Routing Number

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What is Sterling State's routing number?

Your Sterling State Bank routing number is: 091900944.

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Switching Banks

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What should I do to have my paycheck deposited electronically into my Sterling State Bank account?

We can provide you with a Direct Deposit Authorization Form that you can complete and sign to authorize the payroll switch. You may also provide your employer with a voided check that shows your account number and Sterling State Bank’s routing number.

What should I do to have my social security payment directly deposited into my Sterling State Bank account?

For Social Security direct deposits, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or go to www.ssa.gov/deposit/howtosign.htm.

What should I do to have payments that are automatically deducted from my old checking account transferred to my new Sterling State Bank account?

We can provide you with an Automatic Payment Form to have any drafts/automatic payments transferred to your Sterling State Bank account. Once you have cancelled the draft we can also set up new automatic deductions for you on Online Banking with Bill Pay, so you’ll have more control over them.

What should I do if I have trouble switching my account?

Call a Personal Banker at any one of our Sterling State Bank locations if you need help.

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Online Banking

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What is Online Banking?

Sterling State Bank’s Online Banking services are available via the phone and online. With these services you can access your account information 24 hours a day. You can also download transaction information from Sterling State Bank to the personal financial management software programs Intuit Quicken® or QuickBooks®. Never share your online banking user ID or password.

Is there a charge for Online Banking?

Online Banking is an option on all Sterling State Bank Checking Accounts. There is no charge for accessing online banking.

Can I view my personal accounts online?

Yes, you can view the following personal accounts through Online Banking:

  • Checking
  • Savings
  • Lines of Credit
  • Installment Loans
  • Certificates of Deposit (CD)
  • IRAs

Can I view images of cleared checks?

You can view checks that have cleared your account through online banking.

Can I download information from Online banking to Intuit Quicken® or QuickBooks®?

You can download transaction information from Sterling State Bank to the personal financial management software programs Intuit Quicken® or QuickBooks®.

Can I print the check images?

Yes. While viewing the check, you can click the Printer icon above the image. There will be a separate Printer icon above both sides of the checks.

When will my funds become available when I transfer money online?

Transfers you submit before 3 p.m. (Central Standard Time) Monday through Friday will be available the following business day.

How many bills can I pay each month?

There is no limit to the number of bills you can pay. The more bills you pay through Online Banking, the more time you save, as well as, the more money you save on postage.

What kind of computer equipment or software do I need to access Online banking?

You need a personal computer or smart phone with Internet access. It is important to always maintain updated anti-virus protection on all computers you use to access online banking.

Is there a charge for bill pay?

Complimentary Bill Pay is provided with select Sterling State Bank accounts. Visit with your Sterling State Bank Personal Banker for complete details.

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Checking Accounts

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How does overdraft protection work?

Sterling State Bank offers Demand Deposit Loans (DDL) to qualified applicants. This line of credit is connected to your Sterling State Bank checking account and automatically advances to cover overdrafts in your checking account. For complete terms, conditions, rates and fees associated with this product, please visit with a Sterling State Bank Personal Banker today.

I had a fraudulent transaction clear my account, what should I do?

Please contact a Personal Banker as soon as you notice an unauthorized transaction. Once Sterling State Bank is notified, we will begin to research the transaction. We also suggest our customers fill out an affidavit of unauthorized use form, which are available at all branches.

What is the minimum age to open a checking account?

You must be 18 in the State of Minnesota to open a checking account without a parent or legal guardian.

What is Check 21?

On October 28, 2004, new legislation called the Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act becomes effective. Known simply as Check 21, the legislation’s goals include “improving the overall efficiency of the nation’s payment system.”

Currently, when you write a check to someone for payment it is first deposited into their bank and is then sent back to Sterling State Bank for the check amount to be withdrawn from your account. This process is both time consuming and expensive as checks are physically transported from bank to bank.

Check 21 provides a new option: creation and use of paper reproductions of original checks. This reproduction is called a “substitute check” and is produced from a digital image of the original check.

What is a “Substitute” check?

A substitute check is a legally sanctioned document with all the rights and obligations of the original check. Substitute checks are paper copies created from electronic images of original paper checks (including both the front and the back of the original check). The front of the substitute check states: “This is a LEGAL copy of your check. You can use it the same way you would use the original check.” You may use a substitute check as proof of payment or for any other reason that requires an original check.

What if I need a copy of my check to prove payment?

If you receive a substitute check please remember that it is the legal equivalent of the original check you wrote and will include all the information contained on the original check. It can be used for proof of payment just like the original check.

Can I view my account statement online?

You can access up to 18 months of your statements with our secure and convenient online eStatements. Our Sterling State Bank eStatements reduce the risk of identity theft and mail fraud, and allow you to view, print, and save your online statements at home, or from any computer with Internet access-from our secure Sterling State Bank site log-on.

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CDs and Savings Accounts

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What is the difference between APR and APY?

The APR rate for a CD is the percentage of interest the customer will earn if the interest paid is out of the CD. The APY is the percentage of interest the customer will earn if they allow the interest to stay in the CD.

What is the minimum to open a CD?

$1,000 will open a traditional CD.  $5,000 will open any one of our CD specials.

How can I open a CD?

You can visit any Sterling State Bank location.

How do I calculate how much interest will be paid on a CD?

Take the Principle Amount x Interest Rate/ 365 days x Number of Days in the Term = Interest

What is the minimum to open a savings account?

$200 will open a regular Money Market Savings account.

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Personal Debit Cards

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What is a Debit Card?

Sterling State Bank's Debit Cards are a convenient and secure banking option that looks like a credit card but works like a check. The amount of your purchase is withdrawn directly from your checking account. Transactions are listed in detail on your monthly statement. Daily usage limits apply. Visit with a Sterling State Bank Personal Banker for complete details.

Where can I use my Debit Card?

Your Sterling State Bank Debit Card can be used for purchases at more than 22 million merchant locations that accept Visa Debit worldwide. You may also use the Debit Card for ATM transactions.

Can I select my own “secret code” for purchases and ATM transactions?

Yes! You may select a 4-digit secret code, which allows you the convenience of using "memorable dates", names, etc.  But remember not to share it with anyone!

Can I access more than one account with my card?

You may link one checking and one savings account to a single card. Your designated checking account is the funding account for transactions and purchases at Visa® merchants.

Is there a charge for using my Debit Card?

There is no charge for having a Sterling State Bank Debit Card. Note that ATMs not owned by Sterling State Bank may charge fees for withdrawals. International fees and other fees apply. Visit with a Sterling State Bank Personal Banker for details.

Safety tips when using your card

We know that you'll enjoy the convenience your Sterling State Bank Debit Card provides! We strongly encourage all our customers to practice the ATM Network safety and security tips noted above.

  • Do NOT use an ATM if you are uncomfortable with the surroundings. If suspicious-looking individuals are loitering about, wait until the premises are clear or use another ATM.
  • Avoid using ATMs alone. Have someone accompany you, especially at night.
  • At night, choose an ATM that is well-lit.
  • Park as close as possible to the ATM.
  • When using a drive-up ATM, be sure that all doors are locked and all passenger windows are closed.
  • Have your card out and be ready when you approach the ATM. Complete any forms beforehand.
  • Be aware of the surrounding areas. Don't hesitate to cancel the transaction and leave if anything seems suspicious.
  • Don't display cash near the ATM. Count it later. Contact us if there is a discrepancy.
  • Use ATMs only where you feel safe.
  • Memorize your ATM Secret Code. Never write your Secret Code on your card or keep it in your wallet or purse.
  • Do NOT give information about your account or your Secret Code to strangers.
  • Stand directly in front of the ATM so no one else can see the Secret Code you enter.
  • Keep your ATM receipt. Personal account information may be printed on it.
  • Inspect your monthly statement, and report any unusual or unauthorized transactions.

We know that you'll enjoy the convenience your Sterling State Bank Debit Card provides! We strongly encourage all our customers to practice the ATM Network safety and security tips noted above.

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Small Business

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If my account has transaction limitations, what counts as a "transaction"?

Checks paid, items deposited, electronic withdrawals, and wire transfers all count as transactions.

How do I order business checks?

You may reorder your Deluxe® Business checks by calling or stopping by any one of our Sterling State Bank locations.

What are the benefits to my company by offering payroll direct deposit through Sterling State Bank?

  • You save time by eliminating preparation of payroll checks.
  • You save time and money by eliminating reissues or stop payments.
  • Reduces lost time by employees who leave work to deposit or cash payroll checks.
  • Reduces clerical time for checking account reconciliation and issuance.
  • Low cost for start-up fees.
  • Viewed by your employees as an additional benefit.
  • You benefit from our experience at Sterling State Bank.

How can my employees open a Sterling State Bank account?

Sterling State Bank representatives would be happy to come to your company to present a variety of account options to your employees and open accounts while on-site. Your employees can also walk into any one of our Sterling State Bank locations to open their new account.

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Home Equity

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What is a home equity?

Home equity is the part of your home that you own outright. In other words, it is the difference between the appraised value and any outstanding mortgage balances(s). For example, if your home is worth $150,000 and the principal balance remaining on your mortgage is $100,000, then your home equity - the portion of your home that you own - is $50,000.

What are some of the benefits of borrowing using the equity in my home?

Tax Advantages. In many instances, the interest paid on a Home Equity Loan or Line is tax deductible. Consult your tax advisor for details.

Debt Consolidation. Using your home's equity to pay off high-interest rate debt, such as credit cards, is the smart way to improve your cash flow.

Home Improvements. Investing the money in home improvements actually helps to build equity while borrowing against it.

Emergencies. It's comforting to know that the financial power of your home can help during an illness, loss, or other emergency.

Education. For many people, a Home Equity Loan or Line is the only means available to finance college, graduate or technical schools, or other educational endeavors.

Is a home equity loan or line right for me?

Absolutely! You have worked hard to build equity in your home. Now, put it to work for you, and enjoy the many benefits of a Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit.

What is the difference between a home equity loan and a home equity line of credit?

A Home Equity Loan provides you with a one-time lump sum cash amount. You repay it as you would any other installment loan in fixed monthly payments. These fixed-rate loans guarantee that your rate will never change and your payment will never increase. Once you get the money, you cannot borrow further from that loan.

A Home Equity Line of Credit establishes a maximum line of credit that you can draw against by simply writing a check. You borrow what you need when you need it. As you repay your principal, that money becomes available to borrow over and over again. That means you don't have to reapply every time you need funds.

Where do I close my loan?

At a Sterling State Bank convenient to you.

When do I get my funds?

Once you close your loan, federal regulations require that we wait three business days before the loan or line of credit proceeds are available to you. During those three days, you have the right to cancel the transaction.

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Mortgage

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What is a fixed-rate mortgage?

A Fixed-rate mortgage is a loan that has the interest rate and payment set for the life of the loan. The benefit is that you always know what your principal and interest costs will be.  This takes the guesswork out of planning.

What is a down payment?

This is the amount of money you have available to put down toward the purchase of a home. The down payment and the loan amount make up the purchase price of the home.

What sources can I draw from for my down payment?

Examples of acceptable sources for your down payment are checking and savings accounts, investment in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, CDs, money market accounts, and trust accounts. Also, the amount vested in a retirement savings account and any cash value from a life insurance policy.

What are closing costs?

Money paid by the borrower (or seller) to affect the closing of a mortgage loan. This normally includes an origination fee, title insurance, appraisal, attorney's fees and such prepaid items as taxes and insurance escrow payments.

What is an APR?

APR stands for the Annual Percentage Rate and is a measurement tool used to provide a standard basis of comparison of loans offered by competing lenders, which takes into account the loan's interest rate, closing costs, and other fees such as points. An APR lets you see the total cost of a loan, including fees and points over the life of the loan, not just the interest due.

When should I lock or float my rate?

You can lock a rate anytime after we receive and review your signed loan application, you pay your application fee and you have identified a property. The typical lock-in period is 30 days. This means that once you lock in the rate, you must close your loan within 30 days. Once you lock, you cannot un-lock. If you think rates may fall, don't lock and instead float your rate. If you are unsure or adverse to risk, it might be better to lock your rate.

How do I lock in my interest rate?

During the application process, discuss the rate options with your loan originator and call us anytime during the process to lock your loan.

What are points?

Also called discount points, a point is 1% of the amount of the loan. Points are a one-time fee added to your closing costs and generally results in a slightly lower interest rate on your loan.

What is an origination fee?

A fee or charge for the work involved in the evaluation, preparation, and submission of a proposed mortgage loan.

What is an appraisal?

A report by a qualified appraiser providing a professional opinion or estimate of value.

What is Title insurance?

Title Insurance is a policy issued to lenders and/or buyers to protect any losses because of a dispute over the ownership of a piece of property.

What is Private Mortgage insurance?

Insurance written by a private company protecting the mortgage lender against loss as a result of a mortgage default. This is required for any loan with a loan-to-value greater than 80 percent.

What will my monthly payment include?

Principal and interest.  If you escrow (required when loan-to-value is greater than 80 percent) insurance and taxes, condo fees, and mortgage insurance, if applicable.

When will my first payment be due?

At closing, you will receive temporary payment coupons that will indicate when your first payment is due.

What is Fannie Mae?

Fannie Mae, also known as the Federal National Mortgage Association, is a congressionally chartered corporation that purchases conventional mortgages in the secondary market.

What is a late charge?

An additional charge a borrower is required to pay as a penalty for failure to pay a regular installment when due.

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Investment Services

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How do I schedule an appointment with an Investment Services Representative?

You may visit your local Sterling State Bank office and request an appointment with one of our licensed investment representatives.

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eStatements

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What are eStatements?

eStatements are electronic copies of your Sterling State Bank account statements. The eStatements is an exact copy and contains all of the same information that you receive via your standard statement. The benefit of an eStatements is that you can view, print or save a copy of your bank statement at your convenience. It’s your choice!

Is there a cost for eStatements?

eStatements are available at no additional cost through Online Banking

What accounts are eligible for eStatements?

eStatements are currently available for all checking accounts.

How will I know a new eStatement is ready to be viewed?

Each month, you will receive an e-mail notification that lets you know your statement is ready. The message will not contain any confidential information, such as your account number. The message will provide a link that will direct you to the “Log In” screen of our Online Banking service, where you'll use your User ID and Password to access your account statement.

Can I save my eStatement?

You may save copies of your electronic statement. You may also print copies for your records.

What if I need a copy of a canceled check?

If you need a copy of a canceled check, you can request that from any one of our convenient locations.  Our Personal Bankers will be happy to help you. Fees may apply.

How do I get a copy of an old paper statement?

You will be able to view your statement for 13 months. If you did not print or save a copy of your eStatement and it is no longer available, you can submit a request with any one of our Personal Bankers.  Fees may apply.

What security methods are used to protect my eStatement?

Because User IDs and Passwords are needed to access your eStatement, your personal information is more secure than it is in your mailbox. Sterling State Bank also uses state-of-the-art security measures to ensure that your confidential identity information is protected 24-hours a day.

Sterling State Bank’s online products use the latest encryption technology to secure your data. Encryption is the process of transforming data into a form unreadable to anyone except those who possess the decryption key.

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