NORTH ATTLEBORO - The North Attleboro Federal Credit Union intends to merge with the Sharon Credit Union to expand services it can offer to members and businesses.

North Attleboro Credit Union's board of directors voted in favor of the merger after exploring a number of options. Kerry Vigorito, president of the board of directors, said the Sharon Credit Union was selected because it shared the same values and commitment to serving member needs.

"The benefit for the members will be the additional goods and services that can be offered," Vigorito said. "The North Attleboro Federal Credit Union is under $30 million in size, which limits the number of services we can offer. We decided to merge with a partner so we have the assets to provide those services. It's a very positive move for the credit union."

The merger is subject to regulatory approval from the National Credit Union Administration, the Massachusetts Division of Banks and the Massachusetts Credit Union Share Insurance Corporation. Once that approval is obtained, the members of the credit union will be asked to vote and endorse the merger.

Vigorito said regulatory approval will likely come in 60 to 90 days. The North Attleboro Federal Credit Union began to serve the community in 1955 as the Sacred Heart Federal Credit Union. Its membership is open to anyone residing or employed in Attleboro, North Attleboro, Plainville and Wrentham.

Sharon Credit Union, chartered in 1956, has a field of membership that includes Norfolk, Bristol, Suffolk, Middlesex, Plymouth and Barnstable counties.

With combined assets of over $338.8 million and 34,728 members, the credit unions will be more competitive in the marketplace.

Members of both credit unions will also have access to an extended branch network.