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Checking Account


Checking Account

Checking accounts are an important way to manage your money. A checking account debit card allows you to make payments that are deducted immediately from your checking account, while still allowing you to keep a record of your expenses. Make sure to shop around and get the best rates, as many banks offer free checking accounts.

About Checking Account

Checking accounts allow you to deposit your checks from work or other money you receive. This can help protect your cash from theft, fire and loss. It is very convenient to have all your money in one place so you can keep track of it too. At the end of the year when you do your taxes, a checking account provides a convenient record of what you have spent. Checking account debit cards are popular, as they make it even easier to obtain your cash when needed.

When opening a checking account be sure to check out a few institutions. Many times you can find a local bank that offers free checking accounts. Banks are competitive for your business so be sure to find the one that fits needs at the lowest cost.

Make sure the bank is FDIC insured also. This means that your deposits are insured and that you will not lose your money should the bank close. FDIC does not insure securities, mutual funds or similar types of investments.

You will need to take positive identification with you to the bank to open your checking account. This usually means, a divers license or state identification card, social security card, and sometimes a utility bill with your name on it to prove residence. Call the institution first for their specific requirements. Once you open your new checking account you can open other bank accounts such as a savings account or even a Christmas club account.

The usual age to open a checking account is 18. However some institutions offer checking accounts for minors. They will still need a valid form of identification if the account is to be in their name. Minors can check with the bank that their parents use and may find them more willing to open an account for the teen.

Today online banking has become very popular. If you are considering this, definitely do your homework about the bank you are dealing with to prevent fraud. Go with well known online banks that are insured. Many banks offer online services which are much safer. Some top Banks in the United States are: Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase Bank, Wachovia, Wells Fargo Bank and Citibank.

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