When you decide to get a checking account, here's what happens.

1. Go to the bank or credit union you've chosen. Bring the money you want to put into the checking account. Also bring a photo ID and your Social Security number or tax ID number. (If you are under 18, ask your parent or guardian to go with you, because the bank will probably require an adult's name on the account. Your parent or guardian also will need a photo ID and a Social Security number or tax ID number.)
2. Ask a banker to help you set up a checking account. The banker will fill out some paperwork and give you a checking account number.
3. The banker will deposit your money into your checking account.
4. The banker will order checks for you, and also may order you an ATM card and/or a debit card if you want them. While your checks are being printed and mailed to you, the bank may give you some temporary checks to start using right away.
5. The banker will give you a checkbook register. This is a booklet where you will write down how much money you have in your checking account, the amount of every check you write, and the amount of money you add (deposit) into the checking account.
6. The banker also might show you how you can go online to use your checking account, although you may need to be 18 to do this.
7. You can start using your checking account to buy things or to pay bills. The bank will take the money out of your checking account and send it to the person or company to whom you wrote the check (or gave the debit card).
8. Each month, the bank will send you a statement that shows all of the activity (deposits, checks cashed, etc.) on your account. Compare the bank's statement with your checkbook register and make sure they agree.
9. If you have any questions, ask the banker. Remember, it's your bank and your checking account. You're the customer!