Woman walking away waving goodbye
Woman walking away waving goodbye

how to switch banks: a step by step guide

   
 
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Saying goodbye is easier than you think

We understand why switching banks might seem complicated—but switching to First Financial is simple.
It only takes a few steps, and we’ll guide you through the whole process.
The sooner you switch, the sooner you can see the benefits.

Get started with First

At First Financial Bank, our customer service team is filled with engaging pros who are ready to answer questions and who are committed to helping our community grow and improve. Download our app to take advantage of our total account access anytime, anywhere. Get instant account access to check balances, make free mobile deposits, transfer money, set security alerts, and more…all from your smartphone or tablet. Switch banks and get your new debit card by mail or get a card instantly at your local First Financial Bank financial center.

Download our step by step guide
  • Step 1:

Open your new account.

Opening up a bank account only takes 5-10 minutes online—and we’re happy to help you figure out which account is just right for you.

  1. Compare accounts to determine which one is right for you.
  2. Create your new account. You can start by applying here.
  3. Use the account number and routing number for your new account to deposit money.

Let us know if you want help! Call us or send us an email with any questions. You can also stop in to your local First Financial Bank financial center to get help from a member of our team.

  • Step 2:

Move your payments & deposits.

Automatic withdrawal payments and deposits are a great way to make sure that your bills are paid on time and you are getting paid by your employer! When you switch to First Financial Bank, you’ll want to make sure your automatic payments and deposits are connected to your new bank account. Here are some examples of payments to get you started:

  • Direct deposits (like paychecks and Social Security payments)
  • Mortgage, loan, and credit card payments
  • Insurance payments
  • Utilities (gas, electric, water, TV/Internet/phone)
  • Gym membership
  • Streaming services
  • Step 3:

Close your old account.

You’re almost there!

  1. Transfer any money you have in your old bank account to your new bank account.
  2. Contact your old bank and let them know you'd like close your bank account.
  3. Shred any old checks, debit cards, and anything with old account numbers.

Frequently asked questions

Switching to First Financial Bank won't cost you anything! You can decide which account is right for you by comparing options online.

Opening a bank account only takes 5-10 minutes online. Moving your payments and deposits and closing your old account will vary based on the number of payments and deposits you have and the process to close your account with your old bank.

To open a new checking account, you will need the following information:

  1. Name
  2. Date of birth
  3. Social Security number
  4. Email address
  5. Mailing address
  6. Phone number
  7. Driver's license number or other I.D. number

We do! You can chat us, call us, or send us an email with any questions. You can also stop in to your local First Financial Bank financial center to get help from a member of our team.

At First Financial Bank, we guarantee intimate customer service, and will work to help you save more money. Our customer service team is filled with local, engaging pros who are ready to answer questions and who are committed to helping our communities grow and improve.

Yes. Once your account is set up, we can help ensure you have all the right tools to successfully manage your finances including Insights, our online banking tool that allows you to easily track and manage your money—including credit cards, loans and all bank accounts at other financial institutions.

We recommend reviewing and making a list of all the transactions in the last six months from your old account that you need to move to your new account, such as:

  • Direct deposits (like paychecks and Social Security payments)
  • Mortgage, loan, and credit card payments
  • Insurance payments
  • Utilities (gas, electric, water, TV/Internet/phone)
  • Gym membership
  • Streaming services

Opening a checking account at First Financial Bank is simple, straightforward, and personal. Exactly how a checking account should feel. You can get started by comparing accounts online to decide which one is right for you.

Absolutely! Within 5-10 minutes, you can open a brand new checking account that has no monthly fee with First Financial Bank.1 Switching banks can be a great improvement to your financial situation and with a local Cincinnati bank, you can be comfortable knowing that there is an experienced team of professionals in your city ready to help you achieve your financial goals.

At First Financial Bank, we offer a variety of services and products so everyone can find a solution to their financial needs. From checking and savings accounts to our specialized mortgage programs and HSAs, we designed each of our services to help our clients succeed.

GET IN TOUCH

Still have questions?
Chat with one of our professionals 

If you need any assistance, or if you just want to make sure you’re on the right track, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’ll get you in touch with a First Financial Bank team member to help with your bank switch. 

Contact us

1 All deposit accounts are subject to the Terms and Conditions, Special Handling/Electronic Banking Disclosure of Charges, and possibly other disclosures.