For many, opening a bank account is the first step they take toward financial independence. While not everyone will want to open a bank account, for most people out there, there comes a moment in their life when they need to do it. However, before you take matters into your own hands, you should have some basic knowledge of what a bank account represents, and how you can get one.
Read below to learn more about bank accounts and how to open one that best suits your needs.
What Is a Bank Account?
A bank account is a record maintained by a bank or other financial institution. It records your transactions and keeps track of all your inflows and outflows, credits, investments, etc. Having a bank account is the best way to keep your funds safe and secure.
However, keep in mind that not all bank accounts are the same. There are several types of bank accounts, including current accounts, credit card accounts, and deposit accounts. Note that financial organizations may offer several of them. Each bank or financial institution has different terms and conditions. One individual can hold more than one bank account.
Choose a Bank
The first thing you need to do is learn what best suits your needs. This will help you determine the type of services you need and what your options are. Secondly, you should choose where you want to open your bank account and find out the terms and conditions offered by the chosen institution.
There are many financial institutions out there you can choose from, both physical and online. Nowadays, there is an increasing interest in opening a bank account in an online bank, especially but not exclusively amongst younger people. To choose a bank or a credit union for your account, visit the branch or the website.
The Emerging Online vs Traditional Banks
You should think about what kind of services you require from a bank. Can you handle the regular brick-and-mortar queues and overblown fees, or do you want something more modern like online banks?
The main reason why more and more people turn to online banks is convenience. Online banks allow you complete financial access without having to go to a physical bank easily through your smartphone or your desktop.
The advantage of online banks is tremendous. For instance, you can make payments on the go anytime you want since there is no branch to go to. However, some people prefer to open a bank account in person. If you want to do that, you will have to locate the branch, learn when it is open, and wait in a long line.
No matter what you decide, whether you open an account in person or online, there are several things you should have with you: a government-issued ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, or something else. To open an account, the bank will require several personal details, such as your social security number, your address, and your date of birth. Note that some banks may also require an initial deposit.
Choose an Account Type
The most common types of bank accounts include savings accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts, and certificate of deposit accounts.
Regardless of the institution, you can choose an account type based on its purpose and your needs. You will need a checking account for receiving direct deposits, spending, and paying bills.
To earn interest, you can get a savings account, a money market account, or a certificate of deposit. Saving accounts offer interest and have limitations on how often money can be withdrawn from them. Money market accounts, on the other hand, have no limitations and earn more interest. Certificates of deposits earn the biggest interest, but you won’t have access to your funds for a previously established period of time.
To Sum It Up
Тhe process of opening a bank account is very simple. First, you need to learn what kind of bank account you want to get. Next, you need to find a bank or a credit union to see if they offer the account you want. Finally, go to the website or to the branch to start the procedure.
You will also need to provide the details required by the financial institution you choose. To qualify for a bank account, you must have a social number and an address. Keep in mind that you need to be over 18, and in some cases, you might need to provide an initial deposit.
