Banka Poštanska štedionica has commenced the payout of insured deposits to clients of the now-bankrupt Alta Bank, with 14,500 clients having scheduled appointments for withdrawals as of November 13, 2026. This process allows clients to withdraw up to 50,000 euros, a measure facilitated by the establishment of 57 payout locations across Serbia. The bank has set up a specialized online portal for clients to schedule appointments, aiming to streamline the withdrawal process and minimize wait times.

The payout process officially began at 9:00 a.m. on November 13, 2026, as confirmed by Aleksandar Čortan, a member of the Executive Board of Banka Poštanska štedionica. Speaking from a branch in Belgrade, Čortan noted that the bank’s network has been expanded to cover the locations previously served by Alta Bank. In major cities like Novi Sad and Niš, Banka Poštanska štedionica has increased its presence, offering more locations than Alta Bank had prior to its bankruptcy.

To ensure efficiency, the bank has urged clients to verify the necessary documentation before visiting a branch. Required documents include a valid identification card or passport and original documents proving the claim, such as a deposit agreement or savings book. For those unable to attend in person, the bank allows clients to authorize another individual to collect the funds on their behalf, provided the authorization is notarized and dated no earlier than October 30, 2026.

The payout process is part of a broader effort to stabilize the financial situation following Alta Bank’s bankruptcy on November 3, 2026. The bank’s collapse has raised concerns about the financial stability of its clients and the wider banking sector in Serbia. While the immediate focus is on the logistical aspects of the payout, the long-term impacts remain uncertain.

Banka Poštanska štedionica has taken extensive measures to ensure the availability of funds, with the Deposit Insurance Agency providing the necessary cash reserves. The bank has also coordinated with the agency to handle the payouts efficiently, using a dedicated fund for insured deposits. Clients have until November 3, 2029, to submit their claims for insured deposits, providing a three-year window to complete the process.

The bank’s efforts to manage the payout of Alta Bank’s insured deposits are crucial in maintaining public confidence in the financial system. As the process unfolds, the bank continues to emphasize the importance of proper documentation and scheduling to avoid delays and ensure a smooth experience for all clients involved.