University of Hawaii FCU's Pepa Kiko'o card brings members into future banking

HONOLULU – The University of Hawaii Federal Credit Union (UHFCU) has always made an effort to offer innovative, convenient and unique services that address the specific needs of its valued members. The $168-million credit union's check card continues that tradition. "We introduced the Pepa Kiko'o check card as a debit card for point of sale purchases and to provide members with the convenience of not having to write a check," Ariel Chun, chief executive officer of UHFCU, explained. "This card can also access our members' checking accounts to withdraw funds from ATMs. Our management team deserves the credit for creating the card in response to members' request for this service. We believe it is the card of the future because it will revolutionize the check processing industry by reducing the amount of paper used, and providing greater convenience using less expensive electronic means of accessing funds." With Pepa Kiko'o, UHFCU members enjoy several major benefits. For example, members using the card do not have to carry a bulky checkbook – which could be unintentionally misplaced or lost and not returned. With the card, members also have 24-hour ATM access similar to an ATM savings/checking card. Additionally, members do not have to wait for check approvals. Other benefits include use worldwide with merchants displaying the MasterCard logo, and 24-hour access through a service provider who will assist when a card is lost or stolen, and will assist with issuing a replacement card. Chun said the Pepa Kiko'o card is unique to UHFCU and is only available to the CU's members. "The design of our card reflects the colors of a rainbow, which represents the melting pot of residents that make up our diverse membership," she said. Chun said member usage numbers – nine transactions per active account, with an average transaction amount of $49 – proves members are enjoying the convenience of using the card. "Pepa Kiko'o means paperless check," Chun explained. "Members were resistant to change and the conversion process was slow at first, but it has since accelerated because members have experienced and expressed the ease and convenience of using the card. The millennium is here and we are moving towards future banking."