FAQs

If you have additional questions, please contact us by telephone at (231) 845-3500 or toll free at (888) 295-4373, email us your question at CustomerCare@westshorebank.com or visit any West Shore Bank location and a customer service representative will be happy to answer your questions.

We're here to help you.

Is there something you're curious about? See below for an extensive list of common facts and questions. Don't see what you're looking for? No worries, we're here to help.

Are my West Shore Bank accounts FDIC insured?

Yes. As of January 1, 2013, all of a depositor’s accounts at an insured depository institution, including all noninterest-bearing transaction accounts, are insured by the FDIC up to the standard maximum deposit insurance amount of $250,000 for each deposit insurance ownership category.

Can I make a deposit to my West Shore Bank account remotely?

Deposits are accepted remotely via direct deposit, West Shore Bank ATMs, ACH (Automated Clearing House) transactions or by a smartphone using our mobile deposit service offered through our Mobile Banking app. Call 231-845-3500 or toll-free (888) 295-4373 for additional details.

Can I open an account if I don't live in the United States? What if I live in the United States but not a citizen yet?

With proper identification, we may be able to open an account for you. Call our Customer Service Center (231) 845-3500 or toll-free (888) 295-4373 for additional assistance.

Does West Shore Bank have safe deposit boxes?

Yes. Safe deposit boxes are available at both Ludington locations, Scottville, Manistee-Parkdale, Onekama and Frankfort. To check availability and pricing, please contact our Customer Service Center at (888) 295-4373.

Does West Shore Bank offer foreign currency, foreign drafts and can you wire transfer overseas?

West Shore Bank is able to purchase foreign currency on your behalf with delivery usually in four to five business days for common currencies; others can take up to two weeks. Stop by any West Shore Bank branch location to place an order or call our Customer Service Center at (231) 845-3500 or (888) 295-4373 for additional details.

Foreign drafts (payable in US dollars or a foreign currency) are available as well as wire transfers, either in US Dollars or a foreign currency to another country.

How can I contact the bank?

You can call our customer service center at 231-845-3500 or toll-free at (888) 295-4373. Visit our Locations listing for phone numbers, locations and hours for any of our full-service offices and “QuickCash” ATM locations.

Is West Shore Bank independently owned?

Yes. West Shore Bank is an independent, locally owned and managed community bank. We have been committed to making the region a strong, vibrant place to live and work since 1898.

My address has changed. How do I tell the bank?

To change your address, you can fill out a Change of Address form at any of our branch locations. Or you may call our Customer Service Center at 231-845-3500 or (888) 295-4373.

If you are an Online Banking user, you may start the process by requesting a Change of Address after logging into Online Banking and sending a secure message.

For your security, we will need to ask a few verification questions if the request is not made in person.

What days are considered "Business Days"?

Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays that fall on a weekday are not business days.

What information is required to receive a wire transfer?

A wire transfer is an electronic transfer of funds between financial institutions. You must provide the following information to the originator of the wire:

Bank Name: West Shore Bank
City/State: Ludington, MI
Routing Transit Number: 072408290
Account Number: Your West Shore Bank account number (including leading zeros)
Account Title: The name or title of the account as it appears on your bank statement

The fees for incoming and outgoing wire transfers vary depending on the financial institution and location the wire is going to or coming from. If you are sending overseas wires, foreign currency wire transfers are available. For assistance with wire transfers, call our Customer Service Center at (231) 845-3500 or (888) 295-4373 during our regular business hours.

How do I find your current personal and business account disclosures?

Account specific dislosures are provided at the time of account opening. More general disclosures are linked below:

How do I set up Direct Deposit of my social security or payroll check?

Social Security, US Government, and many payroll and pension checks can be automatically deposited into your West Shore Bank checking or savings account. If your employer offers direct deposit, simply provide them with your account number and West Shore Bank's routing and transit number. Your direct deposit will usually begin within thirty days. For direct deposit of your Social Security check, simply call or visit any West Shore Bank location. And have your Social Security number and account information available.

If I make a deposit or withdrawal today, when will it appear in my account?

Deposits and withdrawals will be applied the same business day. A business day is considered Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Saturday deposits and withdrawals would appear on the following business day.

What is my EE, I, or HH US Government Savings Bond currently worth?

For an interest and value calculator for your government savings bonds, go to www.savingsbonds.gov.

What is the minimum amount required to open a CD?

The minimum deposit to open a Certificate of Deposit is $500.

What is the minimum amount required to open a savings account?

You can open a West Shore Bank savings account with $100. The quarterly service charge is $5 unless the $100 minimum daily account balance is maintained. The service charge is also waived for children under the age of 18.

Are there any restrictions on my debit card transactions?

Some transactions may be restricted on purchases of gift cards. Please contact our Customer Service Center at (888) 295-4373 during banking hours if you have any questions.

Can I make a loan payment at a Quickcash ATM?

No. Only checking and savings accounts can be attached to a debit or ATM card. To make a loan payment outside of business hours, place the loan payment coupon with your payment into an envelope and place the envelope into the night deposit drop box. We will process the payment during the next business day and send you a receipt.

How long does it take for my debit card purchase to be deducted from my checking account?

If you used your PIN to authorize the transaction, the amount is deducted immediately from your checking account and the purchase details will typically appear in your account the next business day. For signature-based, Internet, and phone transactions, the funds are held immediately (so they’re not available for withdrawal) and the transaction details will appear in your account usually within one to three business days. Internet and phone transactions might not appear in your account until after your order ships.

How long will it take to get a new or replacement ATM/Debit card?

Card orders are processed daily. You should receive your new card within 10 days. Cards are mailed in plain white envelopes. If it has been longer than two weeks since you ordered your new card, please contact us immediately at (231) 845-3500 or (888) 295-4373.

How much cash per day can I withdraw from an ATM?

Daily limits vary by card. To verify your daily limit, check the ATM/Debit card disclosure you received at the time of application or call our Customer Service Center at (231) 845-3500 or call toll-free (888) 295-4373.

I forgot my PIN for my ATM/Debit card. What should I do?

If you forgot your PIN for your ATM/Debit card, call our Self-Service Center at (888) 295-4373. After answering personal security questions, you will be able to set up a new PIN for your card.

I lost my ATM/Debit card. What should I do?

Immediately call to report your lost or stolen ATM/Debit card to our Customer Service Center at (231) 845-3500 or (888) 295-4373.

If you lost your card outside of our regular business hours, call (888) 297-3416 immediately upon learning your card is missing to report the loss. This will immediately block any further transactions on the card. On the next business day, contact West Shore Bank to report the loss and order a new card.

I received a call from the fraud prevention center. Is it legitimate?

We understand your caution. West Shore Bank does have a Fraud Prevention Center that will call you if we detect unusual or suspicious activity on your debit card that might indicate fraud. If you receive a message from the Fraud Prevention Center, or if you would like to verify that a call you received was legitimate, please call back at (855) 293-2456.

What is the cut-off time for my ATM deposit?

Your deposit made before 3:00 pm at a West Shore Bank QuickCash ATM will be credited that business day.

Where can I find West Shore Bank ATMs?

Our QuickCash ATMs are located at the following branches: Ludington Downtown, Ludington-East, Manistee-Parkdale, Manistee-South, Scottville, Hart, Frankfort, Onekama and Traverse City. Additionally, you can find QuickCash ATMs in Fountain and at West Shore Community College’s Schoenherr Campus Center.

Where can I use my West Shore Bank debit card?

Your West Shore Bank debit card can be used as both an ATM card and as an electronic means of paying from your checking account. When you use it to access your funds at ATMs or make purchases at any participating Mastercard^® location, the funds will be automatically deducted from your checking account.

Will my debit card work in all states and countries when I travel?

To protect your accounts from fraudulent activity, West Shore Bank does block all debit card transactions outside of the United States. We can temporarily unblock your debit card for transactions while you are traveling abroad. Please contact West Shore Bank’s Customer Service Center at (231) 845-3500 or (888) 295-4373 to make this request, providing us with your specific travel dates.

We also offer Mastercard^® gift cards that can be used while traveling.

Does West Shore Bank offer Digital Banking?

Yes. West Shore Bank's Digital Banking allows you to bank on your own schedule. Pay bills, check account balances, transfer funds, stop payments, and more. There is no fee to use this convenient service for both personal and business banking needs.

Does West Shore Bank offer Online Bill Pay?

Yes. Online Bill Pay is available within West Shore Bank's Online Banking program, allowing you to save both time and money. Online Bill Pay is free for all personal and business checking accounts.

Does West Shore Bank offer Telephone Banking?

Yes. West Shore Bank’s TeleBank allows you 24/7 access to your accounts from any touch-tone telephone. You can confirm account and loan balances, transfer funds between accounts, stop payments, and more. This free service can be accessed by calling (800) 757-0662.

To get started, call (800) 757-0662. The first time you use TeleBank, you will be asked to enter your account number and your social security number. This is the only time you'll be asked to enter your social security number. For account transactions and inquiries, you'll always be asked to enter your account number and PIN.

I forgot my Online Banking password. What should I do?

If you forgot your password, you can click the “Reset Password” link on the login page. After confirming your identity, you will be sent an email with a link to choose a new password.

If you are a business customer, consult with your administrator to have a new password assigned.

If you need additional assistance with resetting your password, call us during business hours at (231) 845-3500 or (888) 295-4373. Once we have verified your identity, we will assist you with a new password.

I made my transfer in Online Banking. When will it post to my account?

Transfers between checking and savings accounts will be reflected immediately. Transfers to or from a loan or line of credit account must be made before 6:00 pm on a business day and will post after nightly processing on the same business day. Transfers submitted after 6:00 pm or on a weekend or holiday will post after nightly processing on the following business day.

Are Text Banking commands case sensitive?

No. Text commands will work whether uppercase or lowercase letters are used. For example, "bal", "BAL", or "Bal" are all acceptable.

Does Mobile Banking require a certain type of phone?

Mobile Banking works with virtually all of today's phones and the most popular mobile phone service providers.

Learn more about digital banking at West Shore Bank.

How can I enroll in Mobile Banking?

Enrollment in Mobile Banking is easy. Simply login to your Online Banking account and select "Mobile Settings" found under the "Settings" tab. Complete the required information and select the accounts you want to view for "Web Mobile Settings" and "Text Mobile Settings." Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions to complete your mobile enrollment.

After submitting your enrollment information, you will receive several text messages on your mobile device from West Shore Bank confirming your enrollment and providing you with important information to get you started.

How do I cancel my Mobile Banking service?

To cancel, login to your Online Banking account and select the "Mobile Settings" option under the "Settings" tab.

There are two tabs under "Mobile Settings" that must be Unchecked to remove both Web Mobile and Text Mobile settings:

Uncheck "Enable web access for your mobile device" under "Web Mobile Settings"
Uncheck "Enable text access for your mobile device" under "Text Mobile Settings"

You can also text one of the following commands to : 89549

STOP
STOP ALL
CANCEL
END
QUIT
UNSUBSCRIBE

How much does SMS/Text banking cost?

West Shore Bank does not charge you to send or receive texts using text banking; however, you will be charged the standard text rate from your mobile service provider. Check with your provider for details regarding your specific wireless plan and any charges that may apply.

I changed my phone number. How can I continue to use Mobile Banking?

If your mobile phone number changes, log into your Online Banking account and click "Mobile Settings" under the "Settings" tab. Simply submit your new mobile phone number and update your wireless provider, if necessary.

I lost my phone. What should I do?

As soon as you are aware that your phone is missing, login to your Online Banking account and select "Mobile Settings" under the "Settings" tab. Uncheck "Enable web access for your mobile device," and/or Uncheck "Enable text access for your mobile device" in the two tabs within "Mobile Settings" (Web Mobile Settings and Text Mobile Settings) and "Submit" to remove Web Mobile and Text Mobile Banking access.

If you find your phone, simply recheck the boxes again to reactivate this service.

You may also contact our Customer Service Center at (231) 845-3500 or (888) 295-4373 during regular banking hours to report a lost/stolen phone.

I share an Online Banking user ID with my spouse. Can we both use Mobile Banking?

Both users will be able to use the West Shore Bank Mobile Banking app and mobile browsing banking services. However, only one phone number can be set up per account to access SMS/Text Mobile Banking. If both account holders wish to use SMS/Text Mobile Banking, each user will need separate Online Banking and Mobile Banking profiles.

We recommend that each user should have their own login and not share that information, even with a spouse.

Is there a fee for Mobile Banking?

West Shore Bank's Mobile Banking is free of charge. Your wireless service provider may charge you for data usage. Check with your provider for details regarding your specific wireless plan and any data usage charges that may apply.

What does CMS mean?

SMS stands for Short Messaging Service, also known as text messaging.

What is Mobile Banking?

With Mobile Banking from West Shore Bank you can enjoy convenient and secure access to your West Shore Bank accounts from most supported mobile devices. Using Mobile Banking, you can check account balances, view recent transactions, transfer funds between accounts, find the location nearest to you, and more!

What number should I send text commands to?

You should send text commands to 89549.

What text commands can I use with Text Banking?

Send any of the following text commands to 89549. (Standard carrier rates and fees may apply)

Balance, BAL, B

Receive the balance on every account set up in your Online Banking profile.

If you nicknamed your accounts in Online Banking so each account has a unique identifier, you can use those account identifiers to receive information about a specific account. For example, texting "BAL primary" would allow you to check the available balance for the account you have designated as your primary account. An account identifier is what is listed in the Mobile Short Name list of the "Text Mobile Settings" tab (located under Settings, Mobile Settings within Online Banking). It is best if you nickname your accounts to have a unique identifier. If account identifiers are not set up, the system defaults to a generic name like "checking" and "savings." In that instance, if you had three checking accounts and texted "Bal Checking," you would receive the balance of the first account in your listing.

Transactions, Tran, Statement, History, Recent, Log

These commands return the last four transactions on an account, including memo transactions, if applicable. If no account identifier is specified, you will receive only the last four for the first account on your list. This text is best done as TRAN Primary, for example.

Details

Use with an account identifier ("DETAILS Primary") to request account details for a specific account such as its balance, type, etc.

Transfer, XFER, X

Transfer available funds between accounts you have set up on Mobile Banking. (Example: "XFER 15 FROM Primary TO Christmas")

Help, Help All

The Text Banking help menu works best when the HELP command is paired with another option. (Example: HELP BAL, HELP XFER, etc.)

Stop, End, Quit, Cancel, Unsubscribe

Use this command to opt out of Mobile Banking.

Where can I download the Mobile Banking app?

The West Shore Bank Mobile Banking app is available for many Apple and Android/Google devices.

Download on the App Store
Download on Google PlayGet it on Google Play

Who can use West Shore Bank's Mobile Banking?

Mobile Banking is available to West Shore Bank customers who use West Shore Bank's Personal Online Banking. Mobile Banking is not currently available to Business Online Banking or Cash Management customers.

We deliver Mobile Banking in three separate ways - via our mobile app for smartphones, special mobile web browsing, and text banking. Whether you have a smartphone or not, we offer a variety of Mobile Banking options that will work with the majority of today's mobile devices and most popular mobile service providers.

Why do the pages on the mobile site look different than the pages on the West Shore Bank website?

West Shore Bank's Mobile Banking is device aware. Meaning, we will attempt to detect the type of smartphone you are using and give you the best presentation to match the screen resolution on your phone. In some cases, your screen may look more like the iPhone^® screen than a typical mobile web browser.

Are the images of my check stored anywhere on my mobile device?

No, images are not stored on your device.

Can a new account be funded using Mobile Deposit?

No, not at this time.

Can I review the check images I deposit using Mobile Deposit?

Yes. Recent deposits are listed in the "Deposits" menu of the mobile app.

Can I setup alerts for my Mobile Deposit?

You can review the status of your deposit by selecting "Deposits" from the menu and tapping on the deposit in question. You will also receive an email regarding the status of your deposit to the email address we have on file for you.

How should I endorse my check for Mobile Deposit?

Sign the back of your check(s) with your name and the words "Mobile Deposit" beneath your signature.

Is there a fee to use West Shore Bank Mobile Deposit?

No. West Shore Bank does not charge a transaction fee for checks deposited through a mobile device. Standard text messaging and data plan rates through your mobile service provider may apply.

My check images are not being accepted by Mobile Deposit. Why?

When you take your photo of your check, make sure you are in a well-lit environment and that your check is placed against a dark background with all check edges visible in the photograph. Be sure to sign the back of the check and include the words “Mobile Deposit” in your endorsement.

What are the daily deposit limits when using Mobile Deposit?

If you have been enrolled in mobile deposit for less than 60 days, deposits exceeding $1,000 will be reviewed prior to end-of-day processing. If you have been enrolled in mobile deposit for more than 60 days, a deposit exceeding $2,500 will be reviewed prior to end-of-day processing.

What is the West Shore Bank Mobile Deposit?

Mobile Deposit is a convenient way to save time — you can deposit checks with your smartphone — at any time from anywhere using our West Shore Banking Mobile Banking app. Fewer trips to the branch or ATM!

What kind of phone do I need to use West Shore Bank Mobile Deposit?

West Shore Bank's Mobile Banking app currently supports iPhones and iPads running iOS versions 12 & 13 and Android smartphones running Marshmallow, Nougat, Oreo (excluding tablets) and Pie. Your phone's camera must be rear-facing and at least 2 megapixels.

Android tablets, devices with a screen resolution below 470 x 320dp, and jailbroken or rooted devices are not supported. In addition, devices must support TLS 1.2 or higher.

How long do I need to keep my check after submitting through Mobile Deposit?

Once you have successfully submitted your check and the deposit has been posted to your account, keep your check for 7-10 business days before destroying it.

What type of checks does West Shore bank Mobile Deposit accept?

Checks in their original form, made payable to you, in U.S. dollars drawn off a U.S. financial institution may be deposited using West Shore Bank Mobile Deposit.

What types of accounts can use Mobile Deposits?

All West Shore Bank personal checking accounts and business checking accounts are eligible to use Mobile Deposit.

When will I have access to my funds deposited through Mobile Deposit?

Mobile deposits, like all funds, are subject to the Bank’s Funds Availability Policy. Accepted deposits are usually available within 1-2 business days. Holds may apply.

When will I see my deposit to my account?

Mobile deposits accepted for deposit before 4 P.M. EST will be processed on the current business day. If they are accepted after 4 P.M. EST, they will be processed on the next business day (Monday through Friday excluding federal holidays). Deposits will appear in online banking after nightly processing.

Why was my Mobile Deposit amount changed or not accepted?

All deposits are subject to a review and verification process at West Shore Bank’s discretion during which we may refuse or return deposits. We will notify you if there is a change to your deposit amount following this review.

Our most popular commands:

Send any of the following text commands to 89549. (Standard carrier rates and fees may apply)

Balance, BAL, B

Receive the balance on every account set up in your Online Banking profile.

Transactions, Tran, Statement, History, Recent, Log

Details

Use with an account identifier ("DETAILS Primary") to request account details for a specific account such as its balance, type, etc.

Transfer, XFER, X

Transfer available funds between accounts you have set up on Mobile Banking. (Example: "XFER 15 FROM Primary TO Christmas")

Help, Help All

The Text Banking help menu works best when the HELP command is paired with another option. (Example: HELP BAL, HELP XFER, etc.)

Stop, End, Quit, Cancel, Unsubscribe

Use this command to opt out of Mobile Banking.

Do you charge a fee on accounts for Non-Profit Organizations?

For most account types, fees are waived for non-profit clubs and organizations.

How can I reduce my monthly service fee on my personal accounts?

All of our personal checking accounts offer ways to reduce or waive your monthly service fee. See our Personal Checking page or contact West Shore Bank's Customer Service Center at (888) 295-4373 for additional details.

How do I reorder checks?

You can place your Deluxe check reorder online or drop off your completed order form at any West Shore Bank office.

Can I set up an automatic transfer to pay my loan payment?

Yes, West Shore Bank offers automatic transfers from your checking or savings account to make your loan payment.

Can I use Online Banking to make a transfer from my line of credit?

Yes. Transfer requests must be submitted before 6 pm to be posted on the same business day.

How can I obtain a free copy of my credit report?

Due to the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FRCA), each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies can provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months at www.annualcreditreport.com. For more information, you may access the Federal Trade Commission's brochure, Your Access to Free Credit Reports.

How long do I have to be employed to get a Mortgage?

Typically two years on the same job or in the same profession.

How long does it take to close on the purchase of a home?

Typically, the mortgage process takes 30-45 days from date of application to close on the purchase of your home. The timing is dependent on the process, including whether any issues arise with the transfer of title or with the appraisal process.

How much of a down payment do I need to purchase a home?

We can finance up to 100% of the purchase price (with private mortgage insurance) depending on your credit rating, length of time with your current employer, and other criteria. The purchase and finance of a home with a minimum of 20% down is generally the best program for a borrower.

What documentation do I need to apply for a Mortgage Loan?

You must provide the following documents at the time of loan application or fax them to our Mortgage Loan Department after application at (231) 845-3516.

Your most recent pay stub
W2s or 1099s from the past two years
Tax returns from the past two years (if self-employed)
Your most recent statement from the Social Security Administration
Your most recent bank statement to verify account balances
Your most recent broker statement if cashing in stock for a down payment