Bank account

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Bank account is a financial account maintained by a bank or other financial institution in which the monetary transactions of a customer are recorded. The customer can deposit or withdraw funds from the account. Bank accounts are a fundamental component of the financial system, and they are used by individuals, businesses, and organizations worldwide.

Types of Bank Accounts[edit | edit source]

There are several types of bank accounts, each designed to meet different financial needs and purposes. The most common types include:

  • Checking account: This is a deposit account that allows frequent transactions, including deposits, withdrawals, and checks. It is often used for daily transactions.
  • Savings account: This type of account is designed to encourage savings among account holders. It offers interest on the deposited amount and restricts the number of transactions that can be made.
  • Money market account: This is a type of savings account that offers a higher interest rate compared to regular savings accounts. It requires a higher minimum balance and limits the number of transactions.
  • Certificate of deposit (CD): This is a time-bound deposit account that restricts withdrawals until a specified maturity date. It offers a higher interest rate compared to other types of accounts.

Opening a Bank Account[edit | edit source]

To open a bank account, an individual or business must complete an application process with a bank. This typically involves providing identification, proof of address, and a initial deposit. The bank may also perform a credit check to assess the applicant's financial history.

Bank Account Features[edit | edit source]

Bank accounts offer various features, including:

  • Direct deposit: This feature allows for the electronic transfer of payments directly into a bank account.
  • Overdraft protection: This is a service that prevents checks, ATM withdrawals, and debit card purchases from causing the account balance to fall below zero.
  • Online banking: This allows account holders to manage their accounts, make transactions, and pay bills via the internet.
  • Mobile banking: This feature enables account holders to conduct banking transactions using a mobile device.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD