Together, We’re Building What’s Next

Merger Approved

We’re excited to share that members of CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union have approved the proposed merger with Arlington Community Federal Credit Union.

This strong show of support affirms what we’ve believed all along: together, we are better positioned to serve our members, employees, and communities.

With member approval complete, we’re officially moving forward with plans to come together in 2026, an important milestone that allows us to begin turning our shared vision into reality.

What happens next?

  • For now, how you conduct business with Arlington will remain the same. Our branch locations remain open during and after the merger and you can continue using your checks, cards, and accounts as you do today.
  • After the legal merger date of July 1, 2026, CommonWealth One and Arlington will become one legal entity, and Arlington will begin to operate as CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union, formerly Arlington Community Credit Union. You will begin to notice updates to our signage, branding, and logo as we begin to adopt and transition to the CommonWealth One name.
  • After July 1, 2026, we will continue working to thoughtfully integrate our systems and operations, with a goal of being fully integrated during the 3rd quarter of 2027.
  • Once integration is complete, all branches will operate as one organization, and members will have expanded access to all 10 CommonWealth One branch locations – while continuing to receive the same personalized service, local care, and trusted relationships you know today.

We will continue to share important updates and applicable information as the time gets closer.

This partnership opens the door to expanded resources, enhanced technology, and even greater opportunities for our members, all while building on the strong foundation that makes Arlington Community special.

If you have any questions that haven’t been addressed, please contact us by email at bettertogether@arlingtoncu.org or by phone at 703.526.0200 x4.

We’re excited for what’s ahead and look forward to building our future together

Watch the video below to learn more about how we’re shaping a brighter future – together.

 

A Joint Message from our CEO’s

We’d like to take a moment together, to share what this merger means, why we’re confident in this path forward, and how it will benefit you.

This decision was made with great care, guided by a shared vision of what’s possible when two people-driven credit unions come together for the good of their members, employees, and communities. It’s about creating more for you:

  • More access through expanded branch locations
  • More services tailored to your financial goals
  • Greater strength to support your future
  • More opportunities to thrive, grow, and succeed

Together, we’ll be stronger and better positioned to serve you, while preserving what makes each of us special. You’ll continue to see the same friendly faces, benefit from the same solutions-focused service, and enjoy being part of a cooperative that uplifts our communities. You’ll also gain access to expanded resources and innovations designed to meet your needs now and throughout your financial journey.

While there will be exciting enhancements to come, your day-to-day banking experience remains unchanged for now. You will continue to visit your branch locations, work with our dedicated service teams, and access your accounts, checks, cards, and online banking just as you do today.

As we move forward, we promise to keep you informed, answer your questions, and ensure this transition is smooth and beneficial for everyone.

Thank you for being part of this exciting journey. Together, we’re building a brighter financial future – for you, your family, and our communities.

Frank Wasson & Karen Rosales

Chief Executive Officers

  • What do members need to do now?

    For the time being, it’s business as usual and you don’t need to take any action. Your accounts, access, and service are not changing today. We will let you know about any changes or actions you need to take well in advance as we go through the process of integrating our credit union systems in the third quarter of 2027. After that, you will be able to take advantage of all the new branches, products, and services of our combined credit union.

  • How will my account(s) be impacted? What will change for me?

    There will be no changes to your accounts until we combine our credit union systems in the third quarter of 2027. We will work hard to make the integration as easy as possible so you can conduct business as you always have. Please look for important information next year about any changes and how you can take advantage of all the new branches, products and services available to you.

  • Can I take advantage of CommonWealth One products, services and rates now?

    Not quite yet. Members will be able to take advantage of any new products and services after we integrate our systems next year.

  • Will there be any changes to our branches?

    Yes. Beginning July 1, you will start to see CommonWealth One branding and signage in Arlington Community Federal Credit Union branch locations and on the website. While the name and appearance of the branches will change over time, you will continue to be served by the same friendly faces you know and trust today.

    We’re also excited to offer expanded service hours at some branch locations. Please visit ATM & Branch Locator – Arlington Federal Credit Union for the most up-to-date service hours and availability.

  • Can I do business in a CommonWealth One branch now?

    Not yet. We first need to integrate our systems and convert member information to access your information when you visit a [COFCU/ACFCU] branch. You will have full access to all the combined branches after we combine our systems in the third quarter of 2027.

  • Will I need to open a new account?

    You will not need to open a new account. When we integrate our systems next year, all existing accounts will automatically transfer to our system.

  • Do I need to change where I send deposits and loan payments?

    Please continue mailing your deposits and loan payments to the same location. We will notify you of any address changes well in advance.

  • Will the credit union’s telephone number or website change?

    Our current telephone numbers, emails and website address will stay the same for now. We’ll let you know of any changes well in advance of integrating our credit union operations and systems in the third quarter of 2027.

  • Will my accounts continue to be insured?

    Your accounts will remain safe, sound and federally insured through the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), a U.S. Government Agency, as they are today.

  • What does this merger announcement mean?

    Arlington Community Federal Credit Union and CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union are planning to merge – pending regulatory and member approval.

    This is a big step, and a positive one. We’re bringing together two strong, local credit unions to do even more for our members, employees, and communities.

    What’s in it for you?

    • More access – expanded branch network
    • More remote service options like texting and video banking
    • Continued personal service from the people you know and trust.

    We’re growing to stay strong, stay competitive, and keep meeting your needs – now and into the future.

  • Why are we merging?

    This is about partnership. Two strong like-sized credit unions are coming together to do more – for you and for our communities.

    Merging lets us:

    • Combine strengths
    • Offer better tools for employees
    • Expand our reach and community impact
    • Invest more in innovation and service

    We share the same vision: helping members thrive. And together, we can go further than we could alone.

  • Why CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union?

    CommonWealth One is a perfect fit. They share our values – community roots, member-first service, financial strength, and a people-focused culture. Like us, they’re all about doing right by their members and employees.

    Originally founded in 1944 as Army Air Force Annex #1 Federal Credit Union, CommonWealth now serves over 38,000 members across Northern Virginia, Harrisonburg, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. with 8 branch locations. By teaming up, we’ll grow to 12 making it easier than ever to access the services you need – without losing the personal touch you love.

    This is a partnership built on shared values, local pride, and a vision for a stronger future.

  • Do both credit unions support this merger?

    Yes – 100%. Both boards thoughtfully considered this partnership and evaluated what this partnership means for members, employees, and the communities we serve. They mutually determined this is a path that benefits both organizations. It’s a win-win.

  • What would this partnership mean for the credit unions?

    Together, we’ll become a $1.1 billion credit union serving over 61,000 members across Northern Virginia, Harrisonburg Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

    That scale means more resources, more innovation, and more support for members and employees. We’re combining the best of both credit unions – products, services, technology, and talent – while staying true to our mission and local roots.

  • Will we still be a credit union after the merger and will we still uphold credit union values?

    Yes, absolutely! Both credit unions are committed to remaining member-owned and not-for-profit financial cooperatives. This merger will allow us to grow responsibly while staying true to our mission of putting members first.

  • Is one credit union acquiring the other?

    No. This is not an acquisition. It is a strategic merger between two strong, like-sized credit unions that share similar values and goals. We are combining our strengths to create even more opportunities for our members, employees, and communities. By coming together as peers, we’ll be able to offer more products, services, and conveniences – while continuing to operate as a credit union owned by members.

  • What are the member benefits?

    This merger brings some exciting perks, including:

    • More Locations: 12 branches across Northern Virginia, Harrisonburg Virginia, Maryland and Washington D.C. for added convenience.
    • Enhanced Experience: Streamlined processes and better tools to give you even more personalized attention.
    • Increased Innovation: More resources and combined expertise to develop products, services, and digital solutions.
    • Stronger Communities: Greater investment in local outreach, financial education, and community support.
    • Greater Stability: A stronger financial institution ready to serve you for years to come.

    And don’t worry, our friendly, knowledgeable staff will still be here to help you every step of the way.

  • What changes will members experience?

    For now, it’s business as usual! You’ll still use the same account number, access your accounts, use your checks, and enjoy the same great service you’ve always received.

    As the merger moves forward, expect some exciting enhancements over time. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way, with plenty of notice for any changes. And rest assured, our commitment to remarkable service and putting members first will always be our top priority.

  • Would my rates change?

    Your rates on fixed-rate loans and certificates will stay the same until the end of their current terms. Other products will adjust as usual, based on market conditions.

  • Would my accounts continue to be federally insured?

    Yes! Your deposits will still be federally insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF). You can find more info and use the NCUA insurance calculator at www.mycreditunion.gov/estimator.

  • What if I already have an account at both credit unions?

    We’re happy to have you as a member of both credit unions! For now, it’s business as usual – you can continue using your accounts as normal.

    As we get closer to the merger date, we’ll keep you informed with clear updates and support you throughout the transition.

  • What does this mean for employees?

    This merger brings exciting opportunities for our teams. Both credit unions are committed to maintaining a supportive, rewarding workplace. Employees will benefit from enhanced resources, career growth, and expanded support.

    Both organizations are deeply committed to retaining employees and ensuring that the teams our members know and trust remain in place.

  • Who will lead the newly combined credit union?

    Karen Rosales, Arlington Community’s current CEO, will lead the combined organization. Frank Wasson, CommonWealth One’s CEO, will retire in December 2026, and then will stay on as a consultant to assist with the transition.

  • What will the name of the combined credit union be?

    The combined credit union will retain the name CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union. This name reflects a more inclusive representation of the combined membership and aligns with the shared vision for the future of the credit union.

    After the legal merger, Arlington Community’s branches will be labeled as “Arlington Community Federal Credit Union, a division of CommonWealth One” (or a similar designation) until the system conversion is completed.

  • What is the timeline?

    To complete the merger, we must receive approval from three sources: our Boards of Directors, our regulators, and CommonWealth One’s members. Here’s the current timeline:

    • September 2025: The boards of both credit unions approved and signed the merger agreement.
    • January 2026: Regulators approved the merger application.
    • May 5 – June 25, 2026: Member voting period for CommonWealth One members.
    • June 25, 2026: Special Meeting to conclude member voting.
    • July 1, 2026: Target Legal Day 1 (if member vote passes).
    • July 31, 2027: Target Operational Day 1 – date all of our systems are combined

    We’re in the early stages of planning operational integration, and we are committed to keeping you informed every step of the way.

  • Do members have a say in the merger?

    The proposed merger requires the approval of a majority of the members of CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union who vote on the proposal.

  • How will I be kept informed?

    We’re committed to keeping you informed along the way. As the process continues, ACFCU will share important notices, dates, and events. If you do have any questions, please email bettertogether@arlingtoncu.org.

    This merger is about creating a credit union that’s even more capable of serving you and our communities. Thank you for your trust and support as we embark on this exciting journey together!

  • Who gets to vote on the merger?

    Only current eligible members of CommonWealth One will be able to vote on the merger. Each member will have the opportunity to cast their vote during the designated voting period. Once the merger is complete, all members from both organizations will be part of the combined credit union.

  • Why don't ACFCU members vote on the merger?

    Federal regulations overseen by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) require a member vote only at the credit union whose charter will be consolidated as part of forming a single combined organization, which is why CommonWealth One members are voting. This is a standard legal step and does not mean one credit union is more important than the other. Once the merger is complete, members of both credit unions will be equal owners of the combined organization.

  • Am I affected while the other credit union votes?

    No. Your accounts, loans, and services remain the same during this period. The merger will not impact your membership until it is officially completed.

  • Do I need to do anything right now?

    No action is required from you. Voting is taking place only for members of the other credit union. You can continue to use your accounts and services as usual.

  • When will the results be announced?

    Voting results will be announced at the culmination of the CommonWealth One member special meeting on June 25, 2025, then as soon as possible after that via our website, press release, and other announcement channels.

  • When will the merger officially take effect?

    If the vote is approved, the Legal Day 1 of the merger will be July 1, 2026. Operational Day 1, when accounts and systems are combined, will be July 31, 2027.

  • When will my accounts or services change?

    For now, it’s business as usual. Over time, the merger will allow us to offer even more services and support to all members.

  • Who can I contact with questions?

    If you have questions during this period, please reach out to us at bettertogether@arlingtoncu.org and our member support team will be happy to help.