Members of Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) can now use their JN Teller 24/7 ABM debit cards to conduct all in-branch transactions, except for foreign exchange trades, as the society extends the use of debit cards in its branches, says Michele Pollard Gonzalez, executive, Enterprise Contact Centre.

She stated that with this change, members no longer need to present a passbook to facilitate a deposit to or withdrawal from their savings account.

"Members can access funds easily, as they simply swipe the card, put in their PIN, and the teller will then carry out their request," Pollard Gonzalez explained. She noted that the transition to debit-card use will be fully implemented as of April 1.

"Jamaica National introduced this transaction option in our branches and Money Shops last year, and its adoption is progressing smoothly," she pointed out. "A member's status is determined when they carry out a transaction; and their records updated; therefore, members who do not already have a card can receive one on their next branch visit."

Members need current identification, such as a passport, driver's licence or national identification, as well as proof of their current mailing address, such as a recent utility bill, as well as their TRN in order to have their records updated.

The use of debit cards is already accepted by many members; and its increased use in branches will improve the quality of service delivery and reduce in-branch waiting, the executive pointed out. She noted that the total time taken to carry out each transaction is substantially reduced when compared with the time and processes to carry out a passbook transaction.

access funds

"It also makes inter-branch banking easier, as the cards and PINs will be equally recognised at any branch," she stated. This is in addition to the increased convenience of being able to access funds through the JNBS ATM network.

"We have written to all of our overseas members to inform them about the change and have received a tremendous response, with information being provided to update accounts," she said. In addition, email, letters and text messages have been sent to notify local account holders; and, to date, the response has also been positive.

The JNBS executive declared that account holders are provided with the tools to ensure an enhanced level of security for their funds when they are contacted.

An added benefit for members is that they will be able to access discounts of up to 20 per cent, when they use their debit cards at any JNBS discount merchant partners such as pharmacies, bookstores, attractions, accommodations, restaurants, gyms and spas islandwide. "This allows the society's members and clients to access sizeable discounts in more than 20 aspects of their daily life," she maintained.