Choose a Bank that has a wide network of branches, ATMs and offers an array of services. You can look up the bank’s website to find the information.
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Choose an account most suitable to your needs. It could be a Basic Savings account, EasyAccess Accounts, Women’s Savings Account, Youth Account, or a Joint savings account.
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Once you have decided on which type of Savings Account you want, you need to ask the Bank to open the Account for you.
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You can open a new Savings Account in two ways:–
1. Online at the Bank’s website
2. By visiting the nearest branch
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Opening an account online
It only takes a few minutes to register for a bank account online. Go to the Bank’s website and follow the simple steps outlined:
i. Fill the form
ii. Verify the details
iii. Get your Welcome Kit
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Opening an account at the Bank
You have to plan your visit during the bank’s business hours. Most banks operate from Monday to Friday from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm and on Saturdays, close at 1.30 pm. Banks observe holiday on Sundays and on other Public holidays.
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Confirm the kind of services that comes with the account you have chosen.
If you want to open a savings account where you can keep a low balance, ask if you have the option of a zero balance account.
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Keep your Documents Ready!
To open any savings account, you have to provide certain information to the bank. This information is required by all banks.
All applicants must provide the following documents
i. Two latest passport size photographs
ii. Address Proof (any one of the following)
i. Passport
ii. Ration Card
iii. Single utility bill within the last 3 months
iv. Letters from a recognized public authority verifying address
v. Gas connection registration letter
iii. ID Proof (any one of the following)
i. PAN Card
ii. Valid Passport
iii. Election Card
iv. Driving License
v. Photo Identity issued by Government/Defence Services/Public Servant verifying the identity and photograph of the applicant
In case your Mailing Address and the Permanent Address are different, address proof documents will be required for both.
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Deposit your opening amount.
Most banks require you to make a minimum amount deposit to open a new account. In some cases, the amount may be a higher amount of up to a few thousands Rupees or you may not need to make a deposit at all. Your opening amount may vary from Rs. 5000 to Rs. 25000.
You have to fill up a deposit slip to deposit your opening amount.
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Read, Understand and agree to Terms.
You can read the information available on the online portal to find out the terms and also ask questions, if any, when you visit the branch. Be clear and get all the answers you need on service charges, benefits and services available on the account. Keep in mind that there are different fees, reward plans and complimentary services with Premium savings accounts like Axis Priority as compared to an EasyAccess account or Youth Account.
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Sample signature
You will be asked to give a sample signature which will be used to operate your account at all times. You have to use this same signature whenever you sign a cheque or withdraw money from your account in future. You will have to make several signatures on the form and the Customer Adviser will show you how and where if you are at the Branch.
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Congratulations! You have successfully opened a Savings Account.
Once your form has been inspected and your documents are found correct, your account will be opened. You will get a welcome kit which includes important information about your account like your Customer Relationship Number, information leaflets and a cheque book.
You may receive a debit card immediately if you are at the Branch or in your mail some days after you submit your application.
In a few days, your secret pin number, internet banking PIN and phone banking PIN will be mailed to you and you just have to activate your card and change your PINs to get going.
You are now a valued bank customer and a proud Savings account holder.
Your days of saving and smart banking have begun with all your bank’s services clicks away and literally, in the palm of your hand.
Author Bio:
It’s All About Money is a leading personal finance blog in India which provides simple practical information about money, banking and managing finances. It’s All about Money tries to answer the what, why and how about money and everything around it.
One more important rule, a would-be customer should remember is, to open always any account/relationship with a bank (eg.SB,RD, TDR,STDR, Bank Locker or a Loan) in joint names only, not in single name. Idea behind this is, if the main account-holder is away from Head Quarters or meets with any accident, his family members should not be in a position to operate the account/locker, or in case of a demise, they have to produce a lot of papers to the Bank for claiming the funds of deceased. Either or Survivor, Both or Survivor, Latter or Survivor are some of the options the depositors can choose from. Lastly, do not forget to opt for nomination facility, which is another safe-guard in case both the account holders are in trouble. Do not forget that, after all, it is your hard earned money.