Opening a Basic Bank Account
A new customer visits a bank to open a standard checking or savings account, discussing document requirements and basic account features with a bank teller.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
bank account
A bank account is a place in a bank where you keep your money safe and can manage it, like depositing or withdrawing cash.
checking account
A checking account is a type of bank account used for everyday transactions, such as paying bills or writing checks.
savings account
A savings account is a bank account where you save money to earn interest over time, not for daily spending.
debit card
A debit card is a plastic card linked to your bank account that lets you spend money directly from it, like at stores or ATMs.
online banking
Online banking is a service that allows you to manage your bank account through the internet, such as checking balances or transferring money.
proof of address
Proof of address is an official document showing where you live, often required for opening accounts or services.
minimum balance
Minimum balance is the smallest amount of money you must keep in your account to avoid fees.
direct deposit
Direct deposit is a way to automatically transfer money, like your salary, straight into your bank account from your employer.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hi, I'd like to open a new bank account today.
This is a polite way to start a conversation at a bank. 'I'd like to' is a formal expression meaning 'I want to,' useful for making requests in service situations.
Are you looking for a checking account, a savings account, or perhaps both?
This question helps clarify customer needs by offering options. Use 'or' to list choices and 'perhaps' to suggest an additional idea softly; great for customer service dialogues.
To open an account, you'll need a valid government-issued ID, like a passport or driver's license, and proof of address, such as a utility bill.
This explains requirements using 'you'll need' for future necessity. Examples with 'like' and 'such as' make it clear; useful for informing about documents in official processes.
Our basic checking account typically comes with a debit card and online banking access.
This describes account features. 'Typically comes with' means usually includes; it's practical for explaining product benefits in sales or service talks.
For the basic checking account, the monthly fee is waived if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
This conditional sentence uses 'is waived if' to show how to avoid fees. 'Maintain' means keep; helpful for understanding banking conditions and discussing costs.
I can help you complete the application on our system right now.
This offers assistance politely with 'I can help you.' 'Complete the application' refers to filling out forms; ideal for guiding customers through processes efficiently.