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Topic starter
First off, Merry Christmas to everyone!
I know the topic of banks has been covered pretty extensively, but i can't find the answer to this question: If I open a account at First Bank in California, do I still need to open an account on island when I arrive?
It seems like the answer should be no - I use Chase now, and I don't need to open a Chase account in another State if I want to deposit or withdraw money. But whenever i read a discussion about banking, people are always advised to open an account on island. If i had a Banco Popular account stateside, wouldn't i be able to use it on St. Thomas just the same? If no, would it expedite the application process on island if i already had a stateside account?
Posted : December 24, 2009 5:29 pm
You could always talk to your local First Bank and ask or call the one here and ask them.
Posted : December 24, 2009 5:36 pm
Probably not - Chase down here was not compatible with stateside Chase Banks. I have/had a stateside Banco Popular account and could not use the on line transfer between the two accounts. A check from one Banco Popular to the other is still treated as an off island check. I think First is the same.
And there is not a problem getting a local account. Have your id (passport/drivers license and social security card) ready along with a local mailing address preferably. They may ask for a lease or a WAPA bill showing your local residence. And cash to put in the bank. There are not really many hoops to jump through.
You cannot open an account without being physically in front of the teller. However if you have a First Bank account go on line and see if you can open another there. I can/could open stateside accounts on line with Banco Popular. That might streamline things.
Merry Christmas,
Pamela
Posted : December 24, 2009 6:04 pm
I agree with Pamela. You just need to ask the bank, after all they are the people you will be dealing with, not the people on this board.
You will need to get used to the "excellent" service the banks provide down here.
billd
Posted : December 24, 2009 6:16 pm
Topic starter
thanks all! I can't wait to experience the "excellent" service!
Posted : December 24, 2009 6:50 pm
When you arrive, visit the new accounts folks at any one of the banks. They will be happy to help you.
I've said it before: I got very good service from FirstBank VI, both STT and STX, as well as the home office in PR. They helped me through some unusual situations.
Posted : December 25, 2009 9:23 am
I'm not saying that the customer service in my bank is bad, but when I went in the other day and asked the clerk to check my balance ...
she leaned over and pushed me !
😀
Posted : December 26, 2009 1:23 am
Suzette,
Had to think about that for a moment:@)
Posted : December 26, 2009 1:28 am
OK, I'm only on my second cup of coffee. I don't get it. Suzette, please explain.
Nevermind...the coffee just jump started my brain...I get it! LOL:@)
Posted : December 26, 2009 10:45 am
Having recently recovered from a bout of vertigo, I check my balance every day! 😀
Posted : December 26, 2009 11:17 am
I use Firstbank VI , and am happy with their service. The stateside Firstbank, although owned by the same company, operates completely independently. You will need to open an account with the local VI branch.
Posted : December 26, 2009 6:52 pm
