Merger Information & Updates

DO I need to update my payroll deposits, other direct deposits, or automatic payments after the merger? 

Yes—eventually. While your existing direct deposits and automatic payments from AFFCU will continue to post to your new Freedom account for several months after the transition, we strongly recommend updating your information as soon as possible to avoid any future disruption. 

When making updates, use: 

• Freedom’s Routing Number: 255077299 
• Your Freedom Account Number: Your full 13-digit ACH/MICR number, which can be found under the “Details” section of your share account in online or mobile banking. 
  • Don’t miss this step! Your ACH/MICR number at Freedom is slightly different, but may appear nearly identical.  

For step-by-step instructions on locating your full ACH/MICR number, please refer to our tutorial. (View a tutorial) OR locate it using one of your AFFCU-issued checks.

Will I still get my paycheck a day early at Freedom?

Not at this time. Your payroll deposit will be credited on the payday designated by your employer. You may need to make minor adjustments to account for this change.

We are actively working on expanding our Early Pay program and plan to offer it more broadly in 2026.

Freedom currently offers Early Pay to select workplace partners. Some employers have already opted-in to this program. Please check with your employer to see if you are included, or have them reach out to us directly here to inquire on setting up the Early Pay for their organization.

I receive Social Security benefits—do I need to update my direct deposit?

Yes. If you receive a direct deposit from the Social Security Administration (SSA), it’s important to make sure your direct deposit information is updated and accurate to avoid any interruption in your benefits. 

How to update your Social Security direct deposit: 

• Visit ssa.gov and log in to your SSA account to update your direct deposit, or 
• Call the SSA directly at 800-772-1213. 

Please note: Freedom Federal Credit Union cannot update your Social Security deposit on your behalf. However, our team is happy to help you locate your correct account and routing numbers or answer any questions you may have. 

How do I enroll in Online/Mobile Banking?

Beginning January 2, 2026, you may enroll in Freedom’s Online/Mobile Banking.
New users can self-enroll on our website or on our mobile app. You can view step by step enrollment instructions here. or by viewing the video below.

*Locate your Account Number using one of your AFFCU-issued checks.

Will my incoming deposits, like Social Security, still post while Online/Mobile Banking is down during the transition?

All incoming transactions will continue to post to your account during the transition period.
While you may not see them until Online/Mobile Banking is available again, they will be fully processed and reflected in your updated Freedom accounts.

Will I be able to see the accounts I am joint on when I enroll?

Not automatically. After enrolling in Online Banking for each member, you can use the Switch Profile feature to move between memberships you’re joint on.

At this time, the option to link joint accounts into one dashboard is temporarily unavailable. We’re actively working with our online banking vendor to resolve this issue as quickly as possible and appreciate your patience as we make this a priority.

Why do my account names look different?

We aligned all AFFCU accounts—both shares and loans—to their closest Freedom account types for consistency. If you previously used nicknames for your accounts, those were replaced with Freedom’s standard account names during the transition. You may customize your account names once you enroll

How do I customize my account name?

Once enrolled in Online/Mobile Banking, select the share account you want to rename, choose the Settings icon, and then select the rename feature to edit or nickname your account. This allows you to personalize how your accounts appear in your dashboard. Watch the tutorial below for a step by step guide.

How do I enroll in Bill Pay?

Enrolling in Bill Pay is just a few clicks away! Log into Online Banking using a browser and choose the Bill Pay option and follow the steps. After initial enrollment, you will be able to use Bill Pay from your mobile app as well. There is a short setup process, and then you can begin adding payees and scheduling payments right away.

For complete information related to Bill Pay enrollment, please refer to our Bill Pay reference guide. or follow along with the video below.

How do I ADD/EDIT a PAYEE in Bill Pay?

Beginning January 2, 2026, you may add/edit Payees in Bill Pay.  As a reminder, payees will not carry over from AFFCU’s Bill Pay so please save the info prior to December 31, 2025. To add/edit payees you can view step by step enrollment instructions here, use the quick steps, or watch the video below.

QUICK STEPS: You can use online/mobile banking to pay a bill or pay a person.
• Log in
• Select Pay a Bill (online) or tap Pay under your account (mobile)
• Select Add Another Bill(online) or the + symbol (mobile)
• Search for popular payees or manually input information into fields as requested

Will my current vendors that I pay via AFFCU Bill Pay be brought over?

No. Because of the potential for errors and timing conflicts, AFFCU Bill Pay payees and schedules could not be brought over automatically. We recommend keeping a list of your current payees so you can easily re-enter them once Bill Pay is set up in Freedom’s system.

I want to send a bill payment for a bill due in January. When is the cut-off for sending?

Payments scheduled to be sent by December 31, 2025 will be processed as usual.
Any payments scheduled for January 1, 2026, or later will be canceled.

You will need to make other arrangements for those payments. Once you enroll with Freedom on January 2, 2026, you can re-establish your Bill Pay schedule.

I was able to transfer money between the accounts I was joint on. Can I do that with my new Freedom account?

Yes.
After linking your joint accounts, you will be able to transfer funds between them with one login just as you did at AFFCU. To link you accounts, give us a call or stop by a branch.

How do I MOVE FUNDS BETWEEN MY Freedom accounts and MAKE LOAN PAYMENTS?

You may transfer between share savings and checking accounts on the same membership by utilizing the “TRANSFERS” feature in Online or Mobile Banking. Once logged in, you will select the “TRANSFERS” feature from the menu and then choose “Make A Transfer”. From there, you will select which account you want to transfer FROM and then select the account you want to transfer TO. You may manage the date and frequency by selecting “MORE OPTIONS”. You can also use this feature to set up payments on your Freedom loans. Please click here to view all Freedom loan payment methods.

To transfer across memberships, you must link your Online Banking profiles. Please contact us at 1-800-440-4120 for assistance with linking your memberships online or help with a cross-membership transfer.

You can view step by step instructions here or follow along with the video below.

How do I transfer funds between my Freedom accounts and other institutions?

You may transfer funds from another account into your Freedom account right in Online/Mobile Banking. Once signed in, you may select “Transfers” and then select “+ External Account”. To add your external account for transfers, you will need to know your routing number, account number, and whether you are transferring from a checking or savings account.

You can view step by step instructions here or follow along with the video below.

Will I STILL BE ABLE TO RECEIVE DEPOSITS DURING THE PLANNED DOWNTIME PERIOD?

Yes—all deposits will continue to post on December 31 and January 1, and will be visible in Freedom’s Online Banking beginning January 2, 2026. You will need to enroll in Online Banking on or after January 2 in order to view these postings.

Will my account number change?

The majority of AFFCU account numbers will remain the same. A small group of members will receive new account numbers. If your account number is affected, we will notify you individually by mail in mid to late December.

Will my old AFFCU checking number still be valid for my direct deposits, bill pays, etc.?

Yes—temporarily.
Your current direct deposits will continue posting to your new Freedom account for several months after the transition.
However, to avoid any future disruption, please update your employer or payment provider with Freedom’s:

• Routing Number: 255077299
• Your Freedom Checking ACH/MICR Number: You will find your full 13-digit account number format under the “Details” section of your share account in online/mobile banking (View a tutorial)

How do I use an affcu check to locate my account number and MICR/ACH Number?

I used to have a Power or PowerPlus Checking Account. What do I have now?

Your checking account has been converted to Empower Checking, Freedom’s high-value, interest-earning checking account.

Empower Checking includes the following benefits:

• Competitive earnings of 3.00% APY on balances up to $10,000
• No minimum balance requirement
• Access to 80,000+ surcharge-free ATMs
• No account of maintenance fees on paperless accounts

Am I getting a new checkbook with my new Freedom checking account?

Your existing AFFCU checks will continue to work. The majority of AFFCU account numbers will remain the same.  A small group of members will be receiving new account numbers.  If you are affected, we will notify you by mail in mid to late December, and provide replacement checks at no cost. Even if your account number changes, your checks will continue to be valid until your replacements arrive.

You may order checks starting January 2, 2026 by accessing this self-service portal and following the prompts or by contacting us directly at 1-800-440-4120. Checks may also be ordered by visiting any branch location.

You will need  your full 13-digit account number to order checks. It is located in the “Details” section of your share account in online/mobile banking.

How will I see my December 2025 statement from AFFCU?

All December AFFCU statements, regardless of eStatement enrollment, will be mailed to members and should arrive during the first two weeks of January 2026.

What if a merchant needs my physical AFFCU debit card to process a return after January 2? Should I hold on to it?

Yes.
We recommend holding onto your AFFCU debit card until all pending returns or adjustments are completed or for 90 days. Merchants sometimes require the original card used for the purchase, even if the card is no longer active for everyday use.

How do I register for eStatements?

If you are already enrolled online/mobile banking, you can view our step-by-step eStatement enrollment guide or view the steps below. If you are not yet enrolled in online/mobile banking, please follow these steps.

How do I access eStatements?

You must already be enrolled in eStatements to access them (View enrollment instructions). Your first eStatement will be available the month after you enroll and are stored for 12 months.

See below for instructions on accessing your eStatements:

• Log in to Online/Mobile Banking.

• Click on any share account or loan.

• Select the DOCUMENTS tile.

• When the statement portal opens, choose “Account Statements.”

• Select and view the statement you want.

• Statements are provided in PDF format and can be printed or saved. 

Why are Freedom FCU and Atlantic FCU merging?

The merger of Atlantic FCU and Freedom FCU is the result of the strategic vision of both Credit Unions to create a holistic, robust, growing, and market-leading financial institution committed to serving the diverse needs of its membership and consumer base. By merging, the resulting Credit Union will be better positioned to leverage economies of scale, streamline operations, expand access, increase technological innovation, enhance products and services, and better support the communities that we serve.

What will the merged Credit Union be known as?

The resulting Credit Union will operate under the “Freedom Federal Credit Union” name and brand. The resulting Credit Union will reflect the shared values and vision of both Credit Unions. The aligned commitment to offer market-leading, personalized financial products and services, supports the credit union’s community and provides a “best-in-class” member-centric experience, that will continue.

What benefits will the merger bring to members?

Members will benefit significantly in several ways from the merger, including: 

• Expanded range of financial products and services for both consumers and business owners. 
• Enhanced technology and access through optimized digital banking solutions. 
• Increased loan options with market-competitive rates. 
• Personalized wealth management services. 
• Access to over 80,000 surcharge-free ATMs. 
• Access to eight branch locations throughout Baltimore and Harford Counties. 
• Expanded field of membership to serve more consumers with “The Freedom Advantage.” 
• Expanded community support and community outreach programs. 
• Access to attractive rates, lower fees, and enhanced accessibility. 

What is the timeline for the merger and integration?

February 3, 2025 marks the official completion of the merger’s legal, regulatory approval, and member approval processes and the start of integrating data and systems. This includes aligning operations, systems, and staff, and ensuring minimal disruption to members, while keeping safety and security of data and information a top priority.

The process is anticipated to take most of 2025 with a completion date scheduled for January 1, 2026 for full integration. Beginning January 2, 2026, we expect to be operating as one credit union.

How will the merger impact Freedom FCU and Atlantic Financial FCU employees?

The merger is expected to create opportunities for employees of both Credit Unions by fostering a larger and more diverse organization. Our commitment to our employees remains a top priority, and we will work to ensure a smooth transition and provide support throughout the process. 

Will my accounts, services, or rates be impacted by the merger?

During the initial stages of the integration process, it is business as usual for AFFCU members. Members can continue banking as they always have—online and mobile banking access, account and member numbers, as well as credit and debit cards, will remain unchanged. While minimal changes may occur with current products and services, there will soon be improvements in product offerings and enhanced digital banking options.

Rates on existing loans with AFFCU or Freedom FCU will not change. However, slight adjustments to savings product rates may occur to ensure consistency for all members during the integration. As always, rates will be reviewed based on economic conditions and competitive information.

Will my accounts continue to be insured?

Yes. Your accounts will continue to remain insured. Your deposits are federally insured through the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), a U.S. Government Agency, for up to $250,000 for regular and IRA deposits.

Will my branch remain open?

Yes. The branch locations for both Credit Unions will remain open.

Can members bank at both Atlantic Financial FCU and Freedom FCU branches?

During this first phase of the integration process, current AFFCU members will not be able to transact on their AFFCU accounts at any of Freedom FCU’s six branches. Current Freedom FCU members now have the ability to transact on their current Freedom FCU accounts at AFFCU’s Hunt Valley and Pikesville branches.

All branches are expected to be available to the entire membership on January 2, 2026.

What will happen to the Board of Directors?

The Board of Directors of the resulting Credit Union will have representation from both organizations. 

Will the resulting Credit Union be financially sound?

Yes. The resulting Credit Union will have a strong balance sheet, a full-service product offering, a strong member base, and an expanded field of membership. The Credit Union’s net worth ratio exceeds regulatory requirements and both credit unions are considered “well capitalized” by government regulators. 

Who is Freedom Federal Credit Union?

Freedom Federal Credit Union began in 1953 as MATCOM Federal Credit Union. The Credit Union started in Baltimore and later moved to Harford County in support of the Edgewood Arsenal. We received our Harford County community charter in 1999 and changed our name to Freedom Federal Credit Union in 2000. In 2020, we expanded our community charter and, today, Freedom serves individuals who live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Harford and Baltimore Counties, as well as their families. We also serve and support local businesses with a full array of products and services to meet their ever-changing needs.   

Freedom has a long tradition of serving the military community and their families, which continues today. In addition, we offer special partner benefits to Harford County and Baltimore County Public Schools, University of Maryland Health System, MedStar, Harford Community College, Community College of Baltimore County, as well as numerous small businesses throughout Baltimore and Harford Counties. 

Who is Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union?

In 1950, Atlantic Financial FCU (then Baltimore Telephone FCU) was founded when a handful of employees united to provide financial support to their fellow co-workers and families. For the past 74 years, this “people helping people” philosophy continues to flourish. 

Today, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution serving the financial needs of consumers throughout the greater Baltimore communities. AFFCU is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, attends school, or has family in Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Carroll County, or Harford County. 

Where can I find more information about the merger?

New information about the merger, including updates, revised FAQs, member resources, timelines, etc. will be posted directly on this page, accessible from the Freedom FCU website (www.freedomfcu.org) and the Atlantic Financial FCU website (www.affcu.org).