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Opening a student checking account while in college can be a hassle, especially when dealing with long lines and crowded branches. Fortunately, many financial institutions now offer convenient online account opening options. If you're wondering whether you can open a student checking account online and what the steps involved are, you've come to the right place. This blog will guide you through the process, from finding the right financial institution to completing the online application.
Start your application with MIDFLORIDA Credit Union.
Can I open a student account online with a credit union or bank?
Yes, most credit unions and banks, including MIDFLORIDA, will let you open a student account online. If you want to open an account at a credit union, though, you’ll want to make sure you’re an eligible member. At MIDFLORIDA, for instance, you have to live, work, worship or attend school in any one of the counties in MIDFLORIDA's service area. However, every credit union has different membership requirements, so check the requirements to ensure you’re eligible before applying.
Once a credit union member at MIDFLORIDA, you’ll get access to great benefits, including:
- Low fees
- Competitive interest rates
- Personalized service
- Custom account options
- Customer service available Monday through Saturday
- Over 60 branches across Florida
Additionally, Absolutely Free Student Checking account members at MIDFLORIDA can qualify for a free $50 by meeting specific tasks.1
Once your new student checking account is open, and you’ve accepted and opened online banking, eStatements, and a debit card, and made five purchases with your debit card, and meet all other requirements, you’ll get your bonus within 75 days. This is just one of the many perks we offer our members at MIDFLORIDA.
How to open a student checking account online
Opening a student account online is easy.
- Visit the credit union’s website and find the option to open an account. This button can be easily found on MIDFLORIDA’s home page in the top menu bar.
- Choose the type of account you wish to open, in this case, a student checking or savings account.
- Input the necessary personal information, including:
- Your name
- Address
- Birthday
- Social security number
Verifying your information
In order to open your new MIDFLORIDA Absolutely Free Student Checking account, you’ll also have to verify your information. The main way you’ll do this is with a U.S. state government-issued photo ID. Most of the time, this will be your U.S. state-issued driver’s license.
However, you can also use other government-issued IDs, such as:
- U.S. state-issued ID card
- Military ID
- U.S. Resident Alien Card
You’ll also need to verify your physical address by providing one of the following documents:
- Utility bills
- Credit card statement
- Lease agreements
- Bank statements
- Mortgage agreements
With most banks, you’ll have to bring these items to a physical branch.
When you open a new account online with MIDFLORIDA, however, you can simply scan the documents and upload them to your account application.
The minimum deposit
Finally, you’ll have to make a minimum deposit. Fortunately, student checking accounts have a low minimum deposit requirement. At MIDFLORIDA, for instance, you only need $25 to fund your Absolutely Free Student Checking account. You can transfer this money to your new account from another credit union or bank, but that will take a couple of days to process. If you want to open your account immediately, visit the credit union’s branch in person and give them cash.
Will I need a co-signer for my student checking account?
At MIDFLORIDA, you don’t need a co-signer for an Absolutely Free Student Checking account unless you’re younger than 15. Other credit unions and banks, however, may require a co-signer if you’re under 18.
Steps to take once you’ve opened your new student checking account
In order to get the most from your new student checking account, take the following steps.
Get your debit card
A debit card is a must for any student checking account. It’s an easy and convenient way to pay for anything from food to school supplies. Some financial institutions, including MIDFLORIDA, can print a debit card for you in one of their branches. Others will mail your new debit card to you.
Set up direct deposit
If you have a job, make sure to get your paycheck directly deposited into your new student checking account. It’s more efficient than getting a paper check, and it eliminates the risk you might forget to cash the check and overdraw your account. Ask your employer if they have a direct deposit form. If they don’t, get one from your credit union or bank.
Set up online banking and download the mobile app
Online banking has been a game-changer. When you set up online banking, you’ll be able to efficiently manage your finances no matter where you are. You’ll also be able to:
- Transfer money to internal and external accounts
- Pay your bills online (must be 18 at MIDFLORIDA)
- Manage your student checking debit card
If you want even more convenience, download your credit union or bank’s mobile app to your smartphone. You’ll be able to manage your finances from almost anywhere.
Open a student checking account online at MIDFLORIDA
Most credit unions and banks will let you open a student checking account online. If you’d like to open a MIDFLORIDA student checking account, just click the “Open an Account” button at the top of the homepage and fill out the application. If you need help, you can always talk to a MIDFLORIDA member service representative.
Start your account application with MIDFLORIDA.
