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Opening a Bank Account

Carrying large amounts of cash is not safe. Using a bank in the U.S. will help make using your money safer and more reliable. Please note that banking information is generally considered to be private and should not be shared with unverified people.

Required Documents to Open a Bank Account

  1. Immigration Documents: I-20, I-94, Passport, Visa
  2. Proof of Address
    1. On Campus: Indiana Tech’s Residence Life
    2. Off Campus: Rental Agreement
  3. U.S. Dollars (to meet the minimum balance)

Types of Bank Accounts

There are two types of bank accounts:

Checking Account: This is a service provided by banks which allows individuals and businesses to deposit money and withdraw funds from a federally protected account. A checking account holder can use personal checks in place of cash to pay debts. He or she can also use electronic debit cards or ATM cards to access individual accounts or make cash withdrawals.

Savings Account: This is designed for saving money over a long period of time. Interest is paid on the balance of these accounts, but you typically cannot write checks on these accounts. You can however, open both accounts and transfer funds from savings to checking. Note that additional fees or stipulations may apply based on the bank.

Cards

There are also options for cards which are usually associated with a bank. These card types are:

  1. ATM or Debit Cards: These cards offer deposit and withdrawal service 24 hours a day through automated teller machines (ATM). ATMs are often located outside of banks. On campus, there is a STAR Financial ATM located in Andorfer Commons. Be aware that if you use an ATM that is not connected to your bank, you may be charged additional fees by your bank and the ATM’s bank. Also, you need to keep your personal identification number (PIN) associated with bankcards confidential so that only you have access to your account.
  2. Credit Cards: These convenient cards allow you to make purchases and to pay for them at a later date. There is typically an annual fee attached and you pay interest (usually 18%) on any unpaid balance. These charges can add up. Make sure you stay within your financial limits when making credit card purchases. Most bank credit cards require proof of financial responsibility such as good credit before issuing a credit card.
  3. Traveler’s Checks: Most banks also issue traveler’s checks, which are the safest way of carrying large sums of money when traveling. They are accepted in the place of cash nearly everywhere.

Common Banks in Fort Wayne

Please do your own research to find what bank will be the best for you based on location, availability and services provided. Below are links to the most common banks in the area:

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