Guardian Credit Union has transformed its lending operations by shifting the entire loan process to secure text messaging, using Eltropy’s AI-powered digital conversations platform integrated with Sync1 Systems.

The Prattville, Ala.-based credit union, which serves communities through 16 branches and manages more than $1.1 billion in assets, has reduced loan processing times from days to minutes by replacing phone tag and manual follow-ups with real-time text communication.

“We can now complete the entire process from application creation to underwriting submission, all in a single phone call,” said Lending Program Manager at Guardian CU, Tyler McCurdy. “As I’m asking for things, I can text it over.”

The new system allows staff to request documents with one click, send secure upload links, and have member submissions automatically organized in the correct loan file. The texting tool is fully embedded within the credit union’s loan origination system, enabling lenders to communicate directly with members without switching platforms.

The change has improved efficiency, staff satisfaction, and member experience. Guardian’s collections team now uses the platform for payment reminders, and other departments are expanding its use for broader member communication.

“This technology is absolutely critical to our expansion plans,” McCurdy added, noting Guardian’s goal of opening 10 new branches over the next five years. “I just don’t think you’ll be able to continue to grow your membership and business base without texting.”

About Eltropy

Eltropy is the leading unified conversations platform for community financial institutions. Its AI-driven communications tools give financial institutions the ability to communicate, automate, and improve operations and engagement across the institution – all while maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance. Using Eltropy’s platform, institutions can connect with and service their members and customers anytime, anywhere via Text, Chat, Video, and Voice, all integrated into a single platform. For more information visit eltropy.com.