Frontier Credit Union Acquires First Citizens Bank of Butte in Historic Montana Deal

BUTTE, Mont. — Frontier Credit Union has announced the acquisition of First Citizens Bank of Butte, marking a historic milestone as the first credit union to fully acquire a bank in the state of Montana.

The transaction is scheduled to close on February 1, 2026, with full account conversion and systems integration expected to be completed by August 2026.

With the acquisition, First Citizens Bank customers will become members of Frontier Credit Union, combining First Citizens’ long-standing local presence with Frontier’s expanded financial resources, technology, and more than 90 years of community-focused service.

Expanded Services for Customers

Following the transition, former First Citizens Bank customers will gain access to Frontier Credit Union’s full range of financial products and services, including expanded mortgage and auto lending options, credit cards, and enhanced digital banking tools.

“Having grown up in Dillon, bringing Frontier home to Montana is something I’m deeply proud of,” said Dan Thurman, President and CEO of Frontier Credit Union. “For over 90 years, Frontier has been dedicated to building better lives through trusted, community-first financial services. Welcoming First Citizens Bank into our family is a natural next step.”

Cindy High, Chief Operations Officer at Frontier Credit Union, said the transition reflects a shared commitment to local service.

“We’re excited to welcome the Butte branch team and community into the Frontier Credit Union family,” High said. “This move expands access to a broader range of financial products and digital tools while maintaining the friendly, local experience members value.”

What Customers Can Expect

According to Frontier Credit Union, customers should expect minimal disruption during the transition:

No immediate account changes: Accounts, checks, debit and credit cards, and online banking services will remain unchanged until conversion is completed in August 2026.

Expanded branch access: Customers will gain access to Frontier’s 15 branch locations throughout Idaho, in addition to the Butte branch, which will remain open and continue operating.

Enhanced banking options: Members will have access to more financial products and 30,000+ surcharge-free ATMs through the Credit Union CO-OP network.

Continued federal insurance: Deposit insurance will transition from the FDIC to the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund, administered by the National Credit Union Administration, with the same $250,000 per account category coverage.

There are no anticipated changes to branch hours at the Butte location. Frontier Credit Union’s headquarters will remain in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and the Butte branch will become Frontier’s 16th location.

“Our top priority is making this transition as seamless as possible for our new members in Butte,” said Angie Hyatt, Vice President of Branch Operations. “Our teams are working closely behind the scenes to ensure continuity while expanding services and digital tools.”

More Information

Additional updates and frequently asked questions are available at frontiercreditunion.com/welcome/.

About Frontier Credit Union

Founded in 1935, Frontier Credit Union is Idaho’s oldest credit union. It operates 15 branches across Idaho and provides nationwide ATM access through the CO-OP network. Frontier is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative focused on personalized service and community investment.