COLUMBIA, SC (July 16, 2026) |
Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union will begin serving customers at four East Georgia branches in Waynesboro, Sardis, Gibson and Hephzibah on Monday, Aug. 3, following the anticipated Aug. 1 closing of its agreement with Southern Financial Corporation and Southern Bank. Until the transaction closes, it will remain business as usual for customers of both financial institutions. Following the closing, customers of the four Georgia branches will automatically become members of Palmetto Citizens.
While the name on the branches will change, much of what customers value most will remain consistent. They will continue to see the familiar employees they know and trust while gaining access to expanded financial products and services, enhanced member benefits and the personalized, people-first approach that has guided Palmetto Citizens for 90 years.
“We're honored to welcome Southern Bank customers as members of our Palmetto Citizens family,” said Robert Dozier, president and CEO of Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union. “Our goal is to combine the hometown service customers value with expanded financial products, modern banking conveniences and the long-term benefits of credit union membership. We look forward to becoming a dependable financial partner for local residents and businesses across Georgia.”
The transition will include the following four Georgia branch locations:
- Sardis: 731 Charles Perry Ave., Sardis, GA 30456
- Waynesboro: 855 Liberty St., Waynesboro, GA 30830
- Gibson: 21 College St., Gibson, GA 30810
- Hephzibah: 2455 Highway 88, Hephzibah, GA 30815
What Customers Can Expect
Customers can expect a smooth and well-planned transition to Palmetto Citizens. All Southern Bank employees at the four Georgia branches will remain in place, ensuring customers continue to see the familiar faces they know and trust.
Branch hours will remain the same, and existing loan terms and payment schedules will not change.
Customers with checking accounts will receive a new Palmetto Citizens debit card in late July. While the card may be activated upon receipt, it will not become active until 9 p.m. on Friday, July 31, when the transition to Palmetto Citizens is complete. At that time, Southern Bank debit cards will no longer be valid.
New member information packets were recently mailed with important details about the transition. Customers at the transitioning branches will continue to receive direct communication with key dates, account information and guidance on what to expect during and after the conversion.
Serving Members and Communities
Founded in 1936 as Columbia Teachers Federal Credit Union, Palmetto Citizens was established by 10 local educators who each contributed $5 to create a member-owned financial cooperative build on accessibility and the belief that banking should put people first.
Today, Palmetto Citizens has grown into one of South Carolina’s most respected credit unions, serving more than 87,000 members with personal and business banking services and financial education. While the organization has grown significantly over the past nine decades, its mission remains strongly committed to building local relationships and contributing to long-term community impact.
As Palmetto Citizens prepares to serve these Georgia communities, the credit union plans to bring its broader community-focused approach to the market, including financial education, local involvement, volunteerism and support for schools, nonprofits and civic organizations.
“We understand that change brings questions, but it also brings opportunity,” Dozier said. “Our goal is to make this transition seamless while honoring the relationships that already exist. We look forward to becoming a trusted neighbor, supporting local communities and serving every member with the same people-first philosophy that has guided us for over 90 years.”
Visit palmettocitizens.org/georgia to learn more.
