How to get a checking account:
The following are steps you can take to open a Checking Account:
1. Choose a bank that meets your needs, whether it is a credit union, which is normal cheaper or a bank, which is more expensive but has more checking account options.
2. Gather the necessary documents. These documents include:
- Government Identification: Driver's License or Passport
- Social Security Number: Have it memorized (Refer to "Social Security Number" for how to obtain that)
- Check with your bank to ensure that those are the only legal documents necessary
3. Bring cash or some other form of payment. Most banks require minimum account balance. You are given a certain window of time before you are charged a fee. If you bring a form of payment with you, you can pay when you open your account.
4. Speak with a representative at the institution. Ask to talk to a representative, as tellers do not usually handle account management. Once you meet a representative, it will be useful to bring up the following:
- Explain financial and banking situation to the representative. They may be able to give you advice that you may not have known about before.
- Mention that you've done prior research of types of checking accounts
- Ask about any extra fees that may need to be paid
- Ask if your checking account can be managed virtually
5. Decide on an account and open it. After your meeting with the representative, use the information you have gathered to decide which type of checking account you would like to open. You should then receive a debit card, should you decide to use one, after a few days.