5 Tips to Open an Account from Home During COVID-19

 

Digital banking is a pandemic-safe way to fulfil financial needs. In fact, internet banking has gained enough credibility to help transfer funds, pay bills or simply watch your wealth grow without having to leave your home. India is among the top five countries, housing over 50% of the world’s ATMs. However, a dip in the number of these outlets indicates a rise in online banking trends. The whole process is handled over the web. You can simply fill in your details, including full name, mobile number and email address, to get started. But before opening a bank account, here are some tips to make the process hassle-free.

 

1.     Keep Documents Handy

The primary documents required to open an online savings account are Aadhaar Card and PAN Card. You might also need a few other important papers, like:

• Passport or Voter’s Identity Card as proof of identity and address
• Permanent Driving License with a valid photograph affixed
• A Job Card issued by the NREGA and signed by the appropriate authority
• A letter or card issued by the UIDAI·

Get in touch with the bank to know the initial deposit amount for opening the account successfully.

 

2.     Download the Mobile App

To conduct transactions from home with just a few taps, download the bank’s mobile application from Google Play or the App Store. Downloading the app allows you to navigate a host of services including opening bank account in three easy steps. Choose a bank that offers a safe interface which requires your username and password to function. The app can also connect to your smartwatch, which makes the process even more convenient and fast.

 

3.     Customer Care Service

You can conduct banking transactions from any part of the world by staying connected with the bank’s customer care executives. In case of any hiccups while opening a savings account or adding funds, get in touch with the call centre. You can raise a service request for multiple services. However, make sure the matter is urgent enough since most banks are working with limited staff due to COVID-19.

 

4.     Research Your Options 

A host of savings accounts are available, depending on your unique requirements. So, explore multiple options like women’s savings account, minor’s savings account, senior citizens account or facilities available in the bank’s rural branches, like Vishesh savings account. Read through the terms and conditions, learn more about the features, and check the bank savings interest rates to pick the best savings account for yourself.

  

5.     Check the Eligibility

Instead of walking to the nearest branch, check your eligibility online. Simply check the details on the bank’s official website, to know if you are a worthy candidate. Make sure the criterion is not complex, as this will ease the process and reduce the chances of rejection. Further, remember to maintain the minimum balance in your account. In case the amount is lower, you will have to pay for replacing debit cards or ATM transactions beyond the free limit.

Once the account is successfully opened, you could be eligible for reward points and vouchers. Check for other offers that the bank may launch from time to time.