Why Now is the Time to Try Online Banking

Many people still love to do their banking at a physical branch location; they might have a relationship with a friendly banker, feel secure watching their money be deposited, or like the camaraderie of an in-person banking experience. We get it! One of the benefits of banking with a local credit union like Valley Strong is having the option to visit us. While we are still here for any in-person banking needs you may have, it might also be time to consider online and mobile banking as part of your financial routine.

Many consumers saw the benefits of online banking during the shelter-in-place orders. In fact, a report by Fidelity National Information Services (FIS) found that there was a 200% jump in new mobile banking registrations and an 85% rise in overall mobile banking traffic.

Here are some benefits of online banking you might not have considered.

1. It gives you access to the information you need.

With DataNet online banking and the DataMobile app, you can check your account balance, view transaction history, pay bills, research loan payments, and more!

Additional benefits:

• Open a new account.
• Apply for a loan and/or credit card.
• Make transfers.
• View images and print copies of paid checks.
• Download account history.
• Order checks.
• Place stop payments on checks.
• Receive email alerts for new messages, balance thresholds, and transactions.
• Purchase amusement park tickets.

2. Given current times, it remains safe.

As we all try to minimize public interactions, online and mobile banking is a safe way to conduct transactions in a “contactless” fashion.

At Valley Strong, cybersecurity is also a priority. We have several measures in place to keep you and your information safe. You do not have to worry that your information will be compromised in any way.

Of course, you also have a role in keeping your information secure, by making sure to follow all applicable safeguards while banking (link to the Cyber Security blog post here). These include:

• Creating secure passwords.
• Thwarting “phishing” scams by never responding to an unsolicited email or call with your banking log-in information.
• Avoiding conducting banking business on public WiFi where your private information could be intercepted.

3. It can help you stick to a budget.

It can be challenging to track spending on a day-to-day basis, but failing to do so can get you into trouble if you run up a credit card or overdraft your account. With online banking you can check your balance before making any purchase, just to make sure you have ample funds. It is far more accessible than waiting to make a visit to the branch and/or relying on your monthly statement, thus allowing you to be more financially responsible.

You also can search through and export several months of transactions, which allows you to identify spending patterns, such as how much you spent on dining out or clothing during a particular period of time.

4. It is always accessible and convenient.

We live in a 24/7 world and sometimes you want to conduct business during non-traditional business hours. Online banking allows you to do so. Instead of waiting until you have time to visit a branch, you can deposit checks using the DataMobile app and save yourself a trip. You can also pay bills and transfer money from one account to another, taking care of the most common banking tasks while you’re on the go…or on the couch.

Of course, we realize that you may still like to see us—and we would love to see you, too. So please, keep coming in as you need, but also consider giving online banking a try.

Wondering if online banking is for you? Learn more about DataNet online banking or Download the DataMobile app today!

Do you need one-on-one assistance with online or mobile banking? All of our branches are equipped with team members to assist you with you specific device. For more information about the TechSperts program, click here.