To conduct a signature-based transaction:
1. First, the merchant must accept Visa debit cards.
2. Swipe or insert your Advantage card at the merchant terminal.
3. Select the “Credit” option.
4. The merchant will give you a receipt to sign and a copy for your records.
5. Your checking account will usually be charged within
1-3 business days.

To conduct a PIN-based debit transaction:
1. Swipe or insert your Advantage card at the merchant terminal.
2. Select the “Debit” option.
3. Enter your PIN to authorize the payment. If desired, select cash back (this option is only available with PIN-based transactions).
4. The payment is authorized and your checking account will be charged within one business day.

Yes. Your card has four separate daily limits set by First Western Bank: an ATM withdrawal limit, a signature-based purchase limit using Visa®, a teller cash-advance limit & PIN-based purchases limit. Any of these limits can be adjusted to suit your personal needs. Please contact your local First Western Bank for assistance.

What precautions should I take to prevent fraud or theft?

Memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN)! Do not write it down, especially on your card! Do not tell anyone your PIN! When making a purchase, keep your card in sight at all times. There should never be any reason to give your PIN number to anyone over the internet! This is one of the most common types of fraud.

Can I change my PIN?

Change your PIN by calling 1-877-219-4344 and follow the prompts, or change your PIN at any Advantage ATM by following the instructions at the ATM. Either change is effective immediately.

How do I know which payment option to use?

Use whichever payment method you feel most comfortable with! Most merchants accept both payment options, some merchants only accept signature-based transactions, some merchants only accept PIN-based transactions. Because your Advantage ATM & Checkcard has both signature and PIN features, you can now use your card at even more locations! When you swipe your card at some merchant terminals, you may be automatically prompted with a certain payment method. You have the right to select the payment method you prefer if the merchant accepts both signature and PIN-based transactions.

What if I’m having problems using my Checkcard?

Please contact your local First Western Bank for assistance. Some of the reasons a card may not work include: the magnetic strip may be damaged or scratched, you may be attempting purchases or withdrawals over your daily limit, or the card may be inactivated due to multiple denials.

Can I use my card as soon as I get it?

For your protection, Advantage cards are inactive when issued. To activate your card, you must either call the toll-free number provided with your card (1-877-219-4344), or complete a PIN transaction at either an ATM or a merchant terminal (select “Debit”).

What should I do if my Advantage ATM & Checkcard is lost or stolen?

Report it to your local First Western Bank immediately! You may be liable for ATM and PIN-based purchases. For fraudulent ATM and PIN-based purchase transactions, your loss is a maximum of $50 if you notify your local First Western Bank within two business days of learning of the loss of your card. Failure to notify your local First Western Bank within this time-frame can result in you being liable for up to $500.