Personal Finance

 

​Financial institutions like credit unions and banks provide services like checking and savings accounts. If you have decided that a checking or savings account is a good choice for you, this information will help you make informed decisions.

• Federal Trade Commission Bank Accounts: This video shows how someone compares the costs when choosing a place open savings and checking accounts.
• Federal Trade Commission Electronic Banking: For many people, electronic banking means 24-hour access to cash through an automated teller machine (ATM) or Direct Deposit of paychecks into checking or savings accounts. But electronic banking involves many different types of transactions, rights, responsibilities — and sometimes, fees.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Bank Accounts & Services: Answers to frequently asked questions about things like avoiding overdraft fees and what to do if someone took money from your bank account without permission.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Checklist: Use this checklist for opening a bank or credit union account to make sure you have the required paperwork.
• Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Deposit Insurance: The FDIC is an agency of the U.S. government which protects funds placed in insured banks and credit unions. The videos explain deposit insurance and how to know if your money is in a protected account.
• University of Minnesota–Extension: Information about prize-linked savings accounts, a new fun way for Minnesotans to build savings.
• Minnesota Department of Commerce: These consumer-focused tools and tips will help you make wise financial decisions, avoid scams and protect your personal financial information.