First South Financial Integrates BNPL Directly Into Member Accounts

The new service, developed alongside fintech firm equipifi, offers members two distinct ways to manage cash flow. Users can either retroactively split completed debit card transactions into fixed installments or access additional funds through their checking accounts before making a purchase. Because the system relies on internal banking history and cash flow analysis, eligible members are pre-qualified automatically.

Summers Townsend, EVP and Chief Operating Officer at First South Financial, emphasized that the tool is designed to integrate seamlessly into the banking habits members already possess. By keeping the lending process in-house, the institution aims to provide greater financial flexibility while maintaining the oversight of a trusted relationship. Bryce Deeney, CEO of equipifi, noted that this approach keeps users within the safety of their primary financial institution rather than redirecting them to external providers. The initiative aligns with the credit union's broader strategy to modernize its service offerings for its 80,000 members.