If you’re used to managing your money with a traditional checking account, you’re missing out on all the benefits that online access can bring. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through a bunch of extra, time-consuming steps to benefit from online banking. When you apply for an online checking account, you’ll get numerous additional features that help to safeguard your account while making it easy to manage your finances and even make money on your deposits. Here’s what to look for when opening an online checking account.

Make Sure the Account is Insured

No matter which banking institution you open an online checking account with, be sure that it’s insured by the FDIC (or in the case of a credit union, the NCUA). Both of these federal agencies were created after the Great Depression to ensure that consumers would not lose money in the highly unlikely event that the bank went bankrupt. The FDIC or NCUA protects your deposits up to $250,000 per person, and this includes your online checking account. It’s a great way to give yourself peace of mind during trying economic times, and it doesn’t cost you anything extra.Helpful Features Make Money Management Easy

With an online checking account, you’ll also benefit from built-in features that make account management, saving and budgeting even easier. For example, did you know that you can pay bills with your online checking account, and that you’re also protected in case of an overdraft? Some banks, like Aurora Bank (Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC), even offer checking accounts with interest, as long as you keep your balance over $1,000. An online account also lets you make check card purchases, regular check writing, direct deposit and electronic transfers.

Keep Track of Your Money When You’re On the Go

If you travel a lot, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of an online checking account almost immediately. For example, you’ll be able to withdraw funds through an extensive network of ATMs no matter where you are. This is incredibly helpful in case of emergencies or even if you’re on vacation and need a little extra cash. And, it’s easy to get started. Many banks will let you complete an application for online banking right over the internet, and they’ll likely mail you a username and password for extra security.

And speaking of security, you’ll be glad to know that your online banking account is protected by the highest industry standard online security. Just be sure that you choose a password that is difficult for others to guess, but easy for you to remember – particularly one that includes caps and special characters like exclamation points, asterisks or even numbers.

Overall, having an online checking account brings you many features that you wouldn’t ordinarily expect from a bank. With the freedom to access your account on the go, all while benefitting from measures designed to protect your money , you’ll feel more at ease and confident about taking control and managing your finances the easy way.