Checking accounts are a great way to keep better tabs on your money. After all, no one really wants to carry around massive amounts of cash at all times, and many things require that you have a checking account rather than paying for things with cash. The problem is that there are many different types of checking accounts, which means that it can be confusing to find the right option. If you’re looking for a family-centered checking account, here are four things to look for.
1. Offers a Sign-On Bonus
A sign-on bonus can give you some extra money for essentially no extra work. The Chase Secure Banking account, for example, currently has a $100 sign-up bonus. All you have to do to qualify for it is make at least 10 qualifying transactions in your first 60 days. If you use the card like a normal debit card, you’ll meet that requirement in no time. As long as you follow through on the requirements, these bonuses can give you plenty of extra money.
2. Has Limited Fees
There’s nothing more frustrating than opening a new checking account and having to contend with a seemingly endless list of fees that you have to accept to use the account. People most frequently want to look for a checking account with limited numbers of fees. However, you might be willing to accept certain fees for better benefits, depending on the account.
3. Allows You to Use a Wide Network of ATMs
ATMs are typically how you’ll be able to access cash from your card. There are some businesses that may only accept cash, which means that you need to be able to access cash fairly easily. Pretty much every credit card offers an in-network ATM option, but you should check to see where those ATMs are if possible before you sign up.
4. Gives You Access to a Mobile App
Obviously, a mobile app isn’t completely necessary to enjoy a checking account, but in the modern age, it’s becoming more and more important. A mobile app allows you to check your balance on the go, and it may even let you deposit checks and initiate transactions. Making sure there’s a mobile app for your preferred operating system ensures that you can stay in touch with your account no matter where you are, which is crucial if you’re hoping to make this account your go-to option.
Conclusion
Checking accounts are something that all sorts of people have. If you’re interested in opening a new account for your family, it’s a good idea to take a look at all the elements that go into that account, as every checking account is a little different from its peers. These four elements are good things to look at, but they’re also not the whole picture. They’re a good place to start from so you can choose the checking account that’s right for your family’s unique money needs and desires.