First State Bank & NorthStar Bank Merger

Two Community Banks. One Strong Future.

First State Bank and NorthStar Bank are pleased to announce plans to merge the weekend of September 18, 2026. Because both banks are already owned by Van Diest Investment Company, this merger brings our organizations together under one name while continuing our shared commitment to community banking.

Following the merger, the combined institution will operate as First State Bank. By bringing our teams and resources together, we will be able to offer enhanced capabilities while continuing to provide the personalized service our customers expect.

As we prepare for the transition, customers will receive advance communication about any system integration, branding updates or service enhancements. 

Questions & Answers

When will the merger take place?

During the weekend of September 18, 2026, we will combine the accounts and services of both banks.

Will all current locations of NorthStar Bank remain open to serve me?

Yes! On September 21, 2026, we will be happy to serve all your banking needs from any of the current locations of NorthStar Bank and First State Bank.

Will my bank account number change?

For most customers, no. However, if your account number was one of a few duplicates, you have already been contacted and provided with a new account number.

What about my automatic payments and direct deposits?

Automatic payments and direct deposits that use your routing number and account number will be converted by First State Bank. See below for more information about payments that use your NorthStar Bank debit card number.

Can I continue to use my NorthStar Bank checks?

You may continue to use your NorthStar Bank checks until your current supply of checks is used up or September 30, 2028, whichever comes first.

Can I continue to use my NorthStar Bank debit card?

Your NorthStar Bank debit card will work until the morning of Monday, September 21, 2026. A new First State Bank debit card will be mailed to you at no cost prior to the merger date. You can activate your new card immediately upon receipt and begin using it September 21, 2026.  Please do not destroy your NorthStar Bank debit card until after September 21.

Your new debit card will have a new number, so you will need to update your card information with any merchants who have your card on file for recurring transactions.

What online banking options are available to access my account information?

NorthStar Bank online banking will be available until 5:00 pm on Friday, September 18, 2026.

Beginning Monday, September 21, NorthStar Bank customers may access First State Bank online banking.

• First State Bank online banking is available at www.fsbwc.com. NorthStar Bank customers will use their current username and password to access First State Bank online banking. At the time of your first login, you will enroll in SecureNow which adds an additional layer of protection. 
• First State Bank offers Tele Banking to access your accounts by telephone 24 hours a day. You can obtain account information, transfer funds between accounts, get balance information and account history by dialing 515-832-4860 or 888-372-4880.

Will my NorthStar Bank Bill Pay information transfer to First State Bank?

No. NorthStar Bank Bill Pay customers will need to re-enroll in Bill Pay in First State Bank online banking. Payments scheduled through September 18, 2026 will be processed by NorthStar Bank Bill Pay. No payments will be processed by NorthStar Bank after September 18, 2026, including scheduled recurring payments. Affected customers will receive communication from NorthStar Bank.

Will my NorthStar Bank online banking alerts transfer to First State Bank?

No. NorthStar Bank alerts customers will need to set up any desired alerts in First State Bank online banking. NorthStar Bank online banking will not send alerts after September 18, 2026.

Is my money FDIC insured?

Your deposit accounts will continue to be FDIC insured at First State Bank. Deposits are automatically insured to at least $250,000 per depositor at each FDIC insured bank, depending on FDIC ownership category. Additionally, deposits for customers who currently have accounts at NorthStar Bank and First State Bank are separately insured for an initial period of six months. You can find additional information on the FDIC’s website at www.fdic.gov/resources/deposit-insurance.

What does this mean for insurance customers?

NorthStar Agency will begin doing business as part of Town & Country Insurance, which is part of First State Bank. Your familiar NorthStar Agency team will be available to serve you. Town & Country Insurance also has offices in Webster City, Eagle Grove, Fort Dodge, Clarion, Humboldt, Jewell, Lake View and Story City.

Is there anything I can do to make the process easier?

Yes, please be sure that NorthStar Bank has updated contact information for you – including your mailing address, phone number, and email address. This will ensure that you receive all communications.

How can I obtain more information?

Our goal is to make the transition process as easy as possible. A merger brochure was mailed to each NorthStar Bank customer in August. If you have any questions, please call us at 712-362-3322 or stop by any of our branch locations.