Checking Accounts

Did you know that you don't HAVE to order your checks at the credit union? (I say credit union because all my accounts, other than my IRA's at at credit unions. I don't use banks.)

I usually order checks from Checks In the Mail but I've also used Current, Checks Unlimited but I just found out about Walmartchecks. I need to order some more checks so I'll have to check prices. I always get the basic blue or brown. No pictures. One time I needed a copy of a check to prove payment and with the picture and the photocopy it was Very difficult to read. Since then I've stuck with a plain check.

Another thing, I don't have an ATM card for any of my accounts nor do I get a pin number activation for my Visa card. Usually once a month, I'll withdrawal $100-$150 cash from the credit union and this will last several weeks since I don't spend cash very often. I keep track of what I do spend and if something (usually junk food or pop) starts to get out of hand then I cut back on it.

All of my change I put into a container and will roll it and deposit it a few times a month. Of course I sort it myself, I don't use Coinstar because I want to avoid the fees.

My credit unions don't have a minimum balance nor do they charge any fees. By not having/using ATM cards I avoid those fees also. There is no per check charge.

**BTW**my spending has been much less than normal since I've been home sick from work since last Thursday.

$60 maid


January 6, 2007

$ 2.10 library fines (oops !)
2.95 Taco Bell
100.00 church