You can manage your finances from the comfort of your home or office 24/7.
ONLINE BANKING - General and Technical
What is Online Banking and the advantage of banking over the Internet?
Sterlingbank.com is a convenient way to access your accounts anytime; anywhere you have access to the Internet. Using an Internet browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator, you can view your account information via the Internet.
Online Banking allows 24 hour access for more timely account information and no more waiting for month end statements. You can pay bills and transfer funds between your Sterling accounts. You can verify checks and deposits that have cleared your account, ATM withdrawals, automatic payments and deposits, and other account activity. With a few clicks, you can request a stop payment and proof of payment plus apply for other Sterling services and products and even reorder checks all online.
What software and hardware do I need to do my banking on the Internet?
In addition to a computer, you will need: a modem (28.8kb or higher), an Internet Service Provider and an Internet Browser with 128-bit encryption, version 4.0 or higher. Both Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer are available with this feature. Please see our Security Page for more details.
Where do I get a Login ID or Password for Online Banking?
If you have not done so and you are a current Sterling customer, you need to enroll for Online Banking in order to gain access to your accounts. During the enrollment process, you will send us your personal and account information. Once we process your enrollment, a welcome letter including your Customer Number and a temporary Password will be mailed to you so that you may begin using Online Banking.
Existing Customer Sign-up New Customer Sign-up
What accounts can I access using Online Banking?
You can access Sterling checking accounts, money market deposit accounts, savings accounts, certificate of deposits, or view mortgage loan information.
How secure is Online Banking with Sterling Bank & Trust?
Keeping customer information secure is a top priority for all of us at Sterling Bank & Trust. Click on the following links for details regarding our Privacy Policy and Security Guarantee. Sterling takes every precaution to safeguard the information in customer accounts.
Where can I get help if I have trouble with Online Banking?
You may call your local branch during normal business hours, see our Branch Location Page for hours of operation.You may also email your local branch office for assistance. Please fill out our Branch Customer Support Formand a branch representative will contact you via email or by phone by the next business day.
What limits are in place in the system to safeguard my money?
You will have your own Login ID and private password to access your online account. In order to assure privacy, you must keep your password confidential and do not write it down where another person can access it.
What do I do if I forget my Login ID and/or Password?
To request a reminder of what your Login ID is or to request a new temporary password, please call Branch Operations at 1-800-944-2265 and we will be happy to assist you.
I keyed in the wrong password three times and now I can't get into Online Banking. What should I do?
For your protection, we have limited the number of login attempts to three. If you have exceeded your three attempts, please call 1-800-944-2265 to have your Online Banking access reset.
Can I use Quicken, Microsoft Money, or Microsoft Excel with Online Banking?
Yes, you can export posted transactions from your Online Banking history to all of the above.Click here for easy to use instructions.
I am a Quicken user and I received an error when trying to export my history from Online Banking into my Quicken Software. What do I do?
Quicken and Quick Book users who are receiving an error (OL-202, OL-231, OL-232, OL-248, OL-249, or OL-297) when using online banking can find a resolution at http://www.intuit.com/updates/. There is a mandatory update to the Quicken 99 or higher software for successful export of online banking history to your Quicken or Quick Books software. If you prefer to call an Intuit Support Representative, below are phone numbers listed for your convenience.
Hours of operations: 5 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday
QWin 99 - (520) 618-7130
QWin 2000 - (520) 618-7130
QWin 2001 - (520) 618-7155
QWin 2002 - (520) 618-7140
QMac 2000 - (520) 618-7131
QMac 2001 - (520) 618-7160
QMac 2002 - (520) 618-7145
How much history is maintained on my accounts?
You'll be able to view up to 99 days of transaction history for Online Banking.
How far back can I go to look at monthly account statements?
This is accumulative starting with 4/30/00. We will keep one years worth online from 4/30/00.
I walked away from my computer, came back, and I was logged off during my session. Why?
For your security protection, we have an automatic time out. When there is no activity for 20 minutes, Sterling Bank & Trust will terminate your session to help protect you against unauthorized access.
Why doesn't the browser BACK and FORWARD button command work correctly?
The browser's BACK and FORWARD navigation commands are disabled by giving you an error message "warning your session expired" while you are signed into the Online Banking system. Please use the navigation buttons present within the Online Banking system window.
May I order checks from any vendor?
The online automatic check order system within Sterling's website interacts only with Deluxe. If you desire to purchase checks from another source, it will be necessary for you to contact that vendor directly for service.
Absolutely. If you are away from your computer or cannot get on the Internet you can transfer funds between Sterling accounts, get account information and more. Just call 1-888-776-2265 to access your account information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
ONLINE BILL PAY
How do I apply for Online Banking Bill Pay service?
Bill pay is a part of Sterling's Online Banking service. You may sign up at any local branch or send us an email.
How do I start using Bill Pay?
It is rather easy once you complete the product application and you open a "Your Choice" Checking or Money Market account. We will send you a letter with the instructions and your Login ID number. Online Bill Pay Features
Who may I pay and how do I set them up?
Sign on to the Online Banking system, click on Bill Pay, select from the list of creditors on the system or personalize your list. You may review the site by visiting the Demo at any time.
Which of my Sterling accounts may I use to pay my bills?
You may either use your "your Choice" Checking or Money Market account. Please remember that with a Money Market Deposit Account you are limited to writing 3 checks per statement cycle. Bills paid through your Money Market account will count towards your limit of 6 pre-authroized transactions.
Bills are routed through a third party, Princeton eCom, that will pay your bills either electronically or by paper draft. Some bills are paid electronically and some receive a paper check in the mail. While reviewing the list of payees, if you see an "*" next to the name, a paper draft will be sent to the payee.
When is my account debited for scheduled bills?
Your account is debited the morning after the paid date of your bill.
Can I schedule recurring payments?
Yes, you have several options. You can schedule bills weekly, biweekly, monthly, and every 2, 3, 6 or 12 month period.
Can I add, change or delete a payee?
Yes. To add payees you select the Add & Pay option. To change or delete a payee, you select the Modify Payees option. If the creditor is not listed, type the creditors name and address and your account number in the spaces provided. - A paper draft will be sent.
What is the cut-off time to change or delete pending payments?
The cut-off time is 4:00 PM EST the day of the transaction.
What should I do if a payee has not posted my payment or I've received a late bill notice?
You should call or email your local branch office for assistance.
What happens if I don't have enough money in my account to cover a bill payment? Will I be notified?
The bill will not be paid and you will be notified by email.
VOICE BANKING
How do I apply for Voice Banking?
Very easy. You can call, email or visit your local branch office and you will be enrolled. For branch information, click here .
Is there a charge for this service?
Sterling provides this service without charge.
What if I have questions regarding Voice Banking?
You may seek the assistance of your local branch Service Representative.
What transactions and information can I obtain from Voice Banking?
Voice Banking allows you to obtain account balances, transfer money between Sterling accounts, check the status of a check, verify the last five transactions or deposits in your account, check current interest rates, year-to-date interest earned and more.
You will have your own private password to access Voice Banking. In order to assure privacy, you must keep your password confidential and not write it down where another person can access it.
What are your hours of operation?
Voice Banking may be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Branch hours vary and may be obtained by simply calling your local branch office, Sterling's Voice Banking, or visiting our website.
DIRECT DEPOSIT
Direct Deposit is a service that provides for automatic deposit of your paycheck, Social Security check or other recurring payment to you. Direct Deposit Features
How do I apply for Direct Deposit?
Complete a Direct Deposit form at your local branch or print one from the Sterling website. The form is located in the Online Banking link of the site under the "Other Services" tab. You may also contact your employer directly to complete the necessary forms.
How long will the Direct Deposit stay in place?
You may cancel at any time by contacting your employer.
What else can be done through Direct Deposit?
You can have interest on dividend payments or any other recurring payment deposited directly to your account.
ATM CARD
A card which gives you fast, easy access to your Sterling accounts through ATMS and cash machines. ATM card features
Complete a Deposit Application, which you can get from your local branch or request through email. Once completed, return the application to your branch or mail to the address preprinted on the application.
How soon will I receive my ATM card?
You should receive your card(s) within 7-10 business days.
Does this service impact any other accounts or services with Sterling Bank & Trust?
Your ATM card works in concert with other accounts and services offered by Sterling. You may transfer funds with our Online Banking system or Voice Banking service. This saves a trip to one of our branches, and is designed to fit your lifestyle. Your ATM card can also give you access to account balances at more than 35,000 ATMs worldwide.
What if my card is lost or stolen?
You should contact the Branch Operations Department of Sterling promptly at 1-800-944-2265 to report the card lost or stolen. Corrective action will be taken promptly to safeguard your funds.
Just look for any ATM that displays the NYCE, or PLUS network logos.
Will I receive both a Sterling ATM and Sterling MasterMoney™ card?
You may receive either card, but not both.
If I have a Sterling ATM, may I apply for a MasterMoney™ card?
You may apply for a MasterMoney™ card at any time. If approved, we will deactivate your existing ATM card.
Are there any limits on the use of my ATM card?
Yes, the daily limit is $250.
MASTERMONEY ™ CARD
A MasterMoney™ Card is a multi-purpose debit card with immediate access to your Sterling "Your Choice" Checking account for most kinds of purchase.
How can I open a MasterMoney™ Card?
A MasterMoney™ Card may be obtained by submitting a completed application for the card either through a branch location, or by requesting an application through the Sterling website and sending that completed application to a branch.
How long will I have to wait for my card?
After submitting an application to a branch or through the mail, Sterling will contact you by mail, if requested, to advise you of your eligibility for the card. If you are approved, the actual card will be mailed to you in 7-10 business days.
There are over 35,000 ATMs available from which you may secure cash. In addition, over 185,000 retailers nationwide accept your card.
Yes, some merchants may give you cash back privileges.
What are my cash and retail purchase limits?
Your cash and retail purchase limits are determined when your application is processed. You will be advised of the limits at that time.
What if my card is lost or stolen?
If you think your MasterMoney™ card is lost or stolen, you should call 1-800-264-5578 immediately.
Am I charged interest on purchases?
There is no interest incurred when you use your MasterMoney™ Card to purchase goods or services.
To change or personalize your PIN is easy! Just call NYCE at 1-888-362-4428
CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT
What is a Certificate of Deposit (CD)?
It is a bank product where funds are deposited for a fixed period of time at higher yields.
What is the minimum amount I need to open an account?
The minimum amount needed to open a CD with Sterling is only $500.00.
What happens if I have to withdraw my money from a CD before it matures?
An interest penalty is applied for any withdrawal prior to the maturity date, except if the withdrawal is required as a result of disability or death of the CD holder.
What happens when my CD matures?
When a CD matures, the interest is added to the deposit. You may then withdraw the total amount or choose not to withdraw the money on deposit. If you choose not to withdraw your funds, the CD will automatically rollover for the same time period, at the interest rate applicable at the time of rollover. The interest rate at the time of rollover may be more or less than the interest at the time the CD was initiated or last rolled over. You may choose, upon the maturity date, to add to or reduce the amount of money in the CD, and then open a new CD for a different length of time.
How do you wire money to Sterling Bank & Trust?
Bank Name "Sterling Bank & Trust, FSB" The Bank where the wire is being sent
ABA# "272471849" All banks have a routing # which would be referred to as the ABA#.
Originator's Bank The customer's bank
Account # The beneficiary's account #
Name and Address of Account Being Credited To:(if this wire is $3000 or greater).
Final Credit To If the first beneficiary is sending a wire to another company or individual.
Account # The account # of the second beneficiary.
How will I know when my CD matures?
You will receive a written notice prior to your CD maturity date. As a courtesy, a Customer Service Representative may contact you by phone prior to the maturity date to notify you of the maturity date of the CD, and answer any questions.
Is my Certificate of Deposit insured?
Deposits held by Sterling Bank & Trust are FDIC insured for up to $100,000, subject to FDIC limitations. Our FDIC insurance certificate number is 32232. Click here to verify our FDIC membership.
MONEY MARKET or MMDA
What is a Money Market Deposit Account (MMDA)?
A Money Market Deposit Account, or MMDA, is an account on which a premium rate of interest is paid on funds on deposit.
What is the minimum amount I need to open a MMDA?
The minimum amount needed to open an MMDA with Sterling Bank & Trust is $2,500.00.
What happens if my balance falls below $2, 500.00?
Balances below $2,500.00 earn the current Sterling Bank & Trust Checking Account rate. Also, a minimum balance fee of $5.00 will be imposed each statement cycle if the average account balance falls below $2,500.00 on any day during the statement cycle.
Are there any limits on the number of times I can withdraw money during the statement cycle?
Six pre-authorized withdrawals per statement cycle are allowed. The number of days in a statement cycle will vary, based on the number of days in a particular month. The six pre-authorized withdrawals may be made up of checks, ACH, and POS withdrawals, but no more than three of the six may be by check. Withdrawals in excess of six per statement cycle or more than three by check are subject to a charge of $5.00 for each transaction. Customers may make unlimited ATM and personal visit withdrawals.
The statement cycle is from the 21st to the 20th of the following month. As of the evening of the 20th, any interest accrued is posted to the account also.
How do I get money out of my MMDA?
Money in an MMDA is available by writing a check, using an ATM machine, visiting a branch and making a withdrawal, or authorizing an ACH withdrawal. Limitations apply ro pre-authorized transactions, such as checks and ACH.
May I add to my MMDA after I open it?
Money may be added by depositing funds to the account at any time.You may also arrange for direct deposit of your payroll, Social Security check, or other.
Is the money in my MMDA insured?
Deposits held by Sterling Bank & Trust are FDIC insured for up to $100,000, subject to FDIC limitations. Our FDIC insurance certificate number is 32232. Click here to verify our FDIC
How do you wire money to Sterling Bank & Trust?
Bank Name "Sterling Bank & Trust, FSB" The Bank where the wire is being sent
ABA# "272471849" All banks have a routing # which would be referred to as the ABA#.
Originator's Bank The customer's bank
Account # The beneficiary's account #
Name and Address of Account Being Credited To: (if this wire is $3000 or greater).
Final Credit To If the first beneficiary is sending a wire to another company or individual.
Account # The account # of the second beneficiary.
"YOUR CHOICE" CHECKING
What is Sterling's "Your Choice" Checking Program?
"Your Choice" Checking is a high yielding checking account which offers online banking, Bill Pay, and ATM or MasterMoney™ Card access.
How do I get information on your services or obtain the paperwork to purchase one of your products?
Sterling Bank & Trust may be reached by:
Visiting our website - www.sterlingbank.com, completing an application and returning it to your local branch office. Your Choice Checking Features
Contacting your local branch office. Branch Locations
What other services are available?
Customers can call Voice Banking at 1-888-776-BANK (2265) to transfer funds between Sterling accounts, get balance information on their accounts, and more. Callers accessing the system for account information should have available their Customer Service Number and Password.
How do I send you the money to open an account?
Funds may be sent either by check or by wire transfer.
Can I go to the Sterling branch down the street and get the same products and rates?
The same products are available through a local branch of Sterling Bank & Trust.
How quickly will I receive an account application after I contact you?
Account applications and other documents requested should be received within 3-5 business days.
A MasterMoney™card is available for "Your Choice" Checking account.
Yes, Online Banking is accessed through the Sterling website.
Do you have Online Bill Pay?
Yes, we offer Online Bill Pay. You can sign up today if you have a "Your Choice" Checking or Money Market account.
Is "Your Choice" Checking insured?
Deposits held by Sterling Bank & Trust are FDIC insured for up to $100,000, subject to FDIC limitations. Our FDIC insurance certificate number is 32232. Click here to verify our FDIC membership.
How do you wire money to Sterling Bank & Trust?
Bank Name "Sterling Bank & Trust, FSB" The Bank where the wire is being sent
ABA# "272471849" All banks have a routing # which would be referred to as the ABA#.
Originator's Bank The customer's bank
Account # The beneficiary's account #
Name and Address of Account Being Credited To: (if this wire is $3000 or greater).
Final Credit To If the first beneficiary is sending a wire to another company or individual.
Account # The account # of the second beneficiary.
SAVINGS
Why should I open a savings account with Sterling Bank & Trust?
A savings account with Sterling Bank & Trust pays a competitive rate, and allows you to make unlimited deposits and withdrawals.
You have easy access to your funds in a savings account. You may even use your Sterling ATM card to access your savings account.
How can I open an account with Sterling Bank & Trust?
Just visit one of our branches or complete the application found on our website and send the application to one of our branches, it's that easy.
Is the money in my savings account insured?
Deposits held by Sterling Bank & Trust are FDIC insured for up to $100,000, subject to FDIC limitations. Our FDIC insurance certificate number is 32232. Click here to verify our FDIC membership.
How do you wire money to Sterling Bank & Trust?
Bank Name "Sterling Bank & Trust, FSB" The Bank where the wire is being sent
ABA# "272471849" All banks have a routing # which would be referred to as the ABA#.
Originator's Bank The customer's bank
Account #The beneficiary's account #
Name and Address of Account Being Credited To:(if this wire is $3000 or greater).
Final Credit To If the first beneficiary is sending a wire to another company or individual.
Account # The account # of the second beneficiary.
INVESTMENT CENTER
What can our Investment Executives do for you and what makes Sterling Bank and Trust unique?
Put your interest first and offer products that are not only of the highest quality but also suitable for each individual customer. What distinguishes our program from others is its personal emphasis. It is created around you - your goals, your time frame, and your tolerance for market risk. There are many methods of investing. We offer an unprecedented level of personalized service and expertise. Our challenge is to blend the right combination of investments together to maximize your chances of reaching your specific investment goals.
Do you have any account charges?
There are no additional account charges to set up a new brokerage account with PrimeVest. However, depending on the financial instrument purchased, sales, deferred sales, early withdrawal, or surrender charges, or other expense charges may apply.
Do you offer no-load mutual funds?
Yes. For a nominal handling charge you can purchase any no load mutual fund with which PrimeVest has selling agreements.
Do you offer tax-free investments?
Yes. Tax free mutual funds, tax free municipal bonds, and unit investment trusts. State as well as federal tax free mutual funds and individual bonds are available. (Income may be subject to federal alternative minimum taxes and state or local taxes.)
Do you handle traditional IRA's, Roth IRA's, IRA Rollover's, IRA Transfers, and Education IRA's?
Yes. All you have to do is decide with the Investment Executive where the money will be invested and the appropriate account will be opened. Our Eagle Investment Center is prepared to handle all the paperwork for you.
What type of protection is provided through PrimeVest for Brokerage Accounts?
Brokerage service customers are protected by SIPC, the Securities Investor Protection Corporation, which protects securities customers for up to $500,000, including $100,000 on claims for cash. A policy underwritten by London companies provides $9.5 million in additional coverage per customer, subject of an overall aggregate. Both SIPC and the supplemental coverage protect customer securities and funds only if the brokerage firm fails. Neither coverage protects against decline in the market value of funds or securites.
Contact your Investment Sales Manager at your local branch.
How can I get more specific information about PrimeVest?
Visit PrimeVest at http://www.primevest.com
How do I open an online account?
Simply contact one of our Investment Executives to complete a new account application.
What types of products can I purchase through my account?
You may purchase a number of different products including stocks, bonds and mutual funds. Contact your Investment Executive with specific product questions.
Your Investment Executive will provide a current commission schedule.
Does the online account offer check writing capabilities?
Yes check writing privileges are available. An unlimited number of checks can be written each year with no additional charge.
How will I know when my online account has been activated?
You will receive a secure envelope in the mail. Your password should reach you with 4-5 business days from the activation date.
Do I choose which money market fund I invest in?
Yes, you and your Investment Executive will work together to decide which fund best suits your financial needs and objectives.
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Do you have fixed rate loans for permanent financing of commercial real estate?
Yes, Up to five years.
How long do you amortize permanent loans?
Up to 25 years.
What percentage of a commercial project can I borrow?
Up to 80% of the appraised value or 90% of cost, whichever is less.
How many draws on a construction project can I have?
You can have 4 to 12 draws, but not more than once a month.
Is there a minimum number of residential homes that I must build before getting financing?
Yes, at least ten homes over the last three years.
How do I get more information?
Visit our Commercial Lending Serviceson our website.