Bank On ICT
Are you using check cashers, payday lenders or pawn shops to get your money? Have you been turned down or turned away at a financial institution? Bank On ICT and United Way of the Plains can help you access a safe and affordable bank account.
In 2021, 6.7% of Wichitans lacked a bank account. We’re working to ensure that all households have access to banking and financial services that meet their needs, allow them to increase assets and strengthen their financial stability.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE A BANK ACCOUNT?
- A bank account saves you money. The average unbanked person spends 5% of net income on unnecessary fees for alternative financial services. This can amount to $40,000 over a lifetime.
- A bank account offers security. Unbanked individuals are more likely to be victims of crime because they often carry large sums of cash or keep cash in their homes. Your money in a bank or credit union account is safe and insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).
- A bank account helps you gain financial stability. Research shows it’s harder to achieve financial goals like reducing debt and improving credit scores without a bank account.
HOW BANK ON ICT HELPS YOU
Bank On ICT is a collaboration between financial institutions, community organizations and our local government. Together, we offer services and resources to help you establish your financial stability. It doesn’t matter how much money you have, banking is for you.
Bank On ICT certified bank accounts are…
Safe
Your personal information and money are protected. Lose your debit card? You can lock it to prevent others from accessing your money.
User Friendly
Accounts offer a variety of FREE tools to help you manage your money – direct deposit, debit card, bill pay, withdrawals, low balance alerts, smartphone apps and more.
Lowering Barriers
Account providers work with past credit challenges. Only $25 is needed to open an account. There is no minimum balance or overdraft fees. You’ll never be hit with surprise fees.
Partners for Success
Bank On ICT is more than a bank account. The coalition offers a team of local experts who are ready to meet your financial needs and are invested in your success.
HOW TO GET A BANK ON ICT ACCOUNT
Who offers accounts?
These safe and affordable accounts are certified as meeting the Bank On National Account standards. Click here for a list of all FDIC and NUCA insured financial institutions across the country that offer Bank On Certified Accounts.
What’s needed to open an account?
The financial institution you choose to open a Bank On ICT account with will let you know what information is needed. You may need one or more of the following:
- Social Security Number or ITIN number
- Government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID or state ID
- Mailing address
- Date of Birth
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
On your journey to financial stability, here are coalition partners and financial services that can help:
FDIC Money Smart
FDIC Money Smart is a financial education program designed to help people of all ages enhance their financial skills and create positive banking relationships. Classes will be offered by Bank On ICT coalition members.
Financial Counseling
Consumer Credit Counseling Services provides trained financial counselors who help you obtain financial stability and long-term success. Their services are free.
Free Tax Filing
Make less than $60,000? File your taxes fast and FREE through United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) initiative. IRS-certified volunteers prepare your taxes and identify tax credits you are eligible for. File by appointment (in-person or drop-off) or online. Learn more.
United Way 211 Information & Referral
United Way 211 is a free, confidential service that connects you to resources and services to meet your most pressing needs. Learn more or dial 2-1-1.
BANK ON ICT COALITION PARTNERS
Bank On ICT is a collaboration led by United Way of the Plains between financial institutions, community organizations and our local government. Together, we working to protect the unbanked from predatory lending services by offering safe, affordable banking products and resources to use them successfully.
OUR IMPACT IN 2022
QUESTIONS?
For more information about how to join the coalition or questions about how to open a Bank On ICT account, contact Michelle Presnell, United Way Community Impact Manager for Financial Stability, at mpresnell@unitedwayplains.org or (316) 267‑1321 ext. 4232.