Checking Basics

1. Checking Basics

2. Terms / Concepts A checking account is also called a “demand” account because people who you give checks to can take them to your bank and “demand” payment. • Check Writing Terms and Definitions: • Balance: The amount of money currently in your checking account. • Check Register: A booklet that is used to keep a record of all your checking related transactions, including checks written and deposits. • Check Stub: A strip on the side of some checks that is torn off. Used to keep record of the amount of the check.

3. Terms / Concepts • Endorse a Check - Check Endorsement: When the payee signs their name on the back of a check to cash or deposit the check. • Minimum Balance: The minimum amount of money required in your account. Having an amount less than the minimum balance may result in extra service charges or reduced privileges. • Non-sufficient Funds: When you write a check for more money than you have in your account. • Payee: The party that receives the check. • Payor: The party that writes the check (to the payee). • Service Charge: An amount the bank charges (fees) for use of the checking account.

4. The Parts of a Check More information at: handsonbanking and about.com

5. Check endorsement • Sign the back of your check • Write For Deposit Online (FDO) and the name of your financial institution and/or your account number • More information at WikiHow

6. Using a check register The bank gives you an check register to keep track of your checks and deposits. Write down in your register whenever - • you deposit money in your checking account • you write a check • you use your debit card • you deduct a fee that the bank charges • you withdraw money from your account The trick is to keep up with it at the moment and not try to remember to fill it in later. It is very easy to forget to write in the times you use debit transactions