Checklist for opening a new bank or credit union account
You may decide that a checking or savings account is right for you. Use this checklist to help you gather the information you’ll need to open an account and understand your choices.
Read moreBank accounts and services
When choosing and using your bank or credit union account, it’s important to know your options.
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Basics
Learn when your funds from a deposited check will be available
Each bank or credit union has its own rules as to when it will let you access money after you deposit a check, but federal law establishes the maximum length of time a bank or credit union can make you wait.
Read moreUnderstand what it means to “opt-in” to overdraft coverage
You could be charged overdraft fees in connection with checks, electronic payments, or debit cards. There are steps you can take to reduce or eliminate overdraft fees associated with your account.
Read moreKey terms
Automated Clearing House (ACH)
Automatic debit payment
Deposit hold
Fiduciary
Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN)
Joint account
Non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee
Overdraft
Personal line of credit
Power of attorney
Representative payee
Explore key terms
Understand your situation
Common issues
You have found an unauthorized transaction on your bank or credit union account
You would like help from friends or family in managing your bank or credit union account
You want to know if you can cash a check at any bank or credit union
Explore common issues
Know your rights
You do not need a social security number to get a bank or credit union account
Your federal benefits may be protected from being taken or “garnished” by debt collectors
You have options if you have been denied a checking account based on past banking history
Explore your rights
Take action
How-to guides
How to stop automatic payments from your bank or credit union account
Read guideHow to use online bill pay and other account features
Read guideHow to move your checking account to another bank or credit union
Read guideSubmit a complaint
Having trouble with a financial product or service? If you've already tried reaching out to the company and still have an issue, you can submit a complaint. Tell us about your issue—we'll forward it to the company and work to get you a response, generally within 15 days.
Start a complaint