ESLPodcast 50 - Cashing a Check

ESLPodcast 50 - Cashing a Check

I said, "Thank you!" and walked away. Now that I have some money burning a hole in my pocket, I guess I better spend it! (download mp3)

How To Avoid Being Charged Overdraft Fees

HowCast: How To Avoid Being Charged Overdraft Fees

Overdraft fees can take a big bite out of your checking account, so keep track of your finances and avoid future overdraft fees.

To complete this How-To you will need:

• An overdraft protection plan


• A savings account


• A credit card


• A checkbook register


• Balance alerts


• Extra money

Step 1: Choose the right bank
Choose a bank or credit union that provides their customers with overdraft protection.

Tip: Realize that banks and credit unions are competing for your business, so choose carefully.

Step 2: Link checking and savings
Sign up for an overdraft protection plan that links your checking account to your savings account or a credit card.

Step 3: Check account balance
Check your account balance frequently and keep track of your deposits and withdrawals in your checkbook register.

Tip: Don't forget about automatic electronic payments you may have set up with utilities, loans, health clubs, or other institutions.

Step 4: Get alerts
Have your bank e-mail or text balance alerts to your computer or phone to keep you informed of your balance.

Step 5: Keep extra money
Whenever possible, keep some extra money in your account to allow for mistakes and avoid overdraft fees.

Step 6: Review statements
Review your bank statements each month to see what checks or transactions have or have not cleared.

Step 7: Opt out of protection plans
Opt out of protection plans so that your debit card will be declined if there isn't enough money in your account to cover the transaction. It'll be embarrassing, but a little embarrassment is better than paying $35.00 for a cup of coffee.

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ESL Podcast 657 – Checking Accounts and Writing Checks

ESL Podcast 657 – Checking Accounts and Writing Checks

Marianne: I got a notice from the bank that two of my checks bounced. I’ve never had an overdraft in my life. (download mp3)

How To Write a Check

HOWCAST: How To Write a Check

Fill out checks correctly so that the bank and payee can clearly read them.

To complete this How-To you will need:

A personal check
A pen

Step 1: Fill in the date
Write the date on the line usually located at the top right of the check. Use the current date or a future date to post-date the check.

Step 2: Write in the payee
Write the name of the payee on the line next to the words "pay to the order of." This is the name of the person or business that will be receiving the check.

Step 3: Write in the numerical amount
Write the numerical dollar amount in the small box next to the dollar sign.

Tip: Write the dollar amount close to the left side of the box to prevent someone from adding an extra number to the amount.

Step 4: Write the amount in words
Write the dollar amount in words along the line next to the word "dollars." Then write a fraction for cents, with the number of cents over one hundred.

Tip: After the last word or fraction, draw a line all the way to the printed word "dollars." This will prevent anyone from adding more to the line.

Step 5: Sign the check
Sign the check on the line at the bottom right portion of the check. The check will be invalid if it isn't signed.

Step 6: Write a memo
Write a note on the memo line in the bottom left portion of the check. This is good for any additional information the payee may need, or to clarify the purpose of the check.

Thanks for watching How To Write a Check! If you enjoyed this video

ESL Podcast 537 – Types of Bank Accounts

ESL Podcast 537 – Types of Bank Accounts

Luiz: You'll also need to decide if you want an interest-earning account or not, and don't forget to ask for free checking. (download mp3)

Learn English:Banking, Checking, And Savings

EASY English: Learn English:Banking, Checking, And Savings

Learn English about the bank, checking and saving accounts and writing a check
a segment from our videos.

ESLPodcast 71 - Opening a Bank Account

During October and November,
we will be studying banking and finance for our EL Civics Objective.

ESLPodcast 71 - Opening a Bank Account

I decided to switch banks recently, and after looking at my options, I went for Mar Vista National Bank. (download mp3)