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Kid's US Finance & Tax Guide
2. The Magic Piggy Bank/Checking Accounts
2. The Magic Piggy Bank Illustration
Syllabus Slides

Checking Accounts

01.Money on the Move

A checking account is designed for everyday spending. It's like a bucket of water with a tap. You put money in, and you take it out frequently to pay for things like groceries, gas, rent, and toys. The money in a checking account is always 'on the move.'

02.Debit Cards and Checks

When you open a checking account, the bank gives you a debit card. When you swipe this card at a store, the bank immediately pulls the exact cost of the item from your checking account. You can also write checks, which are paper instructions telling the bank to pay someone.

03.Don't Go Below Zero!

Since checking accounts are for spending, you have to be careful not to spend more than you have. If you have $50 and try to buy a $60 game, the card will be declined, or the bank will charge you a penalty fee called an overdraft fee. Always keep track of your balance!