Learning How To Bank

First of all, I would suggest that you have a job or some sort of income so that you have a reason to bank. Search around for a bank that has alot to offer, or better yet, open an account where your parents bank because more than likely, they will have to help you sign up for an account. After that is decided, go in to start an account but make sure you have some money to open it with. Some places offer alot of benefits so that's a good start. Our bank offered my daughter an ATM card, which I went along with because I want her to learn how to manage her money...it's a good way for her to be able to buy her own gas for her car, purchase clothing or whatever she feels that she needs. With her first check, we put half of it into the savings account and the other half into the checking. I showed her how to use the check register to enter whatever she buys. Simple and easy, if you have 100.00 to spend, for each purchase and after EACH purchase, it has to be entered into the register and subtracted off the balance so that you know how much you have to spend. I told her to NEVER let it get close to zero, just in case she makes an error in subtraction, but the calculator is a good thing to use. So far, she has made a few purchases and it is working out well. Be very careful about WHERE you keep your card, and keeping the 4 number code to use it to yourself. You have to know that if you don't have the money in the account to spend, then you just CAN'T spend it. Online banking is a plus and our bank allows her to transfer from her savings to the checking and visa versa. If you have bills to pay, write them down when you get your check so you know what has to be paid first. Obligations first, then fun stuff. Good luck with your first paychecks! This is just the beginning of a lifetime of learning how to spend your money.