ICBA Offers Financial Tips for Travelers
Washington, D.C. (PRWEB) August 05, 2014 -- The Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) and the nation’s more than 6,500 community banks are providing consumers information they need to help keep their money safe before they plan their next vacation.
“Running out of money or losing your wallet is a quick way to spoil your trip,” John Buhrmaster, president and CEO of 1st National Bank of Scotia, N.Y. said. “Community bankers are relationship bankers who work together with their customers, so in the event something unfortunate does happen, they will be ready to lend a helping hand.”
Financial professionals agree that the safest and most convenient way to travel with your money is to take a small amount of cash with you. Another good idea is to carry a debit and/or credit card along for the trip. These cards are convenient while traveling because they are easy to carry, easy to use and often offer the lowest fees and the best exchange rates.
ICBA offers these tips to consumers about what they need to take care of before they take off:
• Let your community bank know when and where you will be traveling so that you will avoid any potential denials or fraud alerts when out-of-the-ordinary transactions are presented. This is crucial for international travel.
• Check your available balances before you leave. Know the limits on how much cash you can withdraw or purchases you can make.
• Find out what ATM or debit card fees you may be subject to around the country and abroad.
• Make copies of all the cards you'll be carrying and take a copy with you. Be sure to also include the customer service phone number.
• Many credit cards provide travel accident insurance and traveler's assistance. Ask your community bank what special services are available through your card.
• Bring a list of emergency phone numbers. Be sure to get a number for your bank that you can call if you're out of the country.
“Whether you and your family are traveling near or far, it is better to be prepared for any event that comes your way. Your local community bank is always there to help ensure your finances will be kept safe,” Buhrmaster said.
To learn more about ICBA, visit http://www.icba.org. To find a community bank in your area, visit ICBA's community bank locator.
About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America®, the nation’s voice for more than 6,500 community banks of all sizes and charter types, is dedicated exclusively to representing the interests of the community banking industry and its membership through effective advocacy, best-in-class education and high-quality products and services. For more information, visit http://www.icba.org.
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Jessica Wallace, Independent Community Bankers of America, http://www.icba.org, +1 (202) 821-4328, [email protected]
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