If you do not already have a checking account then it’s a good time to open one. If you do already have a checking account but are thinking about switching banks, then you might need to refresh on the application process for opening a checking account.
The process for opening a new checking account is fairly straightforward, but the first step is figuring out what sort of banks best fit your checking needs so you have an easier time choosing a bank. Consider what you plan on using the account for. Will you be depositing a lot of checks? Saving money? Moving a lot of money around? If you planning on filing money away and not accessing it very often than you might not have the same considerations of someone who has to deposit checks weekly.
If you think that you might be depositing a lot of checks at a regular frequency, you should probably consider choosing a bank that gives you access to mobile banking services. Choosing a bank with mobile banking options is going to make things so much easier. In that situation, you can use your smartphone to handle tasks such as moving money around and depositing those checks. To deposit a check all you do is take a photo of the check within the mobile banking app and enter the amount. Sometimes it takes bit longer for a mobile deposit to clear in your account but it saves so much time in the depositing process that you probably won’t even mind.
Once you’re ready to actually open the account, you’ll need to gather up the necessary documents. This generally includes getting some form of identification like a driver’s license, ID, social security card, or passport. Then you’ll also need a proof of address such as a utility bill to prove where you live. Lastly, you’ll need a bit of money to open the account, but it’s generally $100 or less. After you take in all that information and fill out an account at the bank they will run your information to see if you qualify for the account. Assuming that you do, then you’ll be all set and ready to go.
