Do Consumers Really Need A Checking Account?
There are many out there that are considered the “unbanked” consumer, and I wonder if it is because they choose to be that way or they are not able to obtain a bank account? However, is there a scenario where more people should become “unbanked” because the cost of having a traditional checking account for instance is a lot higher than other alternatives? Some say that the better alternative for those that carry very low balances on their checking account is to have a pre paid credit card. This often times works just like a checking account, however the fees related to this type of account are far less than maintaining a checking account. Reuters.com reports that the average person who has to maintain a checking account pays between $218 and $314 a year, whereas a person with a pre paid credit card is paying between $76 and $261. For someone that is maintaining such a small balance that amount of difference is a BIG deal.
Bottom line- traditional banks are not your only option with regards to paying your bills and maintaining your money. Look at online banks and other options like pre paid credit cards and compare the fees they charge to maintain your own money.



