Having a checking account may be something that many people take for granted. However, there are some important variations between the checking account offerings that are available to consumers. As a result, you should always consider a few factors when you are looking at different checking accounts.
Consider The Overdraft Protection Options
Unfortunately, overdrafting an account is a mistake that people can make on a regular basis, which can quickly amount to sizable fees. While paying an overdraft fee can be preferable to having an important payment declined, these fees can quickly spiral out of control. Luckily, many checking accounts can feature overdraft protection. These protections can come in many forms, and it is wise to compare them to find the checking account with overdraft protection that works best for you. For example, some may automatically debit from a savings account to avoid overdraft while others may allow you to pay a single fee for an overdraft rather than a fee for each overdraft item.
Ease Of Access
The key to making smart financial decisions is to have accurate information about your accounts. While some individuals may be very good at remembering each transaction that they have made, most people will struggle with this. Individuals that have automated payments may find this particularly difficult as they may not know exactly when the payment will be taken from the account. Using a checking account provider that offers numerous ways to stay informed about your accounts can assist with this. Text confirmation of automated deductions, mobile banking, and full-service web access can all assist with keeping you informed about your accounts.
Account Minimums
Account minimums can be a factor that individuals may often fail to consider when they are evaluating their banking options. In addition to the minimums required to open an account, you will also want to be aware of whether there are minimums needed to avoid incurring fees or to take advantage of certain account features. While the presence of these minimums should not automatically disqualify an account, it is important to ensure that you will be able to easily meet the minimums. Otherwise, you may not get the experience that you were expecting from the checking account.
Ease Of Debit Card Replacement
Losing your debit card can be a major problem to experience. Luckily, many checking account providers have reduced the inconvenience that is experienced from losing this card. For example, some providers can issue temporary debit cards on the same day. This will allow you to continue to use your account as normal while you wait for the permanent replacement card to arrive.
