First Technology Is Okay

I've been a member of First Technology CU since June of 1987, when it was the credit union for Tektronix.  Back then it was a small, friendly credit union that really strived for excellent customer service.  Over the years, I've had a number of car loans and HELOC loans through First Technology. For years, I was content to do all of my backing with First Technology.

I first noticed customer service slipping when First Technology became the credit union for Microsoft.  At that time, they made it difficult to use any other financial planning software other than MS Money.  They eventually relented and went back to supporting Quicken.

About 5 years ago, I noticed that the tellers and phone support people picked up an attitude.  After way too many encounters with surly phone support folks, I moved my checking and savings accounts to Advantis CU, which is more like what First Technology was 20 years ago.

First Technology is in negotiations with the banking regulators to merge with Addison Avenue CU (HP's old CU).  It remains to be seen if the regulators will allow First Technology and Addison Avenue to merge.  If approved, the merged entity will be called First Technology, but the headquarters will be in Palo Alto, CA instead of Beaverton, OR.  So I guess the HP versus Tektronix war is over and HP won.  Long live Tektronix!

My employer prefers HSA accounts at First Technology, so I am still a member, but I can't honestly recommend First Technology.  Their savings rates, and customer service are below average.  Their website is one of the best around.