Keep your money and account safe with a Trusted Contact
A Trusted Contact is someone you designate that Patelco can communicate with when you go offline and can’t be reached — whether it's due to a health matter, natural disaster or traveling with limited cell reception. A Trusted Contact is also someone Patelco can reach out to if we suspect you might have fallen victim to a scam — or if we suspect financial exploitation or have other concerns about your welfare. Think of a Trusted Contact as an account enhancement that helps Patelco keep your account safe.
What is a Trusted Contact?
A Trusted Contact is a trusted friend or family member who can:
- Confirm your current contact information
- Confirm your health status
- Confirm the contact information for other authorized parties
- Discuss urgent, unusual account activity or other possible red flags
While you are not required to have a Trusted Contact, establishing one may help us move decisively if we ever need to address suspected fraudulent activity. You may already have a power of attorney1 or spouse listed on your account, but a Trusted Contact provides an additional resource to reach out to if an issue arises.
It's important to note that Trusted Contacts are unable to act on your behalf, conduct transactions, or engage in account activity (unless they're already an authorized party on your account such as a joint owner or Trustee).
A Trusted Contact can help protect your account by
Knowing you
Likely to be in the best position to know your current personal and family situation
Helping you avoid scams
Help protect assets, and respond to suspected financial exploitation
Confirming your support system
Identify your legal guardian, trustee or power of attorney
Knowing your health status
If concerns arise, they can confirm your health status
Helping us reach you
Help Patelco connect with you if we are unable to reach you
Advocating for you
Providing you with support and resources when you need it the most
How do I add a Trusted Contact to my account?
Adding a Trusted Contact to your Patelco account is quick and easy.
Choose from any of these three steps to designate a Trusted Contact.
- Visit a local branch or make an appointment online
-
Fill out this form and mail it to: Patelco Credit Union, PO Box 2227, Merced, CA 95344
- Call us at 800.358.8228
Frequently Asked Questions
Designate a Trusted Contact for your account

Learn More
February 7, 2023
People over 60 are common targets for exploitation. Learn how to spot elder fraud, the most common scams, and where to find help if you're a victim.
October 27, 2021
Don’t be fooled by a scammer. Look for these warning signs to identify a possible scam and protect yourself!
1 If you wish, you may designate the same person to be a Trusted Contact and to have power of attorney – but you must complete separate processes and forms for each