Should You Open Multiple Bank Accounts? Pros & Cons Explained

The question of how many bank accounts one should maintain is more complex than it might first appear. Managing finances efficiently requires careful consideration, and holding multiple bank accounts can influence your financial health in significant ways. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and downsides of having multiple bank accounts to help you make an informed decision.

Why Do People End Up With Multiple Bank Accounts?
Many individuals don’t set out with the intention of opening multiple bank accounts, yet over time, they accumulate several for various reasons. A job change might result in an extra salary account, or perhaps an additional account is opened for managing a Demat account, a home loan, or a specific requirement involving a nationalised bank.

While opening several accounts can offer certain advantages, it’s important to weigh the potential drawbacks as well. Let’s explore both sides of the equation.

Benefits of Having Multiple Bank Accounts

1. Simplified Transaction Tracking

One of the main advantages of holding multiple accounts is the ease of tracking different types of transactions. For instance, separate accounts can be dedicated to Direct Benefit Transfers (such as government subsidies), income tax payments or refunds, and pension receipts.

While it’s possible to manage all these transactions in a single account, keeping them separated can offer better transparency and organisation. If you want a clear picture of where your funds are going, this separation can be beneficial.

1. Reduced Dependency on a Single Bank
   

In today’s digital age, where bank services depend heavily on technology, it’s not uncommon for online systems to experience occasional outages. Having multiple bank accounts ensures you are not reliant on just one bank.

If one bank’s services are down or your access to a particular account is disrupted, you can easily use another account to continue your transactions without any major setbacks.

1. Minimising ATM Fees
   

ATM usage fees can accumulate quickly, especially if you frequently withdraw cash. Many banks offer a limited number of free ATM withdrawals each month, after which fees are applied. By having multiple accounts, you can spread your withdrawals across different accounts and avoid incurring extra charges, making it cost-efficient for those with high cash withdrawal needs.

1. Separate Accounts for Online or UPI Transactions
   

Online and UPI transactions have seen a substantial rise in recent years. However, with the increase in online banking comes a heightened risk of fraud. To mitigate this risk, some individuals choose to open a separate account specifically for online or UPI transactions, keeping only a small balance in this account.

This strategy can limit potential financial loss in the event of cyber theft or fraudulent activity. By isolating online transactions, you can protect your primary savings or salary account from being compromised.

Disadvantages of Managing Multiple Bank Accounts

1. Maintaining the Minimum Balance Across Accounts
   

Every bank account typically requires you to maintain a minimum or average balance. Failing to do so can result in penalties or fees. If you have multiple accounts, it can be challenging to ensure that each account meets these balance requirements.

The more accounts you hold, the higher the likelihood of facing charges for failing to maintain the required balance, which can add up over time.

1. Inefficient Use of Funds
   

Keeping a minimum balance across several accounts means that some of your money remains locked in those accounts, rendering it unavailable for other financial goals or investments. This can hinder your ability to make the most of your funds and prevent optimal financial growth.

By consolidating your accounts, you may be able to allocate funds more effectively, investing in higher-interest options or using them for immediate needs.

1. Risk of Dormant Accounts
   

Bank accounts that are not used for over two years are classified as dormant. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, services linked to dormant accounts are halted, which could lead to penalties or additional charges. Furthermore, dormant accounts can become targets for fraud or illegal transactions, posing additional risks.

Ensuring regular usage of all your accounts can be difficult, and if you fail to monitor dormant accounts, you could face complications down the line.

1. Complexity in Managing Accounts
   

Managing multiple bank accounts can become time-consuming and tedious. Keeping track of various account statements, updating personal information, and ensuring that each account is in good standing requires considerable effort. The more accounts you have, the more complex your financial management becomes.

For some, this complexity can outweigh the benefits, especially if financial tracking and organisation are priorities.

Key Considerations
Holding multiple bank accounts can bring certain conveniences but also potential challenges. It’s essential to assess your own financial situation before deciding whether to open additional accounts or consolidate your existing ones.

Pros

• Easier tracking of different types of transactions
  
• Reduced dependency on one bank
  
• Cost-efficient for high ATM usage
  
• Added security for online and UPI transactions
  

Cons

• Difficulty maintaining the minimum balance in multiple accounts
  
• Inefficient use of funds
  
• Risk of accounts becoming dormant
  
• Increased complexity in managing finances
  

As you can see, the decision to maintain multiple bank accounts depends largely on your personal financial needs and preferences. While having several accounts can offer convenience, especially for tracking transactions and online security, it also brings its own set of challenges, including the need for careful management and the risk of dormant accounts.

Before opening another bank account, take the time to assess your financial goals and situation. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for your particular circumstances.