16 Incredibly Cool Online Banking Features You Probably Didn't Know About

Banking has come a long way. Gone are the days of long lines and paper statements. Say hello to mobile deposits and budgeting apps.

The digital revolution has arrived, and banks are on board. While some of the technological advances of online banking may be overwhelming at first, many of them are really helpful.

Do you know what your bank has to offer? Here are 16 online features to modernize your money. 

*Note: The information and instructions below are general in nature. Processes and procedures may vary based on the individual banking institution.

1: Expense categories

Online financial tools can help you look at all of your funds in one place and track your spending. Certain features will even include a breakdown by category. For instance, your expenses might show the amount spent on retail purchases, like clothing, groceries, or transportation. Identify high-spend categories to create and stick to a budget.

2: ATM locations

Finding an ATM is a surprisingly difficult task. You search maps and drive to the nearest location, only to discover it’s an out-of-network ATM with fees. Online banking customers can avoid the headache with a simple trick. Check to see if your financial institution offers an ATM locator through an online search, an app, or a text. Save money by locating an in-network ATM to avoid extra fees.

3: Text transactions

Many financial institutions offer text banking, which lets customers request and receive account information via text and bypass logging in to an online site. Sign up to start making transactions with a swipe or text. Text message rates may apply.

4: Tax management

Online banking can make tax season a breeze. Manage your taxes by accessing financial records and receipts, which are only a click away. Take advantage of services that allow you to categorize expenses according to tax-deductible status. At the end of the year, review these expenses, create a summary report, and use the report for a less stressful filing experience.

5: Financial planning

Online banking often includes financial planning and education tools. Make the most of your banking with customized financial guidance tailored to your needs. Set goals. Use financial calculators. View investment strategies. Take self-guided lessons and quizzes. Track your progress. Each financial institution provides a unique suite of financial management tools, so check to see what yours offers.

6: Travel notice

A travel notice occurs when you inform your financial institution of upcoming travel plans. This allows the institution to expect unfamiliar or foreign transactions on your debit or credit card for the duration of the travel notice to avoid unnecessary fraud alerts or your account being frozen. Contact customer service or use the online chat feature (if available) to find out the preferred way to submit a travel notice.

7: Currency exchange

If you plan to travel internationally, it’s advisable to exchange currency to avoid costly exchange rates. Prior to ordering foreign currency, first, view the foreign exchange rate and determine the amount you want to exchange. Navigate to the exchange tab and submit an online request. Depending on the amount requested, cash will be mailed to your address, typically amounts under $1,000, or you may be required to pick up the currency at your local branch.

8: Personal checks

Next time your supply runs low, order new checks online. Online banking customers can typically order checks securely and conveniently. Contact your banking institution’s customer service department or use their online chat feature to find the preferred way to order checks. It’s important to have a few key pieces of information on hand, including your mailing address and payment method.

9: Virtual sign-up

Do you want to explore your financial options? You can do so from the comfort of your home. Financial institutions may allow consumers to learn about different financial products and open a new account entirely online. Compare factors like interest rates and fees. Then complete an online application for a checking, savings, retirement, money market, or educational account.

10: Alerts and notifications

Stay on top of your finances. Create and manage account alerts in online banking. Email or text alerts can notify you about account activities, such as a low balance or an upcoming bill payment. Alerts are usually fully customizable, so you receive only the ones that you want.

11: Mobile deposit

Payday made easy. With online banking, you don’t need to deposit a check in person or at an ATM. Grab your check, take a clear picture of the front and back, and submit the transaction online or via an app. Hold on to the physical check for a few days until you are certain the transaction has cleared. Then make sure to store the check securely or shred it in a secure place. If you need to review your deposits, log in and view the processed checks all in one place.

12: eStatements

Did you know online banking is sustainable? Well, it is if you go paperless. By enrolling in eStatements, you’ll receive an email notification when your statement is available. Log in to access financial documents online, including your most recent statement. Previous online statements can also be accessed through the portal, but the length of time they are available to view and download depends on the product and banking institution. If you ever need a hard copy, there is an option to print your online statement.

13: Digital payments 

Writing a check is outdated. If you’re not already, consider paying your bills with online banking. Online bill pay is a digital payment service that allows customers to pay their expenses virtually. It’s convenient, secure, and oftentimes free. You can pay everything from your utilities to your credit card online. Simplify your bills even further by setting up an automatic recurring payment.

14: Money and wire transfers

Many financial institutions offer customers a way to send funds directly to another individual. Send money to friends, family, or roommates in a few minutes. In most cases, you only need a cellphone number or an email address. Online banking also includes international wire transfers, although this service might come at a cost.

15: Bank-to-bank transfers

Need to replenish your low account balance? Online banking allows customers to transfer money between accounts, all without paperwork. Seamlessly transfer money at one bank or across multiple institutions, and transfers may occur immediately, so your money won’t be tied up.

16: 24-hour account monitoring

Online banking offers around-the-clock financial monitoring. Gone are the days of waiting in line or calling a customer service number to receive an update about your account. Simply log on and check your account balance at any time; 24 hours, 7 days a week. Having the ability to monitor your account can help you make smart financial decisions while avoiding unauthorized transactions, overdraft fees, and other issues.

Bottom line

Are you taking advantage of these cool online banking features? Don’t miss out — check with your financial institution to see what it offers.