From credit cards and home loans, to investing accounts and hedge funds, there are dozens of different types of financial accounts out there. Each type of account comes with its own rules, policies and norms. To better understand basic types of financial accounts, read on.
Home Loan Accounts
Maybe you’re waiting for qualification on a mortgage preapproval or have even already had a home loan pre-approval. If you’re planning to become a new borrower, there’s no better time to brush up on the types of financial accounts available to you. As you navigate the preapproval process, it’s a good idea to take an inventory of where you’re at financially. Looking at bank statements, current banking policies, financial services and even investments will help you better manage your monthly payment when your mortgage goes through.
Home loan accounts are perhaps one of the most important that you’ll ever sign up for. As a borrower, you’re making an agreement with a lender to pay back a substantial amount of money in exchange for the ability to own your residence outright. Home loans come with various terms and obligations including fixed or adjustable interest rates. Before signing any home loan agreement, work with your real estate agent or financial advisor to make sure that you’ll be able to keep up with monthly payments and avoid foreclosure. Even if you already have a preapproval letter, it’s important to read the fine print before making that bid and signing up for a mortgage loan account.
Investment Accounts
You don’t have to be a licensed broker to sign up for an investment account. Whether you’re interested in learning how to become a trader on Wall Street or not, signing up for an investment account is relatively easy. The first step should be a quick Google search for investment accounts with little to no fees. You can also sign up for an investment account through your employer if they offer a retirement portfolio. The easiest way to approach investing if you’re new to trading is to meet with a financial advisor who can talk you through the basics of electronic trading. Doing your own research will matter, too.
Investment accounts may seem complicated but they’re actually pretty straightforward. A great way to build money for retirement or to save for something like a new home; you simply put your money toward a company or stock you believe in and make money off the dividends as the value in them grows. The downside to this type of account is that, depending on your trading strategy, you could lose money, if the stock value dips.
Insurance and Other Services
Car, pet, life, travel, homeowners, and health coverage are just a few of the many types of insurance accounts out there. Maybe you’re doing all that you can with accomodating a cat with disabilities. Opening a pet insurance account works the same way a health insurance account does for people. You pay in a monthly amount and the insurance company provides reimbursement for veterinarian bills.
Insurance needs vary for different people depending on their lifestyles and personal choices. However, these accounts are very important for protecting your overall financial security. One car accident, serious illness, or robbery can seriously jeopardize every account that you have. If you’re not sure what type of insurance accounts you need, call a qualified insurance sales agent in your area.
Personal Savings and Checking Accounts
Most people are familiar with traditional savings and checking accounts. It’s nearly impossible to function financially without these as an adult. The key to finding the right checking and savings account or bank for your personal savings is to look at interest rates, customer service, and your ability to complete transactions. Keeping an eye on your account activity and reassessing the perks to your account is an important thing for your overall financial health.
At the end of the day, understanding ways to use basic financial accounts is important to your overall financial wellness. The best way to start is with basic savings and checking accounts. As you move toward more complicated ways of navigating finances, consider hiring a financial advisor or working with licensed agents and brokers to improve your financial situation as you go. Don’t make the mistake of replacing your own knowledge of finances with that of an expert. Do your own research too, as the more financially savvy you are, the bigger the payoff will be in the long run. Knowing what’s best for you will go a long way in helping you to reach your financial goals sooner.
