Helpful information about our upcoming name change:
We’re excited to announce that San Mateo Credit Union will change our name and brand in 2024 to:
The new name and brand will better reflect our culture and our commitment to serving you as well as be more welcoming to all people we serve. This decision to select a new name has been a process that has taken many months and we’ve worked hard to cultivate a new and exciting transition for the credit union. This change is not due to being acquired nor are we merging with another financial organization. We remain one of the largest and well capitalized credit unions in California.
To learn more about this exciting change, please take a moment to read our Questions and Answers below. As always, we welcome any questions you may have so please feel free to send us a secure message through Online Banking, call or chat with us at (650) 363-1725 or stop by a branch location.
Questions and Answers (Q & A)
Why are you changing your name?
Due to the geographic specificity of the name San Mateo, we recognize that our current name can cause confusion over membership eligibility. It also comes across as “exclusive” for many people. The new name will create less confusion about eligibility, and it will be “inclusive,” in lieu of “exclusive.” (Note – Our charter allows anyone residing, working, educating, or worshiping in San Mateo County, City of Palo Alto, or the southern portion of San Francisco to become a member.)
Is the name change a result of a merger or acquisition?
No. The name change is not the result of a merger or acquisition of any kind. We are financially strong and will continue to be owned by you, our members, just as we are today.
How did you select the new name?
We spent many months working with our management team and board of directors under the guidance of an experienced and respected branding firm.
When will the name change take effect?
February 2024, San Mateo Credit Union will officially change its name to Monterra Credit Union. Changes in our branches, our website, and collateral may take a little longer to integrate our new name and brand.
What will change with the new name?
There will be no impact to your existing relationship with us, or any changes to your day-to-day banking. You will see changes to our exterior signage, brochures, stationery, and website over the next few weeks.
Will the ownership of the credit union remain the same?
Yes. The credit union will remain 100% owned by you, our members.
Will the credit union employees change?
The employees that you’ve grown accustomed to serving you will be here ready to provide the same personalized service that you expect.
Who is eligible to join the credit union?
Our current charter encompasses anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in San Mateo County, the City of Palo Alto, and certain areas of San Francisco.
Will my account numbers, usernames, and passwords change?
Your account numbers, usernames, and passwords will remain the same.
If I have automatic payments taken from my account or receive direct deposit, will I need to do anything?
No. Everything will stay the same. Our routing number 321174851 will not change, and your account number(s) will remain the same. It is not necessary to take any steps to update automatic payments or direct deposit.
How will fees, loan rates and deposit rates be impacted by the name change?
Rates and fees will not be affected by the name change. We will continue to monitor our rates and fees as we always have to ensure high value and return to our members. Rates and fees do fluctuate, as they adjust in response to market conditions.
Will my deposits remain federally insured by NCUA?
Yes. Deposit accounts for each share owner remain federally insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund.
Will my debit and/or credit card still work?
Yes. Your credit card will still work as it always has. Your debit card and PIN will continue to work as they always have. After the name change, credit and debit cards will carry the new name when they are issued as new cards or when existing cards expire and are updated on their regular schedule.
Will I still be able to use my checks?
Yes. You can continue using your existing checks until they run out. Upon reorder you will see the credit union’s new name and logo on your checks.
When can I order new Monterra Credit Union checks?
Starting in February 2024, newly branded Monterra Credit Union checks will be available for order. We will provide a free box of Monterra Credit Union checks to all members who wish to receive one.
Do I need to get my legal documents (e.g., liens, titles, insurance) updated with the new name?
In most cases, your documents will be unaffected by the name change. Please call us at (650) 363-1725 if you have specific questions about your legal documents.
To whom should I make my loan payments?
Loan payments (or any checks payable to the credit union) can be made to Monterra Credit Union effective immediately. Checks payable to San Mateo Credit Union will also be accepted for the duration of 2024.
Will the credit union numbers, website and email addresses change?
All phone numbers will remain the same. Our new website address will be monterra.org.
Will branch days of operation and hours change?
Our branch will continue to be open and available to you the same days and times that you expect. Branch hours of operation are Monday - Thursday: 9am-5pm, Friday: 9am-6pm and Saturday: 9am-2pm. ATMs are open 24/7, 365 days a year, and are safe and secure. Our Contact Center is available
Monday - Friday: 8am-6pm and Saturday: 9am-3pm at (650) 363-1725. Our Call-24 automated telephone banking is also available at (844) 518-0515.
Will there be any change in my statements?
There will not be any changes to the statement cycle. Keep a watch in your mail for our new statement stationery with our new name.
Where can I find additional information?
You can visit any of our seven branches or call (650) 363-1725 during business hours or visit our website at smcu.org, which will be transitioning to monterra.org.
Federally insured by NCUA.