Steps to Take to Not Be Overdrawn at the Bank
- 1). Open a savings account or line of credit at your bank. Request that your bank link your savings account or your line of credit to your checking account for overdraft protection. With overdraft protection, the bank will transfer money from your savings account or line of credit into your checking account whenever you overspend. You may have to pay a per-transaction fee for this service.
- 2). Fund your savings account with enough money to protect you in the event of an overdraft.
- 3). Track any deposits or withdrawals in your checking account. Mark each deposit down in your check register, including checks, wire transfers and direct deposits. Write down the date and type of deposit in the appropriate lines. Write down the total deposit in the "Plus" column on your check register.
- 4). Write down every withdrawal from your checking account, including checks, ATM withdrawals and debit card purchases. Write down the date of each purchase or payment and the type of payment on the "Subject" lines. Write down the total amount for the purchase or payment in the "Negative" column on your check register.
- 5). Subtract every withdrawal from your total available balance to keep an accurate account of the funds you have available in your checking account. Add in any deposits as you make them.
- 6). Visit your bank's website and complete the form to sign up for online banking. Log in to check the available balance and pending transactions in your checking account frequently to ensure you do not spend more than you have available in your checking account.
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