By Susan Tallant/editor-in-chief

All TCCD employees, including part-time and student employees not paid through financial aid, will be paid by direct deposit by March 31.

“[Being paid by direct deposit] will ensure that employees will be paid on time even if the college is closed because of the weather,” Rudy Gonzales, vice chancellor for financial services, said in a December e-mail. “It will also save us thousands of dollars that may be spent in ways more directly associated with teaching and learning.”

Employees who currently receive a paper check will have three direct deposit options available: open a bank account at any bank of choice and have funds deposited into their account, open an account at Chase Bank (at no charge) and have pay deposited into that account or have the money deposited into a Chase Payroll debit card.

TCCD does not endorse any specific financial institution but has partnered with Chase Bank to allow its representatives to conduct on-site promotions on each campus. Also, Chase offers an alternative for employees who do not want a checking account or cannot get one.
“Chase Bank has been very helpful and are doing everything possible to help people,” Nancy Chang, director of finance, said.

“It is amazing how many people still want a paper check in their hands,” she said.

Chang said once employees see how easy the direct deposit works, they will be glad they made the switch.

“[Direct deposit] is just better for everybody,” she said. “We are shooting for 100 percent enrollment.”

Chase Bank representatives visited campuses earlier this month to promote their services. The bank is offering benefits to TCCD employees that are not offered to the general public.

“The special offers are for all employees of TCC, including student employees,” Dalia Garcia, branch manager of North Richland Hills, said. “Everyone can get an account [at Chase].”

Garcia said the checking account offers more benefits, but the Visa debit card is a great alternative and easy to use.

Employees can go to any Chase or Allpoint ATM and withdraw funds from the debit card four times per month without charge.

“[The E-funds Direct Card] works like a debit card. Payroll is deposited directly on the card,” she said. “The only negative thing about the debit card is a $4 monthly maintenance fee.”

For more information about Chase Bank, visit the Web site at www.chase.com. A direct deposit form is available at the business services office on each campus.