banks

First Bank & Scotia are about 6 of one, half dozen of the other. I use Scotia on STT & haven't had bad luck there.

We use Banco Popular and have been satisfied with service.

Do they have a branch in STJ?

The only two banks on STJ are First Bank in Cruz Bay and Scotia Bank at The Marketplace - both about the same but we prefer Scotia (much nicer) so recently switched from First

Pia

Thank you all for your advice!

i heard that scotia is not fdic insured, so keep that in mind too

1st bank will put a 7 business day hold on all non-local checks too. You are "supposed" to have access to $100 immediately upon deposit, but in inland time, it's 24 hrs!!!!! Keep that in mind too. And make sure you have 2 forms of ID with you, 😎

Welcome to island life. The first year or so this kind of stuff may be stressful. But remember to breathe and slow down. And always bring a book with you everywhere. Waiting here is a common theme. Almost nothing happens anywhere near as fast as stateside or what is advertised. It does wonders for your patience and tolerance, or you go home.