A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a man need to be happy? - Albert Einstein
If you want a checking account, you can get one from a bank, credit union, or savings and loan companies. They have many advantages, and you do not need to be 18 to get one. Many young people have their own accounts, which are usually accessible through ATM cards rather than by checks.
One of the biggest advantages of checking accounts is that it acts as a safe form of storage. Further, in the US, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insures most accounts for up to 100,000 US Dollars. If anything happens to the bank, the money is still yours.
Another advantage of checking accounts is that employers can make direct deposits of your paycheck into your account. Instead of having to go to the bank to deposit your check, your money instantly goes into your account. Modern banking is very convenient with benefits like direct deposit. You will get a copy of your check from your employer, so make sure you look at it and check for mistakes.
Further, checking accounts are safer that using cash. You can always receive the check after its use and keep it as a receipt. In addition, when cash is stolen, you cannot replace it; however, if checks are stolen, you can stop payment on a check, report the incident to your bank, and change your account number. Checking accounts also give customers access to ATM cards and online banking services. These are useful in making bill payments. Online banking allows customers to track all transactions via the Internet.
With all the advantages of checking accounts, you will be happy to know that many banks offer them free. Some banks even pay you money every time you use your ATM card to make a purchase.