E-mail this pageBanking Information for International Students
There are many financial institutions in the United States, each with its own policies, procedures, and charges. If you would like to open a bank account, it is important to shop around among financial institutions and choose the institution that fits your needs.
The most popular banks among international students in Plattsburgh are HSBC, TD Banknorth, and Citizens Bank. During Orientation, ISS invites representatives from each institution on campus for a banking session.
We strongly encourage students to discuss their banking needs in person with bank representatives.
Required Documents for Opening a Bank Account
Make sure you have the following documents with you when you go to the banking session:
- Passport
- I-20 and I-94
- Proof of address on campus
- Copy of your Plattsburgh ID card
You cannot open a bank account without these documents. Please stop by the ISS office if you need assistance.
Essential Bank Information
We have summarized the most frequently asked banking questions in the table below. Please contact the banking representatives or visit the HSBC website , the TD Banknorth website , and the Citizens Bank website for up-to-date information.
| HSBC | TD Banknorth | Citizens Bank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Maintenance Fee | No | No | No |
| Minimum Monthly Balance | No | No | No |
| Minimum Opening Balance | Yes, $25 | Yes, $25 | Yes, $50 |
| Monthly Statement | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free Foreign (other bank machine) ATM transactions |
No, $1.50 per transaction | No, however TD Banknorth has a free ATM on campus | No |
| Free money wire transfer service | Receive: Yes Send: No ($25) |
Receive: No ($16) Send: No ($20 in the US, $30 international) |
Receive: No ($10) Send: No ($30) |
| Unlimited check writing (No per check charge |
Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free returned checks with your statement | No (copies of checks are available online) | No | No |
| Free MasterCard/Visa Debit Card | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free online banking and bill payment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Note: This information is current as of January 2008
Contact Information
If you have any questions about services for international applicants and students at SUNY Plattsburgh, please contact:
International Student Services
State University of New York at Plattsburgh
Kehoe Administration Building, Room 209
101 Broad Street
Plattsburgh, New York 12901 USA
Phone: (518) 564-3287; (877) 877-5170 (in U.S. and Canada)
Fax: (518) 564-3292
E-mail: iss@plattsburgh.edu
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.