For now, Central State Bank and Farmers State Bank will continue to operate independently, so customers can continue working with CSB for their banking needs as they do today. As we move through the transition, products and rates may be reviewed, but no changes have been announced at this time.
Because rates and product offerings can differ between the two banks, customers are welcome to contact their current CSB banker with questions about the options available to them.
No changes are needed at this time. Customers should continue using their existing CSB account and routing information for direct deposits, automatic payments and other ACH transactions, including Social Security.
If any changes are needed as part of a future system conversion, customers will receive information and instructions well in advance. There is nothing customers need to update today.
Yes, customers should continue using their current CSB checks as they normally would. There is no need to order new checks or make changes at this time.
As we get closer to any future system conversion, customers will receive additional information about their accounts and any steps they may need to take.
Our goal is to keep customers informed throughout the transition and provide information before they need to take any action. As specific transition and conversion details are finalized, customers will receive clear instructions about what is changing, when it is happening and whether there is anything they need to do.
For now, customers should continue banking as usual.
Customers can expect a thoughtful transition with communication along the way. For now, there is no action customers need to take, and CSB and FSB will continue operating independently until the transaction closes.
As integration planning moves forward, customers can expect to receive information before any changes require action on their part. Our goal is to make the transition as smooth as possible while continuing the personal, relationship-focused service CSB customers value.
Looking ahead, the combination is expected to give CSB customers access to additional resources and expertise, including expanded digital banking capabilities, mortgage and lending services, wealth management capabilities, and continued investment in technology and cybersecurity.
The banks share a commitment to community banking, personal service, local decision-making, and the communities they serve. Central State Bank’s directors sought a partner to help ensure a smooth transition for customers, employees, and communities. FSB views the acquisition as part of its long-term strategy to grow in Iowa, deepen customer relationships, and support the bank’s continued independence.
FSB was established in 1879, and Central State Bank has served Iowa communities since 1942. Both banks value local relationships, helpful service, and strong communities.
Moving forward, there will continue to be local ownership and leadership who take an active role in the day to day activities.
In the short term: very little. Employees' current roles, compensation, and day-to-day responsibilities remain unchanged. Integration planning will take time, and no major changes will happen without proper communication and notice.
What Employees Need to Know Today:
What Happens Next
Over the coming weeks and months:
The CSB West Des Moinesoffice lease expires January 31, 2027, and will transition to a month-to-month lease after that date. We anticipate that office combining with FSB’s West Des Moines branch. The timing of a future move will depend on the core system conversion. We’ll share additional information as plans and timing are confirmed. No other changes to office locations are planned right now. If that changes, you'll hear from us with proper notice.This plan is confidential and is not part of the initial public announcement. Do not share details until leadership authorizes customer communication.
The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2026, subject to required approvals and customary closing conditions. Until closing, the banks will operate independently.
“Farmers State Bank and Central State Bank are coming together because they share many of the same community-banking values. You can keep banking as you do today. We will share updates before any action is required.”
Do not say that no branches will close. Do not speculate about jobs, locations, pricing, systems, conversion dates, or products. Use only approved information.
Customers are expected to gain access to expanded digital tools, personal and business banking capabilities, wealth management services, and continued investment in technology and cybersecurity.