Starting Your First Bank Account: Tips to Make It Easier

Opening your first bank account can be both exciting and overwhelming. But with proper planning and research, you can make it a lot easier. Here are some essential tips to guide you on your journey to becoming a bank account holder.

Determining The Amount to Put in Your Account

Before opening a bank account, it’s essential to decide how much money you’d like to put in your account. Different accounts require different starting balances, so it’s crucial to find out what the minimum balance is for the account you’re interested in. Bring a check or cash with you when you’re starting your account, as some banks may require a minimum opening deposit. In addition, some accounts may have monthly service charges, so it’s also good to research the tier that applies to you. Typically, student and online banking accounts have fewer fees and charges.

Beware of Fees and Penalties

Fees and penalties for banking services are becoming more common in today’s economy. It’s essential to read the fine print and ask questions before opening a bank account. Find out if you’ll be charged for speaking to a bank representative in person. What are the monthly fees for your savings account? Will your bank reimburse you for ATM transactions, or will you be responsible for those? Getting answers to these questions will help you make an informed decision.

Look Beyond the Free Stuff

Many banks offer promotions such as “Get $50 free when you spend $1000 in your first month!” Although promotions sound nice, they may not hold up in the long run. Carefully consider a bank’s conditions, limitations, and overall practices before opening an account. Don’t make the mistake of opening an account based solely on a temporary promotion.

Find the Nearest ATMs and Branches

Before choosing a bank, it’s crucial to research the nearest ATM locations and branches. Ensure that you have an ATM in your city, as well as any places you frequently visit, such as vacation destinations or sports destinations. This will help you save time and effort when withdrawing money. Keep in mind that online-only banks may not have branches, but they tend to offer online banking services with lower fees.

Consider Online-Only Banking

Online-only banking services, such as Ally and ING Direct, offer almost no fees with direct deposit and ATM fee reimbursement. If you’re tech-savvy, this option may offer great benefits without any drawbacks. These banks don’t have branches, so it’s important to ensure that you’re comfortable with an online-only banking experience.

Get Used to the Idea of Money Sitting Still

When you were a child, you were likely to spend any money you received right away. However, as an adult, it’s essential to keep your money in the bank and let it accumulate over time. This method will help you save money for the future, an emergency, or a significant purchase you’re saving up for.

Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away

Opening a bank account isn’t a lifelong commitment, and you aren’t forced to stay with any particular bank. If your circumstances change, whether you move to a new city or begin sharing your income with another person, it may be time to reconsider your options. Although banks do offer loyalty rewards, you shouldn’t stick with a bank if it’s not working for you.

Final Thoughts

Opening your first bank account can be intimidating, but with these tips, you’ll know what to look out for when choosing a bank. Be sure to ask questions, research, and find a bank that fits your individual needs. With proper planning and a little bit of research, you’ll soon feel confident in your new role as a bank account holder.