Money and Banking

Money You will have some expenses in getting settled. Here are a few suggestions and pointers to help you:

Plan on carrying U.S. currency in traveler’s checks and/or cash.

The amount of $400 should be enough to cover early miscellaneous expenses, and another $400-$500 for text books and school supplies.

Try not to carry large amounts of cash since it may be a few days before you can open a bank account.

Traveler’s checks are easily cashed; ATM cards can be used, although there may be substantial fees associated with using them for withdrawals.

Bank checks drawn in American dollars from your home country may take several weeks to clear; bank checks drawn in a foreign currency are not recommended.

Visa, MasterCard and American Express from your home country can be used in the community.

You will probably want to open a bank account as soon as you arrive, as it is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash.

Not knowing basic banking terminology can cost you a lot of money. Familiarize yourself with these basic financial terms.

Local Banking Options

Citizens Bank - 20 Highland Street, Plymouth (603) 536-6900
Community Guaranty Savings Bank - 28 South Main, Plymouth (603) 536-0001
Meredith Village Savings Bank - 131 Main Street, Plymouth (603) 536-8228
Northway Bank - 1 Highland Street, Plymouth (603) 536-2733

Paying Plymouth State University Bills

Upon admittance to PSU, you will have promptly remitted a deposit of $290. Undergraduate tuition, fees, room and board fees should also be paid before arrival. Please review all billing information at the Bursar's Office Web site. The office can also be reached by calling (603) 535- 2215; or toll free (in the U.S.) 1-877-846-5755.

Miscellaneous Money Matters

Tipping

This small fee is a means of showing gratitude and usually ranges from 10% to 20% of the bill. People you tip in the U.S. include: waiters/waitresses, taxi drivers, porters, hairdressers and barbers, and parking lot attendants. People you do NOT tip include: customs officials or other government employees such as policemen, firemen, mailmen, airline personnel, hotel desk clerks, bus drivers, store clerks, theater ushers and receptionists.