The World Wide Web has revolutionized the way we do virtually everything. The technological advances are particularly obvious when we consider the options now available for managing our finances. Consider the following examples:
Direct Deposit
Many of us enjoy the convenience of having paychecks and other disbursements deposited into our bank accounts electronically. No more racing to the bank during lunch hour; the funds are already on account.
Debit Cards
These cards combine the benefits of credit cards and paper checks. The plastic card looks like a credit card, but the amount of purchase is deducted directly from your checking account. Many people like debit cards because they eliminate the need to write out a check and show identification, and they make it easier to manage spending.
eBills
Paper bills have been replaced by bills that are accessed at the vendor’s website or delivered to email boxes. Most eBills offer automatic debit or point and click payment options. eBills allow you to pay your bills in minutes and best of all, no searching for stamps.
Online Banking
Online banking allows users twenty-four access to checking and savings account information. Most banks provide this service at little or no cost. Some features of online banking include:
Ability to see your account transactions in real time.
Access to 12-18 months of bank statements and check copies, which eliminates the endless search for the very lost check copy you need.
Ability to pay bills instantly online simply by pointing and clicking. Online banking allows you to set up automatic payments on a scheduled date, or to make payments instantly. Your bank will then forward payment to the vendor. Receipt generally takes 2- 5 days.
Online payment records are another important benefit of online banking. Payments are saved in a transaction history log for easy access. Not sure whether or not you paid your utility bill? Just check your account in a few keystrokes and everything you need to know appears on the screen.
Reconcile your account as you go with online banking because you can see checks and debit card transactions as they clear.
You can also transfer money between accounts instantly.
Reduced bill payment and account management time commitment. Online banking does require some initial set-up; you will need to enter the name, account number and address of your payees. After that you will be able to pay all of your bills in just a few minutes each month leaving time to spend on some of the other things in your life that really matter. Online banking is a boon for those that need a few extra minutes in an already crowded day.
Online banking offers unsurpassed security and convenience. You bank has invested cutting edge technology to keep your sensitive personal information safe from hackers and identity thefts.
If you are organizationally challenged, online banking is a good way to whip your finances into shape. In fact, you will significantly reduce your chances of bouncing a check because you will be able to see each transaction instantly, as it occurs.
Technology has changed the way that we manage our finances and do our banking. If you haven’t yet signed on for online banking, give it a try. The benefits are too good to pass up.