The main difference between checking and savings accounts is that checking accounts are primarily for accessing your money for daily use while savings accounts are primarily for saving money. Checking accounts are considered “transactional,” meaning that they allow you to access your money when and where you need it. While both allow you to access your money, you may consider it easier to do so with checking accounts. Since these accounts are designed to give you easy access to your cash, they often come with debit cards, checks, and even offer digital payment options. In contrast, savings accounts have a limit on the number of withdrawals you can make each month.

    While checking accounts are convenient for daily cash needs, it’s important to remember that they may be age restricted. Most banks won’t allow people under the age of 18 to open a checking account without a parent or legal guardian as a co-owner of the account. Before opening a checking account, make sure that its terms fit your financial needs and your lifestyle.

    When it comes to setting aside money for a longterm need or goal, you should consider a savings account. Savings accounts are designed to hold money over a long period of time to help you save for larger goals (rather than everyday purchases). As your money stays in the account, it will accrue interest and grow over time. This means that you will need to visit your bank, set up a transfer online, or make an ATM withdrawal to access your money.

    Keeping some of your money in a savings account is a great way to set it aside for emergencies or large purchases – its limited access will keep you from spending it on day-to-day necessities. There are also dedicated savings accounts for kids, though a parent or guardian is usually required as a joint owner.

(Adapted from: https://www.santanderbank.com/personal/resources/checkingsavings/difference-between-checking

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