The National Bank of Canada is asking its clients to use digital banking solutions as much as possible to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In a March 26 statement, the bank said it has seen record use of its services from clients due to the financial and economic impacts of the pandemic. With higher traffic in its branches and call centre expected at the beginning of April, the bank suggested that clients sign up for National Bank online through which they can carry out day-today transactions.

In addition, the bank has a new online form so that personal banking clients can request payment deferrals online. An automated telephone banking menu can also perform certain transactions, provide account balances, pay bills, check most recent banking and credit card transactions, and check mutual price funds, says the bank.

The bank also suggested that clients sign up for direct deposit for government cheques.

Contactless transactions

National Bank underlined that clients have a number of options for cash-free contactless transactions, such as contactless payments with debit and credit cards, mobile debit or credit card payments with a smartphone, online purchases, and online transfers. Contactless credit card payments can exceed $100 at participating merchants.

Finally, for commercial banking clients, the bank says to visit nbc.ca/business for updates on government relief programs and available support.

"Since the crisis began, our priority has been to ensure employees' safety while continuing to support our clients during this difficult time. But today, to make sure we protect as many people as possible, we're asking that clients use our digital solutions and consider whether their transactions are truly urgent and necessary, or whether they can be postponed for a few weeks," said Lucie Blanchet, Executive Vice-President – Personal Banking and Client Experience at National Bank.