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Open an Account
Why You Should Open an Account
There are several reasons to open an account. It keeps your money secure and can save you money from check cashing and money wire transfer businesses. It can help you take advantage of tools to manage your money and monitor your spending. And if you are eligible for an Economic Impact Payment or IRS tax refund, you can get the payment faster with direct deposit.
If you need help understanding your options or opening an account, speak with an NYC Financial Empowerment Center counselor for free.
Jump to secton to learn more about:
NYC SafeStart Account
Participating NYC SafeStart Account Partners
Additional Banking Options: IDNYC and BankOn Partners
Additional Resources
NYC SafeStart Account
Participating NYC SafeStart Account Partners
Additional Banking Options: IDNYC and BankOn Partners
Additional Resources
NYC SafeStart Account
The NYC SafeStart Account is a savings account for all New Yorkers. Features:
- NO overdraft fees
- NO monthly fees, provided minimum balances are met
- LOW minimum balance requirements ($25 or less)
- ATM card (No debit card)
Participating NYC SafeStart Account Partners
Important:
- You can open an NYC SafeStart Account at participating bank and credit union branches. Branches may have limited hours due to the COVID-19 crisis, so we urge you to call before visiting a location.
- These banks also offer other basic accounts that you can apply online to open. However, these accounts may not have all the features of an NYC SafeStart Account.
| NYC SafeStart Account Partners | Website | Telephone |
|---|---|---|
| Amalgamated Bank | amalgamatedbank.com | 800-662-0860 |
| Carver Federal Savings Bank | carverbank.com | 718-230-2900 |
| Lower East Side People’s Federal Credit Union | lespeoples.org | 212-529-8197 |
| M&T Bank | mtb.com | 800-724-2440 |
| Neighborhood Trust Federal Credit Union | neighborhoodtrustfcu.org | 212-740-0900 |
| Popular | popularbank.com | 800-377-0800 |
| Ridgewood Savings Bank | ridgewoodbank.com | 718-240-4778 |
| Spring Bank | spring.bank | 718-879-5000 |
Additional Banking Options: IDNYC and BankOn Partners
You can also open an account at an institution that accepts IDNYC as a primary form of ID, or opt for a BankOn-certified account with online opening features.
- Visit on.nyc.gov/idnycbanks for a list of IDNYC banks and credit unions offering accounts.
- Visit covidbanking.joinbankon.org for information about opening an account online that is BankOn-certified.
Additional Resources
Learn more about our Do More With Your Money Tip Sheets including:
Open a Checking Account | Understand Prepaid Cards | Consider a 529 Plan