An account holder posed a great question about the ability to transact live from their Northern Community Bank account just like you can with a highstreet bank account.
I think it would be a great idea for members to be able to do transact online through their online Northern Community Bank account, just like you can from a bank. I think it would just make sense to be able to take money out put money in and check your accounts all in one place.
The team at Northern Community Bank thought it was a good question and something we should explore in a blog. Firstly we want account holders to know the different ways to currently interact with their Northern Community Bank account. The limitations with the technology we currently have and what improvements may be on the horizon.
Northern Community Bank CEO, Kathryn took the opportunity to discuss the different depositing and withdrawal methods available with the account holder, whilst highlighting the problems that prohibit some progress at the moment
Community banks are not on the central banking system and cannot operate as banks. Banks make huge profits, providing the revenue to operate systems which links with the central banking system. However we are looking at systems and developments with current I.T companies that will improve this service for account holders
So how can I deposit money into my account, check my balance, make withdrawals, complete a loan application or ask a question?
How to put money into your Northern Community Bank account
We do ask that account holders speak to staff before setting up any of the depositing methods. A friendly member of staff is available to help via telephone, the app or Online Account Area
- Standing order straight from your bank. You are in control and decide on the date and amount you would like deposit. Please include your Northern Community Bank membership number as reference so that we know to credit it to your account
- As there are bank charges for card payments we encourage account holders to use standing orders or bank transfer
- We are set-up to take some benefits for savings deposit. Please discuss this with staff before setting up payment
- Cash in branch
- Direct from your wage with local companies who are enrolled on our Payroll Deduction Scheme
The different ways to transact with your Northern Community Bank account
Mobile app
Northern Community Bank’s app is like having a branch in your pocket! The Northern Community Bank app is now available to download from either the Apple or Google Play store by clicking here. There are lots of great new features to make it easier for you to manage your account, including 24/7 withdrawals, account statements and a loan calculator.
- Account holders can see balances
- Mini statements
- Withdrawals can be made 24/7. As long as you have the money available in your community bank account, your withdrawal will be in your nominated account within minutes (normally instantly).
- Complete loan applications from start to finish with integrated e-signature. Cutting out the need to visit a branch
- Privately ask questions and answer queries regarding your account
You can find out of to download and use the Northern Community Bank app here
Online Accounts Area
All adult account holders are invited to register for the Online Accounts Area here. Once activated account holders can
- Check balances on all accounts
- Withdrawals can be made 24/7. As long as you have the money available in your community bank account, your withdrawal will be in your nominated account within minutes (normally instantly)
- Good loan calculator to get loan illustrations of quotes
- Loan applications can be started and completed in your own time via the Online Accounts Area
- Ask questions which will be answered by staff during branch hours
- Download and print statements of accounts
Telephone Banking
- A friendly, highly trained member of staff dealing with your enquiry during branch hours
- Check balances on all accounts
- Request withdrawals from Northern Community Bank savings to your nominated bank account. Transferred within branch hours
- Staff can provide free loan quotations and explain options available
Current limitations of the telephone banking
- Operates within branch opening hours
- Some account details cannot be updated via telephone banking
- High volumes of calls early in the week can make it difficult to get through to a member of staff
Branch transaction
- A friendly, highly trained and familiar face dealing with your enquiry
- Branches located in handy town centre locations in Burnley, Nelson and Colne
- Balance and account enquiries
- Withdrawals, inter-member transfers and ability to update bank details held on your account
- Unlike the other options branches are able to handle small quantities of cash and cheques
- Staff can provide free loan quotations and explain options available
- Staff can provide loan applications assistance
- Staff are available to take copies of original I.D., bank statements, proof of address or other important documents
Current limitations of branch transacting
- Naturally operates within branch opening hours
- Not convenient for all account holders to visit the town centre
As a community bank we are always looking forward. We view new platforms, mobile apps and are regular in communication with our sister community banks around the country (and world) to see what developments they have introduced to make things easier, safer and quicker for account holders.
