Sometimes, our financial accounts do not keep pace with our financial goals. The same financial institution you’ve had since you opened your first account may not offer the same products and services you need as an adult. Use these tips to decide if it’s time to switch based on your changing financial goals.

Many people opened their checking accounts at a very young age, or their parents opened accounts for them once they began to learn about spending and saving. As we grow through various life events and stages, our needs, wants, and financial goals change as well.

Start with an account audit. 
The same institution and checking account you’ve had since you were a teen may not offer the same features, benefits, products or services you need as an adult. That’s why it’s important to perform an “account audit” to make sure your checking account is meeting you where you’re at in life.

Finding the right checking account may depend on your short-term and long-term financial goals. If one of your financial goals is to pay down debt or build an emergency fund, avoiding checking fees can free up funds you can use for those purposes.

If you are someone who has established savings, you could benefit from a checking account that pays higher dividends on higher balances, earning you more on your money.

Determine if you’re fatigued by fees.
Depending on the type of bank you’re with and the checking account you currently use, you may be charged a monthly minimum balance or maintenance fee. If this is the case, it might be time to talk to your financial institution about other checking options that are a better fit for your financial goals or look for another financial institution that does not charge those fees or offers different checking account options.

Get the most for your money.
Remember, you can also have multiple checking accounts based on your financial goals. And, it never hurts to shop around with other financial institutions to make sure you’re getting what you need from your accounts and the customer service you want from your institution.