Mobile, drive-thru, or branch: Which banking method should you use?

These days, you have a lot of options when it comes to accessing your accounts and managing your finances. As technology continues to advance, more and more people are turning to mobile banking as a safe, convenient, and efficient way to manage their finances; however, traditional banking methods, such utilizing your bank’s drive-thru or visiting the branch lobby, still hold a place in the banking world. While all three methods have some commonalities, each  offers its own unique features, and situations in which each is ideal. Which banking method you use really depends on what type of banking you’d like to do, the time of day you’d like to do it, and your own preferences and comfort level.  

Here, we’ll take a look at the advantages of each of these forms of banking and when each might come in handy. If you’re wondering where all the helpful UBTers are in this story, we’ll get to them – we’re starting with the convenience of mobile baking, where  most of your banking is done on your own (and real people are only a click away, if you need them) and will move into the more traditional, service-oriented modes of banking.

Mobile banking

Mobile banking and online banking (aka UBTgo) have become increasingly popular in recent years, and with good reason, as one of the major advantages of mobile and online banking are  their accessibility. With mobile banking, you can check account balances and transaction history, make transfers, pay bills, deposit checks, and set up notification alerts — all from the convenience of your handheld device or desktop computer. Plus, opening a new account can be achieved in less than 5 minutes!

The convenience of mobile banking’s extensive and secure features makes it incredibly easy to manage your finances on the go. If you don’t want to talk to anyone and want to do things on your own, mobile banking is great for you! You can access your account from anywhere, at any time —and if you have a questions or concerns, there’s a live chat feature you can utilize. (At UBT, our Customer Support Team has extended hours, and if you reach out to them outside of that time frame, they’ll get back with you the next day.)

Drive-thru

Using your bank’s drive-thru lanes offers a bit more of a traditional banking experience. Some may consider it to be more of a personal one, too, as you’re greeted by the bank representative and can see them while having your transactions processed — and you can also ask any necessary questions. The drive-thru’s hours may be extended beyond traditional lobby hours, making it a bit easier to get to the bank.

Transactions involving cash are perfect for the drive-thru, as mobile banking isn’t cash-friendly. However, drive-up lanes are designed to speed up the banking process and provide a convenient alternative to parking and entering the bank lobby, so you’ll want to consider the type of transaction you have when determining if the drive-thru is the right choice. If your reason for visiting the bank is complicated, or the amount of cash you're withdrawing is large, the lobby staff will be better able to accommodate you, and your fellow drive-thru customers will appreciate your consideration.

Simple transactions, such as a withdrawing or depositing checks or cash, depositing a check with cash back, are perfect for the drive-thru. You may also be able to purchase a money order or cashier’s check, rather than stopping into the branch for one.

Branch banking

Branch banking is the most traditional form of banking, and it provides you, the customer, with the opportunity to speak with a bank representative face-to-face. This may be the best option for those who like a friendly and interactive aspect to their banking and want to build a relationship with their teller or banker. The lobby staff expects that some of the transactions will be longer or more involved and are usually staffed accordingly, so you don’t need to worry when you visit the lobby with what might be a more time-consuming matter — the team is happy to help!

In addition to the transactions that involve cash that we mentioned in the drive-thru section, branch banking is also a great option for those who need assistance with complex transactions, prefer face-to-face account openings and loan or credit card applications (as opposed to our online option), or have questions about their accounts. Additionally, branch banking can provide access to services such as cashier’s checks, money orders, safe deposit boxes, notary services, and connections with other departments, such as mortgage lending, investments, and business services,  that may not be available through other methods.

Note: With scams on the rise these days, branch, drive-thru, and Customer Support staff may ask a series of in-depth questions to verify your identity and make sure everything lines up. Please know that these aren't meant to be nosy! We just want to make sure we’re protecting you and your finances.

Making the best choice

Mobile banking, drive-thru banking, and branch banking all have their advantages. To put it in really general terms, mobile banking is ideal for those who are always on the go, drive-thru banking is great for those who need to complete simple transactions quickly — with or without cash — and may already be out and about, and branch banking is great for more complex transactions and the ultimate personal touch. That said, our friendly experts are always just a call or chat away no matter which method you use. Ultimately, which banking method works for you will depend on your personal preference, comfort level, schedule, and evolving banking needs. No matter which you choose, know that we’re here to help. Stop in or drive through your nearest branch or visit us online today!