Watch Related Videos
comments
The best bank checking account is one that provides maximum flexibility to consumers in how they can choose to operate their account. Personal checking accounts offer a safe and convenient way to manage your money. Rather than carrying large sums of money with you all the time, you can simply put your money in the checking account and still have easy access to it. You can even have your employer transfer your salary directly to your checking account, which would save you the hassles of either cashing your paycheck or physically going to the bank to deposit the check. There are many different ways to manage your checking accounts.
On-Line Banking
This is the most convenient way to manage all your accounts with the bank. Your bank will allow you to sign up using a login name and a password. You can access your account at any Internet equipped computer worldwide. Recent breakthroughs in mobile technology also allow web-enabled phones with data packages to operate your bank account using your cellular phone.
Phone Banking
Instead of physically going to the bank, you can call in to your bank and manage your checking account. You can talk directly to the representative of the bank and after proving your identity, you can make transfers, check the balance and perform other activities relating to your account.
ATM
ATM machines are now ubiquitous not only in large cities, but nationwide. Modern telecommunication allows most ATM cards to be used not only with your own bank’s ATMs, but with virtually any ATM globally. Using most ATMs, you have the ability to withdraw cash, deposit checks, transfer money from one account to another, and even request a mini-statement of transactions of your account. This is a very convenient way to manage your checking account. Be careful because many third-party banks will charge you a nominal transaction fee for using their ATM machine. It is always recommended to try and use the ATM machine of your own bank as most banks will not charge ATM transaction fees to their own clients.
Debit Card
Most banks also offer a debit card in conjunction with your checking account. Debit card can be used just like cash for purchases by allowing the bank to instantly debit your checking account with the amount that you spend. Since debit cards are not credit cards, there are no applicable interest rates on these transactions.
The aforementioned methods are the most common ways that people manage their checking accounts. However, if you feel the need or want help, you can always physically go to your bank to manage your account through interaction with physical tellers.
It is important to note that many banks have fees for their services. It's important to review the account you sign up for and be sure it meets your needs. For example, if you order 10 cashiers checks per month, don't sign up for a checking service that wil charge you for those checks. Talk to your bank representative about their options and read the material given to you before making any decisions.
