The Texas Banking Guide

New state. Same bank? Maybe.

Moving to Texas doesn't mean you automatically need a new bank account. But it is a pretty good time to make sure your bank still works for your new life.

↓ Let's talk money
First things first

No, you don't need a “Texas bank.”

If your current bank or credit union serves you well after the move, there's no reason to switch just because you crossed the Texas state line.

The better question: does your current bank still make sense where you live now?
01
Start here

Tell your bank you moved.

Update the residential and mailing address associated with your bank accounts and credit cards after your move.

Keeping your contact information current can help make sure statements, replacement cards and other account communications reach the right place.

□ Checking account Update
□ Savings account Update
□ Credit cards Update
□ Loans + other financial accounts Check
Don't forget the billing address. An old billing address can create unnecessary headaches when you're trying to use a card online.
The actual decision

Keep your bank or shop around?

You don't have to change banks. But if your old bank has no convenient presence in Texas, moving gives you a natural opportunity to compare.

KEEP IT

Your current bank still works.

Good app? Easy ATM access? Low fees? Direct deposit already working? Keeping the account may be the simplest option.

SHOP AROUND

Your new life needs something else.

Maybe you want local branches, easier cash deposits, a better ATM network, fewer fees or a different savings account.

$
If you're shopping

Compare more than the sign-up bonus.

The flashy offer gets your attention. The everyday account terms determine whether you'll actually like the bank six months from now.

Monthly maintenance fee CHECK
Minimum balance requirements CHECK
ATM access + fees CHECK
Overdraft policies CHECK
Savings interest rate CHECK
Branch access CHECK
Mobile banking features CHECK
02
Opening something new?

Have your information ready.

Banks and credit unions need to verify the identity of customers opening accounts. Exact requirements vary by institution, so check the bank's requirements before applying.

□ Government-issued identification Typically
□ Social Security number or other required taxpayer ID Typically
□ Current address + contact information Have ready
□ Opening deposit If required
Before opening anything: confirm the institution is appropriately insured and understand the account's fees and terms.
03
Payday

Check your direct deposit.

If your move also comes with a new job, make sure payroll has the correct account information for direct deposit.

If you're switching banks, don't close the old account until you're confident your pay is landing in the new one.

Worth repeating: move the money first. Confirm everything works. Then think about closing the old account.
04
The sneaky part

Find everything connected to the old account.

Switching checking accounts is easy. Remembering the twelve different places using that checking account is the annoying part.

□ Rent or mortgage Important
□ Utilities Autopay
□ Insurance Autopay
□ Credit cards Payments
□ Subscriptions All of them
□ Payment apps + digital wallets Check
Switching banks?

Don't move everything at once.

Give yourself some overlap between the old account and the new one. That gives outstanding payments and deposits time to clear.

01 Open the new account
02 Fund it
03 Move direct deposit
04 Move automatic payments
05 Watch both accounts for outstanding transactions
06 Close the old account when you're ready
05
One last thing

Moving is a good time for a security check.

You're changing addresses, opening accounts, ordering services and probably entering payment information all over the place. Take a few minutes to tighten up your financial accounts.

□ Turn on account alerts Smart
□ Use multifactor authentication when available Security
□ Confirm your phone number + email Current
□ Review recent transactions Quick check
Money moved. Address updated.

Your bank doesn't have to be Texan. It just has to work for you.

Keep the account you like or use the move as an excuse to shop around. Either way, make sure your address, deposits and automatic payments all make the move with you.