Frequently Asked Questions

Bank On Hampton Roads is a free 5 month financial literacy program that began in the Hampton Roads area in 2012. Bank On combines classroom instruction with coaching to help our participants become financially empowered and feel confident in making sound financial decisions.

Bank On Hampton Roads is a collaboration between financial institutions, community-based organizations and local governments to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to be financially healthy and empowered. Together, we are working to provide financial education classes and to connect people to safe, affordable, and certified banking accounts.

The education program includes 5 months of classroom instruction with the option of participating in individual or group coaching. Classes begin in September or January and are offered both in-person and virtually. Instructors and coaches are trained Master Financial Education Volunteer.

• Personal Banking - Understanding financial institutions and their products and services
• Crisis Mode - Understanding what to do when you don't have enough money to pay your monthly expenses (Living paycheck to paycheck)
• Money Management 1 & 2 - Understanding how to track your spending, create a budget, and set goals
• Credit Basics and Credit Next Steps - Understanding your credit score, how to improve it, and how it impacts your day-to-day life
• Pay Yourself First - Understanding the importance of savings and the difference between emergency savings and long term savings·
• Keep It Safe - Understanding how to protect yourself from identity theft

Please check our online calendar for classes, workshops and events or contact info@bankonhr.org

You don’t have to be a resident in the Hampton Roads area. We offer our five month financial education classes both in person and virtual.

• It saves you money: Certified accounts have no hidden fees, cost $25 or less to open an account, and $5 or less in monthly maintenance fees.
• It’s safe: Certified accounts with financial institutions are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF). That means your money is protected from theft and natural disasters.
• It’s convenient: You can receive your paycheck automatically by direct deposit and pay your bills online instead of paying for money orders, mailing checks, or paying cash at each location. You can access your account and keep track of your spending by calling, website, or an app.
• It helps you save and build a financial foundation: Tracking your spending is easier with an account. It can be the first step to meet your future goals.
• Builds your credit: Building a relationship with a financial institution can lead to opportunities such as buying a home or car, paying for college tuition and starting your own business.

No. The Bank On accounts are available at most participating bank and credit union branches and will be identified by the name of the account (e.g. Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking ).

In many cases, yes, there are a few exceptions. Every financial institution has different requirements and policies. Please check with them or reach out to info@bankonhr.org for more information.

These are specific to the financial institution’s policies.

If you come across issues with opening a certified account, please email: info@bankonhr.org

Choose a Bank On Hampton Roads Financial partner that best fits your needs.

Call the financial institution you’ve selected and ask questions about their services. If they meet your needs, schedule an appointment to open an account. Be sure to ask them what documentation you need to open an account.Before signing for your new account, read all the terms and conditions. If there’s something you don’t understand, ask the representative questions.

Open your account and start saving money!