how do American immigrants open bank accounts? In the United States, there are usually two forms of bank accounts: one is a deposit account (with interest); The other is a checking account (without interest). Generally speaking, most people open checking accounts first. To open a bank account, you need a social security number first. However, it takes about a week to apply for a social security number, so you can ask the bank to open an account after checking your passport, and then notify the bank for filing after you get the social security number. Below, I have compiled some information about how American immigrants open bank accounts to help immigrant applicants quickly understand the United States.
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There are two points to note when opening an account:
1. An account with a minimum balance limit (open an account without a minimum balance limit, otherwise you should always remember to leave some balance in the account. )
2. Allow the account to be overdrawn (it is convenient to allow a certain amount of overdraft in some cases. For example, when your rent or telephone bill must be paid, but your salary has not been recorded, the bank allows a small amount of overdraft.
the whole process of opening an account takes about 1-15 minutes.
Procedures after opening a bank account:
After opening a bank account, the next step is to apply for an ATM card, so that you can withdraw money 24 hours a day. Of course, you must withdraw money at the ATM of your bank or chain bank. Some banks need to pay for ATM cards and checkbooks. Generally, one ATM card costs $1, and ten 2-piece checkbooks cost $1. But most banks don't charge.
There are many kinds of checks to choose from, such as colored paper checks or checks with shading patterns. Generally speaking, buying 2 checks at a time (2 checks per book) can be used for 6 months. Of course, it also depends on the number and frequency of your use. You can get a check when you open an account, and other checks will be mailed to you at your address.
to fill in a check, you need to fill in the prescribed format. For example, $35.47 should be written as: Third Five &; 47/1 dollars。 Some shops or gas stations need to check the payer's valid certificate when accepting cheque payment. A valid certificate refers to the driver's license in the United States or the identity certificate issued by the motor vehicle management office.
in the United States, it is not surprising that you can pay any amount of fees by check, even as little as $1.25. So most people are used to using credit cards or checks when spending. People have little or no cash. Of course, it is also necessary to always have about $2 in cash with you in case of emergency. Remember: always take your checkbook or credit card with you.