For decades, the payments system in the U.S. has operated on a delay. Whether it was ACH batch files, weekend lags, or wire cut-off times, timing has always been a constraint.

That era is ending.

With the rise of real-time payment rails like the Clearing House RTP network and the newly launched FedNow Service, credit unions are entering a 24/7 payments environment that will transform not just how money moves, but how businesses operate.

If you lead a credit union, especially one with commercial members or treasury services, real-time payments are a MUST have.

Why It Matters: Your Business Members Are Already Feeling the Shift

1. Businesses expect faster payments—because their customers already have them.
   From Venmo to Zelle to PayPal, instant payments have become the consumer norm. Business owners, especially younger entrepreneurs, expect the same speed in their commercial banking. If your CU can’t deliver real-time transfers, they’ll look elsewhere. “If I can send money to a friend instantly, why does paying a vendor take days?” — Small business owner, Florida
2. Cash flow is king—and RTP protects it.
   In tight-margin environments, access to funds in real time isn’t a convenience. It’s a necessity. With RTP, businesses can receive payments instantly, unlock working capital faster, and make payroll or vendor payments without delay. That’s a game-changer for small businesses with unpredictable revenue cycle. Credit unions that offer RTP become part of a business’s operating advantage, not just their bank.
3. RTP levels the playing field with big banks.
   Right now, many large banks are leading the RTP conversation. But credit unions can, and should, be agile leaders here. Offering RTP as part of your treasury management platform positions your CU as forward-thinking, tech-savvy, and ready to serve modern businesses.

The Bigger Impact: What This Means for Your Community

• Local businesses stay competitive.
  Your business members are up against national competitors with faster processes and better tech. Giving them tools like RTP helps them stay lean, agile, and competitive, right from your local branch.
• Communities grow stronger.
  When small businesses thrive, they hire more, invest more, and contribute more to the local economy. RTP can help them do that by reducing delays, stabilizing cash flow, and enabling smarter financial planning.
• Trust deepens.
  Offering modern solutions shows your members you’re evolving with them. It sends a message: “We see where the world is going, and we’re going with you.”

What Credit Union Leaders Should Do Now

1. Audit your payments infrastructure.
   Can your core handle RTP? Are your systems integrated with FedNow or TCH RTP? Do your staff and members understand the benefits? Start there.
2. Build RTP into your treasury roadmap.
   RTP isn’t just about speed. It should be part of a larger treasury offering, alongside ACH, wire, remote deposit capture, and fraud prevention tools. When bundled thoughtfully, RTP becomes a relationship driver.
3. Educate your business members.
   Many businesses don’t know what RTP is, or how much it could help them. Offer webinars, simple use-case sheets, and in-branch training to show them what’s possible.

Final Word: RTP Isn’t Just a Feature… It’s a Signal

It signals to your members that you’re modern. That you understand what they need before they ask. That you’re here for them, not just as a financial institution, but as a true partner in their growth.

Credit unions that embrace RTP will grow with their members. Those that don’t? Risk getting left behind.

Want to bring RTP into your treasury strategy or commercial roadmap?
We help credit unions unlock new growth by modernizing their treasury management platform, people, process, and payments included.

Let’s talk.