Setting up direct deposit with Alterna Bank is the fastest and most secure way to receive your payroll, government benefits, or pension payments. By routing your funds electronically directly into your eChequing or eSavings account, you eliminate the hassle of depositing paper cheques and bypass standard banking hold periods, ensuring your money is instantly available on payday.
While some digital banks generate a personalized void cheque dynamically, Alterna Bank utilizes a standardized Direct Deposit and Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) form that you fill out using your unique account details. Below, we break down exactly how to locate your routing numbers within the digital banking portal, complete the necessary paperwork, and resolve common setup roadblocks.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution Number | 608 (Alterna Bank) / 842 (Alterna Savings) |
| Transit (Branch) Number | 00016 (Alterna Bank) / 00646 (Alterna Savings) |
| Required Document | Direct Deposit / PAD Form (Available online) |
| Processing Time | Usually 1 to 2 pay cycles to take effect |
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Direct Deposit
- Step 1: Log into the official Alterna Bank digital banking portal or the mobile app using your client ID and password.
- Step 2: From the main dashboard, select the specific Account (such as your No-Fee eChequing account) where you want your payroll deposited.
- Step 3: Click on Account details. Write down or securely copy your unique Account Number, alongside the standard Institution Number and Transit Number.
- Step 4: Navigate to the Forms section in the Alterna Bank Resource Centre and download the blank PDF titled Direct Deposit / Pre-Authorized Debit Form.
- Step 5: Fill in the form with your name, address, and the account details you retrieved in Step 3. Sign the document and submit it directly to your employer's payroll department or the applicable government agency.
Pro-Tip: To make this process significantly faster and safer, check if your employer uses a modern, self-serve HR portal (like Workday, ADP, or Ceridian). If they do, you can entirely bypass downloading, printing, and scanning Alterna's PDF form. Simply log into your HR portal and manually input your 3-digit Institution Number, 5-digit Transit Number, and Account Number directly into their secure digital payroll system.
Troubleshooting Common Digital Banking Pain Points
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Delays: If you are trying to log in to retrieve your account numbers and the security text message is delayed, ensure your cellular provider is not blocking shortcodes. You can also log in using a "trusted device" to temporarily bypass the SMS prompt, or switch your alert delivery method to email.
- Browser Errors and Blank Screens: If clicking the download link for the Direct Deposit form results in a blank page or an infinite loading loop, your browser's integrated PDF viewer or ad-blocker may be interfering. Right-click the link and select Save Link As, or try accessing the site via an Incognito/Private window.
- Locked Account ID: If you forget your password and attempt to guess it multiple times, Alterna Bank will freeze your digital profile to protect your funds. You cannot unlock your account online to check your routing numbers; you must call the contact centre directly at 1.877.560.0100 to verify your identity and restore access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Alterna Bank hold direct deposit funds?
No. Unlike physical cheques deposited via mobile capture or ATMs, which may be subject to a hold period of up to 5 business days, direct deposits are fully cleared electronically. The funds are available for withdrawal or spending the moment they hit your account.
Can I split my direct deposit between two Alterna Bank accounts?
Yes, but this is managed by your employer, not the bank. You can provide your payroll department with the account details for both your eChequing and eSavings accounts and request that a specific percentage or dollar amount be routed to each.
What is the difference between an institution number and a transit number?
The 3-digit institution number identifies the overarching bank (e.g., 608 for Alterna Bank), while the 5-digit transit number identifies the specific branch where your account is held (e.g., 00016 for Alterna Bank's main digital branch).
