We’re Moving Away from Shared Branching—But Still Here for You, Wherever You Are
Starting September 30, 2025, Spirit of Alaska Credit Union will no longer participate in the national Shared Branching network. This means members will no longer be able to complete transactions at other participating credit unions—or have other credit union members complete transactions at our branches.
This change aligns with a growing shift among credit unions nationwide—refocusing on direct member support and streamlining services to better reflect how members bank today.
Why Is Shared Branching Going Away?
Many credit unions, including Spirit of Alaska, are choosing to step away from Shared Branching in order to:
- –Simplify operations and improve security
- –Focus on local support for our members
- –Enhance digital tools that fit modern banking needs
We’re proud to offer the services that matter most—built right here in Alaska, by people who live and work in your community.
What Are My Alternatives?
Even without Shared Branching, you’ll still have multiple easy ways to bank with us, whether you’re here in Fairbanks or living outside the area.
| Shared Branching Service | Member Alternative |
| Free Cash Withdrawals | Withdraw at any Spirit of Alaska branch or ATM |
| Cash or Check Deposits | Deposit in-person at any Spirit of Alaska branch or ATM, or use mobile check deposit through our app. (See separate table for “Options for Out-of-Town Cash Deposits”) |
| Loan Payments | Make payments via Spirit of Alaska online banking, mobile app, in-branch, ATM Video Teller, or by phone |
| Transfers Between Accounts | Use Spirit of Alaska online/mobile banking or ATM Video Teller to transfer funds between accounts |
| Balance Inquiries | Check Spirit of Alaska balances at any time via online banking, ATM/Video Teller, mobile app, or during business hours by phone or in person. |
| Print Statements or Transaction History | Access and print through online banking or request in-branch |
Options for Out-of-Town Cash Deposits
| Option | How It Works | Estimated Cost | Funds Availability |
| Money Order (USPS, Walmart, etc.) | Buy with cash, deposit via mobile app | $1–2 | 3 business days (check hold applies) |
| Cashier’s Check (Bank/CU) | Buy with cash, deposit via mobile app | $5–10 | 3 business days (check hold applies) |
| Retail Cash-Load Network | Load cash onto a prepaid card or app (e.g., Cash App, Netspend) at stores like Walmart or CVS, then transfer to your Spirit of Alaska account | $1–5 | Minutes to load; 1–3 days for bank transfer |
| MoneyGram/Western Union | Send cash to yourself or your account | $5–20+ | Within minutes to hours |
Have Questions? We’re Here for You.
We know this change might impact members who’ve relied on Shared Branching, and we’re committed to helping make the transition smooth.
If you’d like help setting up digital banking, using our ATMs with Video Teller, or finding the best way to bank remotely, we’re just a call or visit away.
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