The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) is an independent federal agency that supervises, charters, and insures federal and most state-chartered credit unions in the United States. Established in 1970 by the Federal Credit Union Act, it aims to ensure the safety and soundness of the nation’s credit union system, as well as maintain stability within the industry through regulation and supervision. The NCUA provides deposit insurance to eligible credit union members through the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), which covers individual deposits up to $250,000 per account owner. It also offers technical assistance, outreach programs, and educational resources for credit unions across the country to promote financial literacy and responsible lending practices. The agency is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, and has regional offices located throughout the U.S.