Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Financial Partner in Hamilton
First Ontario Credit Union has been serving members for over 80 years, rooted in a commitment to community, financial literacy, and member-centric banking. Founded in 1939, we prioritize personalized service and reinvest profits into local communities through partnerships, sponsorships, and competitive rates. Our team of experienced professionals offers tailored financial solutions, including personal and business banking, wealth management, and insurance services. As a member-owned institution, we empower our community by providing a voice in governance and fostering trust through transparency and ethical practices.Our dedication to innovation ensures modern banking tools like mobile deposits and online account management, while maintaining a strong focus on security and customer satisfaction. With locations across Hamilton, Halton, Niagara, and southwest Ontario, we combine local expertise with national resources to deliver reliable, forward-thinking financial services.
Services
Chequing Accounts
Savings Accounts
Mortgages
Personal Loans
Wealth Management
Insurance Services
Business Banking
Investment Options
Credit Cards
Online Banking
Details
- Year established: 1939
Highlights and features
- We prioritize community reinvestment through partnerships and sponsorships.
- Our member-owned structure ensures personalized service and shared ownership.
- We offer innovative digital banking tools for modern financial management.
- Our team provides expert guidance in wealth planning and investment strategies.
- We emphasize financial literacy to empower informed decision-making.
What people say
Strong community ties
Competitive mortgage rates
Personalized financial advice
Member-owned structure
Excellent customer service
Services
Chequing Accounts
Our chequing accounts offer flexible options for everyday banking, including pay-as-you-go, premium, and unlimited plans. Features include free transactions at surcharge-free ATMs, overdraft protection, and fee waivers for seniors and students. Members benefit from competitive rates, unlimited Interac e-Transfers, and bundled benefits like legal and identity theft protection.
Mortgages
We provide fixed and variable-rate mortgages with terms up to 5 years, including high-ratio options for down payments under 20%. Features include a 90-day rate guarantee, prepayment flexibility, and coverage for the Encompass Home Warranty Program. Our advisors help members navigate conventional and insured mortgage options tailored to their financial goals.
Wealth Management
Our wealth services include mutual funds, stocks, bonds, and retirement planning strategies. Qtrade Direct Investing and Guided Portfolios offer access to diversified investment opportunities. Advisors specialize in estate planning, business succession, and tax-advantaged accounts like TFSAs and RRSPs to help members grow and protect their assets.
Personal Loans
We offer secured and unsecured personal loans with fixed or variable rates, starting at 6.89% APR. Flexible repayment terms, including weekly or monthly payments, and optional insurance coverage for life, disability, or critical illness. Loans can be used for debt consolidation, vehicle purchases, or major expenses with online and in-branch application options.
Insurance Services
FirstOntario Insurance Brokers provide home, auto, business, and pet insurance solutions. Coverage includes mortgage protection, travel insurance, and the Encompass Home Warranty Program. Our brokers work with trusted providers to offer competitive rates and comprehensive policies tailored to personal and business needs.
People
Michael Butler
Vice President Wealth Management
Michael leads wealth management initiatives, leveraging over 20 years of experience in financial services to develop strategic investment solutions for members.
Teresa Reid-Clare
Director, Wealth
Teresa oversees wealth planning services, specializing in Certified Financial Planning to help members achieve long-term financial goals through personalized strategies.
John Fraone
Senior Wealth Advisor
John provides expert wealth advisory services, focusing on retirement planning and investment management to support members' financial security and growth.
Questions
How do I become a member of FirstOntario Credit Union?
Visit a branch or apply online to open an account. Membership is open to everyone, with no eligibility restrictions beyond residency requirements.
What digital banking tools are available?
Access mobile deposits, online bill payments, Interac e-Transfers, and 24/7 account management through our mobile and online banking platforms.
Do you offer business banking services?
Yes, we provide business chequing accounts, financing options, cash management, and merchant services tailored to small and medium enterprises.
What investment options are available?
We offer mutual funds, stocks, bonds, TFSAs, RRSPs, and Qtrade Direct Investing platforms for self-directed portfolios and guided investment strategies.
Are there fee-free ATM options?
Use over 3,700 surcharge-free ATMs across Canada through THE EXCHANGE Network with our chequing and savings accounts.
