Switching Bank Accounts 101: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Yusra3

VIP Contributor
Whether seeking better interest rates, updated digital tools, or enhanced customer service, switching bank accounts allows you to upgrade your banking experience. Here is a simple step-by-step process to seamlessly move to a new bank.

Compare Options
Start by comparing accounts from top national banks and local credit unions using filters for interest rates, fees, and must-have features like easy mobile access, perks, or minimum required balances that fit your needs.

Open a New Account
Next, apply to open an approved new checking, savings or CD account. Fund your account either during application or shortly after approval. Make note of new login details and documentation requirements.

Enable Account Linking
Link your new account digitally to your existing accounts to pull transactions and balances for easy, accurate fund transfers when it comes time to close old accounts. Moving authentication codes over to the new bank also ensures continuous account access.

Switch Over Direct Deposits and Payments
Inform your payroll provider, subscription services, billing companies, and clients or employers of your new designated direct deposit account details and update any automatic payments with the new account’s routing and account numbers for a smooth transition of all cash flow.

Close Old Accounts
Finally, once assured that all pending checks, automatic transactions, and deposits or payments have fully switched over to the new bank, safely close old accounts. Shred leftover checks and deposit slips.

Following tips tailored to transition timing at each institution makes switching accounts frustration-free so you can start benefiting from upgraded banking tools and services right away!
 
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