As many of you know, Arvest recently underwent some upgrades to our Online Banking system. With the new appearance and functionality of Arvest Online Banking we wanted to help familiarize our customers with the new interface.  We now have a new Online Banking Demo available.

This Online Banking Demo shows the various functions of Arvest Online Banking and an overview of how to manage your accounts.  For those who have questions about the recent upgrade, please refer to our Upgrade FAQs for more information.

With wedding season in full bloom, Visa Inc. recently released the results of a study that showed 88% of married couples believe they overspent on some aspect of their wedding. At the top of the list was food, drink and cake, with 18% of respondents reporting they overspent on those items, followed by 14% who spent too much on their hotel and honeymoon, 12% who over did it on other parts of their reception and 11% who could have cut back on their clothing costs.

Couples spent an average of $8,721 on their wedding and honeymoon, making one of the most important life events also one of the most expensive.

"The money conversation needs to happen as soon as you become engaged, not while you are on the way to the altar," said Jason Alderman, Senior Director of Financial Education, Visa Inc. "For most couples, their wedding is the first major financial decision they will make together and can set the tone for how they deal with money for the rest of their lives. Money is one of the most critical issues married couples deal with and it’s important to get it right from the start."

While men and women agreed equally on how they overspent on food and drink, they parted company in other spending priorities on the wedding:

• Women (14%) were twice as likely as men (7%) to say the one item they overspent most on was clothing/dress/tux.
• Men (17%) were five points more likely to say honeymoon/hotel than women (12%).
• And men (14%) were four points more likely to believe the reception was the budget busting item than women (10%).

The survey also found wide disparity in the overall costs of weddings and honeymoons. The results show that:

• 26% of respondents spent over $10,000
• 19% spent between $5,001 to $10,000
• 30% spent $1,000 to $5,000
• 5% spent $501 and $1,000
• 18% spent $1 to $500
• 2% spent nothing

As part of a long-standing financial literacy program, Visa is offering the following wedding budgeting tips:

• Decide what parts of the wedding are most important to both of you.
• Keep the guest list small.
• Hold your ceremony and reception in one spot – it will cut travel time for vendors you pay by the hour.
• Don’t have your wedding on a Saturday, when demand and costs will be the highest.
• Simplify your bar menu and have just two or three drink options.
• When shopping for your wedding attire be sure to check outlet stores.
• Have a photographer you love but can't afford the prices? Ask them if they have an associate who will do your wedding for less.
• Substitute less expensive flowers or use more greenery.
• Order a small one or two-tiered cake to have on display and then supplement with a larger sheet cake served from the kitchen.
• Consider a weekend honeymoon nearby and then have a more elaborate one for your first anniversary.

Once the honeymoon is over Visa also has three tips to help reduce the financial friction in your relationship:

1. Create a household budget you both agree on.
2. Decide on long-term goals, like saving for retirement, buying a house or new car and saving for children’s college education.
3. Set up monthly budget meetings.

Courtesy of Practical Money Skills for Life, a free personal finance program created by Visa.
 

The recent upgrade of Arvest Online Banking has generated some common questions.  Please reference the information below in the event you have questions about using the new system.  If you are having difficulty with a problem not addressed below, please contact Arvest Customer Service for personal assistance.

What is new in Arvest Online Banking?
The new Online Banking will have several new features:

• Future enhancement of e.Statements to include check images.
• Future addition of Arvest credit card account information.
• Future addition of SMS text alerts to complement email alerts.
• New account alerts for debits or credits over certain amounts and an alert for a particular check number cleared.
• New automatic security alerts to let you know when your contact information, login ID or password has been changed.
• More detailed categories and customization options.
• Easier return to register from check image view.
• Run in Accessibility mode which can be utilized by customers who use a screen reader application.
• An auto-logout feature in the event of inactivity.
• More prominent messages and alerts indicators.
• Deposit slip images and duplicate and counter checks now viewable.
• Transfer history can be viewed by All, Scheduled or Complete.

Will I be able to access Online Banking with my mobile phone?

Depending on your mobile browser type, you may have difficulty using the new system. If this is the case, please download and use Arvest’s Mobile Banking application for your phone. Visit our Mobile Banking website for more information. Some mobile device web browsers including Blackberries may not function with the new Online Banking. These customers should enroll for Arvest Mobile Banking for the best experience. iPhone, iPad and Android devices should continue to function with online banking.

Why am I asked a challenge question even though I’m logging in from the computer I normally use?

You will be prompted to answer a challenge question the first time you log in to the new system in order to verify your identity.  When you login login, check the box next to “Remember my challenge question answers when I am on this computer. (Password Required)” so you won’t be asked again.   (see highlighted section below)  There is no need to change login ID or password.

Where is the button to download into Quicken or other PFM software?

• The download option is found on the Account Balances screen. 
• From the Home screen, roll over “Accounts” in the top navigation bar and then click on “Balances”.
• Just above your current balances is a “Download to:” box allowing you to choose Quicken or your preferred download option.

What is the optimal screen resolution size to view Arvest Online Banking?

• Recommended minimum screen resolution is1280 x 768.
• You can adjust your screen size by accessing your Display settings in the Control Panel for your PC.
• If running a lower resolution to enlarge text, you may need to scroll to the right to see the entire screen.

Why can’t I see the logout button?  Is it missing?

• The Exit button logs you out of Online Banking.
• The Exit button is located at the top right of the screen.  If you use a lower screen resolution, you may need to scroll to the top right to see the button.
• If you have to scroll right to view the Exit button, please consider changing your screen resolution to at least 1280 x 768.
• If the button is not visible at all, even after scrolling to the right, please contact Customer Service and provide your web browser type and screen resolution settings.
   

Why can’t I see the Submit button when trying to make a transfer?

• On the Transfers page, the Create Transfer button is located at the right of the screen. When you click on the button, you will see a form on which to enter your transfer details. You must click "Preview" after entering your transfer details. After clicking "Preview," a popup will show you the details you entered. The submit button is on the bottom right-hand side of the popup. If you use a lower screen resolution, you may need to scroll to the right to see the button.
• If you have to scroll right to view the submit button, please consider changing your screen resolution to at least 1280 x 768.
• If the buttons are not visible at all, even after scrolling to the right, please contact Customer Service and provide your web browser type and screen resolution settings.
   

What are the recommended web browsers for use with Arvest Online Banking?

• Recommended browsers include:
• Internet Explorer 7 and 8
• Firefox for Windows 3, 3.5 and 3.6 
• Safari for MAC 5
• Google Chrome may experience intermittent problems

How can I increase the size of the text on my screen?

If you press and hold ctrl and then press the  + button on your keyboard, the image on your screen increases in size, thus making the font larger.  Press and hold ctrl and then press the - button to zoom out.  Using this function to make the view larger may result in the need to use left and right scrolling to view the entire screen.

I used the Printable View option to print my account register but part of the page is not printing.  How can I fix this?

If you are using IE6:

1. Open the browser and click on the File menu at the top.
2. Go to Page Setup.
3. Under "Orientation" choose "Landscape."
4. Change all margins to 0 (or as low as they will go).
5. Log into Online Banking and go to the page you want to print. Click "Printable View."
6. Click "Print Screen."
7. Click on the "Preferences" button under the "General" tab.
8. Under "Orientation" choose "Landscape."
    

If you are using IE8:

1. Open the browser and click on the File menu at the top.
2. Go to Page Setup.
3. Choose "Landscape."
4. Change all margins to 0 (or as low as they will go).
5. Log into Online Banking and go to the page you want to print. Click "Printable View."
6. Click "Print Screen."
7. Click on the "Preferences" button under the "General" tab.
8. Under "Orientation" choose "Landscape." 

What is run in accessibility mode?
This mode can be utilized by customers who use a screen reader application. This is also an option for customers with a slow internet connection, such as dial up. To turn on/off accessibility mode, you can select the ‘Run in accessibility mode’ box on the Accessibility Mode settings.

If you are having a specific technical problem not addressed in the list below, please contact Arvest Customer Service for personal assistance.

The recent upgrade of Arvest Online Banking to the new system has generated some common questions from customers about accessing their accounts online.  Some of these issues are addressed in the topics below.  Please reference these items along with our post from earlier this week if you are having any user issues with Online Banking.

If you are having a specific technical problem not addressed in the list below, please contact Arvest Customer Service for personal assistance.

Why does the login page take so long to load?

• Overall slowness is an issue our team is continuing to analyze and troubleshoot
• We have made some changes throughout the week and especially over the last couple of days
• You should start to see improvements, and we will continue to address this issue
• For our users on a dial-up connection, we suggest you use the Accessibility Mode for the new Online Banking system.
  • Accessibility Mode is a new feature designed to work with screen readers and make Online Banking faster for those with slow internet connections, such as dial-up.

Why can’t I view the front and back of my cleared checks?

• We believe this was an isolated event, and all issues with check images have been resolved

Why does the printable view cause the printout to be wider than a page?

• Our team is currently working on a fix for this issue

What happened to the Mint.com connection to Arvest.com?

• Mint provided the following update to their users:
  • "We have escalated your issue to our data engineers. Our apologies for the frustration this is causing. At the moment we're unable to give you an ETA on the fix but we will notify you when we have an update to share."

Thank you again for your patience during the upgrade. If you are having a specific technical problem not addressed in the list above, please contact Arvest Customer Service for personal assistance. In order to best serve you, please be prepared to share your browser type and version, screen resolution and operating system.

As Arvest Bank’s presence in the Kansas City market continues to expand, grocery shoppers around Kansas City now have improved access to withdraw cash safely and conveniently.  On July 16, the number of Arvest ATMs in the region doubled to 16, providing customers with an expansive network of service charge free machines throughout the Kansas City area.  The addition of eight new Arvest Bank ATMs was made possible through a partnership between Arvest Bank and Hen House Grocery Stores.  These machines are located inside Hen House locations, and provide customers needing to withdraw funds or check balances with a convenient and safe environment in which to do so.

Providing highly visible ATMs was also a crucial part of the expansion plan, and each machine is professionally labeled with the Arvest Bank logo and branding graphics resulting in a fresh, clean look that more closely matches that of their retail environment.  Additional signage has also been installed to make each machine easier to identify by Hen House customers needing to make a cash withdrawal.

“Since entering into the Kansas City market last November, we’ve looked for ways to expand our banking services to our customers.  The partnership with Hen House Grocery Stores will not only allow us to expand our ATM footprint, but also to introduce our banking services and products to those looking for a convenient and stable bank,” says Doug Heck, executive vice president and sales manager for Arvest Bank Kansas City.  “We all lead busy lives, and although most of our locations are open until 8:00 p.m., sometimes it’s hard to make it to the bank before it closes.  With the addition of these ATMs inside Hen House locations that have extended evening and weekend hours, we’ll be able to provide our customers with even more flexibility, something that is very important to Arvest Bank.  The partnership just seemed like a natural fit”.

David Ball, president and CEO of Hen House Markets, says, “We enjoy providing services to our customers that have the potential to add value to their shopping experience. The addition of these ATMs in our store locations will add an element of convenience to their busy lifestyles”.

Arvest Bank ATMs will be located at the following Hen House Grocery Stores:

15000 W. 87th, Lenexa, KS 66215
8120 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, KS 66112
11930 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66210
11721 Roe Ave., Leawood, KS 66211
1015 NE Rice, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086
6900 W. 135th, Overland Park, KS 66223
6950 Mission, Prairie Village, KS 66208
2724 W. 53rd, Fairway, KS 66205
  

The recent upgrade of Arvest Online Banking to the new system has generated some common questions from customers about accessing their accounts online.  Some of these topics are addressed in the Q & A below.  Please reference these if you are having any user issues with Online Banking.

If you are having a specific technical problem not addressed in the list below, please contact Arvest Customer Service for personal assistance.  

• Recommend setting screen resolution to minimum of 1280 x 768.
• You can adjust your screen size by accessing your Display settings in the Control Panel for your PC.
• If using a lower resolution, you may have to scroll left and right or top and bottom to view the entire screen.

• The Exit button logs you out of Online Banking.
• The Exit button is located at the top right of the screen. If you use a lower screen resolution, you may need to scroll to the top right to see the button.
• If you have to scroll right to view the Exit button, please consider changing your screen resolution to at least 1280 x 768
• If the button is not visible at all, even after scrolling to the right, please contact Customer Service and provide your web browser type and screen resolution settings. 

• On the Transfers page, the Create Transfer button is located at the right of the screen. When you click on the button, you will see a form on which to enter your transfer details. You must click Preview after entering your transfer details. After clicking Preview, a popup will show you the details you entered. The submit button is on the bottom right-hand side of the popup. If you use a lower screen resolution, you may need to scroll to the right to see the button.
• If you have to scroll right to view the submit button, please consider changing your screen resolution to at least 1280 x 768.
• If the buttons are not visible at all, even after scrolling to the right, please contact Customer Service and provide your web browser type and screen resolution settings.

• Recommended browsers include:
  • Internet Explorer 7 and 8
  • Firefox for Windows 3, 3.5 and 3.6 
  • Safari for MAC 5
• Google Chrome may experience intermittent problems

• You will be prompted to answer a challenge question the first time you log in to the new system in order to verify your identity. After this initial login, check the box next to “Remember my challenge question answers when I am on this computer. (Password Required)” so you won’t be asked again.
• There is no need to change Login ID or password.

Arvest Online Banking has been upgraded to a new system, bringing a new look and many new functions that make it easier to manage your accounts.  Please log in and take some time to look over some of the new features.  If you have any problems or difficulties using the new Online Banking, please report it to Arvest Customer Service for assistance.
 
New Features
The new Online Banking upgrade results in an updated look with faster navigation to the various functions and options. In addition to a new look, the updated system will add the following new features to Arvest Online Banking:

• Quick transfer feature from the home screen.
• New email alerts for debits or credits over certain amounts and an alert for a particular check number cleared.
• New security alerts for ID, password and contact information changes.
• More detailed categories and customization options.
• Improved printer-friendly pages.
• Read in Accessibility mode which can be utilized by customers who use a screen reader application or those with a slower internet connection.
• An auto-logout feature in the event of inactivity.
• Easier setup and assignment of categories.
• View duplicate and counter check images, and view deposit slip images.
• Future enhancement of e.Statements to include check images.
• Future addition of Arvest credit card account information.
• Future addition of SMS text alerts to complement email alerts.

Having Problems?

Some important notes about the coming upgrade to consider:

• Your current login ID, challenge questions and password will not change as a result of the upgrade. There will be no need to re-enroll or sign up for Online Banking.
• Internet Explorer 6, and older versions, will no longer be supported, if you use IE 6, please upgrade to Internet Explorer 7 or higher as soon as possible.
• Some mobile device web browsers like Blackberry RIM may have difficulty with the new online banking system. If you use a mobile device to do your banking, please sign up for the Arvest Mobile Banking application for the optimal experience.
• iPhone, iPad and Android browsers should be usable, but you may want to download the Arvest Mobile Banking application for the best experience.
• When the new system launches on the 25th, you will not need to do anything differently to log in. Your Online Banking login ID, challenge question and password will NOT change, simply go to https://www.arvest.com and login at the top left of the page.

 
Remember - Arvest will not email you or call you asking you to confirm personal data such as login information, account numbers, card numbers or PIN codes. If you receive an unsolicited request asking you to “verify” your personal information, please do NOT do so – it could be a fraudulent attempt to gain access to your Arvest Bank accounts.
 
We hope you enjoy the new Arvest Online Banking and thank you for your patience during the transition.

Please be aware there will be limited Online Banking service during this weekend’s system upgrade, restricting the ability to create a recurring transfer, change contact information or access secure messages. You will be able to view account activity, initiate an immediate transfer and pay bills.   The upgrade period will begin Friday evening, July 23 and should conclude on Sunday, July 25.  To read more about the system upgrade, please visit our previous blog post.

Be Prepared for the Upgrade

Some important reminders about the coming system upgrade to consider:

• Your current login ID, challenge questions and password will not change as a result of the upgrade. There will be no need to re-enroll or sign up for Online Banking.
• Internet Explorer 6, and older versions, will no longer be supported, if you use IE 6, please upgrade to Internet Explorer 7 or higher as soon as possible.
• Some mobile device web browsers like Blackberry RIM may have difficulty with the new online banking system. If you use a mobile device to do your banking, please sign up for the Arvest Mobile Banking application for the optimal experience.
• iPhone, iPad and Android browsers should be usable, but you may want to download the Arvest Mobile Banking application for the best experience.

When the new system launches on the 25th, you will not need to do anything differently to log in. Your Online Banking login ID, challenge question and password will NOT change, simply go to https://www.arvest.com and login at the top left of the page.

We appreciate your patience during the upgrade and our staff will work to minimize your inconvenience.

Remember - Arvest will not email you or call you asking you to confirm personal data such as login information, account numbers, card numbers or PIN codes. If you receive an unsolicited request asking you to “verify” your personal information, please do NOT do so – it could be a fraudulent attempt to gain access to your Arvest Bank accounts.