visit a branch.
Courtesy Pay Fees Changed to Benefit More Members
Starting January 1, 2026:
- Pay no more than 2 Courtesy Pay fees in one day.
- Each fee is $14, so the most paid in a single day is $28.
- For transactions of $5 or less, SAFE will not charge any fee.
Tools To Help Monitor Accounts
By staying on top of account activity, members can know when they may need to transfer funds to help cover upcoming expenses. We understand that more people depend on digital banking tools to track their finances—few people sit down and balance a checkbook these days. The good news is that digital banking services provide easy ways to keep on top of account activity.
Set account balance alerts. SAFE members can set up account balance alerts in Online Banking and the SAFE Mobile App. When account balances reach a level set by the member, SAFE sends a text or email to let the member know.
Set transaction alerts. SAFE also provides alerts on transactions, so members can monitor in real time activity on their accounts.
Move money easily. SAFE members can quickly move money from their SAFE savings to checking accounts with just a few taps in the Mobile App and in Online Banking. Members can also transfer funds through phone banking and at ATMs.
If you’d like help budgeting and learn other financial insights, consider reaching out to our Financial Wellness team at financialwellness@safecu.org for help setting up a budget, understanding Courtesy Pay and more. We’re here to help on a personal level!
* SAFE pays overdrafts at our discretion, which means we do not guarantee that we will always authorize and pay any type of transaction. If SAFE pays a transaction, members must bring their account to a positive balance within 30 days. A fee may be charged each time a transaction is presented against insufficient funds up to the maximum of 2 fees per day. See Fee Schedule for Courtesy Pay pricing.
