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    FACTS

    • Over 100 bank and credit union branches are participating in Bank on California.
    • People spend over $35 million a year at check cashers and payday lenders.
    • Nationwide, an estimated 20 million Americans are unbanked.
    • Without a bank account, the average person will spend 5 percent of their income at check cashers each year.

    WHY DO I NEED AN ACCOUNT?

    If you rely on expensive check-cashing services, now you have a great alternative. Bank on Orange County has partnered with local banks and credit unions to offer low-cost accounts. Even if you have never opened an account before, have had problems with an account in the past, or need a low-cost account, Bank on Orange County wants to help you open an account with a bank or credit union and begin saving for the future.

    IT SAVES YOU MONEY
    Using check cashers may seem more convenient than having a checking account at a bank. But these services cost a lot more than a checking account. Check-cashing stores charge you up to 5 percent of the check amount. Cash a $250 check and pay 5 percent, or $12.50. To cash two paychecks a month, you may pay more than five times as much in fees than you would at a bank with a regular checking account. And, since money orders can cost as much as $3 per order, your costs could really add up.

    Our partner banks and credit unions offer low-cost accounts, and most have free bill pay or even free money orders!

    IT'S SAFE
    Without a bank account, you and your family could lose your money during an emergency, like an earthquake or a fire. You also have no safe place to keep your money, and may become a victim of robbery or theft. Money deposited in a bank or credit union is protected by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.

    IT'S CONVENIENT
    With a checking account, you can deposit your checks and access your money for little or no cost. You can save money by paying bills with checks, on the Internet, or by direct debit, and avoid paying for money orders. You can use your debit card to make purchases at stores or to withdraw money from ATMs across the city, reducing the need to carry cash. You can also keep track of your spending on the Internet, by phone, or at the ATM.

    IT HELPS YOU SAVE FOR THE FUTURE 
    Without a bank account, it is much more difficult to save your money to reach long-term goals, such as buying a home, starting a business, or investing in your or your childs education. Studies show that people with bank accounts are more likely to save and move up the economic ladder to financial security.