So many people have a bank account that isn’t working in their best interests. If you haven’t reassessed your provider in the past few years, chances are you’re one of them. There are so many different types of accounts on the market these days that switching regularly can really benefit your finances. Whether you’re trying to save for a short-term expense or invest in your future, the right bank account can help you towards your goals. Before switching to any provider, make sure you check out a chime review or two to see what people have been saying.
Here are some things you need to think about when assessing the quality of your bank account:
Interest rates
One of the most important parts of saving, interest rates are key to growing the money that you have. Unfortunately, most banks are offering very low-interest rates at the moment, making it hard to get more for your money. Make sure you shop around and find accounts that give you more for keeping your money in them. This could mean choosing an account that gives you more interest the longer you leave your money untouched or an investment ISA that poses a slight risk but also the chance of much better returns.
Access
Do you need to be able to access your money quickly and easily or are you happy to leave it alone for a year or more? If you have your savings in an instant access account but aren’t planning on cashing them out until later in life, you might not be getting the best deal. Think carefully about your financial goals, your current situation in life, and when you want to take your next steps. If you’re not sure what your plans are, it’s best to keep your money to hand just in case you decide to make a down payment on a house in the coming months.
Overdraft
Nearly everyone needs to make use of an overdraft at some point in their lives, so knowing you have this option can bring you a feeling of security. Some bank accounts offer interest-free overdrafts, so think carefully about the kind you decide to open. Read up on whether there are any charges associated with going over the agreed limit of your overdraft and work out whether this is a cost you’re willing to bear. Alternatively, if you think an overdraft might not be for you, look into different types of credit cards offered by your bank.
Customer service
Banking is changing in the modern world, which means that more and more providers are embracing apps and online services. If having an easy-to-use online system is a priority for you, you might want to consider choosing a non-traditional provider. There are lots of online banks that are offering services that compete with high-street providers, so don’t be afraid to explore alternative options. Click here to read more about services like Chime, or contact them directly for extra information.
