Your First Account
Learn the basics, like how to open a checking account
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- YOUR FIRST ACCOUNT
Banking Basics
You’re opening your first bank account! Excited and slightly disoriented at the same time? You’re not alone. This is new territory, after all. To help you get the lay of the land, we pulled together some answers to a handful of questions new customers typically have.
Banking Basics FAQs
A checking account is a foundational financial tool that offers several practical benefits, especially for
managing day-to-day money matters. Here’s why you might need one: Convenient Access to Your
Money, Safe and Secure, Bill Payments and Direct Deposit, Track Spending, Build Financial History, Avoid
Fees for Alternatives.
In short, a checking account gives you control, convenience, and security for handling your everyday
finances.
Use your debit card just like cash. Swipe it or key in your card information for any purchase, online or in person. Just remember to record your debit purchases in your check register since they’re automatically deducted from your checking account. Need cash? You can use your debit card and personal identification number (PIN) to make withdrawals from any ATM in the F&M Bank network. Note: Daily spending and cash withdrawal limits may apply.* If your debit card is lost or stolen, contact us immediately.
You can use your debit card and personal identification number (PIN) to make free withdrawals from any ATM in the F&M Bank network. Additional fees may apply at any ATM outside of our network.
You can help lay the groundwork with everyday activities like earning an allowance or sharing in the cost of the latest “it” sneakers. And by all means, talk about the family budget and open a checking account or savings account, both of which can go a long way toward building basic financial literacy skills. Consider our Dream Builder Account, a combination checking and savings account that grows with your kids from birth to age 21. In addition to perks like a $25 opening bonus* and a wealth of financial knowledge.
*Initial account opening bonus will be deposited during account opening and is provided once during the Dream Builder account lifetime. The initial account opening bonus is subject to tax reporting requirements. You will receive a $25 bonus within 30 days after the opening deposit has been made.
CHECKING
Cash checks, score rewards, protect your identity or just get the not-so-basic basics.
MOBILE BANKING
Put your checking account in the palm of your hand with our free Mobile Banking app.
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