A Message from Our Board Chair and CEO

At Lincoln County Credit Union, we are proud of our history and our financial strength. For decades, we have operated from a position of stability, service, and community focus. Today, our balance sheet is solid, our reserves are strong, and we continue to be well-positioned to serve members for years to come.

So why consider a merger? Because this is about more than surviving — it’s about thriving. By partnering with Park Side Credit Union, we are choosing to build something even stronger for our members, our staff, and our community. Together, we can offer more branches, more ATMs, more products, and more technology — all while keeping the same local service and community commitment you’ve always trusted.

Park Side Credit Union is a Montana-based credit union that shares our values and roots. They care about local people, local businesses, and local communities — just like we do. This partnership is not about losing our identity; in fact, the Lincoln County Credit Union name will remain in place for at least the next five years, and our branches and team will continue to serve you right here at home. Members will also have the opportunity to vote on the merger before it is finalized — keeping the cooperative spirit front and center.

We know that sometimes a merger announcement can raise questions. Please know this: Lincoln County Credit Union is strong, and this decision comes from a place of strength, not necessity. We are excited about the future, proud of our past, and confident that this partnership will create even greater opportunities for our members and our community.

Thank you for your trust, loyalty, and belief in the credit union difference. Together, we are writing the next chapter of Lincoln County Credit Union’s proud story.

With gratitude,
Jon Reny , Board Chair
Lindsay Beaty , President/CEO

Merger FAQ – Lincoln County Credit Union & Park Side Credit Union

General Merger Information

1. Why is Lincoln County Credit Union merging with Park Side Credit Union?
Lincoln County Credit Union is merging with Park Side Credit Union to give our members greater convenience, access, and long-term value. By combining resources, we’ll provide more branch and ATM locations, an expanded menu of financial products, enhanced digital tools, and stronger financial stability. Importantly, this merger allows us to grow while continuing the same community focus and personalized service that our members rely on.

2. When will the merger officially take place?
The legal merger date is expected to be in mid-2026. After this date, Lincoln County Credit Union will officially become part of Park Side Credit Union. Some changes, like additional branch access, will begin shortly after, while other technology transitions will take place over time to ensure a smooth experience.

3. Who approved this merger?
Your Board of Directors carefully evaluated the future of the credit union and unanimously approved the merger. This decision was made with the best interests of members, staff, and our community in mind. As part of the process, members will also have the opportunity to vote on the merger at a future date. This ensures that your voice is part of the decision-making and reinforces the credit union philosophy of “members first.”

4. How does this merger benefit members of Lincoln County Credit Union?

Members will enjoy:

  • More branch locations across Montana.

  • Access to more surcharge-free ATMs.

  • A wider variety of loan and deposit products.

  • Enhanced online and mobile banking in the future.

  • Greater long-term financial strength to serve you for decades to come.

5. Will the name “Lincoln County Credit Union” go away?
No. The name Lincoln County Credit Union will remain in place for at least fiveyears. This ensures continuity, familiarity, and community pride while we transition together into a stronger future as part of Park Side Credit Union.

6. Is this a merger of equals or is one credit union acquiring the other?
This is a collaborative merger. Lincoln County Credit Union will legally combine with Park Side Credit Union and operate as one unified organization. The goal is to bring together the best of both credit unions for the benefit of all members.

7. How will this merger impact the local community?
Our community commitment remains strong. Both credit unions have deep roots in their local communities, and by joining together, we’ll have even greater resources to support local causes, events, and charitable initiatives.

Member Accounts & Services

8. Will my account number change?
No. Your account number will remain the same. If any changes become necessary in the future, we’ll communicate with you well in advance and assist with the transition.

9. Will my debit card, credit card, or checks still work after the merger?
Yes. Your existing debit card, credit card, and checks will continue to work as usual. If updates are needed in the future, we’ll provide new cards or checks at no cost to you.

10. Will my direct deposits and automatic payments continue without interruption?
Yes. Your direct deposits and automatic payments will continue as usual. There is no need to make any changes.

11. Will there be any changes to my online and mobile banking access?
Not right now. You’ll continue to use your current online and mobile banking platforms. Over time, we will combine systems, but we’ll provide detailed instructions well ahead of any changes.

12. Will my routing number stay the same?
Yes. Your existing routing number will continue to work. If a change is ever required in the future, we’ll give you plenty of notice and assist you with any updates.

13. Will my existing loan terms or interest rates change?
No. Your loan agreements will remain in place until your loan is paid in full. The terms, conditions, and rates will not change.

14. Will I still be able to access the same products and services I use today?
Yes. All the products and services you currently enjoy will remain available, with the added benefit of new options through Park Side Credit Union.

15. Will there be any new products or services available after the merger?
Yes. Park Side Credit Union offers a wider range of products, including additional loan types, savings options, and digital features. These will become available to you after the merger.

Locations, ATMs, and Access

16. Will my local Lincoln County Credit Union branch remain open?
Yes. All Lincoln County Credit Union branches will remain open and staffed by the same people you know and trust.

17. Will I have access to additional branches or ATMs after the merger?
Yes. You’ll have access to all Park Side Credit Union branches and a larger network of surcharge-free ATMs across Montana and beyond.

18. Will branch hours or locations change?
No immediate changes are planned. If hours are adjusted in the future, we’ll share those updates well in advance.

Rates, Fees, and Policies

19. Will my savings and loan rates change after the merger?
No. The rates on your current accounts and loans will remain the same. Over time, you’ll have access to Park Side Credit Union’s competitive rates on new accounts or loans.

20. Will fees on my accounts change?
Your current fees will remain as they are. If there are any changes in the future, we’ll notify you well before they take effect.

21. Will the dividend schedule for my accounts change?
No. Dividends will continue to be paid on the same schedule you are used to. If adjustments are made in the future, you’ll be notified.

22. Will the credit union’s policies for loans and membership change?
Eventually, yes. Over time, we’ll align with Park Side Credit Union’s policies, which are designed to provide more options and benefits for members. For now, your policies remain the same.

Membership & Eligibility

23. Will my membership in Lincoln County Credit Union automatically transfer to Park Side Credit Union?
Yes. Your membership will transfer seamlessly. You don’t need to take any action.

24. Will I need to re-apply or fill out new paperwork?
No. Your membership automatically carries over. No re-application or paperwork is required.

25. Will membership eligibility change after the merger?
Yes. You’ll be part of a larger credit union with a broader field of membership. This means more of your friends, family, and neighbors will be eligible to join.

Safety, Insurance & Privacy

26. Will my funds remain federally insured by the NCUA?
Yes. Your deposits will remain federally insured up to $250,000 per individual, per account, by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). In addition, for members with excess share insurance, Park Side Credit Union is working on additional options to ensure you have equal or greater coverage going forward. This merger is about protecting and enhancing your financial security, and we are committed to providing you with peace of mind.

27. How will my personal and financial information be protected during the transition?
Your security is our top priority. All data and systems will be transferred using secure, industry-standard processes to ensure your information remains safe.

28. Is my money safe during the merger process?
Yes. Your money is completely safe. The merger does not affect the safety of your deposits, loans, or financial information.

Communication & Support

29. How will members be kept informed about merger updates?
We will keep members updated at every step through our website, email, social media, mailed notices, and in-branch communications. You’ll always know what’s happening and when.

Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:

Fall 2025: The two credit unions complete due diligence and file regulatory applications.
Winter 2025/2026: We anticipate receiving regulatory approval. During this time, aspecial meeting of members will be announced.
Spring 2026: Members of Lincoln County Credit Union will vote on the merger. If members approve, the merger will become effective.
Summer 2027 through 2028: Core system integration will begin. This includes the transition of mobile banking, online banking, debit cards, and other account services. Until then, you’ll continue using your current systems and services with no changes.

This step-by-step approach ensures the merger is smooth, transparent, and focused on making your experience better.

30. Who can I contact if I have questions about the merger?

We’re here to help. You can:

Learn More About Park Side Credit Union

We’re excited about this partnership between Lincoln County Credit Union and Park Side Credit Union. Together, we’re building something stronger — combining the local service and community roots of Lincoln County with the expanded resources, technology, and statewide presence of Park Side.

Park Side Credit Union shares our values of putting members first, supporting communities, and delivering personal service with a modern touch. By joining together, we can offer more products, more convenience, and more opportunities for you and your family — while keeping the credit union difference at the heart of everything we do.

We encourage you to learn more about Park Side Credit Union and the benefits this partnership brings. Visit www.parksidefcu.com to explore their story, values, and offerings.

This merger isn’t just about combining two credit unions — it’s about creating an even stronger financial partner for you and our community. The best of Lincoln County Credit Union and Park Side Credit Union is coming together for your future.