Don’t Leave for Vacation Without These Money Tips

Summer is here and so are weekend getaways, road trips, and flights to far-off places. But before you pack your sunscreen and passport, take a moment to make sure your finances are just as ready for the adventure as your suitcase.

To help keep your account secure, we use fraud monitoring systems that flag unusual activity, including purchases made outside your normal geographic area. That means your card could be declined if you’re suddenly using it in another state or country without advanced notice.

How to set a Travel Notice:

Let us know where you’re headed so we can help keep your card working smoothly while you’re away. Setting up a travel notice only takes a few minutes, here’s how:

For Debit Cards (via Mobile App or Online Banking):

Tap More (three dots in the bottom right corner)

Click on the Accounts drop-down tab

Select Card Management

Choose the debit card you’ll be using

Scroll down and tap Travel Notices

Select Add New Travel Notice

Enter your travel details: Your departure and return dates, destination city and country and a reliable contact phone number.

Toggle on other debit cards you’d like the alert to apply to

For Credit Cards (via MyCardInfo):

Visit MyCardInfo

Click the three horizontal lines in the top left corner

Go to Account Services

Select Travel Center

Confirm your card’s CVV

Enter the required travel details: Your departure and return dates, destination city and country and a reliable contact phone number.

Having trouble? Give us a call at 1.800.281.5435 and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Use Your Debit Card Wisely

Your debit card is a great tool for travel, but a few smart moves will help you use it more safely and avoid unwanted fees.

Bring both your Dirigo credit card and debit card

Use ATMs affiliated with the SURF network to avoid excess fees. You can locate those on www.sharedbranching.org

Monitor your accounts regularly through digital banking

Set up text fraud alerts so you’re instantly notified of any unusual activity

A 1% foreign transaction fee applies to purchases made outside the U.S.

Your debit card gives you direct access to your checking account, so treat it like cash and keep it protected.

Need Foreign Currency? Plan Ahead.

While your debit card can be used internationally, please note that Dirigo FCU does not carry any foreign currency and we are unable to provide currency exchange services. If you’re traveling abroad and will need local cash, we recommend ordering foreign currency ahead of time through a licensed provider or your destination airport. Be sure to check rates and allow extra time for processing.

Know What to Do if Your Card is Lost or Stolen

Losing a card while traveling can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to derail your plans.

Lock your card immediately using Card Management tool in digital banking

Have your account number and contact info handy in a secure, separate place

Use emergency cash, or go to a Shared Branching location to withdraw money

With digital banking, secure debit card tools, and a team that’s always ready to help, you can count on us to keep your finances ready for the road.