Look at your bank's fees and charges6 of 7While it's important to check on your bank's health, if only because that knowledge may give you some peace of mind in a tough and uncertain economy, it's also important to keep track of the big picture."For most consumers, the FDIC covers issues that can go wrong with a bank," says Schwab. "So a really important place to focus your energy and attention is on the value you're getting from your bank. Are the fees too high? Are there overdraft charges? Is the ATM network convenient? How's the customer service, etc.?"Fortunately, it's easier to answer these questions than it is to discern whether a bank is financially sound, and consumers need only check their statements regularly to stay informed and keep their bank accountable. Related Articles:Savings goal calculatorFDIC handles bank crashesDeposits insured to $250KCommunity vs. big banksRelated Links:ABCs of ATMsChecking account do's and don'tsHow do I open an account online?Fees, fees and more fees advertisement
While it's important to check on your bank's health, if only because that knowledge may give you some peace of mind in a tough and uncertain economy, it's also important to keep track of the big picture.
"For most consumers, the FDIC covers issues that can go wrong with a bank," says Schwab. "So a really important place to focus your energy and attention is on the value you're getting from your bank. Are the fees too high? Are there overdraft charges? Is the ATM network convenient? How's the customer service, etc.?"
Fortunately, it's easier to answer these questions than it is to discern whether a bank is financially sound, and consumers need only check their statements regularly to stay informed and keep their bank accountable.
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