Ardent Credit Union Expands Membership Eligibility Nationwide
PHILADELPHIA (December 22, 2025) – Ardent Credit Union announced today its adoption of a Multiple Common Bond Charter. This strategic move expands membership eligibility beyond the five-county footprint specified in its previous charter and positions the credit union for sustained growth.The charter change removes geographic restrictions that previously limited membership to those who lived, worked, volunteered, worshiped or studied in Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware, Bucks or Chester Counties. Now, prospective members anywhere in the country can join Ardent to access innovative services and competitive rates on loans, mortgages and savings products.
"This is a transformative moment for Ardent Credit Union," said Rob Werner, Ardent President and CEO. "For nearly five decades, we've been committed to delivering smart, innovative banking with a personal touch. This change allows us to extend that same level of care and expertise to more people who are looking for a financial partner that truly puts their needs first."
Three Pathways to Membership
Under the new charter, prospective members can qualify for Ardent membership wherever they live and work by enrolling in the American Consumer Council (ACC). The ACC is a national nonprofit focused on consumer advocacy and promoting financial literacy.
For new members, Ardent facilitates ACC enrollment at no cost during account opening.
Membership eligibility is also available through immediate family/household members who qualify and through Ardent’s Select Employee Group (SEG) partners. SEGs are organizations that offer Ardent membership as a benefit to their employees.
Expanding Reach Without Losing Touch
With members already living in all 50 states, the new charter formalizes existing reach and allows Ardent to expand thoughtfully, without disruption to the service, values or relationships members rely on. The change supports Ardent’s continued growth while preserving the strong local focus that has defined the Philadelphia-based organization for decades.
"This charter change allows us to say 'yes' to more people, all while maintaining the same care and level of service our members expect,” Werner said.
Maintaining the Ardent Difference
Current and future members will continue to benefit from Ardent's signature programs and services, including:
- Auto Buying Concierge – Free one-on-one assistance from former car sales professionals
- First Home Concierge – Personalized support throughout the homeownership journey
- Slam Dunk CD – Competitive rates with bonuses tied to Villanova Men’s Basketball home wins
- Youth and Rookie Accounts – Banking and financial education tools for kids and teens
- Renovation Loan – The only home improvement loan that calculates the after-renovation value to determine your borrowing rate
ABOUT ARDENT CREDIT UNION
Ardent Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative. Originally founded in 1977 by the employees of the SmithKline Corporation, Ardent has more than $850 million in member assets. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Ardent serves members nationwide with in-person branch locations in Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware and Chester Counties. For more information, visit ArdentCU.org or call 800.806.9465.