by judyatlarge

Created on: July 24, 2008   Last Updated: August 11, 2008

Online banking is one of the simplest, most time-saving, and convenient uses to which you can put your computer. No more lining up in banks, or writing checks that may or may not get lost in the mail. It's also very secure as long as you follow a few common-sense rules.

Step One
Call or visit your bank's most convenient branch and if you do not have an account there, make a deposit to set one up. Make careful note of your account number(s) as you will often need this for signing in to online banking. Make note of your bank branch's transit number, too. If you have checks, that will be the number farthest to the left. Your account number will be in the center. This will be of great value should you forget your login name and/or password as that information will help the bank be sure you are entitled to the information in your account

Step Two
Follow the bank's instructions for initiating your online access to whatever accounts you have with them.

Step Three:
You will be asked to select a password and a username. Your username may be your email address or something else you will remember and prefer to use for greater security. Choose a password that contains lower and uppercase letters, some numbers, and symbols. Do not use your birthdate, your mother's maiden name, the birthdates of your offspring or any other combination that can be easily guessed at even by people you believe you can trust.

Step Four
The bank will ask you to select from a group of security-enhancing questions. Choose one or two to which you are likely the only person who knows the answer. Examples are: What was the name of your first pet? Who was your favorite teacher? Who was your first teacher?. Who is your favorite author?. What was your father's middle name?

Step Five
Access the bank's web site and log on using the information you initially provided. The bank's site will provide you with an opportunity to indicate which accounts you want to access online if you have more than one.

Step Six
Set up your accounts, such as Visa, MasterCard, Internet Server, Electric Company, Telephone, and different department stores from which you regularly receive bills. Enter the account numbers for those debtors so the bank can disburse your funds correctly. Select from which of your bank account the funds are to be debited. You can create settings that allow you to automatically pay certain bills at certain times, chosen by you, in amounts also chosen by you. Equally simple is choosing the bill(s) you want

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