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For credit unions considering a merger

Weigh every path while you still control the timing.

We help boards and CEOs compare their options honestly, including remaining independent, and, if a merger is right, find the partner that fits your members.

Merging into another credit union may be the most emotional decision a board ever faces. Having helped many boards through it, we understand the issues from both the board's and management's side.

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The problem we solve

Most boards decide too late.

The reasons boards start to ask the question vary: members wanting better rates, services and technology; stagnant member or loan growth; an aging membership; regulatory burden; earnings or capital pressure; or CEO and board turnover.

The longer the question waits, the fewer the options. A board that looks early can compare independence, a merger of equals and joining a larger credit union on its own terms.

The first step is reading or a private conversation, never a merger decision.

How an engagement runs

Five stages, at your board's pace.

  1. 01

    Options review

    Lay out every path, including remaining independent, against your members' needs and your financial condition.

  2. 02

    Partner criteria

    Agree what matters most: cultural fit, shared values, member benefits, staff and the community's name.

  3. 03

    Confidential search

    Identify and approach credit unions that meet the criteria. Your credit union is not named until there is interest.

  4. 04

    Negotiation

    Represent your board through governance, leadership, name and terms to a letter of intent.

  5. 05

    Approval and member vote

    Support the regulatory filings, member communications and vote through to completion.

The record

Credit union mergers we have advised on

See all transactions
  • Announced transaction Gulf Winds Credit Union to acquire Madison County Community Bank Financial adviser to Gulf Winds Credit Union August 2026
  • Completed transaction San Francisco Federal Credit Union has acquired Summit Bank Financial adviser to San Francisco FCU July 2026
  • Announced transaction Frontier Credit Union to acquire First Citizens Bank of Butte Financial adviser to Frontier Credit Union February 2026
Related reading

For boards weighing their options

All insights
Confidential

Weigh it privately before the board discusses it formally.

A first conversation commits your credit union to nothing, including to any path.

Start a confidential conversation