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Online savings accounts seem like a great deal, but despite the potential perks, there are some downsides to online savings accounts that you must be aware of. At first glance, stashing your money online seems like a great deal. The interest rates are higher than at your local bank or credit union than you will get at a traditional bank, not to mention that opening an account in your pajamas is always attractive. So, with these great perks and benefits, you might be wondering exactly what the pitfalls can be for the uninformed.
Here are a few questions for you to answer:
Are There Restrictions on My Cash?
Online savings accounts actually have the same restrictions as all other savings accounts in that the federal government limits you to six withdrawals a month. Unfortunately, most people don't realize this until they use up the allotted six transactions. This can be a huge drawback for people who may need to access their cash on a regular basis.
Remember, however, that the purpose of your online savings account is to save money, and these withdrawal limits encourage you to do just that. While that is a definite potential downside, it also could be viewed as a nice little reminder to leave your money in the online savings account where you put it, and watch it grow.
What are the Account Restrictions?
You may be excited about opening an account, but don't forget to read the fine print. Some online savings accounts will not permit you to even open an account unless you have a certain minimum balance.
What's even more inconvenient is the minimum balance requirement, which some banks require you to have in your account. If your average balance dips below that set level, you can be face with fees, a lowering or your interest rate, or even account closure.
Are There Physical Locations?
The lack of a physical bank location may seem like a blessing when it is 2 AM and you want to do some financial transactions, or after you've waited in line and dealt with one too many surly tellers and the customer in front of you in the bank line wanting $100 in quarters while you wait your turn.
However, the lack of a physical bank branch can be a huge downside to online banking for those who need a lot of interaction.
First, there may be no one for you to turn to for help. Customer service for online banks is often restricted to emails, online chats and phone calls. Phone reps are hopefully helpful, but of course there is no guarantee that the voice on the other end of the line will be able to answer your questions or alleviate account concerns. (Learn about the history of online banks)
Furthermore, since there is no physical bank location, some accounts don't have readily available ATM access.
To make sure you don't get caught off guard, understand how the online account that you are opening handles this process. Do you have to send a check? Can you transfer the money wirelessly from your online savings account to an account that you have physical access to? If so, is there a fee charged?
Finally, make sure you know how long the process takes from requesting your cash to receiving your cash. If you are keeping your emergency money in an online savings account it might not make sense if it takes one week or more to actually receive the money. Again, since this is a savings account, you should not need to make continuous withdrawals. Still, it is useful to know what the process entails should the need arise.
Do the Research to Decide What is Best For You
Ultimately, the issue of whether an online bank account is right for you depends on your comfort level. If you prefer to exist in an online world and are comfortable with the terms offered by online savings banks, online accounts can be a great investment opportunity for you.
Just ensure that you really evaluate all aspects of the decision, including the potential downside before being blinded by the larger-than-local interest rates.