At the Bank – Opening an Account - ESLnote Conversations

Scene: Inside a bank. Lina takes a number, waits, and then walks to the counter when the teller calls her.

Conversation

TELLER: Good afternoon. How can I help you today?

LINA: Good afternoon. I’d like to open a new bank account, please.

TELLER: Of course. Are you interested in a checking account, a savings account, or both?

LINA: I’m not sure. What’s the difference between checking and savings?

TELLER: A checking account is for everyday use, like paying bills and using a debit card. A savings account is for keeping money and earning interest.

LINA: I see. I think I need a checking account for now.

TELLER: No problem. Do you have a photo ID and proof of address with you?

LINA: Yes, I have my passport and a rental agreement for my apartment.

TELLER: Great. I’ll just take a look. One moment, please.

The teller checks the documents and types on the computer.

TELLER: All right. There is no monthly fee if you keep at least 500 dollars in the account. Otherwise, the fee is 8 dollars per month. Is that okay?

LINA: Yes, that’s fine. I can keep that amount in the account.

TELLER: How much would you like to deposit today to open the account?

LINA: I’d like to deposit 900 dollars in cash.

TELLER: Okay. Please count the cash and place it on the counter.

Lina counts the money and gives it to the teller.

TELLER: Thank you. I’ll print your account number and temporary debit card. Your permanent card will arrive in the mail in about 7 to 10 days.

LINA: Can I use the temporary card to pay in stores?

TELLER: Yes, you can use it for purchases and to withdraw cash from ATMs.

LINA: Great. How can I check my balance?

TELLER: You can use our mobile app, online banking, or an ATM. Here is a brochure with the instructions.

LINA: Thank you so much. This is my first bank account in this country, so I was a little nervous.

TELLER: You’re welcome. If you have any questions later, just call the number on the back of your card or visit any branch.

LINA: I will. Have a nice day.

TELLER: You too. Goodbye.

— THE END —

Vocabulary List

Checking account /ˈtʃekɪŋ əˌkaʊnt/ (n.) a bank account used for everyday spending, bills, and debit card payments. Example: I need a checking account to pay my rent and bills.
Savings account /ˈseɪvɪŋz əˌkaʊnt/ (n.) a bank account where you keep money for the future and earn interest. Example: A savings account is good for emergency money.
Interest /ˈɪntrəst/ (n.) extra money a bank pays you for keeping your money there. Example: A savings account can earn interest every month.
Proof of address /pruːf əv əˈdres/ (n.) a document that shows where you live, like a bill or rental agreement. Example: The bank needs proof of address to open an account.
Monthly fee /ˈmʌnθli fiː/ (n.) money you must pay every month for a service. Example: There is no monthly fee if you keep enough money in the account.
Deposit /dɪˈpɑːzɪt/ (v./n.) to put money into a bank account. Example: I’d like to deposit 900 dollars.
Debit card /ˈdebɪt kɑːrd/ (n.) a bank card that takes money directly from your account when you pay. Example: Can I use the temporary debit card in stores?
ATM /ˌeɪ tiː ˈem/ (n.) a machine where you can take out or deposit money using your card. Example: You can withdraw cash from an ATM.
Balance /ˈbæl əns/ (n.) the amount of money in your bank account. Example: How can I check my balance?
Branch /bræntʃ/ (n.) one office or location of a bank. Example: You can visit any branch if you have questions.

At the Bank: Opening a New Account

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Conversation

Vocabulary List