A senior checking account usually comes with unique perks designed to provide support to senior citizens. As we get older our needs change, including our financial needs. That’s why some financial institutions offer these accounts, known as senior checking accounts.
So what exactly is a senior checking account? What perks does it offer and what are the possible downsides? And is it worth it vs. a regular checking account . We’ll fill you in on all of that, plus how to find a senior citizen checking account if you think it’s right for you.
How Does a Senior Checking Account Work?
A checking account, often simply referred to as a bank account, is a type of deposit account that gives consumers a place to safely store their money while still being able to easily access it and spend it. With a checking account, it’s possible to make purchases or payments with a debit card or a check.
So, what is a senior checking account then? A senior checking account functions the same as a normal checking account, but is designed for consumers of a certain age (usually in retirement).
What Is the Difference Between a Senior Checking Account and a Normal Checking Account?
Overall, senior checking accounts serve the same purpose as a normal checking account. However, a senior checking account may have certain age requirements and can come with unique benefits and senior discounts designed to provide support to senior citizens. Some of these benefits may include:
• Free checks
• No minimum balance requirement
• No monthly service charges
• No transaction fees
• No statement processing fees
• Waived CD penalties
These types of perks make it easier for senior citizens to manage their financial life.
Pros of a Senior Checking Account
A senior checking account enjoys the same advantages as a normal checking account, as well as additional perks.
• Unique perks. Eligible account holders can enjoy special perks like free checks, and no minimum balance requirement, monthly service charges, or transaction fees.
• Earn interest. It’s not guaranteed everywhere, but some senior checking accounts allow account holders to earn interest.
• Secure. Thanks to FDIC insurance, funds stored in a checking account (up to a certain amount) are safe and secure.
• Accessible. It’s super easy to access money stored in a checking account. Account holders can make as many withdrawals as they like in a variety of different ways including by visiting a bank, using a debit card at an ATM, writing a check, and making an online bank transfer.
• Debit card. Typically, checking accounts come with debit cards which make it easy to pay for purchases without having cash on hand.
• Direct deposits. Instead of waiting for paper checks in the mail, account holders can set up convenient direct deposits.
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Cons of a Senior Checking Account
Of course, there are also disadvantages associated with senior checking accounts. Here are some to mull over:
• Age requirements. Senior checking accounts often have age requirements, such as age 55 and over. Some banks require age 62 and up. It can be challenging to find one if below a certain age.
• No interest. As briefly mentioned above, it is possible to earn interest with a checking account, but it’s fairly rare. Keeping money in a savings account can make it easier to earn interest.
• Fees. While senior checking accounts tend to charge fewer or lower fees, they can come with account management fees, overdraft fees, and other fees.
• Minimum balance. Again, some senior checking accounts don’t require a minimum balance, but some may.
How Can I Apply for a Senior Citizen Checking Account?
The process of opening a checking account for senior citizens looks the same as opening a normal checking account, but the applicant may be required to prove they are a certain age to be eligible.
While all banks and credit unions will have their own unique process for opening an account, consumers can generally expect to take the following steps to open a senior citizen checking account.
• Complete the application. During the application process it is typical to provide identity and contact information during this stage.
• Designate beneficiaries. Once their application is approved, they will need to choose a beneficiary for their account in the event they pass away.
• Deposit funds. As briefly noted, some senior citizen checking accounts will require a minimum account balance, so the applicant may need to deposit that amount to open their account.
Is a Senior Checking Account Worth It Over a Normal Checking Account?
If someone is old enough to qualify for a senior checking account, it is likely worth it for them to choose this type of deposit account over a normal checking account. Both senior checking accounts and normal checking accounts share the same disadvantages, but senior checking accounts come with unique perks that regular checking accounts often don’t include, such as free checks and minimal fees.
Things to Consider When Looking for a Senior Citizen Checking Account
Before opening a senior checking account, here are a few helpful things to keep in mind.
• Convenience. Scope out the bank’s features to make sure it’s super simple to use. Is it also possible to have a savings account at the bank or credit union offering a senior citizen checking account? Having both a checking account and savings account in one place is usually easier. Do they have a bank location nearby? Is their website a breeze to use? Keep convenience in mind when choosing where to open a new senior citizen checking account.
• Bank type. Everyone has their preferences when it comes to banking. Take some time to consider if a traditional bank, credit union, or online bank is the best fit.
• Features. Compare a few different senior citizen checking account options. What perks do they offer? Do they have a mobile app? What other financial products and tools do they offer?
• Fees. Senior citizen checking accounts tend to have fewer fees than typical checking accounts. Still, it’s worth comparing the different fees each account charges.
The Takeaway
If you or a loved one is 55 or older, a senior bank account can offer unique advantages compared to typical checking accounts. Fees can be lower, you might earn a bit of interest, and checks may be free. All in all, if someone is old enough to qualify, they can likely enjoy a lot more perks with a senior citizen checking account.
Looking for a new bank with a lot of perks? Check out SoFi. If you open an online bank account with direct deposit, you’ll earn a terrific APY, pay no account fees, and get a debit card that can deliver up to 15% cash back at local establishments when you use it to pay.
FAQ
What is senior banking?
Senior bank accounts function the same way normal banking does. The only difference between banking products and services designed for senior citizens is that they offer unique perks suited for their life stage — such as not requiring a minimum account balance.
Which banks have the best checking accounts?
Getting the best checking account depends on the features that matter most to you. That said, online banks tend to have the same benefits since they don’t need to pay for bricks and mortar locations and pass the savings along to their customers with fewer fees and better APYs. Similarly, because credit unions are not-for-profit organizations owned by their members, they tend to pass their profits off to customers in the forms of lower fees and higher interest rates.
What is the age restriction for senior checking accounts?
The age restrictions for senior bank accounts depend on each bank and credit union that offers this type of account. They often range from a minimum age requirement of 55 to 62.
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