A checking account is a bank account where you can deposit money and write checks to withdraw cash or make payments. You can use a checking account for everyday transactions like shopping, paying bills, and transferring money. Most checking accounts come with a debit card that you can use to make purchases or get cash from an ATM. Before you open a business checking account at Five Star Bank, look at this helpful guide to see how these accounts work and what you need to know.
What are the different types of checking accounts available?
Several types of checking accounts are available, each with their own set of features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of checking accounts:
Basic Checking Accounts: These accounts typically have no monthly fees and offer basic features like check-writing privileges and a debit card. However, they may not offer extras like online bill pay or mobile banking.
Interest-bearing Checking Accounts: These accounts earn interest on your balance, as the name suggests. They may have higher minimum balance requirements and monthly fees than basic checking accounts, but the interest you earn can offset these costs.
Rewards Checking Accounts: Some checking accounts come with rewards programs that let you earn points or cash back on your purchases. These programs may have higher fees and minimum balance requirements, but the rewards can be valuable if you use your account often.
Premium Checking Accounts: These accounts are designed for high-volume users and offer unlimited check writing, free ATM withdrawals, and free checks. They usually have higher monthly fees than other types of checking accounts.
Many banks offer special checking accounts for students with features like no monthly fees, free ATM withdrawals, and exclusive discounts.
What do I need to open a checking account?
To open a checking account, you’ll need to provide personal information and identification. Most banks will require you to show a valid ID, like a driver’s license or passport, and they may also ask for your Social Security number. It would be best if you were also prepared to give them your contact information, like your email address and phone number. You may need to deposit to open the account, but some banks offer sign-up bonuses that can offset this cost.
How Do I Use A Checking Account?
You can use a checking account for all sorts of everyday transactions. You can use cash, checks, or direct deposit to deposit money into your account. To withdraw cash, you can write a check, use your debit card at an ATM, or make a withdrawal at your bank’s branch. You can also use your account to pay bills online, by phone, or in person. When you purchase with your debit card, the funds are typically taken out of your checking account right away.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Checking Account?
Finding the correct checking account can be a challenge. With so many options available, it’s essential to compare different accounts and find one that meets your needs. Here are some things to consider when choosing a checking account:
Fees
Fees are one of the most important things to consider when choosing a checking account. Some of the key fees to look for include:
Monthly maintenance fees: Many checking accounts come with monthly maintenance fees ranging from $3 to $30 per month. Some banks waive these fees if you meet specific requirements, like maintaining a minimum balance or making a certain number of transactions each month.
ATM fees: If you use an ATM outside your bank’s network, you may be charged a fee. These fees can range from $1 to $5 per transaction.
Overdraft fees: If you try to make a purchase with your debit card but don’t have enough money in your account to cover it, you may be charged an overdraft fee. This fee is typically around $35 per transaction.
Transaction limits: Some checking accounts limit the number of transactions you can make each month. If you exceed this limit, you may be charged a fee.
Minimum balance requirements
Some checking accounts require you to maintain a minimum balance in your account to avoid fees. This minimum balance can range from $25 to $1,000.
Interest rates
Some checking accounts earn interest on your deposited funds. The interest rate is typically lower than you’d earn with a savings account, but it can still add up over time.
Types of transactions
When choosing a checking account, you should also consider the types of transactions you’ll be making. For example, if you plan on writing many checks, you’ll want to make sure the account doesn’t have any limits on the number of checks you can write each month.
Although there are some alternatives to traditional checking accounts, like prepaid debit cards, they usually come with more fees and fewer features. If you’re looking for an easy way to manage your finances, a checking account is good.
