How to Avoid Overdrafts

As soon as you initiate a transaction, be sure to record it in your check register. This includes debit card purchases, checks, Bill Payer transactions, deposits, credits, transfers, and ATM transactions.

Remember to also record automatic transactions a few days in advance of the payment and ensure money is in your account on payment day.

It's a good idea to keep "a little extra" money in your account to cover potential mistakes and unexpected expenses.

There are many convenient ways to stay on top of your money.

• Online and Mobile Banking - check your balance and transfer funds anytime, anywhere.
• Set up account alerts in Online Banking - you'll receive an email when your account gets below a specified balance.
• Always review your statement and reconcile your account - we even offer eStatements which are available earlier than paper statements.
• Take advantage of our Money Manager budgeting tool through Online Banking - you can set spending targets, track your spending, set goals, and more.
• Use our Private Teller Automated Phone Service - check your balance and make transfers 24 hours a day.

When using a debit card, transactions may remain pending until the final transaction amount comes through. The hold will reduce your available balance.

Certain merchants may submit an upfront authorization that places a hold on your account that is different from the final purchase amount. This may happen if the final amount is unclear, such as buying gas at the pump, or paying for a service where a tip may be added later.

If your checking account balance is low, you may prefer to pay with cash or with a credit card. Just be sure to pay off your credit card balance to avoid interest charges.