How do paychecks work? Are they given by hand, mail, or directly in my account. How do I cash them?

Question

I've never had a conventional job in my life and I'm going to get one now, but I don't even have a bank account! What kind of account do I need to make to get paid?

Answer 1

You can get a check each payday - they'll either hand it to you or mail it to you, depending on the company and location. Many companies offer the option of direct deposit into your bank account - then you usually get the pay stub however you'd have gotten the check if you had taken a paper check.

Usually if the company offers direct deposit, you can have it deposited into a checking or a savings account.

Answer 2

Well, it depends on your work. Sometimes it will be handed to you and sometimes it's mailed out. It won't be directly deposited into your account since you don't have an account with any of the banks at this time.
You can cash checks at places like Cash to Go or MoneyGram. I found out recently that Wal-Mart will cash payroll checks. All of them do charge a small fee. Some banks will cash them for you for a small fee like Wells Fargo and others will not unless you have an account with them already like Banco Popular.
When you can, take your check to the bank and open a CHECKING account. Once you set-up your account, you can then do direct deposit. There are forms that needs to be filled out at your work in order for them to deposit your earnings.

Answer 3

Just a simple checking account will do. You will have to be at least 18 years old to get one on your own. Most banks offer a free one with little to no requirements aside from the opening deposit which could be as little as $25.

Answer 4

Open a checking account, and get direct deposit, it's very convenient.