WE LIVE IN USA
美國開銀行帳戶全攻略：如何選擇銀行、開設帳戶及了解手續費
A bank account is the first thing to set up after arriving. Saving, paying bills, receiving a salary: all of it runs through one. Here's how to choose a bank, what the process involves, and which fees to watch for.
Choosing a bank
There are many banks with many account types. The most common:
- Chase
A wide range of accounts, with branches and ATMs across the country (good if you withdraw cash often).
Chase's website*I only use Chase myself, so I'm thoroughly biased. Here's a link that gets you a $300 bonus when you open an account 😂😂
. - Bank of America
A varied set of accounts, and reasonably simple to manage when you're new here.
Bank of America's website - Wells Fargo
One of the largest US banks, with a broad range of accounts and financial products.
Wells Fargo's website - Citibank
Global reach, which suits you if you make international transfers or have business abroad.
Citibank's website
The process
- Choose an account type
Pick based on what you need:- Checking account: for everyday payments and withdrawals.
- Savings account: for holding money, usually with some interest.
- High-yield savings account: a better rate, but usually with a minimum balance.
- Gather the documents Opening an account generally requires:
- A valid passport: for non-citizens, this is your primary identification.
- Proof of US address: a utility bill or lease
- A Social Security number (SSN) or ITIN
- An opening deposit: some banks require a minimum.
- Apply online or in branch
Many banks let you open an account online, though some require an in-person visit for identity verification the first time. - Set up online banking
Nearly all banks offer online banking so you can manage the account, review transactions, and transfer money from anywhere.
Fees to watch for
- Monthly maintenance fees
Many accounts carry one, but it's usually waived if you keep a minimum balance or meet a condition such as direct deposit. - ATM fees
Using another bank's ATM costs you. Choosing a bank with a large fee-free network is worth doing. - Overdraft fees
If there isn't enough in the account to cover a payment, the bank charges an overdraft fee. Keep an eye on your balance.
Tips for choosing
- Compare sign-up offers: many banks offer cash bonuses or fee waivers to new customers, which is genuinely useful money when you're starting out.
- Pick one that's convenient for cash: if you withdraw often, choose a bank with plenty of branches and ATMs where you live.
- Understand the fee structure: transparent, reasonable fees meaningfully reduce what banking costs you over a year.
In short
Opening an account is a significant step: it's how you manage spending, hold savings, and transact. Choosing the right bank and account type, and understanding the fees, makes daily life here considerably easier.
Hi, I'm C from Taiwan, and I'm currently running a business in Los Angeles, USA. When I first arrived, it really wasn't easy. Whether it was the language or cultural differences, I spent a lot of time figuring out every little detail. But all those mistakes I made along the way helped me master the rhythm of adapting to life here quickly. I've gathered all my experience over the past few years on this website, hoping to help fellow Chinese speakers settle into American life sooner. Here, I share how to move over, find a job, and handle various daily tasks, saving you plenty of time and helping you avoid unnecessary detours. I hope my experience helps you start your new life in the US smoothly!
Running this site takes real work, and I'm grateful to everyone who supports it. If any of this has helped you, a small contribution keeps the updates coming.