Machias Savings Bank — A Complete 2025 Guide to Maine’s Local Banking Leader

Looking for a trusted Maine-based bank with personal service and modern digital tools? Machias Savings Bank has been serving Maine communities since 1869 — combining small-town care with big-bank technology. Whether you’re opening your first checking account, seeking a business loan, or managing finances for a growing company, this institution has built its reputation on saying “yes” to Maine families and businesses for over 155 years.

Quick Snapshot: Machias Savings Bank is a full-service, FDIC-insured financial institution headquartered in Machias, Maine, offering checking and savings accounts, mortgages, business loans, and comprehensive online banking across 15 full-service branches throughout the state. With over $2.6 billion in assets and 300 employees serving Maine communities from Portland to Caribou, the bank maintains its community-focused mission while delivering modern banking conveniences through mobile apps, online platforms, and 24/7 account access.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore Machias Savings Bank’s complete range of services, online banking capabilities, branch locations and hours, routing information, and frequently asked questions to help you make informed banking decisions.

What Is Machias Savings Bank?

Machias Savings Bank is a state-chartered mutual savings bank that has served Maine residents, businesses, and municipalities since its founding on March 5, 1869. As one of the oldest and most firmly established community banks in Maine, Machias Savings Bank operates under the motto “Bank of YES!” — emphasizing its commitment to helping customers achieve their financial goals.

History and Foundation

Founded by local visionaries in Washington County during the post-Civil War era, Machias Savings Bank originally focused on helping residents save money safely while providing loans for homes and businesses. The bank’s modest beginnings reflected the needs of Maine’s rural communities, and as the state’s economy developed through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, so did the bank’s offerings.

By the early 1900s, Machias Savings Bank had expanded beyond traditional savings products to include checking accounts, adapting to changing customer needs. The institution embraced technological innovation throughout its history, adopting electronic banking systems and eventually developing robust online and mobile platforms.

Mission and Community Focus

Machias Savings Bank’s mission centers on improving Maine’s financial health — one person, one business, and one community at a time. This community-first approach manifests in several ways:

  • Active participation in charitable initiatives across Washington County and beyond
  • Support for education programs, healthcare facilities, and local non-profit organizations
  • Providing 20 hours of paid volunteer time annually to employees
  • Donating bank-owned buildings and renovation funds to support economic development

Ownership Structure

Machias Savings Bank operates as a mutual savings bank within a two-tier holding company structure. Machias Bancorp, MHC (a mutual holding company) wholly owns Machias Bancorp, Inc., which in turn wholly owns Machias Savings Bank. This structure allows the bank to retain its community-focused mission while maintaining financial flexibility.

Coverage Area and Branch Network

Machias Savings Bank operates 15 full-service branches exclusively within Maine, serving communities from the Downeast region to Aroostook County. The bank maintains a particularly strong presence in northern and northeastern Maine, with strategic locations in major population centers including Portland, Bangor, Ellsworth, Presque Isle, and its home office in Machias.

In 2025, the bank announced expansion beyond Maine’s borders with a new business banking center in Manchester, New Hampshire, signaling growth while maintaining its regional focus.

Types of Customers Served

Machias Savings Bank serves a diverse clientele including:

  • Individual consumers and families seeking personal banking solutions
  • Small businesses requiring working capital, equipment financing, and commercial mortgages
  • Commercial enterprises needing sophisticated cash management and treasury services
  • Municipalities and government entities requiring specialized public sector banking
  • Agricultural operations seeking seasonal financing and equipment loans

Machias Savings Bank Locations and Hours

Machias Savings Bank operates a comprehensive branch network across Maine, providing convenient access to banking services throughout the state.

Complete Branch List

The bank’s 15 Maine locations include:

Northern Maine:

  • Presque Isle Branch: 9 Dyer Street, Presque Isle, ME 04769
  • Caribou Branch: 142 Bennett Drive, Caribou, ME 04736
  • Houlton Branch: 138 North Street, Houlton, ME 04730

Downeast Maine:

  • Machias Home Office: 4 Center Street, Machias, ME 04654
  • Calais Branch: 210 North Street, Calais, ME 04619
  • Princeton Branch: 127 Main Street, Princeton, ME 04668
  • Columbia Branch: 357 US Highway 1, Columbia, ME 04623
  • Danforth Branch: 38 Depot Street, Danforth, ME 04424

Mid-Coast and Central Maine:

  • Bangor Branch: 1126 Hammond Street, Bangor, ME 04401
  • Brewer Branch: 581 Wilson Street, Brewer, ME 04412
  • Lincoln Branch: 6 Penobscot Valley Avenue, Lincoln, ME 04457
  • Ellsworth Branch: 93 High Street, Ellsworth, ME 04605
  • Bar Harbor Branch: 96 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  • Rockland Branch: 3 Glen Street, Rockland, ME 04841

Southern Maine:

  • Portland Branch: 193 Middle Street, Portland, ME 04101

New Hampshire (Business Banking Center):

  • Manchester Branch: 900 Elm Street STE 702 #5, Manchester, NH 03101

Standard Business Hours

Branch hours vary by location, but typical schedules include:

  • Monday – Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Friday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: Select branches only, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (discontinued at some locations as of July 2024)

Some branches maintain slightly different hours, so customers should verify specific location hours via the bank’s website or by calling ahead.

Holiday Closures

Machias Savings Bank observes all federal holidays, with branches closed on:

  • New Year’s Day (January 1)
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
  • Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February)
  • Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
  • Juneteenth (June 19)
  • Independence Day (July 4)
  • Labor Day (First Monday in September)
  • Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Second Monday in October)
  • Veterans Day (November 11)
  • Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
  • Christmas Day (December 25)

FAQ Integration: “Is Machias Savings Bank open today?”

To determine if Machias Savings Bank is open on any given day, check whether it falls on a federal holiday listed above. On federal holidays, all branch locations and customer service are closed. For regular business days, branches typically operate Monday through Friday with extended Friday hours, though some locations offer Saturday morning service.

FAQ Integration: “Is Machias Savings Bank closed on Veterans Day?”

Yes, all Machias Savings Bank branch locations and customer service are closed on Veterans Day in observance of this federal holiday.

How to Find the Nearest Branch

Customers can locate their nearest Machias Savings Bank branch using several methods:

  1. Visit the official branch locator at machiassavings.bank/locations
  2. Use the mobile app’s built-in branch finder feature
  3. Call customer service at 1-866-416-9302 for branch information
  4. Access the interactive map on the bank’s website showing all 15 Maine locations

Machias Savings Bank Login and Online Banking

Machias Savings Bank offers comprehensive online and mobile banking services branded as “MSB Online,” providing 24/7 account access from any device.

How to Access the Machias Savings Bank Login Portal

To log into your Machias Savings Bank account:

  1. Visit machiassavings.bank (the official website)
  2. Click the “Login” button in the top right corner
  3. Enter your Access ID (username)
  4. Enter your Password
  5. Complete multi-factor authentication (MFA) using either:
    • A secure access code sent to your phone
    • Authentication through an authenticator app

Multi-Factor Authentication Requirement

As of 2024, Machias Savings Bank requires multi-factor authentication for all online banking access to protect customer accounts from fraud. This security measure may add an extra step to login, but significantly enhances account protection.

Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Users

Sign-Up Process:

New customers can enroll in MSB Online by:

  1. Visiting the enrollment page at machiassavings.bank/enrollment
  2. Contacting a Financial Services Representative in person at any branch
  3. Calling Customer Service at 1-866-416-9302 to obtain login credentials

You’ll need the following information to enroll:

  • Active Machias Savings Bank account number
  • Social Security number
  • Valid email address
  • Mobile phone number for authentication

Password Reset:

If you’ve forgotten your password:

  1. Click “Forgot Password” on the login page
  2. Enter your Access ID and email address
  3. Follow the verification steps sent to your email
  4. Create a new password following security requirements
  5. Log in with your new credentials

You can also change your password anytime through the Settings menu after logging in.

Mobile Banking App Overview

The Machias Savings Bank mobile app brings full banking functionality to your smartphone or tablet.

Key Features:

  • Account Management: View balances, transactions, and account history across all your accounts
  • Mobile Deposit: Deposit checks by photographing them with your phone
  • Bill Pay: Schedule one-time or recurring payments to any payee
  • Fund Transfers: Move money between your Machias accounts or to external bank accounts
  • Card Controls: Lock/unlock your debit card, set spending limits, and manage security settings
  • Alerts: Customize notifications for balance changes, transactions, and potential fraud
  • Mobile Wallet: Add your Machias debit and credit cards to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay
  • Personal Finance Tools: Connect external accounts, track spending, create budgets, and monitor your credit score through SavvyMoney®

App Availability:

  • Apple iOS: Download from the App Store (4.8-star rating)
  • Android: Download from Google Play (4.0-star rating)

Security Features:

MSB Online and the mobile app employ advanced security measures including:

  • Bank-level encryption for all data transmission
  • Multi-factor authentication for login verification
  • Biometric login options (fingerprint, Face ID)
  • Automatic timeout after periods of inactivity
  • Real-time fraud monitoring 24/7/365
  • Secure messaging for sensitive communications

Machias Savings Bank Routing Number and Account Setup

Understanding your bank’s routing number is essential for various electronic transactions.

Machias Savings Bank Routing Number: 211274531

The routing number for all Machias Savings Bank branches is 211274531. This nine-digit number identifies the bank for electronic funds transfers and remains consistent regardless of which branch you opened your account at.

Where to Find Your Routing Number

You can locate your Machias Savings Bank routing number in several places:

On Checks:
The routing number appears at the bottom left of your checks as the first set of nine digits. The number sequence from left to right is:

  • Routing number (9 digits): 211274531
  • Account number (varies by customer)
  • Check number (varies)

Online Banking:
Log into MSB Online and navigate to your account details to view your routing number.

Bank Documents:
Your routing number appears on account statements, welcome packets, and other official bank correspondence.

When You Need Your Routing Number

The routing number 211274531 is required for:

  • Direct deposits: Setting up paycheck, Social Security, or pension deposits
  • ACH transfers: Moving money electronically between banks
  • Bill payments: Authorizing automatic withdrawals from your account
  • Wire transfers: Both incoming and outgoing domestic wire transfers
  • Tax refunds: Receiving IRS refunds via direct deposit
  • Online payments: Linking your bank account to payment services

Wire Transfer Details

Machias Savings Bank supports both ACH and wire transfers using routing number 211274531:

  • Incoming domestic wires: $15.00 fee
  • Outgoing domestic wires: $15.00 online, $25.00 in-person
  • Outgoing international wires: $50.00 online, $75.00 in-person

FAQ Integration: “Where can I cash a Machias Savings Bank check?”

You can cash a Machias Savings Bank check at:

  1. Any Machias Savings Bank branch (free for account holders; $10 fee for non-customers)
  2. Your own bank or credit union (if you have an account elsewhere)
  3. Check-cashing services (typically charge percentage-based fees)
  4. Retail locations (some grocery stores and retailers offer check-cashing services for a fee)

Account holders should present valid identification when cashing checks. Non-customers will be charged a $10 fee for cashing Machias Savings Bank checks.

Products and Services Offered by Machias Savings Bank

Machias Savings Bank provides a comprehensive suite of financial products designed for both personal and business banking needs.

Personal Banking Products

Checking Accounts:

My MSB Checking

  • No minimum balance requirement for some tiers
  • $100 minimum opening balance for interest-bearing version
  • Visa® debit card included
  • Free online and mobile banking
  • Bill Pay included
  • Up to $25 in monthly ATM fee rebates at non-MSB ATMs
  • Tiered interest rates based on balance
  • Overdraft protection available (subject to credit approval)
  • Paper or electronic statements

Savings Accounts:

My MSB Savings

  • $100 minimum opening balance
  • No minimum balance requirement after opening
  • Unlimited transactions (in-person and online)
  • Tiered interest rates
  • Option to pledge as loan collateral
  • FDIC insured up to $250,000
  • Paper or eStatements available

High Yield Savings

  • $50,000 minimum to open
  • Tiered APY structure:
    • $0.01-$49,999.99: 0.25% APY
    • $50,000-$99,999.99: 2.50% APY
    • $100,000-$249,999.99: 2.90% APY
    • $250,000+: 3.25% APY
  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • Can be used as loan collateral

My MSB Money Fund

  • $2,500 minimum opening balance
  • Unlimited transactions
  • Higher interest rates for higher balances
  • Discounts up to $250 on mortgage and home equity loan closing costs
  • $10 monthly fee if balance falls below $2,500

Health Savings Account (HSA)

  • Designed for high-deductible health plan participants
  • Tax-free deposits and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses
  • HSA Visa® Debit Card for easy payments
  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • No minimum balance requirement

Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

  • Terms ranging from 3 months to 5 years
  • $500 minimum opening balance
  • Fixed interest rates locked in for the term
  • Competitive rates (3.00% for 1-year, 2.80% for 5-year as of 2024)
  • Can be used as loan collateral
  • Penalty for early withdrawal

Mortgage Products:

  • Fixed-rate mortgages
  • Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs)
  • Construction loans
  • Maine State Housing Authority (MSHA) loans
  • Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs)
  • Online mortgage portal for application status tracking

Personal Loans and Credit:

  • Personal credit cards with low APR and rewards options
  • Personal loans for various needs
  • Auto loans
  • Overdraft protection lines

Business Banking Products

Small Business Services:

Business Checking

  • No minimum balance requirement
  • No monthly service fees
  • Rated #1 by Under30CEO for Business Checking in Maine
  • Online and mobile banking included
  • Business Bill Pay
  • ACH transfers and wire transfer capabilities

Small Business Loans:

  1. Lines of Credit: Flexible borrowing for seasonal or short-term cash flow needs
  2. Commercial Mortgages: Purchase, refinance, or renovate business property
  3. Construction Loans: Finance new builds, renovations, or expansions
  4. Equipment Loans: Purchase or refinance business equipment
  5. Agricultural Loans: Seasonal financing for farming operations
  6. Boat Loans: For commercial fishing vessels and maritime businesses
  7. Letters of Credit: Payment guarantees for vendors and projects

Commercial Banking Services:

Machias Savings Bank offers comprehensive commercial banking for larger enterprises, including:

  • High-volume ACH origination
  • Cash management services
  • Merchant capture (remote deposit)
  • Domestic and international wire transfers
  • Treasury management services
  • Commercial real estate financing
  • SBA loans

Digital Banking Tools:

  • MSB Business Online platform
  • Mobile app with business check deposit
  • Integration with accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero)
  • Positive pay fraud prevention
  • Account reconciliation services

Community Development and Local Investments

Beyond traditional banking products, Machias Savings Bank actively invests in Maine’s economic development:

  • Donated buildings for entrepreneurship centers
  • Support for affordable housing initiatives
  • Financing for community development projects
  • Educational partnerships with local schools
  • Financial literacy programs across Maine communities

Machias Savings Bank in Presque Isle and Other Locations

The Machias Savings Bank Presque Isle branch serves as an important hub for Aroostook County banking.

Presque Isle Branch Details

Address: 9 Dyer Street, Presque Isle, ME 04769

Contact: (207) 768-3222

Hours:

  • Monday – Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Services Available:

  • Personal banking (checking, savings, loans)
  • Business banking (commercial accounts, business loans)
  • Mortgage center services
  • Safe deposit boxes
  • Full-service ATM
  • Coin machine

Branch Leadership:

The Presque Isle branch is managed by Sage Ouellette, Branch Manager, who emphasizes creating meaningful relationships with customers and the community. The branch team includes treasury services officers specializing in business cash management and commercial lending.

Other Notable Branch Locations

Machias Home Office (Headquarters)

  • Address: 4 Center Street, Machias, ME 04654
  • Phone: (207) 255-3347
  • Historical significance as the bank’s founding location
  • Full range of administrative and banking services
  • Monday-Thursday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Portland Branch

  • Address: 193 Middle Street, Portland, ME 04101
  • Phone: (207) 774-9300
  • Serves southern Maine’s largest city
  • Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Bangor Branch

  • Address: 1126 Hammond Street, Bangor, ME 04401
  • Phone: (207) 947-8666
  • Strategic location in Maine’s third-largest city
  • Monday-Thursday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

How to Contact Machias Savings Bank

Machias Savings Bank provides multiple channels for customer support and assistance.

Customer Service Phone Number

Main Customer Service: 1-866-416-9302 (toll-free)

Customer Service Hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET
  • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM ET

Emergency Contact Numbers:

  • Lost Credit Card: 1-855-401-4743
  • Lost ATM/Debit Card: 1-866-416-9302
  • After-Hours Lost ATM/Debit Card: 1-866-416-9302 (Option 2)
  • After-Hours Debit Card Fraud: 1-866-416-9302 (Option 1)

24-Hour Phone Banking: 1-800-982-7179 or 255-9346

Email and Mailing Address

Headquarters Mailing Address:
Machias Savings Bank
4 Center Street
PO Box 318
Machias, ME 04654

For specific inquiries, customers can use the online contact form available at machiassavings.bank/contact-us.

Social Media Presence

Machias Savings Bank maintains active social media accounts for community engagement and customer updates:

  • Facebook: Main page and individual branch pages (including Presque Isle)
  • LinkedIn: Professional updates and career opportunities
  • YouTube: Online banking tutorials and financial education videos

Online Support Features

  • Live Chat: Available during business hours for quick questions
  • Secure Messaging: Through MSB Online for confidential inquiries
  • FAQ Section: Comprehensive answers to common questions
  • Video Tutorials: Step-by-step guides for online banking features

Is Machias Savings Bank Right for You?

Deciding whether Machias Savings Bank meets your financial needs requires understanding its strengths and potential limitations.

Advantages of Banking with Machias Savings Bank

Local Focus and Personalized Service

As a community bank, Machias Savings Bank offers relationship banking that national institutions cannot match. Employees know customers by name, understand local economic conditions, and have authority to make lending decisions locally. This personal touch translates to:

  • Faster loan approvals based on relationship, not just credit scores
  • Flexible underwriting for unique situations
  • Direct access to decision-makers
  • Consistent service from familiar faces

Community Investment

Every dollar deposited at Machias Savings Bank stays in Maine. The bank reinvests deposits in local businesses, mortgages for Maine residents, and community development projects. National banks, by contrast, often direct deposits to investments across the country or internationally.

Competitive Rates and Low Fees

Despite its regional size, Machias Savings Bank offers:

  • High-yield savings with up to 3.25% APY on large balances
  • Competitive CD rates (3.00% on 1-year)
  • Business checking with no monthly fees
  • Up to $25 in ATM fee rebates monthly
  • Lower overdraft fees compared to megabanks

Strong Financial Stability

With over $2.6 billion in assets and FDIC insurance protecting deposits up to $250,000, Machias Savings Bank demonstrates solid financial health. The bank earned an “Outstanding” CRA rating from the FDIC in 2021, recognizing its exceptional community service.

Modern Digital Banking

The bank’s mobile app (4.8 stars on iOS, 4.0 on Android) provides comprehensive features including mobile deposit, bill pay, budgeting tools, and credit monitoring. This technology matches or exceeds what many national banks offer.

Potential Limitations

Limited Geographic Reach

Machias Savings Bank operates exclusively in Maine (plus one New Hampshire business banking office). If you move out of state or travel frequently, you won’t have physical branch access elsewhere. However, online and mobile banking, plus nationwide ATM access through fee rebates, mitigate this limitation.

Smaller Product Selection

While Machias offers essential banking products, it doesn’t provide the full range available at megabanks, such as:

  • Investment brokerage services
  • Wealth management for high-net-worth individuals
  • International banking services beyond wire transfers
  • Specialized lending products (though most common needs are covered)

Lower Savings Rates on Some Products

The standard My MSB Savings account offers 0.15% APY, below the national average for online high-yield savings accounts. However, the High Yield Savings option with 3.25% APY for balances over $250,000 is highly competitive.

Comparison: Machias Savings Bank vs. Competitors

FeatureMachias Savings BankBangor Savings BankTD Bank (National)
Maine Branches1565+20+
Business Checking Fee$0Varies by account$15-$25/month
Personal Relationship BankingExcellentExcellentLimited
High-Yield Savings APYUp to 3.25%LowerVaries
Mobile App Rating4.8 (iOS) / 4.0 (Android)4.8 / 4.74.6 / 4.4
Local Lending DecisionsYesYesNo (corporate approval)
Community Investment100% local100% localMostly national
Best ForNorthern/Downeast Maine, small businessesStatewide presence, variety of accountsNational presence, larger businesses

Who Should Choose Machias Savings Bank?

Machias Savings Bank is ideal for:

  • Maine residents, particularly in northern and Downeast regions
  • Small business owners seeking personalized lending relationships
  • Customers who value community investment and local decision-making
  • Those wanting competitive rates without sacrificing personal service
  • People comfortable with online banking for day-to-day needs
  • Individuals seeking lower fees than national banks charge

Who Might Consider Alternatives?

You might explore other options if you:

  • Need extensive physical branches across multiple states
  • Require specialized wealth management or investment services
  • Want the highest possible savings rates (online-only banks may offer more)
  • Travel internationally frequently and need global banking services
  • Prefer banking with the largest national institutions

FAQs — Machias Savings Bank

Is Machias Savings Bank open today?

To determine if Machias Savings Bank is open today, verify whether today falls on a federal holiday. The bank closes on New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. On regular business days, most branches operate Monday-Friday, with some locations offering Saturday morning hours.

Is Machias Savings Bank closed on Veterans Day?

Yes, all Machias Savings Bank branches and customer service are closed on Veterans Day (November 11) in observance of this federal holiday.

What time does Machias Savings Bank open?

Opening times vary by branch location. Most branches open at 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM Monday through Friday, with some locations maintaining extended hours until 6:00 PM on Fridays. The Machias home office opens at 7:30 AM Monday through Thursday and closes at 5:00 PM, with Friday hours extended to 6:00 PM. Check your specific branch hours at machiassavings.bank/locations or call 1-866-416-9302.

Where can I cash a Machias Savings Bank check?

You can cash a Machias Savings Bank check at any Machias Savings Bank branch location free of charge if you’re an account holder. Non-customers can cash checks at Machias branches for a $10 fee. You can also cash checks at your own financial institution if you bank elsewhere, or at check-cashing services (which typically charge percentage-based fees). Always bring valid government-issued identification when cashing checks.

How do I log in to Machias Savings Bank online banking?

To access MSB Online, visit machiassavings.bank and click the “Login” button. Enter your Access ID (username) and password, then complete multi-factor authentication using a secure code sent to your phone or through an authenticator app. First-time users must enroll by visiting a branch, calling customer service at 1-866-416-9302, or using the online enrollment portal. You’ll need an active account number, Social Security number, email address, and mobile phone number to complete enrollment.

What is Machias Savings Bank’s routing number?

The routing number for all Machias Savings Bank accounts is 211274531. You’ll find this number on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking account details, or on your account statements. This routing number is used for direct deposits, ACH transfers, wire transfers, and electronic bill payments.

Does Machias Savings Bank offer mobile banking?

Yes, Machias Savings Bank offers a comprehensive mobile banking app for both iOS (Apple) and Android devices. The app allows you to check balances, transfer funds, pay bills, deposit checks using your phone camera, manage card controls, receive alerts, and access personal finance tools including credit score monitoring. Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and log in using your MSB Online credentials.

Is Machias Savings Bank FDIC insured?

Yes, Machias Savings Bank is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and has been since January 1, 1966. All deposit accounts are insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per account ownership category. The bank’s FDIC certificate number is #19531.

Expert Banking Tips for Maine Residents

Making the most of your banking relationship requires strategic thinking and proactive management.

How to Maximize Local Bank Benefits

Build a Banking Relationship

Unlike national banks where you’re a number in a database, community banks like Machias Savings thrive on relationships. Establishing rapport with your banker can lead to:

  • Better loan terms based on your history and character
  • Faster service when you need assistance
  • Personalized financial advice tailored to your situation
  • Flexibility during financial difficulties

Visit your branch periodically, even for simple transactions, and get to know the staff by name.

Take Advantage of All Available Services

Many customers don’t realize the full range of services their community bank offers:

  • Free financial literacy education programs
  • Small business consulting and support
  • Payroll services and cash management solutions
  • Safe deposit boxes for valuable documents
  • Notary services (though there may be a fee for non-customers)

Leverage Technology for Convenience

Modern community banks combine personal service with digital convenience:

  • Set up account alerts to monitor spending and catch potential fraud early
  • Use mobile deposit to save trips to the branch
  • Enable auto-pay for recurring bills to avoid late fees
  • Connect budgeting apps to track spending patterns
  • Use Card Controls to lock/unlock your debit card when traveling

Why Choose a Community Bank vs. a National Bank

Faster, More Flexible Lending Decisions

Community banks approve loans locally, often within days rather than weeks. Loan officers have authority to consider factors beyond credit scores, such as:

  • Your character and reputation in the community
  • Local economic conditions affecting your business
  • Unique circumstances not captured in standardized applications
  • Your relationship history with the bank

National banks, by contrast, use rigid underwriting criteria determined at corporate headquarters, often located thousands of miles away.

Money Stays Local

When you deposit $1,000 at Machias Savings Bank, that money finances mortgages for your neighbors, loans for local businesses, and community development projects in Maine. National banks often invest deposits in out-of-state or international ventures.

Lower Fees, Better Value

Community banks typically charge fewer and lower fees than national institutions:

  • Many offer free checking accounts
  • Lower or no monthly maintenance fees
  • More forgiving overdraft policies
  • Fee rebates for out-of-network ATM usage

Megabanks generated over $2 billion in overdraft fees alone in 2019, often at the expense of customers who can least afford it.

Personal Accountability

When bank leaders live in the same community as their customers, they operate with higher ethical standards. They see the impact of their decisions at the grocery store, their children’s schools, and community events. This accountability fosters trust and responsible banking practices.

Using Online Tools to Manage Personal and Business Finances

Personal Finance Management

Machias Savings Bank’s MSB Online platform includes robust personal finance tools:

  1. Account Aggregation: Connect all your financial accounts (even from other institutions) in one dashboard
  2. Budgeting Tools: Create spending categories and track against monthly budgets
  3. Spending Analysis: See where your money goes with automatic categorization
  4. Credit Monitoring: Access your credit score through SavvyMoney® and receive tips for improvement
  5. Goal Setting: Establish savings goals and track progress visually

Business Cash Management

Business owners can leverage advanced tools through MSB Business Online:

  • ACH Origination: Process payroll and vendor payments electronically
  • Positive Pay: Upload check registers to prevent check fraud
  • Wire Transfers: Initiate domestic and international wires from your desk
  • Merchant Capture: Deposit checks using a desktop scanner without visiting the bank
  • Account Reconciliation: Download transaction data directly into QuickBooks or Xero

Link to Financial Readiness Resources

Before making major banking decisions, ensure your overall financial foundation is solid. Calculate your emergency fund needs, understand your debt-to-income ratio, and create a budget that accommodates both short-term needs and long-term goals.

Conclusion

Machias Savings Bank stands as a testament to the enduring value of community banking in the modern financial landscape. For over 155 years, this Maine institution has combined stability, personalized service, and genuine care for the communities it serves — qualities that become increasingly rare in an era of banking consolidation and impersonal digital-only institutions.

Whether you’re opening your first savings account, seeking financing for a home or business, or simply want a banking partner who knows your name and understands your goals, Machias Savings Bank delivers the “YES!” that Maine families and businesses deserve. With 15 convenient locations across the state, comprehensive online and mobile banking capabilities, competitive rates, and a proven commitment to keeping Maine’s money working for Maine’s people, the bank offers a compelling alternative to national megabanks.

The choice between a community bank and a national institution ultimately depends on your priorities. If you value relationships over transactions, local investment over Wall Street returns, and personal service over automated systems, Machias Savings Bank represents an excellent choice. The bank’s strong financial position, FDIC insurance protection, and “Outstanding” regulatory ratings provide the security you need, while its community focus delivers the service you want.

Take the Next Step

Ready to experience the Machias Savings Bank difference? Visit any of the 15 Maine branch locations, call customer service at 1-866-416-9302, or explore account options online at machiassavings.bank. Whether you’re in Presque Isle, Machias, Portland, or anywhere in between, you’ll find experienced bankers ready to help you find your “YES!”

👉 Strengthen Your Financial Foundation First

Before opening new accounts or taking on loans, ensure your personal finances are positioned for success. Use the free Emergency Fund Calculator to determine your recommended emergency savings target and build a safety net that protects you during unexpected financial challenges. A solid emergency fund prevents you from relying on credit cards or depleting savings accounts during tough times, keeping your financial goals on track.

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