Welcome Home, Arizona Copper Federal Credit Union Members
Switch to American Southwest Credit Union with Ease
01/09/2025
AZ Copper Home Banking Service
We understand that recent service disruptions may have raised concerns. We want to assure you that this issue did not originate with AZ Copper or American Southwest. It stems from a third-party vendor and is currently being addressed. We are actively collaborating with our vendor to swiftly resolve the matter. Rest assured, there is no security breach involved.
ASCU online banking boasts an impressive 99.5% uptime, a testament to its reliability. We encourage you to experience the convenience and security of ASCU online banking by switching your accounts today.
01/03/2025
Dear New ASCU Credit Union Member,
We’re writing to update you on the progress of the merger with American Southwest Credit Union (ASCU) and the conversion of Arizona Copper Federal Credit Union member accounts. This transition has increased lines and wait times, and we sincerely apologize. We know this is a big change, and we appreciate your patience as we work to make this transition as smooth as possible.
We understand that changes like this can be inconvenient and might temporarily disrupt your banking routine. Rest assured, we’re working hard to minimize any disruptions.
Here’s a reminder of what’s been happening:
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We’ve already created new accounts for you at ASCU.
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We’re also transferring all of your loans to ASCU’s system, which should be completed by the end of January 2025. To ensure a smooth transition for your loan or account, please call us to review any details, and or questions you may have.
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We want this partnership to work for you! With more personalized and customized service options now available, we aim to better meet your individual financial needs.
Here’s what you can do to help or make this transition easier for you:
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Confirm your contact information: Call or visit us to make sure we have your correct phone number, email address, and mailing address so we can keep you updated about your account.
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Download the ASCU app: Download the ASCU app on your phone to bank from anywhere. Located in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Need help?
If you have any questions about your new ASCU account, please contact us. We welcome your feedback. You can schedule an appointment with a member service representative at our Kearny Branch who can assist you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at (520) 459-1860 or toll-free: (800) 752-6394.
Sincerely,
Jay Williamson
President and CEO
Dan Thurman, CCUE
Executive Vice President
12/18/2024
Dear Valued Member,
We are excited to announce that your new accounts have been set up at American Southwest Credit Union (ASCU)!
As you may know, Arizona Copper Federal Credit Union recently merged with ASCU. This merger allows us to offer you a wider range of products and services, including:
- More branch locations
- Enhanced online and mobile banking
- Expanded loan options
- Improved member support
Important Next Steps:
- Confirm your contact information: Please contact us at your earliest convenience to confirm your current phone number, email address, and mailing address. This will ensure you receive important account updates and information.
- Explore ASCU’s offerings: Visit our website at ASCU.ORG to learn more about our products, services, and branch locations.
- Download the ASCU mobile app: Manage your accounts on the go with our convenient mobile app.
- Set up direct deposit and bill pay: Easily manage your finances through our secure online banking portal.
We’re currently transferring all loans to ASCU’s systems. This process is ongoing and is expected to be finished by the end of January. To ensure a smooth transition, please contact us to confirm your new loan information. We’ll keep you updated with more details and instructions as the conversion progresses.
We are committed to providing you with a smooth transition and exceptional service. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (520) 459-1860 or visit your nearest ASCU branch.
Kearny Branch: 112 Williams Lane, Kearny, AZ 85137
Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM | ASCU.ORG/KEARNY
Welcome to American Southwest Credit Union!
Sincerely,
The ASCU Team
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11/19/2024
Timeline of the Merger Between Arizona Copper Federal Credit Union (AZCFCU) and American Southwest Credit Union (ASCU)
We understand this will be a difficult process for a couple months as we make the transition. We appreciate your patience and cooperation throughout this time.
To ensure the security of your new ASCU accounts and comply with identification and security regulations, we require AZCFCU members to participate in the account conversion process. This involves verifying your identity and updating your account information.
Timeline:
- April 19, 2024: Arizona Copper Federal Credit Union (AZCFCU) and American Southwest Credit Union (ASCU) officially announce their merger. AZCFCU will merge into ASCU.
- July 10, 2024: AZCFCU members vote to approve the merger with ASCU.
- December 2024 (estimated): Important Deadline: Access to the AZCFCU system, including the website and online banking, will likely be closed.
- January 2025: Welcome to ASCU! Former AZCFCU members can now fully enjoy all the benefits and services ASCU offers.
Continuing Popular Programs:
ASCU is committed to providing the same great benefits you enjoyed at AZCFCU. We’ve continued the popular loan deferment program and introduced a new Holiday Skip-A-Payment program.
To get started, visit https://ascu.org/kearny and learn about our ASCU Switch-kit: https://ascu.org/switch-kit. These resources provide detailed information and answer frequently asked questions.
Once you’ve completed the conversion process, you can access your money conveniently and securely through our award-winning mobile app, online Home Banking, and ATM/ATM network partners.
About ASCU:
ASCU is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative dedicated to providing excellent financial services and exceeding member expectations. With the merger, ASCU now serves over 30,000 members across Arizona. Federally Insured by NCUA. Equal Opportunity Lender
ASCU Kearny Branch:
112 Williams Lane, Kearny, AZ 85137. Open Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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Welcome to the ASCU Kearny Branch, your trusted financial partner in the heart of Arizona’s Copper Basin. We are proud to serve the unique needs of the Kearny community and surrounding areas.
Our friendly team of local experts is dedicated to providing personalized service and tailored solutions to help you achieve your financial goals. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a newcomer to the area, or a business owner, we have the products and expertise to support you.
Why Choose ASCU Kearny?
- Local Expertise: We understand the unique financial landscape of the Copper Basin and are committed to serving our community.
- Personalized Service: We take the time to get to know you and your financial needs, providing guidance and support every step of the way.
- Wide Range of Services: We offer a comprehensive suite of financial products, including checking and savings accounts, loans, mortgages, and business services.
- Convenient Location: Easily access our branch at 112 Williams Lane, Kearny, AZ 85137, conveniently located near Kearny Historic District and the Ray Mine.
We’re more than just a credit union; we’re your neighbors. ASCU is committed to investing in the Kearny community and surrounding areas through sponsorships, donations, and volunteer work. We are proud to be a part of this vibrant region’s rich history and bright future.
Getting Started with ASCU:
- Visit a branch: Find your nearest ASCU branch location https://ascu.org/locations/.
- Kearny Branch: 112 Williams Lane. Kearny, AZ 85137.
- Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Online banking: If you haven’t already, enroll in ASCU’s secure online banking system to manage your accounts from anywhere, anytime.
- Contact us: We’re here to answer any questions you may have. Call us at (520) 459-1860 or visit our website https://ascu.org/.
Explore the benefits of ASCU membership:
- Visit our website https://ascu.org/ to learn more about our products and services.
- Check out our FAQs below for answers to frequently asked questions about the merger.
We’re confident that you’ll find ASCU to be a valuable partner in achieving your financial goals. Welcome aboard!
July 19th, 2024: We’re excited to share upcoming service improvements, but we know rising utility bills are a challenge. While our official merger takes effect on August 1, 2024, we’re offering a limited-time program to help: loan payment deferrals starting now!
To apply for a 30-day deferment, you have three options:
- Visit our Kearny office at 112 Williams Lane, Kearny, AZ 85137.
- Email us at loans@azcopperfcu.org.
- Call us at 520-363-5681 ext. 303
As of July 10th, 2024, Arizona Copper FCU members voted to merge with ASCU to create a stronger, more resourceful credit union for members across southeastern Arizona.
What this means for you:
- More choices, greater convenience: ASCU offers a wider range of financial products and services, including loans, checking and savings accounts, and online banking. You’ll also have access to more branches and ATMs throughout the region.
- Personalized service you can trust: At ASCU, we believe in building strong relationships with our members. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to provide you with personalized financial solutions to meet your unique needs.
- A commitment to our community: Like Arizona Copper FCU, ASCU is dedicated to improving the quality of life for everyone in southeastern Arizona. We’re proud to support local businesses, schools, and organizations.
Merger FAQs
Will our location change?
No. American Southwest plans to add Arizona Copper’s Kearny branch location to its existing branch network. There are no plans for any branch closures.
What does this merger mean for members?
The strategic merger between our two credit unions would allow us the opportunity to provide superior value and positively impact our membership bases.
More Responsive to Evolving Financial Needs
In the highly competitive financial services industry, combining our strengths would allow us to continue to enhance our product, service, and digital banking offerings.
Products/Services and Enhance Electronic Banking Products
As a larger organization, we would achieve greater economies of scale, which would allow us to offer an even more robust product and service line, reduce costs, and ultimately return more value to you, our members. Further, this would allow us to improve our technology and ensure that we’re providing the best digital banking solutions that we can for all members today and in the future.
More Member Access Across More Branch Locations
In total, we would have 6 branches. A larger branch network would allow us to have a greater impact on members. Beyond that, through this partnership, we would gain more resources allowing us to serve more members and have a deeper impact in the communities we serve.
Same Knowledgeable, Friendly Employees
The same friendly staff at our branches would continue to be available to serve members.
Would any employees lose their jobs as a result of the merger?
No. Both credit unions recognize and value the importance of retaining our experienced and dedicated employees. A successful combined organization depends heavily on investing further into the talent of our team members.
What would this partnership do for the credit unions?
Combined total assets will be over $400M, serving 33,000+ members with 6 branches in Arizona. With a broad branch network and our combined strengths in products, services, and technological solutions, we would be able to better serve our members and communities.
Why Arizona Copper?
We wanted to identify a partner that shared our passion and aligned with our mission. Both American Southwest and Arizona Copper share a deep dedication to members, team members, and the communities that we serve. We share a common vision for growth and the future of the combined organization.
Would the field of membership change?
The field of membership area has been approved for expansion to include Pinal and Gila Counties.
Would the change in the field of membership affect my membership?
The expansion of the membership area to include Pinal and Gila Counties will not affect current members of either AZ Copper or ASCU.
Do American Southwest members vote?
No. The proposed merger requires the approval of a majority of the members of Arizona Copper Federal Credit Union, who vote on the proposal. American Southwest members are not required to vote, but if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the American Southwest staff.
About ASCU & ACFCU
About American Southwest: American Southwest Credit Union (ASCU) has a rich heritage of serving its member owners since 1954. By providing personal and business financial services to our members, with local decision making and local community investments, everyone benefits. We truly care about the success and financial well-being of our members. And when our members prosper, so do our communities. To learn more, you can visit our website here.
About Arizona Copper: Established in 1955, Arizona Copper Federal Credit Union has a proud heritage of serving miners and mining contractors in the greater Copper Basin and neighboring communities. Previously operating under the name Ray Federal Credit Union, Arizona Copper’s mission has been to be the first choice provider of superior financial solutions by building lifelong relationships, one member at a time. To learn more, visit their website here.