Our Story

Open staircase with sign on ivy wall that reads #cuHAPPY

Banking Built Better.

With over $1.4 billion in assets, First Commonwealth is one of the largest credit unions in the Greater Lehigh Valley. First Commonwealth is a nationally recognized leader in financial strength, member service, corporate social responsibility, innovation, and business and consumer banking inclusivity.

We're committed to providing extensive financial resources, access to high-quality and affordable products, reliable services, and investing heavily in our communities. We strive to deliver exceptional experiences that exceed our members' expectations by providing friendly, personalized service and comprehensive financial solutions.

As a not-for-profit member-owned financial cooperative, we're structured differently than banks. We exist to improve your financial well-being and provide consumers and businesses with a member-centric approach to banking. We're owned by you, and we return our profits to you through better rates, lower fees, and by supporting our communities.

What guides us in everything we do:

Our Mission is to empower your pursuit of financial happiness.

Our Vision is to be the most beloved financial partner in our communities.

Our “HIGHER” Core Values are:
Honesty, Innovation, Generosity, Humility, Excellence, and Respect.

Safe. Sound. Secure.

First Commonwealth is federally chartered by the National Credit Union Administration. We're governed by a member-elected, volunteer board of directors.

We are pleased to inform you that your Qualifying Accounts in First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union are insured up to $500,000. This exceptional level of coverage is attained through a combination of federal insurance provided by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and private insurance from Excess Share Insurance Corporation (ESI).

ESI's Coverage

First, NCUA's basic federal coverage insures credit union members' deposits up to $250,000. For details about federal deposit insurance or how to structure your accounts to qualify for greater federal coverage, please check with your credit union or contact NCUA.

Secondly, it's important to note that Qualifying Accounts* that exceed the maximum level of coverage provided by NCUA are not left unprotected. They are insured for an additional $250,000 by ESI, ensuring that your larger deposits are also safeguarded.

ESI's Policy

To be eligible for excess coverage, the credit union must comply with ESI’s rigid underwriting standards. Also, ESI’s insurance policy requires that the credit union submit financial statements and a listing of accounts eligible for excess coverage every quarter to continue coverage. Individual policies are not provided to members, and there is no direct cost to you for this coverage. It is important to note that excess deposit insurance is payable only upon the failure and liquidation of the credit union. The credit union or ESI may terminate or modify this coverage, but in either case, you will be notified in writing of any change in the excess coverage.

About ESI

Headquartered in Dublin, Ohio, ESI is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Share Insurance, a credit union owned private deposit insurer founded in 1974 by credit unions, for credit unions. As a property and casualty insurer, ESI is subject to licensing and regulation by your state’s insurance department. Furthermore, the company’s financial statements are audited annually by an independent CPA firm and are available upon request through the credit union. ESI is not a federal or state government agency.

Our Story

Banking Built Better.

What guides us in everything we do:

First Commonwealth Annual Reports

Safe. Sound. Secure.