Why Every Teen Needs a Checking Account–And How Altabank Makes It Easy

3/7/25  | Kinsey Love, Digital Marketing Manager

 

Graduating high school, landing that first summer job, or managing your own money for the first time is a huge milestone. It's an exciting time of newfound independence and responsibility, and one of the best ways to start on the right financial foot is by opening your own checking account.

At Altabank, we make it easy and stress-free for students and young adults to take control of their finances with Totally Free Checking—a hassle-free account with no minimum opening deposit, no monthly fees, and no complicated requirements. Whether you're earning your first paycheck or budgeting for college expenses, this account is designed to help you manage your money efficiently and without extra stress.

 

Why Teens Need a Checking Account

1. Get Paid with Ease – If you have a summer job or part-time gig, your employer will likely offer direct deposit. A checking account ensures you get paid quickly and securely, without the hassle of cashing paper checks.
2. Learn Financial Responsibility – Managing a checking account teaches you essential money skills like tracking your spending, setting aside savings, and avoiding overdrafts.
3. Convenient Digital Banking – With Altabank’s online and mobile banking, you can check your balance, transfer money, and deposit checks right from your phone.
4. Debit Card for Everyday Use – A checking account comes with a debit card, making it easy to pay for food, gas, and other daily expenses without carrying cash. You can even choose a custom high school mascot image for your card!

 

Totally Free Checking – The Perfect Start for Students &  Young Adults

Altabank’s Totally Free Checking is the ideal first account because it eliminates the typical fees that can make banking complicated. Here’s what you get:

• No minimum opening deposit – Start your financial journey without worrying about upfront costs.
• No monthly minimum balance requirements – No need to stress about keeping a certain balance.
• No monthly maintenance fees – Keep more of your hard-earned money.*
• Online and mobile banking access – Manage your money anytime, anywhere.
• Free Visa® Debit Card – Secure and convenient payments without cash.

 

Get Paid for Your Good Grades!

Altabank believes in rewarding students for academic excellence through our Pay Day for Grades program. If you’re a student with a checking or savings account at Altabank, you can earn $3 for every A or A- on your report card! It’s a great way to stay motivated in school while also building your savings.

Whether you’re heading off to college, working your first job, or just ready to take control of your own money, a checking account is a must-have. With Altabank’s Totally Free Checking and Pay Day for Grades program, managing your money has never been easier—or more rewarding! Check out the details at 

Visit your nearest Altabank branch or check out Altabank.com to open your account today!

 

*Unless specified otherwise, customer purchases checks. Other fees such as overdraft, continuous overdraft, etc. may apply. See fee schedule for details.