How will LCU members benefit from a merger?
LCU members will have access to more branches, a 24/7 call center, industry-leading online and mobile banking services, and still receive the personal service they enjoy from the same employees they rely on every day.
Will any LCU or ORNL FCU branches close because of the merger?
No branches are closing because of the merger and there are no immediate changes to the hours of operation.
What happens to employees of LCU?
Every LCU employee is guaranteed a position in the combined credit union with equal or greater pay and benefits.
What is the process and timeline?
There are three major steps:
1) Regulatory approval has been received.
2) Following regulatory approval, members must vote to approve the merger. The voting period will run from March 7-April 23.
3) After members approve, LCU and ORNL FCU will communicate a detailed plan that ensures every LCU member experiences a smooth transition and access to all of the service benefits. That process is expected to be complete in late 2024.
Will LCU’s name change?
Yes, LCU will become ORNL FCU. The name change will occur as part of the conversion process in late 2024.
Is my money still safe and insured?
Yes, all LCU and ORNL FCU accounts are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000.
What if I already have an account with ORNL FCU?
If your LCU and ORNL FCU combined account balances exceed the level of NCUA share insurance, we will work with you directly on a plan to make certain you maintain adequate coverage.
Do I need to go ahead and open an account now at ORNL FCU?
You do not need to take any action right now. When the merger is complete, LCU members will become ORNL FCU members.
What about my direct deposit, automated payments, checks, loan payments, and debit and credit cards?
Nothing is changing right away, and there is no action that you need to take. We will work hard to make sure that the transition happens behind the scenes as much as possible without impacting you. If there is any action that needs to be taken in the future, we will notify members directly in advance.
As an LCU member, when can I start taking advantage of ORNL FCUs rates/fee schedule?
The ORNL FCU rate and fee schedule will be available to all existing and new members starting on May 1, 2024.
Will my rates remain the same?
Until further notice, your Lowland CU terms and conditions remain in effect. ORNL FCU will notify you of any changes prior to system conversion later this fall.
Will the former LCU locations have the same hours of operation as ORNL FCU?
No change in hours for the 3 LCU locations at this time
My safe deposit box rental is due, what is the new fee?
All safe deposit box fees will be due on May 1, 2025. Please see the current ORNL FCU Rate and Fee Disclosure.
As an ORNL FCU member, can I conduct transactions using the Lowland ITMs and ATMs?
There will be ORNL FCU branded ITMs that will be available to you starting in June to assist you with your banking needs.
Hours:
ORNL FCU M-F 8:00am-7:00pm and Saturday 8:30am-1:00pm
LCU M-Th 8:00am-5:00pm and F 8:00-6:00pm
How do I reach the former LCU branch locations?
No change at this time in how you contact the LCU branch. Members contact LCU at 423-581-8345, 423-623-2800 or Toll Free 888-581-8345
As a former LCU member, can I apply for a Quick Loan?
Not at this time, but please contact our branches for alternatives
What financing options are available to LCU members?
LCU members now have an expanded network of dealerships to finance on the spot the dealership with ORNL FCU.
After May 1st, if a mortgage or consumer loan is referred to ORNL FCU, will the member have to set up an ORNL FCU membership?
Yes, an ORNL FCU membership will have to be established. This can be done through the loan process, within the branch, or online through the ORNL FCU website.
Where do I make my loan payments?
If you closed on a loan through Lowland Credit Union prior to May 1, 2024, you will continue to make payments in the same manner. There will be no changes at this time.
My certificate is maturing, what are my options?
At maturity, you can transfer to your account or renew your certificate. Please see the current ORNL FCU Rate and Fee Disclosure on the website.
Can I send a foreign wire at LCU?
You can send foreign wires through LCU effective in October 2024
Do I have to make any changes to my payroll/direct deposit/automatic withdrawals?
No changes at this time. If there is any action that needs to be taken in the future, we will notify members directly in advance.
Is the 91 day Accumulation Certificate available?
LCU will no longer offer a 91 day Accumulation Certificate and at redemption, the existing certificate will transfer to the regular share account.
Can I transfer between my ORNL FCU and Lowland CU accounts?
No, not at this time. Please contact our branch locations for alternatives
