What happens to my CD if the financial institution merges or is acquired by another company? (For US)
Curious about Certificates of Deposit
When a financial institution that holds your Certificate of Deposit (CD) merges with or is acquired by another company, your CD is generally not significantly affected in terms of its terms and interest rate. Here's what typically happens:
1. Continuity of Terms: The acquiring financial institution usually honors the terms and conditions of your CD, including the interest rate, maturity date, and original terms. Your CD remains intact, and you continue to earn interest according to the original agreement.
2. FDIC Insurance: If your CD is FDICinsured (or covered by a similar deposit insurance program in your country), the insurance coverage remains in place. The acquiring institution assumes responsibility for insuring your deposits up to the applicable limits.
3. Account Number and Access: In many cases, the acquiring institution will provide you with a new account number and information about how to access your accounts online or through their branches. You may need to update your account details for online banking or any automatic transfers linked to your CD.
4. Communication: You should receive communication from both your current financial institution and the acquiring institution regarding the merger or acquisition. They will provide details about any changes in account access, procedures, or contact information.
5. Customer Support: The acquiring institution typically offers customer support and assistance during the transition period to address any questions or concerns you may have.
6. Early Withdrawal: In some cases, the acquiring institution may offer an early withdrawal option without penalty if you prefer not to continue with the CD under the new institution's terms. However, this is not guaranteed and may depend on the specific terms of the merger or acquisition.
It's essential to review any communications from both institutions to understand the changes, if any, and how they affect your CD. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to the acquiring institution's customer service for clarification.
Overall, the goal of the acquiring institution is to make the transition as smooth as possible for customers while preserving the terms and protections of existing accounts, including CDs. Your CD should continue to grow according to the original terms, and your funds should remain safe and insured up to the applicable limits.