Starlight

Starlight is a CUSO-supported platform that helps credit unions connect members to the more than $140 billion in unclaimed federal, state, and local government benefits each year — including SNAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP, child care subsidies, housing assistance, and tax credits like the EITC and Child Tax Credit. Members complete a simple eligibility check, get step-by-step application support, and are then routed back into the credit union's products to deepen the relationship. Since 2024, Starlight has unlocked more than $15M in potential benefits for members, with partner credit unions seeing roughly $1,000/year per qualifying member, 32% higher engagement, and 2x retention. Starlight is now live in all 50 states and partners with credit unions including St. Louis Community, Metro, GHS, and 1st University.

Best fit for credit unions that are:

• Working toward or retaining low-income designation (LID) and need to demonstrate substantive service to low-income members
• Submitting Underserved Area applications and looking to prove meaningful impact in those communities
• Focused on deposit and engagement growth among low-to-moderate-income members
• Mission-focused and committed to delivering tangible, measurable financial relief