Can you have two checking accounts at the same bank? (2024)

Ben Luthi

Updated 5 min read

Having multiple checking accounts can make it easier to organize your finances, but managing your money across different banks and credit unions can complicate things. So, can you have two checking accounts at the same bank? Generally, yes. Here's what you need to know and whether opening multiple checking accounts is a good idea.

Understanding checking accounts

A checking account is a type of deposit account that you can use for everyday money management. It's generally used as a hub for all of your financial activity. You'll receive deposits from your employer, which you can then use to pay bills, make debt payments, and make everyday financial transactions.

Checking accounts offer easy access to your money via a debit card, personal checks, ATMs, and online transfers. They're generally risk-free, and in rare cases, they may even offer rewards in the form of cash back on your debit card purchases or a high interest rate on your balances.

In most cases, however, they don't offer interest, and some banks charge monthly fees and fees for overdraft protection and other services.

Can you have two checking accounts at the same bank?

Each bank has its own policies for how many accounts you can have. But in general, having more than one checking account with the same bank is possible.

For example, you may choose to have an individual account plus a joint account with a partner or teenage child. It can also be a good idea if you've started a business and want to separate your personal and business expenses.

Check with your bank to learn about the process for opening a second checking account. While some allow you to open another account online and link it to your online banking, others may require you to contact them or open the account in person.

Reasons for having multiple checking accounts

There are several good reasons to consider opening more than one checking account. Here are some of the advantages to consider:

  • Better organization of funds: If you're on your own, you may not need to have more than one checking account. But if you have a partner or a teenager, using multiple checking accounts can help you better organize your finances, budget, and track expenses between multiple people.

  • Separation of personal and business expenses: Even if you're running a sole proprietorship, opening a second checking account is crucial for maintaining proper expense tracking, especially for tax season. Keeping personal and business expenses in the same account will make it difficult to know which ones you can deduct on your business tax return.

  • Easier tracking of expenses and budgeting: Using multiple checking accounts could potentially help you better track and budget for specific expenses. For example, you could have one checking account specifically for debt payments, another for recurring expenses, and another for discretionary funds.

  • Easier access: Many online banks don't have physical branches, so it can be tough to deposit cash. If you prefer the features of an online bank but need to make cash deposits now and then, you may consider opening a second account with a bank that has local branches where you live.

Potential drawbacks of having multiple checking accounts

While there are some clear advantages to using more than one checking account to manage your money, there are also some downsides to keep in mind:

  • Extra fees and expenses: If your bank charges a monthly fee, there's typically a way you can get it waived. But if you spread your income and expenses across multiple checking accounts, it may be harder to meet the eligibility criteria for each account. One way to combat this is to pick a bank that doesn't charge monthly service fees.

  • Difficulty in managing multiple accounts: While using multiple checking accounts can simplify your finances in some ways, it can make things more complicated in others. Unless you use budgeting software to keep track of all of your accounts and transactions in one place, it can be difficult to manage all of your accounts and stay organized.

  • Increased risk of overdrafts: Spreading your money across multiple accounts means that you have less funds in each account. Even if you have a system in place to keep track of each account, you're still at risk of overdrafts, which can be costly.

Alternatives to multiple checking accounts

If you're unsure about using multiple checking accounts to manage your money, here are some potential alternatives to consider:

  • Online banking tools: Many banks offer budgeting and expense-tracking tools that can help you improve your financial management. Check with your bank to see what's available. If your bank doesn't offer financial tools, consider switching to a financial institution that does.

  • Budgeting apps: Budgeting apps can offer a host of features to help you better manage your money. Some even allow you to link multiple financial accounts and import transactions from each one, so you can manage everything in one place. Not all budgeting apps are created equal, however, so it can take some time and research to find the right one for you.

  • High-yield savings accounts: If you have specific savings goals you want to work toward, having one or more high-yield savings accounts could be a better approach. Some banks also allow you to open multiple savings accounts, making it easier to track each goal separately. What's more, you can earn a high interest rate on your balances.

As you think about your situation and goals, take your time to research all of your options to find the best strategy for you.

Can you have two checking accounts at the same bank? (2024)

FAQs

Can you have two checking accounts at the same bank? ›

Yes, you can have multiple checking accounts at the same bank. If you opt for more than one checking account, having them at the same bank can help simplify your finances. You can likely link your accounts and see everything in one place when you log in online.

Can you have 2 checking accounts on the same bank account? ›

Each bank has its own policies for how many accounts you can have. But in general, having more than one checking account with the same bank is possible. For example, you may choose to have an individual account plus a joint account with a partner or teenage child.

Can you open 2 bank accounts with the same bank? ›

Can I open two Savings Accounts in the same bank? Yes, you can open two Savings Accounts in the same bank. Many banks allow multiple accounts. But, you must check with your specific bank for their policies and the number of accounts you can open in their bank.

Can I open two current accounts with the same bank? ›

Some banks might allow you to open two current accounts, while others do not - but you can still open a joint account. Is there a limit to how many bank accounts you can have? Legally you can have as many bank accounts as you like - as long as you meet the bank's criteria and you can keep track of them all!

Does having multiple checking accounts hurt your credit? ›

Credit scores aren't affected by how many bank accounts you have. Multiple bank accounts are only bad for your credit if you repeatedly pass bad checks and those checks go to collections.

Should I keep all my money in one bank? ›

Keeping all of your money in one bank can be convenient. But it's important to consider whether you're getting the best rates on savings and paying the lowest fees for checking accounts. It's possible that you could get a better deal by keeping some of your money at a different bank.

Can you move money from one checking account to another checking account? ›

Key Takeaways. You can transfer money between banks through your financial institution's website or app. Several U.S. banks also offer the Zelle platform. You may want to use a wire transfer if you're sending a large amount of money.

Can I have 2 accounts in a bank? ›

While the rules may vary depending on the bank, the short answer is generally yes, you can have multiple checking accounts with the same bank. However, there are some important things to keep in mind before you decide to open a second account, such as fees, interest rates, and account requirements.

Is it smart to have two bank accounts? ›

It can be beneficial to have multiple bank accounts. At minimum, it's a good idea to have a checking account (for your spending money and for paying bills) and a savings account. If you want to save for the short term and the long term, or have different savings goals, consider setting up multiple savings accounts.

How many bank accounts should a single person have? ›

While there's no limit to how many Savings Accounts you can have, there are a few things to consider before signing up for more than one. According to financial experts, it isn't advisable to open more than three Savings Accounts, as it can be difficult to manage.

How many bank accounts can I open at the same time? ›

There's no limit on the number of checking accounts you can open, whether you have them at traditional banks, credit unions or online banks.

Is there a downside to having multiple current accounts? ›

Opening too many can affect your credit score

Every time you open an account, it is recorded on your credit history. Applying for too many bank accounts, particularly during a short period of time, whether you have been accepted or not, can have a negative impact on your credit score.

Is there a limit to how many bank accounts you can have? ›

There is no limit on the number of bank accounts, whether they're checking, savings or any other, an individual can hold.

Is it bad to have two checking accounts with the same bank? ›

Yes, you can have multiple checking accounts at the same bank. If you opt for more than one checking account, having them at the same bank can help simplify your finances. You can likely link your accounts and see everything in one place when you log in online.

How much money do they recommend keeping in your checking account? ›

The general rule of thumb is to try to have one or two months' of living expenses in it at all times. Some experts recommend adding 30 percent to this number as an extra cushion.

Does closing a bank account hurt your credit? ›

The act of closing a bank account, such as a checking or savings account, does not directly affect your credit score. Your credit score is not directly affected by your checking and savings account activity. That includes account closures.

Can I have two debit cards for the same account? ›

Can a bank issue two debit cards for the same account and charge an annual fee for both? Yes not just two but you can get even more debit cards on the same account, But at the same time it is also necessary to keep in mind that only one type of card can be issued on a single account.

Can I have a joint account and a single account in the same bank? ›

Some joint account holders also have a single single account. This can be used for achieving single financial goals, managing individual finances or other situations.

Can two bank accounts have the same account number? ›

The account number is different for every account holder; no two banks will have the same account number. For segregation, banks use different codes at the beginning of the account number. In India, public sector banks have their pattern and usually follow an 11 digit pattern.

Can you have two savings accounts at the same bank? ›

Key Takeaways

Having multiple savings accounts can help you keep track of various savings goals. Consider how many accounts you're comfortable managing when deciding if you should open more savings accounts. You can have multiple savings accounts with one bank or spread them across several institutions.

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