Online banking – how convenient!

Published 12:00 am Friday, May 7, 2004

Mike Williams – Insurance Insights

The Internet had revolutionized so many things. It has changed the way we communicate, shop, gather news and information, and not it is also changing the way many of us bank. Consumers now perform banking functions on the Internet

Some virtual banks now offer customers most services a traditional bank provides, such as checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit and money market accounts.

A nice feature of online banks- convenience.

Besides providing basic deposit products, online banks allow you to check your balance, transfer funds and even pay your bills from the privacy and comfort of your own home.

What should I look for in an online bank?

Because security and privacy are such important issues on the Internet, if you are going to bank online, you need to know and trust your bank. And security the self-help the Internet provides is convenient, make sure your online bank gives you the option of talking to a person if you have questions about your accounts.

Here are some questions to consider:

€ Are you comfortable with banking online? Are the options of speed, convenience, self-service and customer service the Internet can provide important to you?

€ What kinds of services do you want and need? Will your online bank be able to provide those services?

€ Do you want to centralize your financial activity? Companies are now handling a wide range of services; you can handle your banking, insurance needs and loans all in one online location.

Banking online offers a convenient alternative to traditional banking. If you are ready to bank online, do your homework and find a bank that best suits your needs.

MIKE WILLIAMS is a State Farm representative.