June 2019 —Whether your travels take you across the globe or across state lines, First Community Bank and Trust and the Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) remind consumers to plan accordingly to keep their money safe and summer vacations on track.

“Most financial experts advise limiting the use of cash and paying with a debit or credit card for major purchases while traveling,” said Greg Ohlendorf, President and CEO of First Community Bank and Trust. “Credit and debit cards come with additional protections, such as zero liability for fraud-related charges, which can offer consumers greater peace of mind while traveling.”

Advanced planning can also help relieve travel-related stress. ICBA and First Community Bank and Trust urge consumers to consider the following before they depart on their next trip:

• Inform your community bank of your travel plans to avoid account holds or transaction rejections when out-of-the-ordinary transactions are presented for processing or posted.
• Ensure you have a chip-enabled card particularly if your travel plans take you overseas where chip-enabled technology is quickly becoming a card acceptance requirement for all card transactions.
• Carry multiple cards with you so you have a backup. Families or couples may get even greater back up coverage if each person takes a different card.
• Create transaction alerts for credit and debit cards. If you haven’t already, sign up for First eAlerts before traveling this summer. First eAlerts keeps you up to date on your account activity in real time. If you suspect your information has been compromised, contact your bank and credit card provider as soon as possible.
• Bring a list of emergency phone numbers, but remember, 800-numbers can only be used in the United States and Canada. Be sure to get a number for your bank that you can call if you are out of the country.
• Inquire about special card features like travel accident insurance and traveler’s assistance. Ask your community bank what special services are available.
• Know the limits on how much you can withdraw, and save your receipts.
• Thoroughly check any ATMs that you use. Ensure the card reader does not look like it has been tampered with. When in doubt, choose another terminal.
• Lock away valuables such as passports, backup credit cards, copies of financial information and extra cash in your hotel safe. 
• Use social media with care. Posting your pictures or whereabouts during travel could leave you susceptible to home invaders. 
• Monitor charge activity. Upon returning from your vacation, review your purchases and ATM withdrawals with your bank and credit card companies. 

“Remember, in the event that something unfortunate does occur, reach out to us. Our staff stands ready and able to lend a helping hand,” said Ohlendorf.

About First Community Bank and Trust
First Community Bank and Trust is a privately-owned bank. Established in 1916 First Community Bank and Trust has been serving Beecher, IL, Peotone, IL and the surrounding communities for over 100 years. Our commitment to providing the best banking products and services is matched only by our outstanding customer service. We offer traditional community banking services, including mortgage, consumer, and commercial lending, as well as state of the art electronic banking services.

About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America® creates and promotes an environment where community banks flourish. With more than 52,000 locations nationwide, community banks constitute 99 percent of all banks, employ more than 760,000 Americans and are the only physical banking presence in one in five U.S. counties. Holding more than $4.9 trillion in assets, $3.9 trillion in deposits, and $3.4 trillion in loans to consumers, small businesses and the agricultural community, community banks channel local deposits into the Main Streets and neighborhoods they serve, spurring job creation, fostering innovation and fueling their customers’ dreams in communities throughout America. For more information, visit ICBA’s website at www.icba.org.