The Joplin Globe, Joplin, MO

Tornado: Resources & relief

Discussion

June 13, 2011

RESOURCE: Some banks waiving check-cashing fees for tornado victims

From staff reports news@joplinglobe.com

JOPLIN, Mo. — Five local banks have agreed to waive check-cashing fees for checks issued by the state of Missouri to help tornado victims and relief workers, according to a statement released Monday by state Treasurer Clint Zweifel.

Banks agreeing to waive check-cashing fees through July 31 are Commerce Bank, Great Southern Bank, Hometown Bank, Mid-Missouri Bank and UMB.

Zweifel noted that he issues about 4,000 checks on average each month for the Joplin area.

“This agreement helps people who cannot get to their regular bank because they have lost their bank branch, have been displaced or are working in the area as part of the recovery effort,” Zweifel said. “It removes the hassle from cashing a state tax return, a state payroll check, an unclaimed property check or another check payment coming from state funds.”

Zweifel also said his office will issue replacement state checks if the original was lost or destroyed in the storm.

“I have directed my office to review several hundred outstanding checks issued since May 16 to Joplin area residents and businesses and to contact all recipients by phone to see if replacements are needed because of the timing of the tornado and delivery,” he said.

“We have already expedited the replacement of five of those checks. If anyone else needs a replacement check in Joplin, the process will be expedited and the check shipped overnight. We will continue to update and monitor the list of outstanding checks because we want people to have access to their money as soon as possible.”

To request a replacement check, tornado victims may call 573-751-2434 or send an email to generalservices@treasurer.mo.gov.

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Tornado: Resources & relief