The merger creates a wonderful opportunity and adds more value for BAFCU members.”
– BAFCU Team
Thank you again for the vote of confidence – we look forward to serving you!
– First Credit Union Team
Your New Account Number
With that in mind, we’re keeping the transition as seamless as possible. You get to keep your account number – we’re just adding “2200XX” to the beginning of your BAFCU account number. If the length of your current account number is less than five digits, we’ll add 22 plus enough 0’s to get to nine total digits. Your existing BAFCU cards and accounts will work until July 31st. You can find your existing BAFCU account number in your paper statements, eStatements, debit card (it’s the first five digits of the last six numbers on your card, ex: 4206 1800 20123456 – account #12345).
Frequently Asked Questions
Will BAFCU change its name?
Yes, the continuing credit union’s name will be First Credit Union.
What is the timeline of the merger?
The merger became effective on May 1, 2022.
Do First Credit Union members also have to vote on the merger?
No, it is not a requirement of the acquiring credit union to seek a vote from its members. Voting is now closed.
Will I have to reopen all my accounts at First Credit Union?
All accounts have been transferred over to First Credit Union at this time. Visit their site here.
Will my account numbers change?
GOOD NEWS you get to keep your account #, First CU will just add a few digits to the beginning of your number to allow for compatibility with their system.
What happens to my debit card?
You should have received a new debit card from First Credit Union in August. Please contact us if you have not received your card or have any further questions.
If I have already set up a direct deposit, do I need to do anything?
No, you will not have to do anything. This will be something that is handled by the credit union on your behalf.
Will the routing number change?
Once the merger takes place, First Credit Union will have “ownership” of the BAFCU routing number. In other words, the Federal Reserve will know that BAFCU items need to come to First Credit Union. Eventually, the combined credit union will use only the First Credit Union routing number as we gradually make the necessary changes behind the scenes. We will discontinue using the BAFCU routing number for all new check orders, ACH and wires in August 2022.
Where are First Credit Union’s branches?
First Credit Union has 8 branches located in: Tempe, Chandler, Ocotillo, Goodyear, Phoenix, Glendale, and Tucson. You can find all the branch location addresses HERE.
Will I still be able to use my BAFCU Visa credit card?
You can continue to use your BAFCU credit card. Your new First Credit Union Credit Cards will arrive mid-November.
What happens to the loans I have with BAFCU?
All loans will be automatically transferred to First Credit Union. All terms of your loan will be honored.
Will interest rates change on my existing loan?
No, you have a contract and the rate and terms you have as a BAFCU member will be honored for the term of that loan.
Are either of the credit unions in financial trouble?
No, both credit unions continue to achieve growth and success independently; however, the Boards of Directors of both credit unions see how joining forces to create a larger institution can create more efficiencies and resources.
Who can be members of First Credit Union?
First Credit Union offers membership to people who live, work, and worship within a ten-mile radius of any First Credit Union branch. Their field of membership also includes:
- Immediate Family Members of a First Credit Union members including spouses, children, siblings, parents, grandparents, grandchildren, step-children, step-parents, step-siblings and adopted children, even if not living in the same residence
- Household Members who are a permanent member of and participate in the maintenance of the household (i.e., two people sharing an apartment) of a First Credit Union member
- Employees & Retirees from any of our business partners or select employer groups, even if retired from another state
- Member Referrals from any current First Credit Union member in good standing
Where can I learn more about First Credit Union?
You can visit FirstCU.net to learn more about all the products and services that First Credit Union offers.
Will I still see my favorite BAFCU staff member?
We’re pleased to announce that ALL current employees of Bashas’ Associates will remain as employees of First Credit Union.
Will the Tempe Branch remain open?
The BAFCU branch location in Tempe will remain open until further notice as we work to consolidate operations. We encourage our members to visit First Credit Union’s other eight (8) Branch locations for added convenience. See locations here.
