East Chicago Fireman's Credit Union Merger

Important Information Regarding the Merger!

We are thrilled to share that the merger between East Chicago Fireman's Credit Union (ECFCU) and GLCU is now official following a member vote! ECFCU members will become members of GLCU starting on August 29, 2025, which is the official merger date. ECFCU is a Select Employee Group (SEG) credit union based in East Chicago, Indiana that exclusively serves East Chicago Fire Department employees and their family members through a single location. ECFCU was looking for a strategic partner that would allow them to offer more products and services, maintain membership, and meet growing regulatory compliance requirements.

Important Note: Rest assured; your existing accounts will not be immediately impacted. You’ll continue to use your current account numbers, debit cards, and digital banking login information until later this year. Through the partnership, we are working towards a future date when accounts will be consolidated under one product suite and the entire GLCU branch network will be available to all members.

Here’s what you can look forward to as a valued GLCU member:

  • Expanded Products and Services: Access a wider array of financial products, services, and helpful financial tools and resources tailored to your needs.
  • Increased Convenience: Enjoy GLCU’s large branch network throughout the Chicagoland area, advanced digital banking technology, and enhanced online tools for seamless account management wherever you are.
  • Stronger Community Impact: Benefit from expanded financial education programs, personalized counseling services, and robust support for local initiatives through the GLCU Foundation for Financial Empowerment.

Here are some of our featured products and services available at GLCU that help our members achieve their financial goals:

  • Financial Empowerment and Education: The GLCU Foundation offers one of the largest HUD-Approved Housing and Financial Counseling Programs in Illinois to help with your next move, whether you're buying or renting. We also offer age-appropriate youth education programs and accounts for kids and teens to teach healthy financial habits.  
  • Loan Products for Your Lifestyle: GLCU is happy to provide a variety of loans that make sense for your life.
    • Credit Builder Loan: Building good credit is key to financial empowerment. That's why GLCU is proud to offer a Credit Builder loan that gives you a no-cost opportunity to build or repair your credit profile.
    • Fast Cash Loan: Get the cash you need for unexpected expenses the same day with GLCU’s Fast Cash Loan. Approval is based on your relationship with GLCU, not your credit score.
    • Quinceañera Loan: Create unforgettable memories for the special 15-year-old in your life with financing options that make celebrating easier.
  • More Deposit Options: At GLCU, we want your money to work for you, which is why we offer a selection of deposit accounts to fit your needs.
    • Free High-Yield Checking: Enjoy free checking with ultra-competitive dividends, ATM rebates, and zero monthly or hidden fees.
    • Fresh Checking, certified by BankOn: Rebuild or establish positive financial history as you start the next chapter of your financial journey with GLCU’s Fresh Checking accounts.
    • Debit Card Rewards: Earn rewards points every time you use your GLCU Visa® Debit Card to make purchases, and redeem those points for gifts, dining, and more.
    • Youth Accounts: Start saving early with the Money Mammals® Saving Money Is Fun Kids Club™, and help the teens in your life start their journey to financial independence with an Adolescent$ account.

About GLCU 

Founded in 1938 and headquartered in Northern Illinois, Great Lakes Credit Union is banking for a greater good. As a not-for-profit financial cooperative with more than $1.6 billion in assets, GLCU Chicago's credit union, is proud to serve over 100,000 members in Chicagoland and surrounding areas, and to give back to its members and communities through education, volunteerism, and partnerships. Learn more about GLCU’s accounts, educational initiatives, and community development programs at www.glcu.org. 

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