Euro banknotes on black background. (vaksmanvm101 (123RF))
These are some key services that are helpful to set up soon after you have arrived.
Getting an Italian account with an International Bank Account Number (IBAN) is necessary for paying bills and transferring money. It is also helpful for making purchases, getting cash and managing funds between dollars and euros.
USING DEBIT CARDS IN EUROPE
Chip and Pin cards are the norm throughout Europe.
Smaller Italian businesses may not take credit cards.
Always carry euros when off-installation.
Some U.S. banks charge international transaction fees when using debit cards, so check with your bank.
ON-INSTALLATION BANKING OPTIONS
Credit Union
Global Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions in the U.S. and offers members competitive rates and surcharge-free ATMs.
Located at Aviano, Camp Darby and Camp Ederle
Banks
Community Bank provides convenient and affordable banking services and financial information to help support service members, base organizations and mission readiness.
Located at: Aviano, Camp Darby, Caserme Ederle, Caserme Del Din.
BNL (Banca Nazionale del Lavoro) is an Italian bank that offers U.S. military member services.
Located at: Caserme Ederle
Italian bill paying is different than in the U.S. There are three methods you can use.
Pay in cash.
Bring your bill and cash payment to a tobacco store (Tabaccheria) or bank teller. Expect a small fee.
Bring your bill to a local bank to set up automatic transfers and automatic direct debits, you will usually need a funds transfer form.
Online bank transfer via your local Italian bank or online bank such as WISE.
Set up a payee account with an IBAN number.
Verify the euro amount and date for payment.
Include your account number (codice cliente) and bill number (numero Fattura).
Online via the billing company’s website.
This can be done with an Italian-issued credit card.
BEWARE OF FEES
Off-installation ATMs (bancomat) may have transaction fees, but usually have better exchange rates.
Check conversion rates before transferring large amounts between U.S. and euro accounts.
The DoD will not deposit paychecks into Italian banks.
Your on-installation Legal Office can help with simple notaries and powers of attorney on a walk-in basis. Complex notary services and other legal advice is available by appointment.
Powers of Attorney are recommended for spouses so they may handle paperwork if the military sponsor is not available due to training or deployment.
Dependents wanting to work while overseas should discuss SOFA regulations with the legal office.
A tax center is available during the tax season.
Other legal services offered include wills, medical directives, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) issues, estate planning, immigration, debt or credit problems, identity theft, divorce counseling and Italian legal issues.
