Ahhh…the lazy days of summer are almost upon us!  As we all navigate the frantic end of school events and activities, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel and the slower pace of summer ahead. If you are planning a vacation this summer, I would like to remind everyone of a few safety tips that could alleviate possible financial difficulties during your trip:

• Prior to leaving, contact your financial institutions with your travel destination and any locations where you may be using your debit card.  This will prevent denials due to unfamiliar location, which will often lead to a temporary block on your card.  Also, make sure your financial institution has the best possible contact number for you.
• Download the GTSB Mobile App. Have 24/7 access to account balances, transfer options, and online Bill Pay.
• Download the Shazam Brella App for added security and 24/7 control of your GTSB Debit Card.
• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially anyone paying a bit too much attention at an ATM or checkout line as you enter your PIN.  If you feel uncomfortable entering your PIN, remember that Debit card transactions can always be processed as credit transactions which would eliminate PIN entry but require your signature. The transaction will still be deducted from your checking account as if you had entered your PIN.
• Keep a copy of the front and back of all credit and debit cards with a contact person at home as well as with you.  This way if your cards are lost or stolen, you have both account and contact numbers.

One more financial consideration for the summer, if you have a student with a summer job, now is the perfect time to open an account for them and introduce them to the banking process.  Give them time before they leave for college to familiarize themselves with the process of balancing a checkbook, using a debit card and online banking, and being responsible for a transaction account.  Let them start building a strong financial foundation and credit history.

Sincerely,

Dale G Deiters
President/CEO