How to Bank Online

Convenience is the name of the game with online banking. Review your account balances, pay bills and order checks with the click of a button.

Things You'll Need

• Internet Service Providers
• Banks
• Computers
• Personal Financial Software

Instructions

1. Make sure your current bank offers online banking. If not, open a checking account with a bank that offers an online banking service.

2. Check to ensure that your computer hardware and software meet the bank's minimum requirements.

3. Sign up for online banking via the bank's Web site or at your local branch office. You will need to provide basic, personal information. Have your bank account numbers handy as well.

4. Log on to your account through your bank's Web site using the customer number and/or password assigned to you by your bank.

5. Run the demonstration program that most banks offer through their Web sites. The demonstration will take you step by step through all of the online banking features available to you.

Tips & Warnings

• Although online banking is almost always free, bill payment service is usually offered at a small fee, in addition to your regular account service charges. Often the bank will waive this charge if you maintain a specified minimum balance in your account.

• For a vendor that does not accept electronic payments, schedule payment at least five days before the due date of the bill. The bank then has time to cut and mail a paper check.

• Your bank might offer an alternative to its standard online banking service that will let you access and manage your account using your existing financial software. Check your bank's Web site.

• Safeguard the customer number and the password your bank provides to you. Anyone with this information and an Internet connection can access your accounts.