San Diego, California, January 13, 2026
Cal Coast Credit Union and San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU) are set to merge, aiming to create a combined entity with nearly $13.5 billion in assets and 65 branch locations across Southern California. This merger, pending regulatory approval and a Cal Coast membership vote, seeks to enhance services while retaining community engagement. The merged organization will keep the Cal Coast name, with Todd Lane as CEO. Members can expect minimal immediate changes and expanded access to financial services.
San Diego, California
Cal Coast Credit Union and SDCCU Plan Merger to Create a Financial Powerhouse
In a significant move poised to reshape the Southern California financial landscape, Cal Coast Credit Union and San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU) have announced their plans to merge. Pending regulatory approval and a Cal Coast membership vote, this merger aims to create a more resilient entity with nearly $13.5 billion in assets, 65 branch locations, and a workforce of over 1,400 employees. This development reflects the determination and innovation of local financial cooperatives in offering enhanced services to their members.
Both Cal Coast and SDCCU have rich histories in San Diego, with Cal Coast being the longest-serving financial institution since its establishment in 1929. Amid an increasingly competitive financial services environment, the merger comes as both organizations seek to bolster their outreach and member services while maintaining their commitment to community engagement and localized support. The initiative underscores the potential for local entrepreneurs to thrive when faced with reduced regulations and the fostering of collaborative financial frameworks.
Details of the Proposed Merger
The merger between Cal Coast and SDCCU is expected to finalize in early 2026, with a complete systems integration process expected to stretch into 2027. The combined credit union will retain the California Coast Credit Union name, and Todd Lane, currently the president and CEO of Cal Coast, will lead the new organization post-merger. Teresa Campbell, the president and CEO of SDCCU, is set to retire upon completion of the merger.
Both organizations are actively seeking to retain their talented workforce, asserting that no job losses are anticipated as a result of this merger. This commitment to employee retention reflects a broader trend toward job stability within the financial sector, particularly in community-minded institutions that prioritize member service and local economic growth.
Member Benefits and Continued Independence
For members of both credit unions, immediate changes will be minimal, as both institutions will continue to operate independently until the official merger date. Members can access their accounts through existing branches and digital platforms without disruptions during this transitional period. The anticipated merger is publicly supported due to the expected expansion of services, including additional branches and ATMs, making financial resources more accessible across Southern California.
A Rich Legacy in Financial Services
Cal Coast Credit Union and SDCCU have long-standing histories that date back to the early 20th century. Cal Coast, established in 1929, prides itself on being a staple of financial services in San Diego. Meanwhile, SDCCU, founded in 1938, holds the title of the largest locally-owned financial institution in the area. This merger, which builds on their long-established legacies, signifies a new direction for two cooperative entities committed to supporting their members.
Regulatory and Membership Approval Process
The merger is subject to regulatory approvals and requires a vote of the membership at Cal Coast Credit Union. As both organizations function under the guidelines of the National Credit Union Administration and the State of California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, adherence to these regulatory frameworks is critical for a successful merger.
Looking Forward
This merger marks a pivotal moment for San Diego’s financial sector, promising to enhance the agility of local credit unions to respond to ever-evolving member needs. By joining forces, Cal Coast and SDCCU aim to create a forward-thinking financial institution that can better serve its communities and contribute to an expanding economy in Southern California.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the proposed merger between Cal Coast Credit Union and SDCCU?
The proposed merger between Cal Coast Credit Union and San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU) aims to create a combined credit union with assets totaling nearly $13.5 billion, 65 branch locations, and more than 1,400 employees serving members across multiple counties in Southern California. The merger is expected to be finalized in early 2026, with full systems integration extending into 2027. The combined organization will retain the California Coast Credit Union name, and Todd Lane, president and CEO of Cal Coast, will lead the new entity. Teresa Campbell, president and CEO of SDCCU, plans to retire upon completion of the merger.
What are the benefits of the merger for members?
The merger aims to create a stronger, more resilient organization capable of embracing the evolving financial services landscape. Members can expect expanded access through additional branches and ATMs. Importantly, no jobs are expected to be lost as a result of the merger, as both organizations are dedicated to retaining talent and providing opportunities for growth.
When is the merger expected to be finalized?
The merger is expected to be finalized in early 2026, with full systems integration extending into 2027.
Will there be any immediate changes for members?
There will be no immediate changes, as both organizations will operate independently until the legal date of merger. Members can continue to access their accounts through existing branches, digital banking, telephone banking, and ATMs.
What is the history of Cal Coast Credit Union and SDCCU?
Cal Coast Credit Union, established in 1929, is the longest-serving financial institution in San Diego. SDCCU, originally chartered in 1938 as San Diego County Employees Credit Union, is San Diego’s largest locally-owned financial institution.
What approvals are required for the merger to proceed?
The merger is contingent upon regulatory approvals and a membership vote by Cal Coast members. Both credit unions operate under the guidelines of the National Credit Union Administration and the State of California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation.
Key Features of the Proposed Merger
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Combined Assets | Nearly $13.5 billion |
| Branch Locations | 65 across multiple counties in Southern California |
| Employees | More than 1,400 |
| Leadership | Todd Lane, president and CEO of Cal Coast, will lead the combined organization; Teresa Campbell, president and CEO of SDCCU, plans to retire upon completion of the merger |
| Merger Timeline | Expected to be finalized in early 2026, with full systems integration extending into 2027 |
| Member Impact | No immediate changes; members can continue to access accounts through existing branches, digital banking, telephone banking, and ATMs |
| Regulatory Approval | Contingent upon regulatory approvals and a membership vote by Cal Coast members |
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