Important Information Regarding OCTFCU Merger

Smooth transition for Orange County's educators.

This page guides former OCTFCU members through their transition to SchoolsFirst FCU. It outlines key dates, explains changes to accounts and services, details how to access new platforms, and provides answers to common questions for a smooth integration.

Welcome, Former OCTFCU Members!

SchoolsFirst FCU extends a warm welcome to all former Orange County Teachers Federal Credit Union (OCTFCU) members. We are excited to have you join our credit union family and are committed to making your transition as smooth and straightforward as possible. This page is designed to provide you with all the essential information you need to understand the changes and benefits that come with being a SchoolsFirst FCU member.

Our goal is to ensure you continue to receive the exceptional service and financial products you expect. We understand that mergers can bring questions, and we've worked diligently to anticipate your needs and provide clear answers. You'll find details here about your accounts, how to access our services, and what to expect in the coming weeks and months.

We have a long history of serving the educational community, and we are dedicated to upholding the trust you placed in OCTFCU. Your financial well-being remains our top priority, and we look forward to serving you with the same commitment to excellence that has defined both our institutions.

Important Dates and Timeline for SchoolsFirst FCU

Understanding the timeline for the OCTFCU integration into SchoolsFirst FCU is crucial. The official merger date was [Insert Merger Date Here], at which point OCTFCU legally became part of SchoolsFirst FCU. This initiated the process of integrating member accounts and services.

We encourage you to review any communications you received from us, as they contain personalized details about your accounts and specific actions you may need to take. For general information on credit union mergers, you can refer to resources like the NCUA's guidance on credit union mergers.

What's Changing (and What's Not) with SchoolsFirst FCU

As a former OCTFCU member, you'll find that many aspects of your financial relationship remain familiar, while others have been updated to align with SchoolsFirst FCU's offerings. Your account numbers have changed, and you will receive new debit and credit cards. Direct deposits and automatic payments linked to your old OCTFCU accounts were generally transferred, but it's always wise to verify these with your payors and billers.

Your shares are still federally insured by the NCUA up to at least $250,000, just as they were with OCTFCU. This protection remains unchanged and is a cornerstone of credit union safety.

On the other hand, many aspects remain consistent. You will continue to experience the same member-focused service you've always known, now backed by the extensive resources of SchoolsFirst FCU. All former OCTFCU branch locations are now SchoolsFirst FCU branches, staffed by many of the same friendly faces you're used to seeing. Your loan terms and rates will also remain as originally agreed upon, unless you choose to refinance with our current offerings.

Accessing Your Accounts and Services with SchoolsFirst FCU

Accessing your accounts as a former OCTFCU member is now done exclusively through SchoolsFirst FCU's platforms. Your new SchoolsFirst FCU account number is essential for this. If you haven't received it, please contact us immediately.

  1. Online Banking: Visit our website at [SchoolsFirst FCU Website URL] and click on the 'Login' button. You will need to register for a new online banking account using your new SchoolsFirst FCU account number. Follow the prompts to create your new username and password.
  2. Mobile Banking: Download the SchoolsFirst FCU Mobile App from your device's app store. Once installed, use your new online banking credentials to log in.
  3. Debit and Credit Cards: Your new SchoolsFirst FCU debit and credit cards have been mailed to you. Please activate them immediately upon receipt and begin using them for transactions. Your old OCTFCU cards are no longer active.
  4. Branch and ATM Access: You can now use any SchoolsFirst FCU branch or ATM for your banking needs. Additionally, you have access to a vast network of surcharge-free ATMs nationwide through the CO-OP network.

We recommend updating any saved payment information with online retailers or subscription services to reflect your new SchoolsFirst FCU card numbers to avoid interruptions in service.

Frequently Asked Questions for SchoolsFirst FCU

We've compiled answers to common questions former OCTFCU members have asked about their transition to SchoolsFirst FCU.

Need More Help? Contact SchoolsFirst FCU

We understand that you may have specific questions about your accounts or the transition process. Our dedicated team at SchoolsFirst FCU is here to provide you with the support you need. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you require further assistance or clarification.

You can contact us in several ways:

We are committed to making your experience with SchoolsFirst FCU a positive one and look forward to building a lasting financial relationship with you. For more information about credit unions in general, you can visit the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) website.

Feature Former OCTFCU New SchoolsFirst FCU
Account Number Old OCTFCU account numbers New SchoolsFirst FCU account numbers issued
Debit/Credit Cards Expired OCTFCU cards New SchoolsFirst FCU cards issued and active
Online Banking OCTFCU online banking portal (inactive) SchoolsFirst FCU online banking portal
Branch Access OCTFCU branches only All SchoolsFirst FCU branches (including former OCTFCU locations)
ATM Network Limited OCTFCU ATMs Extensive SchoolsFirst FCU & CO-OP ATM network
Loan Terms As originally agreed As originally agreed (no change unless refinanced)

Questions about OCTFCU Info

How do I find my new SchoolsFirst FCU account number?

Your new SchoolsFirst FCU account number was mailed to you in a welcome packet shortly after the merger. If you cannot locate it, please contact our Member Contact Center for assistance. For security reasons, we cannot provide account numbers via email.

Can I still use my old OCTFCU debit card with SchoolsFirst FCU?

No, your old OCTFCU debit card is no longer active. You should have received a new SchoolsFirst FCU debit card. Please activate and begin using your new card immediately.

What happens to my automatic bill payments that were set up with OCTFCU, now with SchoolsFirst FCU?

Most automatic bill payments and direct deposits were automatically transferred. However, we strongly recommend reviewing your online banking and contacting your billers and payors to ensure they have your new SchoolsFirst FCU account information to prevent any interruptions.

Will my loan interest rates change now that I am with SchoolsFirst FCU?

No, the interest rates and terms on your existing loans from OCTFCU will remain unchanged. SchoolsFirst FCU will honor the original terms of your loan agreements.

Where can I find a SchoolsFirst FCU branch or ATM near me?

You can find all SchoolsFirst FCU branch locations and a locator for surcharge-free ATMs (including CO-OP network ATMs) on our website. All former OCTFCU branches are now operating as SchoolsFirst FCU branches.

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