Banking Services

With a better understanding of what you need from a bank, finding the right one for you should be easy. Below are some important tips to help you decide what your needs are.

ATM Safety Tips

ATMs have revolutionized banking. You now have access to your account 24 hours a day! In minutes you can deposit or withdraw funds from a checking or savings account as well as check the balance of those accounts. It is also possible to transfer funds from one account to another via an ATM.

ATMs are available for your use throughout the country and worldwide. Following are some tips on how to use your ATM card and an ATM safely:

• Protect your ATM card and keep it in a safe place. Immediately notify your bank if it is lost or stolen.
• Keep your Personal Identification Number (PIN) a secret. Never write in on the back of your card.
• When completing a transaction be aware of your surroundings. Banks are careful to place ATMs in safe areas. If at any time you feel uneasy or observe suspicious activity do not use the machine at that time.

For nighttime transactions:

• Park in a well-lighted area close to the ATM.
• Keep your headlights on.
• Take a friend with you to the machine.
• Make sure the ATM has proper lighting and the shrubbery is not overgrow
• At a drive-up ATM, keep your passenger windows rolled up and doors locked. If you leave your car, lock your doors.
• Have your materials ready before you approach the machine. Have your ATM card in hand, know your PIN number and have your deposit slip filled out.
• Shield the screen with your body when you enter your PIN number at the ATM.
• Always take your receipts or transactions records to keep your account information confidential. Don't display your money while at the machine; immediately place the cash in your purse or pocket and count it later.

Avoiding ATM Fees

The explosion in the number of ATMs has allowed consumers to conduct their financial business from almost anywhere at anytime of the day or night. Bank customers have shown that ATMs are a valuable service and are willing to pay a fair price for the added convenience. Following are tips on how to keep fees low at ATMs:

• Use your own bank's ATM. Ninety percent of banks offer free use for their own customers.
• Shop around for ATMs in your area that do not charge. You are notified before the transaction is complete if you will be charged a fee for using the machine.
• Make larger withdrawals and budget its use.
• Consider other options: cash a check, use travelers checks, use your credit card or debit card, or go to a bank teller.
• Remember, ATMs are priced for convenience. They offer convenient, safe banking 24-hours a day, seven days a week. With careful planning and budgeting, you can keep ATM fees to a minimum.