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Money withdrawn without problems. The fee is BZ$ 3.50 and 1% of the amount.
a year ago
The Situation at the Belize Bank, Punta Gorda Yesterday, on Friday, September 13th, I had an experience at the Belize Bank branch in Punta Gorda that has left me deeply disappointed, and I feel compelled to share it. This is the only bank in town, leaving us without any options—a sad reflection of the failure of leadership and the state of our community. I decided to open a basic bank account and made calls to gather the necessary information. I spoke to a classmate who works there, and she explained I’d need $20, a utility bill, and my Social Security card. Since my address is tied to my father’s, she said I would also need his authorization. I ensured I had all the documents required. Despite this, when I arrived at the bank, I was met with excuse after excuse. First, they claimed the bank was an hour from closing and didn’t want to process anything that might run over time. I explained that I had been in and out of the bank since the morning, trying to resolve this. After some back-and-forth, they brought up an issue with my signature. Keep in mind, I was physically present with not only my signature but several documents to verify it. Then they said they needed a digital version of my Social Security card, even though I had handed them my original card. I was transparent with them, explaining that I just needed an account for basic purposes like saving money. I even shared personal details that I honestly don’t think the bank had any right to know, but I wanted to cooperate to get this account opened. Despite answering an overwhelming number of questions, I was ultimately told that none of their accounts fit my needs, and they couldn’t approve me for any type of account. I was left puzzled. I’m not a criminal, I’ve never been blacklisted by any bank, so I asked them to provide me with the specific policies or requirements that I didn’t meet. Keep in mind, this was just for a simple bank account—not a credit card or loan. They told me if I wanted a better chance, I should provide a job letter. I explained that I’m currently not in a steady job because I’m in school and need an account to receive support from my family. They insisted on specific details, which I couldn’t provide because the money from my family isn’t a salary—it’s simply their way of helping me through school. Incredibly, they even suggested I go to court and get legal paperwork stating I would receive money from my family. The requirements were bafflingly high for such a basic request. Despite my patience, I eventually asked to speak with the manager. One of the ladies stayed with me, and suddenly, her tone changed when we were in the manager’s office. But, to my shock, the manager was just as unhelpful. No assistance, no understanding. I was told to go to Belize City if I wanted help. It’s disheartening that a young person, trying to make positive strides in life, is met with roadblocks instead of support. Are we truly in a place where it’s easier for young men to be viewed as potential criminals rather than individuals working to build an honest life? In a community like Toledo, where opportunities are already scarce, this type of treatment is not just frustrating—it’s destructive. I’m writing this because I know I’m not the only one who has experienced this, but I hope to be the last. The way I was treated by both the staff and the manager was nothing short of discrimination. This system isn’t designed to help us—it seems determined to tear us down. And then people wonder why the youth lose hope, why they resort to desperate measures. Imagine if my life had depended on opening that account. Only God knows what could have happened.
a year ago
a year ago
Fee for using ATM is $3.50 plus 1% of withdrawal amount.
3 years ago
I'm guessing this is in reference to the ScotiaBank in PG. I used it multiple times for an ATM and it was very convenient with reasonable fees.
10 years ago
