MADISON, Wis. -- A new research brief from the Filene Research Institute on consumer debt and credit cards recommends that CUs intervene earlier with members who exhibit signs of debt-related stress and late payments.

Authored by Filene CEO Mark Meyer, the research brief cites previously published research that showed that credit card debit could become as big a problem as mortgage related debt and urges CUs to continue to offer members credit but to do so carefully and proactively.

"Help your members avoid pushing the panic button," Meyer wrote. "Target members (those with annual household incomes of less than $60,000, aged 35--44, and women) with information and offers of assistance in dealing with unexpected credit card term and condition changes. Educate members about predatory credit card terms and conditions and the potential adverse impact. Offer credit (as appropriate) to those who have been turned down elsewhere."