by Feature08

Created on: July 23, 2008   Last Updated: August 11, 2008

Now that you've overcome the fear of having your personal information out in cyberspace, it's time to take advantage of the benefits that online banking has to offer. Online banking is secure, eliminates paperwork, saves time, reduces errors, provides instant access to bank records, and, it's easy.

Security
To get started, go to the bank website of your choice. Before you do anything, select the privacy and security link to read firsthand, how the bank plans on securing your financial information against the prying eyes and bank accounts of others.

In a nutshell, legitimate banks make guarantees that demonstrate trust in their chosen technology and commit themselves to 100% recovery of your funds and financial record, should the online security system fail.

For added assurance, request as many alerts as necessary to stay on top of your account.

Getting Started
Since most banks already have an internet presence, you can get started with an account you already own, or open a new one online. For already established accounts, select the online banking option on the bank's website, input your personal and banking information as directed, and you are on your way.

For new accounts, select the open an account link, input your personal information as directed, wait a few days until your account confirmation or check card arrives in the mail, and you too are on your way.

Direct Deposit
One of the most convenient tools provided by online banking is direct deposit. Direct deposit guarantees delivery of your paycheck first thing the morning of, or before close of business the day prior to your scheduled pay date. It also eliminates problems associated with manual checks such as finding the time to have it cashed.

Employers themselves offer this, and with a copy of a canceled check to ensure your routing and account numbers are correct, you can get it started as soon as your next pay cycle.

If not, taking the time out to request this through your bank will be well worth it direct deposit guarantees delivery of your paycheck first thing the morning of, or before close of business the day prior to your scheduled pay date. You need only provide your employers payroll address and the bank will do the rest.

Bill Pay
With regular, on time deposits to your account, the next step is to arrange regular, on time payments of your bills. Under the bill pay options, select your first payee from among the list of available payees. Have your account number handy, and in the event your payee is not

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