Frequently Asked Questions

What is the bank's routing number?


Our routing number is 053104869. You may need this number along with your account number to set up things like automatic draft payments or direct deposit. You can also find this information at the bottom of your checks or printed deposit slips.

What can I do to keep my personal information safe?


Peoples Bank is committed to the security of our customers. We will never ask you for personal information, such as account numbers, PIN numbers, address, social security numbers or passwords, in an email. Do not click on a link within an email if you suspect the message might not be legitimate. You should also never send personal or financial information in an email. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information. Please contact us by phone if you need to communicate personal information.

Identity Theft Protection

Privacy Policy

How do I switch my account to Peoples Bank?


We’re committed to making the switch from your old bank to us as easy as possible. Once you’ve opened your new Peoples Bank account you can use our handy switch kit, or bring your previous financial institution information to any of our locations.

When are funds available after deposit?


Our general policy is to allow you to withdraw funds deposited in your account on the first business day after the day we receive your deposit. Funds from electronic direct deposits will be available on the day we receive the deposit. In some cases, we may delay your ability to withdraw funds beyond the first business day. Then, the funds will generally be available by the seventh business day after the day of deposit.

What is Check 21 and how does it affect me?


The Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act is legislation that became effective October 28, 2004. Known simply as Check 21, the legislation’s goal was to improve the overall efficiency of the nation’s payment system. Previously when you wrote a check, it was first deposited into the payee’s bank and then sent back to Peoples Bank for the amount to be withdrawn from your account. By physically transporting checks from bank to bank, this process was not only time consuming but expensive as well. Check 21 has provided a new option: creation and use of paper reproductions of original checks. This reproduction is called a “substitute check” and is produced from a digital image of the original check.

Due to the improved check clearing process, however, your checks will clear faster, so be sure that you have sufficient funds in your account to cover the checks you write. If you have more questions regarding Check 21, please feel free to contact a customer service representative at onlineservices@peoplesbanknc.com or call 828-466-1765 or toll-free 877-802-1212.

How can I request a stop payment on a check?


You can either send your request by email to onlineservices@peoplesbanknc.com, through online banking (if you are currently enrolled) or call customer service at 828-466-1765 or toll-free 877-802-1212, Monday through Friday or stop by your nearest Peoples Bank office.

Generally, stop payment orders submitted through the Online Banking Service will be processed within one business day of receipt using the same procedures that we use to handle similar requests received by mail, phone or fax. If the check or ACH payment is pending, you must notify us directly by telephone or in person by 5pm EST to place the stop payment.

According to my ATM receipt, I had funds in my account when I made my withdrawal. Why was I charged an overdraft fee for it?


At the time your transaction occurred, the balance on your receipt reflected the available funds in your account. You did not have sufficient funds to cover all your withdrawals, however, when all other outstanding withdrawals for the day were posted that evening. When processing items drawn on your account we pay ATM and Debit Card transactions first in chronological order, checks that you have written are paid in check number order, and all other transactions are paid from the lowest amount to the highest amount.

What is a credit report?


A credit report is your individual credit history, compiled and reported by a Credit Reporting Agency such as Equifax. This report will be used to assist a potential creditor to evaluate an individual’s ability and willingness to repay debt. Banks, the IRS, our court system, department stores, utilities, phone companies, doctors, hospitals and other various companies submit payment information directly to the credit reporting agency.

To obtain a copy of your credit report, visit the www.annualcreditreport.com website provided through the Federal Trade Commission.

Click here to learn more about Credit Scores and Reports at our Financial Wellness Learning Center.

If you find discrepancies related to your Peoples Bank account on your credit report, call our customer services representative at 828-466-1765 or toll free 877-802-1212. Someone will help you investigate and resolve the matter.

How is my Debit Card different from an ATM or Credit Card?


A Peoples Bank Debit Card is the combined convenience of checking and ATM card, all in one card. It allows you to pay for purchases directly from your checking account – without spending time writing a check. You can also use it wherever MasterCard® debit cards are accepted. You can use your Debit Card to withdraw cash, get account balances and transfer funds at any ATM machine displaying the Star, Cirrus or Plus symbol. An ATM card is a 24-hour banking card for use at Peoples Bank ATM machines or any other machine displaying the Star, Cirrus or Plus symbol. Fees may apply.

What should I do if my Debit Card or ATM Card is lost or stolen?


Lost/Stolen ATM or Debit Card: Call Customer Service at 828-466-1765 or toll-free 877-802-1212. After hours, call 800-523-4175.

Or write to us:
Peoples Bank Attn: Electronic Banking Department
P. O. Box 467, Newton, NC 28658-0467

Can I use my Debit Card without a PIN to make purchases?


By using your Debit Card as a credit card, simply swipe the card or give it to the salesperson and then sign the receipt. Just remember, however, the purchase amount will be deducted from your checking account. Note, some merchants may only be set up for PIN transactions when using a check or debit card.

How do I request a new Debit Card or PIN?


Email customer service at onlineservices@peoplesbanknc.com or call 828-466-1765 or toll-free 877-802-1212 anytime day or night.

There are charges on my credit card account that I didn’t make so what should I do?


If you believe fraudulent activity has occurred to your credit card, please call 800-367-7576.

Can I have my credit card payment automatically deducted from my checking account?


You will need to contact a Peoples Bank representative nearest you or email customer service at onlineservices@peoplesbanknc.com or call 828-466-1765 or toll-free 877-802-1212. We will be glad to assist you in completing the necessary steps to add your credit card as a payee to your Online Banking account.