Better Checking System

Dear Valued Client:

In the near future, your monthly statements will feature a new service. While the technical term is check imaging, at Mercer Savings Bank, we refer to it as The Better Checking System. The following are some questions and answers that will help you understand the benefits of this new service.

What is The Better Checking System?

Thanks to new technology, we will be able to scan your original checks into our computer system and permanently store them on optical disk. The scanned image becomes a permanent digital document, and can be reproduced at any time. This system is a vast improvement over the traditional microfilm used to store your records at the bank.

How will my monthly statement change?

You will no longer have to sort your own checks. When monthly statements are prepared, our system will gather all of your checks for the month, organize them by check number, and neatly print them out on 8.5” x 11” sheets of paper for easy storage in a three-ring binder. These digital check print-outs will be included with your statements instead of the original paper checks.

Why is Mercer Savings Bank using this system?

We are committed to bringing you the best in client service...and keeping up with new technology is a part of that. The Better Checking System allows us to offer you a better checking service, at no charge, which will improve many aspects of your account. You will find that we can service your needs faster and more efficiently.

Can I still write my checks the same way?

Yes, but please use black or blue ink for the highest quality images. Also, try to avoid gel pens and busy backgrounds on your checks.

How much will this new service cost?

There is no charge for The Better Checking System. This a free service for all Mercer Savings Bank clients.

How will The Better Checking System benefit me as a client?

The Better Checking System will provide you with an array of free benefits.

1. Easier statement reconciliation. Your new digitized checks are provided presorted in numerical order. Beneath each check image, clearly printed, will be the check number, the amount of the check and the date the item was posted. These features make balancing your checkbook faster and easier than ever before.

2. A ready-made filing system for you. Statements and checks are printed on paper that is pre-hole-punched and ready to store in a three-ring binder which we will provide for you. Think about the advantages of having your statements and canceled checks all together in one place and readily available for fingertip reference. No more digging through overstuffed drawers, bulky envelopes or overflowing shoeboxes for a particular check.

3. Income tax preparation is easier. Imagine the convenience of having all your checking account records for the year organized in a binder. This will certainly be a helpful feature for you and/or your tax preparer.

4. Enhanced bank research capabilities. When you need information, or a copy of the back of any check we have processed, it can be made available you. Copies can be picked up, faxed, or mailed.

Does this mean that I won’t get my checks back?

Actually, you will be receiving your checks back, just in a different form. Your monthly statement will contain exact imaged reproductions of your original checks. With The Better Banking System, your monthly statement provides a method that is easier and more convenient to manage, organize, and reconcile.

What if I need to prove I paid something?

No problem. Imaged checks are fully accepted by the IRS and in a court of law. Plus, if you need an image of the back of any item, we can provide it, just come in or call us. We can even enlarge the imaged item for ease of signature and endorsement verification. In fact, due to quality and clarity, an imaged check is preferred over microfilm copies for proof of payment.

How long will the bank store the imaged checks?

We will have a permanent record of every check that is paid through your account for 7 years.

When will the bank start sending my image statements?

The Better Banking System is coming soon. From that time on, all of your monthly statements will contain your imaged checks.