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Get Banked!

Secure your money, simplify your life

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Start your financial journey

Ready to take a big step toward your financial goals? A bank account can be your best ally. It keeps your money safe, gives you quick access to your funds, saves you money on fees, and brings financial peace of mind.

Why bank?

safe

Keep your money safe

FDIC deposit insurance protects your money in deposit accounts at FDIC-insured banks in the event of a bank failure.

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Pay bills easily

Pay bills fast from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Track your spending easily, too.

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Save on fees

Having a deposit account with a bank can offer you savings from check-cashing fees. Depositing checks is free in a bank. Paying bills can be cheaper without money orders.

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Build your financial reputation

Establishing a relationship with a bank through a deposit account can be a first step that can lead to other financial products and help you achieve your financial goals.

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Get more services

Banks offer savings account to grow your money, loans for big purchases, and financial advice.

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Plan for the future

Banks have special accounts to save for your kids' education or your business' growth.

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Save time and bank anywhere

With mobile banking and alerts, it's easy to manage your money anytime, anywhere.

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Protect your money from error or fraud

Federal laws can protect you in the event of a debit card error or unauthorized electronic transaction under certain circumstances, if this happens to you, notify your bank right away.

Choose an account

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FDIC Insured

The FDIC provides deposit insurance to protect your money in the event of a bank failure. Your deposits are automatically insured to at least $250,000 at each FDIC-insured bank.

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Monthly fees

Does the account have a monthly fee? Can you avoid it by keeping a certain balance or making regular deposits?

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Overdraft fees

Will you be charged a fee if you spend more than what's in your account? Some accounts don't let you overspend, so no overdraft fees.

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ATM fees

Are there fees for using the bank's ATMs? What about using other banks' ATMs?

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Alerts and notifications

Does the account offer email or text alerts to help you manage your money?

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Online bill pay

Can you pay bills online on the bank's website for free using your phone or computer?

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Location convenience

Is having a bank branch nearby important to you?

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Teller transaction fees

Are there fees for doing transactions with a bank teller or talking to customer service?

Open an account

1

Prepare for your application

You must be at least 18 in most places. If you're under 18, a parent, a guardian, or other trusted adult may be able to help you open an account.

2

Gather your IDs

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Use your driver's license, state or military ID, or passport to verify your identity. Some banks also accept other forms of ID.

3

Complete an application

Apply in-person, online, or through a mobile app.

4

Make your first deposit

The amount may vary, but you may be able to open a bank account with as little as $25. You can use a debit card, prepaid card, electronic transfer, or visit a branch to make your first deposit.

5

Sign required documents

Sign a signature card and other documents, either electronically or in person.

6

Set up account tools

Activate online or mobile banking and any debit or ATM cards. Ask for help if you are not sure how to use these tools.

Join the movement

Drive positive change in your community through the FDIC's #GetBanked campaign. Your support as a government agency, community group, or consumer-focused organization is crucial.

Join now

Find a bank

Open a bank account in person

Open a bank account online

These organizations also have lists of banks where you can open an account online with a low opening deposit:

Bank On Open an affordable bank account online now.

American Bankers Association

Independent Community Bankers of America

Frequently asked questions

General

Getting Started

Managing your account

Outreach

Resources

Seal of FDIC Seal of FDIC

Consumer News

Our monthly newsletter to consumers, with helpful hints, quick tips, and common-sense strategies to protect and stretch your hard-earned dollars.

Money Smart

A financial education program that can help people of all ages enhance their financial skills and create positive banking relationships.

FDIC Explains: Getting Banked (ASL)

Are you one of the 7 million U.S. households without a bank account? In our continuing #FDICexplains series, we explore the benefits of being connected to our banking system.

IRS

Internal Revenue Service

Get your refund faster
Where's my refund?

CFPB

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Guide to filing your taxes
Tax time YouTube channel

Department of Veterans Affairs

U.S Department of Veterans Affairs

Veterans Benefits Banking Program