WEIRTON – The membership of Tin Mill Employees Federal Credit Union has voted to merge with First Choice America Community Federal Credit Union.

The merger became effective at the close of business Tuesday, according to an announcement released Wednesday afternoon by First Choice credit union officials.

Tin Mill Employees Federal Credit Union had been a member-owned-and-operated credit union since 1953.

The transaction strengthens the credit union’s standing as the Ohio Valley’s largest locally owned-and-operated community financial institution, said Scott E. Winwood, First Choice president and CEO.

“We look forward to welcoming Tin Mill’s members into our credit union family,” Winwood said. “Both credit unions are very proud of their long, rich histories of serving the financial needs of their members and the communities in which we live and operate. There are synergies with this merger that will add value to the memberships of both credit unions.”

Winwood said Tin Mill’s 1,200 members will realize many advantages with the merger such as a more comprehensive array of financial products and services; greater convenience with eight Ohio Valley offices with extended lobby and drive-through hours; 10 no-fee ATMs plus an additional 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs through the Alliance One and Money Pass networks; and 24/7 access through online and mobile banking.

First Choice America was founded in 1939 and serves more than 36,500 members with two offices in Weirton, three in Wheeling and one each in Chester, Steubenville and Wintersville.