Welcome HEMA FCU Members

We are pleased to announce that on July 10, 2026, Healthcare Employees Mid-Atlantic (HEMA) Federal Credit Union members voted to merge with PAHO/WHO Federal Credit Union, effective September 1, 2026. On that same day, the combined credit union will begin a new chapter as Bienestar Federal Credit Union.

Bienestar FCU Coming September 1, 2026

HEMA FCU and PAHO/WHO FCU share a common mission: helping people live healthier financial lives. By coming together, we will build on that shared purpose as we grow alongside the members and communities we serve today and well into the future.

Our new name, Bienestar FCU, reflects our commitment to financial wellness and the overall well-being of our members. It also represents the unity and possibilities ahead.

Beginning September 1, HEMA FCU members will become part of a strong, financially sound credit union that offers greater convenience and a comprehensive suite of financial products and services.

We're excited about the future and having you with us for the journey.

More Information Coming Soon

Additional details about the merger and what members can expect will be shared in the coming weeks.

HEMA FCU MERGER FAQs

Service Disruption FAQs

As part of the merger,

  • HEMA FCU will close at 2 pm on Friday, August 28, 2026, and will not reopen before September 1, 2026
  • PAHO/WHO FCU will be closed on Monday, August 31, 2026
  • All branches will reopen as Bienestar FCU on Tuesday, September 1, 2026

 

Accounts and Direct Deposits FAQs

  • If you currently receive direct deposits from MedStar Washington Hospital Center or National Rehabilitation Hospital into your HEMA account, NO ACTION IS REQUIRED at this time. Your direct deposits will automatically transfer to your Bienestar FCU account.
  • For direct deposits from any other employer or source, you will need to update your direct deposit instructions after September 1, 2026, using Bienestar FCU's routing number and your new Bienestar FCU account number.

Bienestar FCU ABA number/routing number: 254075072

 

Yes. Your account number will now be a minimum of nine (9) digits.

If your current HEMA FCU account number has Example Account Number Add to the front of your current HEMA FCU account number New Bienestar FCU Account 
Four Digits 1234 20260 202601234
Five Digits 12345 2026 202612345

Loan FAQs

If you currently have automatic loan payments to your HEMA FCU account NO FURTHER ACTION REQUIRED at this time. If you make your payments in person or by mail, please begin making your payments payable to Bienestar FCU after September 1, 2026.

You can:

  • Mail your payment to:

Bienestar Federal Credit Union
P.O. Box 17460
Arlington, VA 22216

  • Enroll in Digital Banking to make a one-time payment or schedule recurring payments
  • Call us at 202-974-3453

Yes. Your loan account number will slightly change from your current HEMA FCU account number with a letter suffix, to your new Bienestar FCU account number with a number suffix. Please check your next statement for the updated account number or contact us

No.

Let's Get Started FAQs (After September 1, 2026)

You now have access to a full range of products and services including:

  • Credit & Debit Cards
  • Checking
  • Home Loans & HELOCs
  • Share Certificates

Explore Digital Banking

Enroll in Online Banking to view your accounts, transfer funds, and make one-time or recurring loan payments.

Download the Bienestar FCU Mobile Banking App to manage your account from your mobile device. To use the mobile app, you'll first need to enroll in online banking.