How To Open A Savings Account: 6 Steps | Bankrate (2024)

A savings account is a safe place to keep your emergency fund or set aside money for short-term financial goals. These accounts are offered by almost every bank and credit union in the U.S., and they can help you grow your savings through the interest they pay.

Opening a savings account can involve steps such as shopping around for low fees and the highest rates, gathering the required information and setting up online banking.

How to open a savings account (step-by-step)

It’s relatively easy to open a savings account at most banks and credit unions, although it usually takes several steps.

1. Compare your options

Before you open your account, make sure you’ve chosen the right bank for your needs. Key features when making your choice can include:

If you already have a checking account, it’s often easy to open a savings account at the same bank. Still, it’s worth comparing other options to make sure your bank is offering savings account features that are important to you, such as competitive rates.

2. Gather required documents

When you open any bank account, you’ll need to provide some information about yourself, as well as some documents. Make sure you — and any joint account owners — have the following information ready when you open the account in person or online:

  • Identification, such as a driver’s license or passport
  • Social Security number
  • Date of birth
  • Address (and a proof of address, if your ID lists a previous address)
  • Contact information
  • Bank account information to fund your new account, if applicable

If you have a credit freeze in place so that no one can fraudulently open accounts in your name, you may need to lift this freeze before opening a new bank account.

3. Choose a joint or individual account

If you want a savings account just for yourself, open an individual account. If you’re opening the account with another person, such as your spouse or your child, you should open a joint account.

Joint accounts offer some benefits:

  • They make it easier for your spouse or child to access funds that are shared.
  • The presence of a joint owner can provide a higher level of FDIC insurance (up to $500,000 instead of $250,000).

4. Fund your account

You may need to make an initial deposit when starting up a savings account. Accounts that have a minimum opening deposit often require an amount between $25 and $100. If you’re opening the account in person, you can usually fund the account with cash or a check. To deposit money electronically, you can often make a mobile check deposit or transfer funds from a linked account.

In addition to an opening deposit, some savings accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee that can eat away at your savings. Some banks require that the account holder have a minimum balance of a few hundred dollars to avoid this fee.

When you’re opening an account, make sure you deposit enough to meet the minimum opening deposit and maintain a sufficient balance to avoid any maintenance fees.

5. Submit your application

Submit your application with all of the required information and wait for the bank to open your account. This usually happens quickly, and you can start making additional deposits and withdrawals within a day or two.

6. Set up online banking

Almost every bank and credit union offers some form of online banking, which can make it easy to check your balance, transfer money and manage your account. Sign up for an online banking account and download the bank’s mobile app for on-the-go access.

Can I open a savings account online?

Most banks and credit unions let their customers do their banking online, and that includes the opening of a new account. When you go with a bank that doesn’t maintain any branches, your only option may be to open the account online.

Many online-only banks offer the best savings account options, with low minimum balances, low or no maintenance fees, and high APYs. This can make online savings accounts the best choice for anyone who doesn’t mind potentially doing many of their transactions from a computer or mobile device.

Those who are more comfortable doing their banking in person might be better off with a bank that offers branches.

How to choose the best savings account

The best high-yield savings account can help you earn a competitive yield while avoiding maintenance fees.

APY

The higher the APY, the faster your savings will grow.

Consider this example:

You deposit $10,000 in a savings account at a bank that pays 0.01 percent APY. Over the course of a year, you’ll earn $1 in interest. Alternatively, if you choose an account elsewhere that offers 1 percent APY, you’d earn $100 instead, or $99 more a year.

Fees

Some banks charge a monthly maintenance fee unless you meet certain requirements. Typically, you can have the fee waived by making a minimum number of transactions per statement cycle or maintaining a balance above a set threshold.

If you deposit $500 to an account that charges a $5 monthly fee and you don’t make further deposits, by the end of the year you’ll only have $440, a loss of more than 10 percent of your initial balance. Look for an account with no monthly fee so you don’t have to worry about such charges eating away at your balance.

If there’s a chance you won’t keep the account open for very long, it’s important to know whether there is an early closeout fee. Banks that charge such a fee often do so if you close the account within the first 90 to 180 days of opening it.

Reason for saving

Finally, consider your reason for saving. The particular savings account — and bank — you choose can depend upon your reason for saving money.

If you want to build an emergency fund that you can access at a moment’s notice, opening an account with the bank that you have a checking account with makes a lot of sense.

If you’re saving for a goal — such as a car or a down payment on a home — and don’t need easy access to the funds, it can make more sense to shop around for the best rates, which might be found at an online bank. A higher yield can help you reach your goal faster.

Bottom line

Savings accounts are valuable tools for people who want to set aside money for a goal or an emergency fund. Consider all of your options, including local banks and online banks, and look for the account that offers the best interest rates at the lowest cost. Taking the time to do some comparison shopping can help you get the most out of your money.

How To Open A Savings Account: 6 Steps | Bankrate (2024)

FAQs

How To Open A Savings Account: 6 Steps | Bankrate? ›

Budgeting with multiple bank accounts could prove easier than with only one. Multiple accounts can help you separate spending money from savings and household money from individual earnings. Tracking savings goals. Having multiple bank accounts may help track individual savings goals more easily.

What are the 7 steps to take to open a savings account? ›

7 steps to take to open a savings account
  1. Choose how to apply. ...
  2. Gather your identification. ...
  3. Provide contact details. ...
  4. Select a single or joint account. ...
  5. Accept the terms and conditions. ...
  6. Submit your application. ...
  7. Fund your new account.
Aug 17, 2022

What are the six steps recommended to open a savings account? ›

How to open a savings account (step-by-step)
  1. Compare your options. Before you open your account, make sure you've chosen the right bank for your needs. ...
  2. Gather required documents. ...
  3. Choose a joint or individual account. ...
  4. Fund your account. ...
  5. Submit your application. ...
  6. Set up online banking.
Jun 7, 2023

What are the steps to open a savings account? ›

What do you need to open a bank account?
  1. A government-issued ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID. ...
  2. Social Security number or an individual taxpayer identification number. ...
  3. Proof of address. ...
  4. Date of birth. ...
  5. Bank account information. ...
  6. Phone number and email for contact.
Mar 1, 2023

What are 3 things you need to open a savings account? ›

Checklist: What you need to open a savings account
  • Government-issued ID: A driver's license or passport.
  • Social Security Number: Some banks will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you don't have a Social Security number.
  • Date of birth.
Mar 27, 2023

Why you should have 6 bank accounts? ›

Budgeting with multiple bank accounts could prove easier than with only one. Multiple accounts can help you separate spending money from savings and household money from individual earnings. Tracking savings goals. Having multiple bank accounts may help track individual savings goals more easily.

What are the 6 tips for saving for the down payment? ›

10 ways to save for a down payment
  • Park the savings somewhere you can earn more money. ...
  • Automate your savings. ...
  • Explore additional sources of income. ...
  • Look for down payment matching programs. ...
  • Search for down payment assistance options. ...
  • Reduce your expenses. ...
  • Request a raise. ...
  • Ask for a gift.
2 days ago

What are 5 reasons to start a savings account? ›

5 Reasons Why You Should Start a Savings Account Early
  • Reason 1: The Nest Egg. ...
  • Reason 2: The Emergency Fund. ...
  • Reason 3: You're Probably Going to Stay Alive… ...
  • Reason 4: Buying a Home. ...
  • Reason 5: Avoid the Debt Cycle. ...
  • Saving Money is a Habit, Not a Number Value. ...
  • Start Saving Today.

Can we open a savings account? ›

Visit your nearest bank branch. Fill up account opening form. Submit KYC documents (ID and Address proof) Fix your passport size photos on the form.

Why do you open a savings account? ›

Savings accounts help you stash money away for specific purposes and goals. For example, you may open a savings account to hold your emergency fund or a down payment on a home.

Can I open a savings account by myself? ›

To get started, you'll just need a few key pieces of information to open a savings account, like your driver's license, Social Security number, date of birth and contact information. But some people may have additional requirements to open an account.

What 4 items do you need to open an account? ›

The minimum information that banks are required to get from account applicants are name, address, date of birth and an ID number.

What are the 4 types of savings? ›

There are four savings accounts everyone should have in their financial plan: an emergency fund, short-term savings, long-term savings and a retirement account.

What are 4 factors to consider when opening a savings account? ›

Look for these features in a savings account:
  • Interest rate and APY.
  • Initial deposit.
  • Minimum balance requirements.
  • Account fees.
  • Rate tiers.
  • Accessibility and ease of use.
  • Supplemental savings accounts.
Sep 28, 2022

What are 3 examples of saving? ›

Savings comprise the amount of money left over after spending. People may save for various life goals or aspirations such as retirement, a child's college education, the down payment for a home or car, a vacation, or several other examples. Savings may commonly be earmarked for emergencies.

What is the 4 rule savings? ›

The 4% rule is a popular retirement withdrawal strategy that suggests retirees can safely withdraw the amount equal to 4 percent of their savings during the year they retire and then adjust for inflation each subsequent year for 30 years.

What are the 7 steps to open a bank account online? ›

Steps to Opening Bank Account Online
  1. Step 1: Select Your Banking Partner. ...
  2. Step 2: Access the Website or App. ...
  3. Step 3: Complete the Application Form. ...
  4. Step 4: Upload Required Documents. ...
  5. Step 5: Complete the KYC Process. ...
  6. Step 6: Add Funds.
Jun 2, 2023

What are the 5 bank accounts? ›

Different Types of Bank Accounts in India
  • Current account. A current account is a deposit account for traders, business owners, and entrepreneurs, who need to make and receive payments more often than others. ...
  • Savings account. ...
  • Salary account. ...
  • Fixed deposit account. ...
  • Recurring deposit account. ...
  • NRI accounts.

What are 3 reasons to open a bank account? ›

Top Reasons to Open a Bank Account
  • Your money is safe. ...
  • You get your money faster with no check-cashing fees. ...
  • Online bill pay. ...
  • Debit cards. ...
  • Fraud protection. ...
  • You can transfer money to family and friends with ease. ...
  • You have proof of payment. ...
  • You can keep an eye on how much money you have.

What are the top 5 savings accounts everyone should have? ›

  • 5 Savings Accounts Everyone Should Have.
  • Emergency Account.
  • Vacation Account.
  • Retirement Account.
  • Freedom Account.
  • Large Purchases Account.
Nov 22, 2022

Can I open two savings account? ›

There's no limit to how many accounts you can have, especially if you spread them across various financial institutions. The number of savings accounts you should have depends on your financial needs and goals, however.

Do billionaires have bank accounts? ›

Ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) need checking accounts that are equipped to meet their unique wealth management needs. Many ultra-high-net-worth individuals choose to conduct their banking at the same institutions that are frequented by average consumers.

How can I save $10,000 in a year? ›

If you break down $10,000 into a daily savings goal, you would need to save about $27 per day to reach $10,000 in one year. Alternatively, if you prefer a weekly savings goal, you would need to save about $192 per week to reach $10,000 in one year.

How much should I save for a 500k house? ›

For a $500,000 home, a 20% down payment would be $100,000. At a 5.5% rate, the monthly payment for this would be $2,940 (this includes taxes and insurance - scroll down to see how much local taxes can impact your monthly payment and may alter this number for you).

Is $5,000 enough to move out? ›

Experts recommend having at least $6,000 to $12,000 saved up before moving out. What is this? However, it's possible to move out with as little as $5,000 if you focus on knowing how to live cheap and have a stable source of income.

What makes a good savings account? ›

A bank account with no minimum deposit or balance requirement makes it easier to save since you won't lose your savings to fees. No monthly service fees. Maintenance fees or service fees can quickly diminish your savings. The best banks offer a savings account with no monthly service fee.

What makes a good savings? ›

The best savings accounts pay high interest rates, charge few fees and provide the accessibility you need. A savings account with an excellent APY at an online bank or credit union may be the best option for you if you don't mind forgoing branch banking.

How much do I need to open a savings? ›

Depending on the financial institution, you may need at least $25 to open a savings account; however, some banks let you open an account with $0. Read on to learn more about initial deposit requirements for savings accounts and other requirements financial institutions may have for opening an account.

How much do you need to open savings account? ›

If you do, opening an account at a bank or credit union is straightforward. The interest they pay for savings accounts You usually need to make an initial deposit between $25 and $100 to open a savings or checking account. Find out how much you must keep in the account at all times to avoid or reduce fees.

How does a savings account work? ›

A savings account is a basic type of financial product that allows you to deposit your money and typically earn a modest amount of interest. These accounts are federally insured up to $250,000 per account owner and offer a safe place to put your money while earning interest.

What is the main purpose of savings? ›

Saving provides a financial “backstop” for life's uncertainties and increases feelings of security and peace of mind. Once an adequate emergency fund is established, savings can also provide the “seed money” for higher-yielding investments such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.

Do I need a checking account to open a savings account? ›

If you're looking to open a new bank account, you may be wondering whether a checking account or savings account is right for you. After all, they both have their perks. Luckily, you typically can open both a checking account and a savings account.

Do I need a savings account? ›

A savings account is valuable because it's a safe place to keep money, thanks to federal insurance. It's a good place to keep your emergency fund, for example. It can earn interest and is separate from your checking account — which is used for everyday spending — but it's also easy to access when needed.

How long does it take to open savings account? ›

Processing your application and issuing your account number could take a day or two. Opening a bank account online can be the easiest way to do so but it isn't likely to be the fastest. If you'd prefer to open an account in person, the process may take much longer (i.e. 30 minutes to an hour or more).

Do I need SSN to open bank account? ›

You are not required to have a social security number to open a checking or savings account. To open a checking or savings account, the bank or credit union will need to verify your name, date of birth, address, and ID number.

What do I need to know before opening an account? ›

Before opening a bank account, you may want to consider the following:
  • how you'll use the account, such as for saving or making payments.
  • charges or fees on the account.
  • interest you'll earn on the money in your account.
  • if your deposits are protected by deposit insurance.

What do most banks require to open an account? ›

Your Social Security number. A valid, government-issued photo ID like a driver's license, passport or state or military ID. A minimum opening deposit of $25 to activate your account (once you've been approved).

What is the 50 saving rule? ›

The 50-30-20 rule recommends putting 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings. The savings category also includes money you will need to realize your future goals.

What are the 3 most common savings options? ›

Opening a savings account. While there are several different types of savings accounts, the three most common are the deposit account, the money market account, and the certificate of deposit.

What is the 40 savings rule? ›

30/30/40. Thirty percent of your income goes toward housing expenses, 30% toward other living costs like food and transportation, and 40% toward discretionary spending and savings.

What are 2 key features you should look for when opening a savings account? ›

Here are six features to look for if you are searching for the best possible savings account.
  • Interest rates. The single most important attribute of a savings account is its interest rate, of course. ...
  • No monthly fee. ...
  • No minimum opening deposit. ...
  • Automatic transfers. ...
  • Mobile check deposits. ...
  • Easy withdrawal.

What proof do I need to open a savings account? ›

  • ID and verification. ...
  • Personal Details. ...
  • Address Details. ...
  • Contact Details. ...
  • Income & Expenditure Details. ...
  • Overdraft requests (optional) ...
  • Packaged Accounts (accounts where you pay a monthly fee and receive insurance benefits) ...
  • Switching.

What are the 4 steps to saving money? ›

Spend less than you make so you have the power to save
  • Step 1: Automate your good habits. Good habits are the foundation of smart spending and saving. ...
  • Step 2: Know where your money goes. ...
  • Step 3: Identify areas to cut back. ...
  • Step 4: Create a budget you can live with.

What do 8 need to open a bank account? ›

Requirements for opening a checking account generally include a valid, government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID or passport. You'll also need basic personal information, such as your birthdate, Social Security number, taxpayer identification number, or phone number.

How do I open a savings account for my child? ›

Items to bring to the bank
  1. Your child's name, birthdate and social security number.
  2. Your picture identification, such as a driver's license or passport.
  3. Your social security number.
  4. Personal information such as address, phone number, email address.
  5. An initial deposit (cash, checks) as required by the bank.

What are 4 types of savings accounts? ›

  • Basic Savings Account. Also known as passbook savings accounts, these accounts are a good introduction to earning interest and saving money. ...
  • Online Savings Accounts. ...
  • Money Market Savings Accounts. ...
  • Certificate of Deposit Account.

Can a bank refuse to open a savings account? ›

A bank can deny your request to open an account because of past accounts that were closed due to negative balances, a history of overdrafts or problems verifying your identity.

Do you need a SSN to open a savings account? ›

You are not required to have a social security number to open a checking or savings account. To open a checking or savings account, the bank or credit union will need to verify your name, date of birth, address, and ID number.

Do you need an ID for a savings account? ›

In addition to having two forms of ID and money for the initial deposit, there may be other requirements to open a bank account. If you're worried about your credit score, ask the bank whether or not they will pull your credit history to open a checking account. This can vary from bank to bank.

What is the 10 rule for saving? ›

The 10% rule is a savings tip that suggests you set aside 10% of your gross monthly income for retirement or emergencies. If you still need to start a savings account, this is a great way to build up your savings. You should create a monthly budget before starting your savings journey.

What is the golden rule of saving money? ›

The golden rule of saving money is “save before you spend,” also known as “pay yourself first.” Another common money-saving rule is “save for the unexpected.” In other words, build an emergency fund. Using these rules to prioritize saving money can help you create a safety net and work towards other financial goals.

What is the 5 rule in money? ›

It dates back to 1943 and states that commissions, markups, and markdowns of more than 5% are prohibited on standard trades, including over-the-counter and stock exchange listings, cash sales, and riskless transactions. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

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