A checking account allows you to deposit, withdraw, send money and make purchases online and in-person. Use this account whenever you need to use your money right away.
Banks and Financial Institutions
As you settle into life in Athens, it's essential to set up a bank account with a local financial institution. Having a local account is a great way to eliminate foreign transaction fees and easily pay your living expenses.
Additionally, if you work as a graduate assistant or hold a student hourly job and provide the University with your information, they can deposit any wages you may earn directly into your bank account.
To help you get started, the International Student and Scholar Services team has compiled helpful information, definitions and a list of local banks.
Types of Bank Accounts
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Checking Account
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Savings Account
A savings account is a great way to save for a big purchase or ensure that you're prepared for an emergency. Many banks allow you to connect your savings account to your checking account so you can easily transfer money if you need to access it quickly. Additionally, you may be able to earn a small amount of interest on your money as you save over time.
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Credit Card
A credit card is helpful when you need to make a purchase now and pay it off later or make a series of payments over time with interest. By making your payments on time, you can build your credit score. While building your credit is valuable, it is very easy to get into debt — so beware! As an international student, some banks may allow you to open a credit card account with a prepaid initial deposit.
Important Bank Terms
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Deposits
A deposit is the act of placing cash, checks, money orders, etc. into your account.
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Withdrawals
The act of removing money in the form of cash, checks, etc. from any of your accounts.
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Purchases
The act of buying a good or paying for daily essentials with money from any of your accounts.
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Transfers
The act of moving money between your accounts. For example, moving money from your checking to savings or vice versa.
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Bank Statement
A record of your monthly transactions that shows the balance of funds in your account on a specific date and all your transactions.
Banking Options in Athens, Ohio
Before going to a local bank to open an account, it's a great idea to confirm what documents the bank requires you to bring. Going to the bank prepared will help make the process smoother.
While the ISSS team strives to keep our resources updated, this list may not be comprehensive of all local financial institutions.
Chase Bank
| Locations | Phone Number(s) |
|---|---|
| 2 S. Court St. | 740.592.0383 |
| 920 E. State St. | 740.592.3126 |
| 420-424 Richland Ave. | 740.592.3128 |
Required Documents
- Passport
- I-20 or DS2019
First National Bank
Location
1012 E. State St.
Phone Number
Required Documents
- Passport with visa stamp
- I-20 or DS2019
- Social Security Number
Hocking Valley Bank
| Locations | Phone Number(s) |
|---|---|
| 2649 W. Stimson Ave. | 740.592.4441 |
| 23 S. Court St. | |
| 368 Richland Ave. |
Required Documents
- Passport
- Social Security Number
Merchants National Bank
Location
20 E. Stimson Ave.
Phone Number
Required Documents
- Passport with visa stamp
- Social Security Number
OUCU Financial
| Locations | Phone Number(s) |
|---|---|
| 90 S. Shafer St. | 740.597.2800 |
| 944 E. State St. | |
| 12 W. Union St. |
Required Documents
- Passport
- I-20 or DS2019
- Foreign Tax Identification Number (FTIN)
- Social Security Number
Peoples Bank
| Locations | Phone Number(s) |
|---|---|
| 1 N. Court St. | 740.597.2003 |
| 801 E. State St. | 740.597.2006 |
Required Documents
- Passport
- I-20 or DS2019
- OHIO Student ID
WesBanco
Location
505 Richland Ave.
Phone Number
Required Documents
- Passport
- OHIO Student ID
- Documentation that shows current address