Bank of Hawaii District Branch Manager E J. Ozu told members of the American Samoa Chamber of Commerce last night that all consumer accounts will be automatically transferred to the Honolulu main branch, for those who opt to remain with BOH after their closure on August 16.
Mobile banking features will be fully enabled and available.
Unlike personal accounts, business accounts will be closed and Mr. Ozu urges business customers to take necessary measures to ensure a smooth transition to avoid disruption.
Local businesses that wish to re-open an account in Hawaii will need to get a Hawaii business license, register, comply with and meet the state requirements.
The current routing number will be changed and this can be done on line now; however, Bankoh will track accounts that use the current routing number and give timely change notice.
The Bankoh ATMs will be turned over to the Territorial Bank of American Samoa and notices will be placed at each ATM site to advise of the turnover dates.
Mr. Ozu said Bankoh is working with TBAS to waive fees on both sides to ease the burden for a limited time.
Also presenting at last night’s chamber meeting were TBAS President Drew Roberts, Ms. Sina Tavai, Loan Supervisor- Development Bank and ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank Country Manager Mrs. Tasi Scanlon
Office of Financil Instituion Commissioner, Robert Ho Chee, briefly commented about efficiencies, the struggles and the challenges faced by our local banks.
He said while a standard feature in the US, mobile banking is still a work in progress in American Samoa.
Vice Chair of the Chamber, Luisa Kuaea, announced that members are welcome to present nominees for a vacancy on the Board of Directors left by the passing of Joe Tavale.
The deadline for submitting nominees is June 6
Chamber member TBAS sponsored last night’s meeting at DDW.
