Climb Credit Union will merge with Community Choice Credit Union

We're Making Things Official

We’re thrilled to share that Community Choice members voted to approve the merger, and we're making things official on January 1, 2026.

Our two Colorado-based credit unions both share a nearly 75-year commitment to supporting members and the local community. By coming together, we can deliver more products, services, and resources while continuing to provide the personalized care you count on.

Change of this size takes time, so you won’t notice anything different right away. What you can continue to rely on is the same trusted team that has been supporting you for years. As new products and services become available, we’ll be sure to keep you informed well in advance.

You can already visit Community Choice branch locations through Shared Branching – and in the future, you’ll be able to access even more services at those locations as our systems evolve. Community Choice has two branches, one in Commerce City, and one in Wheat Ridge.

You’ll continue working with the same friendly Climb team you know and trust.

Greater strength as two trusted credit unions begin working as one.

Seamless transition thanks to the fact that both credit unions operate on many of the same systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Climb and Community Choice merging?

This merger between Community Choice Credit Union and Climb Credit Union is rooted in one clear goal: creating more opportunities for our members, employees, and communities. By combining our strengths, we can do more together than either of us could alone. We commit to expanding access to innovative services and financial solutions while staying true to our people-first mission.

With our boards, CEOs, and leadership teams aligned around the same vision, this partnership positions us to grow stronger while ensuring our members continue to receive the personal, high-quality service you expect and deserve.

Where are we in the merger process?

In August 2025, the boards of both credit unions approved and signed the merger agreement. The following month, we formally notified the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) of our intent to merge. After receiving NCUA approval in early October, we shared the news with both memberships. In December 2025, Community Choice Credit Union members voted to approve the merger. As of January 1, 2026, we will begin the process of integrating our systems which we anticipate will take approximately 8–12 months to complete.

Who will lead the merged credit union?

Carrie Langgard, President/CEO of Climb Credit Union, will serve as President/CEO of the combined organization. Rainy Thoen, CEO of Community Choice Credit Union, will assume the new role of Chief Impact Officer, leading efforts in community engagement, member education, and financial empowerment.

Carrie and Rainy share a deep commitment to the credit union philosophy of “People helping people.” Together, they’ll guide the organization through this new chapter — combining strengths, values, and resources to grow our impact and transform lives across the communities we serve.

Will Community Choice Credit Union Board Members serve on the new Board of Directors?

Yes. The combined board will include representatives from the Community Choice Credit Union board.

Will anyone lose their jobs as a result of the merger?

No. All employees will continue working for the combined credit union.

Will my accounts change?

No. Your account numbers, routing numbers, and products will stay the same. The rates on fixed rate loans and CDs remain the same until the end of their existing terms. We will continue to monitor our rates as always to ensure high value and return to our members.

Will my online banking change?

Not at this time. You will continue using your existing online and mobile banking. We'll be sure to inform you well in advance of any changes in the future.

Are branches or ATMs closing?

No. In fact, you’ll have access to more branches and ATMs in the Denver metro area.

Will my debit/credit card still work?

There are no changes to your Credit Card. However, all Climb Debit Cards will be changing to Visa® in February 2026. Please see climbcu.org/newcard for more information.

Will the credit union change its name?

The combined organization will be unified under the Climb Credit Union brand.

When can I visit Community Choice branches and ATMs?

Once our systems are fully combined in late 2026. However, you’re welcome to visit their branches as part of the shared branching network.

How long will it take to merge systems?

Our goal is to make the transition easy for you, so it will take several months to complete the work and verify everything is ready. We expect this to be completed in late 2026.

Will the merger affect the safety of my accounts?

No. Your accounts will remain safe and secure. All deposits are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000. In addition, Climb Credit Union has Excess Share Insurance, offering an extra layer of protection beyond the NCUA limits.