How to Open an FNBO Direct Account, Step by Step

There’s a lot of buzz out there about the FNBO Direct. So I have to ask: If you’re not earning the best savings rate in the country yet at FNBO—why not? To make switching to FNBO as easy as possible, here’s a step-by-step guide to opening an FNBO Direct online savings account in just five minutes or so.

About FNBO Direct

FNBO, or the First National Bank of Omaha, launched an online savings branch called FNBO Direct, currently offering one of the highest available savings interest rate in the United States that does not require a minimum opening deposit or balance, (1.50% as of 8/01/09).

Although I wrote a FNBO Direct review several months ago and rate them as my top pick for savings accounts in my review of online savings accounts, I realize that some readers may still be wary of opening a truly online bank account. Here, using FNBO Direct as an example, I want to show you just how easy opening an online savings account can be.

1. Start Your Application

Follow the link to the secure FNBO Direct. Click the “Start Now” button. Select the button that says “new application” and click “next step” to continue. Be sure that you have the required documentation ready:

Your Social Security or Tax ID number.
Your Driver’s License or ID card issued by a State DMV.
Employment information including employer name, address and phone.
Information about any loans or mortgages you may have to help FNBO confirm your identity.
To fund your account electronically, you will need your current bank account and routing numbers (commonly found on the bottom of a check).

2. Enter Your Information

Select whether you want an individual or joint account and provide standard information about yourself (and your joint account holder, if applicable.

3. Confirm Your Identity

The application will next ask you to confirm information found upon your credit report. For example, they may ask you to select from multiple choices which bank holds your mortgage or car loan, to select a previous or current address, or to select a previous or current employer. The bank does not pull your credit report to get this information, and it will not affect your credit score.

4. Transfer Money to Your New Account

Once your identity is confirmed, it’s time to put money in your new savings account! FNBO does not require a minimum balance, but you will have to transfer at least $1 to open an account. You can either transfer money into your account electronically or mail in a check. Sending money electronically is easy if you know your current bank’s routing and account numbers (found on your checks).

After you initiate the electronic transfer, FNBO will need to confirm you own the bank account you provided. (This is standard for all online banking). Select the trial deposits option. In two or three business days, FNBO will deposit two small amounts (less than $1) into your linked bank account. When you login or check your bank account statement, note the amounts of the deposits and return to FNBO Direct’s Website to confirm the deposit amount. This confirms to the bank that you own the account you are linking.

That’s it! As you can see, opening a FNBO Direct account or any online high yield savings account is very easy and can be completed in just five or ten minutes.

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Wireless 18 March 2009 at 3:49 pm permalink

Appreciate the info guys, thanks

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