Financial Literacy for Everyone
free materials

Be a Money Superhero
Spiderman saves money - and saves the day, too!
Read more

Banking

Choosing the right bank is an important step. As with any financial decision, it's necessary to figure out what you want and need beforehand. There are many banks to consider. Here are a few things to think about before you open an account:

  • Location. Does the financial institution have branches in the areas where you work and live?
  • Availability of ATMs. The ATMs owned by your bank won't charge you to withdraw cash, but other banks' ATMs will. Does the financial institution have machines in locations that are convenient for you?
  • Hours. Do you work during the day? Perhaps you need a financial institution with extended hours; some are even open on Sundays.
  • Customer service. Do their customer service offerings fit your needs?
  • Online banking. The Internet has made it very convenient to keep track of your finances online. Find out if the institution you're considering provides online access to your account.

Before selecting your bank, learn more about the process below.