SAN DIEGO -- CUSO Financial Services LP said it has distributed $4 million in retained earnings to its credit union limited partners, bringing the total distributions in 2008 to $8 million.

Describing the recent allotment as its own "economic stimulus package," the broker-dealer and registered investment adviser is encouraging credit unions to reinvest the money into marketing, education and customer support within their investment programs.

"Credit unions, like all businesses, are feeling the pinch right now. It's tempting for them to cut back on hiring advisers, marketing, traveling to educational conferences, and providing investment workshop programs for members," said Valorie Seyfert, president/CEO of CFS. "We believe that the challenges in our marketplace present opportunities. Now more than ever, when everyone else is pulling back, we are encouraging credit unions to step forward and reach out to their members to help them through these troubling times."

CFS said it is putting the finishing touches on phase two of its version of an economic stimulus program to include discounted products, services and incentives.

The CUSO serves more than 120 credit unions.