Everything you need to know about the different types of bank accounts

There are many types of bank accounts that you can open, but it can be tough to figure out which one is right for you. 

Here’s a breakdown of what bank accounts have to offer and what to consider before you choose one, including their pros and cons. Read on to learn more!

What factors should you consider when choosing a bank account?

When it comes to choosing a bank account, there are a few things you’ll want to take into consideration. 

First, what kind of account do you want: online or traditional? If you don’t need to visit a branch, then an online version might be proper for you since it offers more convenience. 

Second, what kind of fees does the account charge? There’s nothing worse than getting hit with hidden fees every time you use your account. So, mind ATM and overdraft fees, for example. 

Third, how easy is it to access your money? What kind of interest rate does the account offer? The higher the interest rate, the better.

Finally, what kinds of perks does the account offer? Some banks will give you cash back or other rewards for using their services.

Regarding it, picking a bank account is about finding one that works for you and your needs. So, let’s look at the most common types of bank accounts available. 

The different types of bank accounts available to consumers: 4 options

Several types of bank accounts are available to consumers, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. 

Here are four of the most common types of bank accounts:

1. Savings Accounts

A savings account is a type of bank account that allows you to save money you don’t intend to use immediately. 

They typically earn interest, which means you can make money on the money you deposit into the account. Still, the interest rate and annual percentage yield (APY) vary from bank to bank. 

Savings accounts are a great way to grow your savings over time, but they come with daily withdrawal limits. Many have no minimum balance required, making them accessible to everyone. 

Pros

  • Helps you save money.
  • Earns interest over time.

Cons

  • It doesn’t come with a debit card.
  • There’s a withdrawal limit.

2. Checking Accounts

Checking accounts offer convenient access to your cash for everyday spending and bill-paying. 

Most checking accounts don’t earn interest, but some may offer perks such as rebates or rewards points. 

Many checking accounts also come with monthly fees, so compare options before choosing one.

Pros

  • Perfect for managing everyday expenses.
  • Come with a credit card.

Cons

  • May charge monthly fees.
  • Don’t earn interest.

3. Money Market Accounts

Money market accounts typically offer higher interest rates than savings or checking accounts. 

However, these higher rates usually come with stricter requirements, such as a higher minimum balance or a limit on the number of transactions you can make per month. 

Pros

  • Higher interest than other accounts.

Cons

  • Not as easy to access your money as a regular savings account.
  • Higher minimum balance requirements than traditional savings accounts.

4. Retirement Accounts

Retirement accounts such as IRAs are designed to help you save for retirement. 

These accounts offer tax benefits that can help you save money over time. 

However, retirement accounts typically restrict when and how you can access your money. If you want to do that, you might pay fees. 

Pros

  • It can help you save money on your taxes now and have more money to put towards retirement later.
  • Typically have lower fees than other investment options.

Cons

  •  You may not be able to access your money as quickly as you could with other investments.

How do you decide which bank account suits you and your needs?

When choosing a bank account, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best account for you will depend on your individual circumstances and financial goals. Here are four tips to help you:

Consider your needs

Start by answering these questions:

  • What do you need the account for? 
  • Do you want to use it for everyday transactions or just for savings? 
  • Do you need an account with many features, or are you happy with a basic account? 

Once you know what you need, you can narrow your options and find the most appropriate account. 

Compare fees and charges

Every bank account comes with its own set of fees and charges. Some accounts have higher fees than others, so it’s important to compare these before you make a decision. 

Make sure you know all the fees that apply to your chosen account: the monthly, transaction, and ATM withdrawal fees.

Consider the interest rate

If you’re interested in earning interest on your money, then you’ll need to find an account that offers a competitive interest rate. Be sure to compare rates from different banks before making your decision.

Compare other features and benefits

In addition to fees and interest rates, there are other things to consider when choosing a bank account. 

For example, some accounts offer special features like rewards programs or free banking days. 

Take everything into consideration before making your final decision.

Should you have multiple bank accounts?

Some people find that they are best served by keeping their money in one place, while others prefer to spread their funds across multiple accounts.

There are pros and cons to both approaches. 

For example, if you have a large amount of debt, keeping your money in one account may help you to better keep track of your expenses and make sure that you are making progress in paying off your debt. 

On the other hand, if you tend to spend impulsively, having multiple accounts may help you better control your spending by putting some of your money out of reach. 

Ultimately, the best approach is the one that works for you and helps you to meet your financial goals.