Farmers & Merchants Bancorp Inc.

11/21/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/21/2024 12:20

Essential Perks of Modern Checking Accounts

Have you ever thought about what makes a checking account modern? Most checking accounts offer online and mobile banking, some sort of overdraft protection, and may even provide a small financial reward for keeping your account in good standing. However, a truly modern and competitive checking account can provide so much more than that. Some banks offer checking accounts with added perks like discounts to local businesses, cell phone protection, roadside assistance, and more. These added perks make a checking account stand out and the added convenience they provide are what makes the account truly modern. Whether you're looking for convenience, security, or added benefits, modern checking accounts offer a variety of features that can be customized to your daily needs. It's time for you to expect more from your checking account.

What do You Value in a Checking Account?

It's important to think about what features matter most to you when selecting a checking account. Do you prioritize having easy access to a vast network of fee-free ATMs, or perhaps you're more focused on opening an account with minimal or no monthly maintenance fees. Some people may look for accounts that offer cash-back rewards on everyday purchases, providing a little extra incentive to spend wisely. You may value checking accounts that provide you with added convenience that go beyond financial benefits. By identifying your priorities, you can find a checking account that not only meets your everyday banking needs, but also aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle.

Discounts to Local Businesses

Did you know that there are checking accounts that can give you great discounts at local businesses? This perk can turn a lot of your favorite activities, like dining, shopping, and entertainment into a more affordable night out. Imagine getting a discount at your favorite restaurant or a new local boutique-pretty nice, right? Not only do these deals help you save money, but they also support small businesses in your community.

Many banks team up with local shops and services to offer exclusive discounts for their account holders. This means you could save on things like gym memberships, wellness services, or even tickets to local theater shows and concerts. Over time, these savings add up and make your checking account feel even more valuable. Plus, accessing these discounts is usually super easy-often just a few taps on your bank's app or website. So, when you're comparing checking accounts, keep your eyes peeled for those local perks.

Cell Phone Protection

Smartphones are such an important part of our lives and keeping them safe is key to making sure our day goes smoothly! Some checking accounts even offer built-in cell phone protection plans. These plans can cover damage, theft, or loss of your phone, saving you the hassle and cost of buying a separate plan.

With this benefit, your checking account helps you manage your banking and your phone protection all in one place. In addition to covering repair and theft charges, some plans might even cover accessories like chargers and phone cases, which is a nice bonus! This is especially great for families with multiple phones, giving everyone peace of mind and coverage at a lower cost.

Roadside Assistance

Unexpected car troubles are the bane of every driver's existence. That's why some checking accounts offer a fantastic perk: roadside assistance! This service can be a real lifesaver if you find yourself stuck with a flat tire, dead battery, or maybe you even told yourself you had enough gas to get to work as the needle teetered on empty. Either way, roadside assistance can provide you with a sense of reassurance on the road.
Roadside assistance typically covers towing, jump-starts, fuel delivery, tire changes, and even lockout help. With this feature, you can drive with confidence, knowing that help is just a call away, no matter the time of day or night. This is especially handy for long commutes or fun road trips!

Instead of buying a separate roadside assistance plan, having it included with your checking account can simplify your memberships and save you money. It's a practical way to add some extra security to your driving experience. Just be sure to check the terms and conditions to see what's covered and if there are any limits.

Identity Theft Protection

In today's digital world, keeping your personal information safe is top priority and can require some vigilance as well. There are checking accounts out there that offer identity theft protection, which can help you stay ahead of potential threats. This feature often includes credit monitoring, which checks your credit reports for any unusual activity. If something suspicious happens, like unexpected transactions or new accounts, you'll get alerts so you can act quickly and keep your money safe.

If your identity is ever compromised, these services can connect you with specialists who can help you sort things out. They can guide you through restoring your credit and recovering any lost funds, which can be a huge relief. Some accounts even reimburse you for expenses related to identity theft, like legal fees or lost wages.

Identity theft protection may also come with extra security features like two-factor authentication and fraud detection, which add even more protection for your personal and financial information. Plus, some accounts monitor public records and the dark web for your info, giving you extra peace of mind.

Billshark

Keeping track of bills and subscriptions can become a real headache! That's where services like Billshark come in. Some banks offer checking accounts with bill negotiation services to help you save money on your monthly expenses. With services like Billshark, professionals negotiate with your service providers to get you better rates on things like cable, internet, and insurance.

The great part? You don't have to do any of the negotiating yourself! Billshark scans your current bills to find potential savings and then reaches out to negotiate discounts for you. Plus, they only charge a fee based on the savings they secure, so you don't pay unless you save money!

Billshark can also help you keep track of your subscriptions and even cancel any you don't need or use anymore, which can really help trim your expenses. By adding a bill negotiation service to your checking account, you can make managing your costs much simpler.

Put your Checking Account to Work

Having a checking account with perks can make your banking experience so much more rewarding. With benefits like local shopping discounts, cell phone protection, roadside assistance, identity theft protection, and Billshark, you can go through your day with reassurance that some of the basics are already covered. Ready to save money on the things you're already paying for? Check out our Bundler Checking Account. You'll enjoy all the features of a checking account you expect, with exclusive benefits and savings such as those mentioned above at your fingertips.

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