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Open a checking account in the branch or online – customers have the choice © IMAGO/Thomas Koehler/photothek.net
Regardless of whether it is a regional savings bank, a large local branch bank or one of the many direct banks. All offer different account models. But not all of them fit into our lives. The detailed guide on checking accounts shows you what is important when choosing an account.
Hand on heart: you are Are you really satisfied with your current checking or salary account? Surveys by consumer magazines repeatedly show that there are not many customers.
Despite – or perhaps because of – the large selection, many customers in Germany remain loyal to their current bank, even though there is often a lot to complain about when it comes to checking accounts. Some have been annoyed by the high costs of account management for a long time. Others wonder why there are suddenly fees for transfers, standing orders and direct debits or why deposits and cash withdrawals are no longer possible everywhere. And many people have experienced a blue miracle when, after their vacation, the expenses for their purchases or cash withdrawals appear on the account overview in the respective local currency.
By the way: Even those who frequently overdraw their checking account are not treated equally at every bank. The interest rates for the overdraft facility granted or for further overdrafts are usually hefty anyway – but many institutions take particular advantage of this.
Of course, the costs aren’t everything: It’s important that a new checking account should fulfill all the functions that you really need in everyday life: This can be clear online banking, a checking card or credit card with a high level of acceptance, or competent, accessible service staff, if necessary There are problems and questions.
Basically, you should always inform yourself in advance and compare the different offers in detail before deciding on a new checking account or considering changing your account.
We have created a practical guide so that you know all the important details about checking accounts in advance.
Current account in everyday life – the great guide
Our free checking account guide, which you can download for free as a PDF HERE, gives you a complete overview of what you need to know when choosing your new checking account.
You can download the large checking account guide for free in the PDF library. © IMAGO Images/Pond5 Images
Checking account guide to download
The guide is available free of charge as a PDF and can be easily printed out. It is suitable for anyone who would like to find out more about checking accounts. No matter whether you are currently looking for an account, want to change your current one or are looking for a second account for your family and business.
What can you expect in our guide?
The current account guide highlights all the essential facts about current accounts. In particular, he addresses the following points in more detail:
Why and for whom – basic information about checking accounts: A checking account is the basis for processing daily cashless payment transactions. In the first section you will find out what it is suitable for, what it contains and what advantages it offers.
What is important when comparing checking accounts: Many aspects play a role in finding the right account for your needs: direct or branch bank, possible costs, fees and interest, daily cash supply, account cards, banking and service – you should pay attention to all of this when comparing current accounts.
The right checking account model: Banks offer a wide variety of account models to suit almost every customer requirement. From pocket money accounts for kids to smart entry-level accounts for schoolchildren, students and trainees, to checking account models for pensioners, self-employed people or shared accounts, everything is usually included in the program. We introduce the individual accounts, highlight possible pitfalls and tell you how special basic and P accounts work if you have creditworthiness problems.
Costs and fees: Banks are creative when it comes to fees and costs for checking accounts. Many models and their services require a fee – sometimes more, sometimes less. There are practically no completely free accounts anymore. You can find tips on what to pay attention to in detail and why it is worth taking a closer look at the price and service list of the financial institutions in the guide.
Account opening and account switching: These days, both are often done online and usually only take a few minutes. Direct banks in particular offer digital application processes – from account contracts with electronic signatures to legitimation via video identification. The digital moving service ensures a smooth account change. Banks will take care of all the necessary steps for you free of charge. Important: You should keep an eye on the timely termination.
Finally we go into the Ratgeber-FAQ also address essential questions about checking accounts.
Download the clear guide HERE for free as a PDF.
Make your everyday life easier – with the right checking account
Anyone can open a checking account – regardless of their professional and financial situation. If you know what is important when comparing offers, you will quickly find the right account model. At best, the new checking account offers all the services you need at the best price. With a free credit card and a cheap overdraft, you remain financially flexible – surprise expenses are no longer a problem.
Switching from your old bank to your new desired account is also quick and easy. You can choose whether you want your account to be moved conveniently using the switching service or you can close your current bank account yourself. Both variants have their advantages. By switching to the right provider, you can usually save a considerable amount of fees, and better service is usually included free of charge for new customers. And with a bit of luck you can even win one or two switching bonuses.
By the way: In addition to this guide, you will also find helpful tips on the topics of building financing and credit cards in our PDF library.
