Banks are in business to make money, and all banks are a little different. Before you choose a bank, you should shop around and see which bank is going to offer you the best service.

How to shop for a bank

Is your bank friendly to youth?

Don’t just call banks and ask these questions. Go to each bank you are considering and talk with the person in charge of opening new accounts. See how comfortable you feel in the bank and how friendly the employees act toward customers. Do they answer questions quickly and accurately? Are they willing to give more details if you don’t understand something? Do they seem interested in having your business?

High school and college age customers are important to most financial institutions. A survey by the American Bankers Association shows that over 86% of large banks (those with assets over $1 billion) offer student/youth checking accounts. Even 55% of the small banks (those with assets under $300 million) offer special accounts for youth. Students should also check with their parents’ banks — there are often special benefits or rates for those who bank on the “family plan.”