The 1980s were a period of rapid expansion as the Credit Union expanded its reach through collaboration. In 1985, Griffiss-Oneida Federal Credit Union merged with DeWitt First Federal Credit Union in Syracuse to form Up State Federal Credit Union. In 1987, Up State FCU launched its first Credit Card program, giving members access to even more tools to finance their everyday lives.

In 1988, Up State Federal Credit Union merged with Fort Drum Federal Credit Union, strengthening its connection to military personnel and their families. This period also marked the beginning of AmeriCU’s long-standing tradition of offering scholarships, with the creation of a Scholarship Committee in 1993 to support educational opportunities for young members.