Coronavirus: Banks expecting long lines, customer surge this weekend

MIAMI TWP. — A combination of several factors has led some bank officials to warn customers of anticipated longer than normal lines over the next few days as the coronavirus pandemic continues.

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Long lines were observed by our crew Thursday at a Wright-Patt Credit Union location near the Dayton Mall, and a credit union official said customers should expect the same if you need to go to a location in the next couple of days.

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“It’s going to be a busy weekend for financial institutions particularly (Friday), and likely on Saturdays. Because most banks have closed their lobbies and some locations,” Tracy Szarzi-Fors, WPCU Vice President of Marketing and Business said.

Due to those closed lobbies, all WPCU members that go to a physical location will be forced to use a drive-thru, she said.

“Because it’s a payday, and its when government issued checks are ready for our members, or the bank’s customers, and then you also have taxes- they want to get that money.”

“(Customers) are going to experience really, really, long lines,” Szarzi-Fors said.

To avoid the anticipated long lines and waiting, Szarzi-Fors recommended bank customers to use ATMs or mobile apps and online banking, rather than coming to a physical location when that is possible. But most of all, she urged people to have patience.

"It’s a different time, it’s unprecedented. If everyone is taking that patient approach, it will be good for everybody, Szarzi-Fors said.

“There is going to be some inconvenience, we know that. Everyone will be working this weekend to help the process go smoother.”

In addition to patience, Szarzi-Fors encouraged people to come prepared and have an ID ready to keep lines moving quickly.

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