Sponsored: What makes a good mobile banking app?

Where would we all be without modern cell phone technology? You can call, text, email, DM, watch television, take professional-grade photographs—and manage your finances—from your mobile banking app.

However, as I’m constantly reminding myself and my family and friends, not all banking apps are created equal. Make sure you are using one that offers the big three—security, convenience and speed.

Everyone is concerned with the security of their personal information—and rightly so! Here are some tools to look for in your mobile banking app:

• Numerous layers of defense—Things like strong passwords, one-time PIN codes on unrecognized devices, courtesy calls if fraud is detected and biometric logins all contribute to keeping your personal information safe.
• Alerts—Your mobile banking app should offer a number of different security alerts, as well as the ability to choose how you want to receive them—email, push notifications in the app or text message.
• Manage credit and debit cards—Freeze and unfreeze your card, change your PIN, request a new card and make travel notifications so your card activity isn’t flagged while you’re on vacation.

Another perk of banking on a mobile app is pure convenience. You can do almost all your banking from the comfort of your own couch—or out on your favorite hike.

• Easily send and receive money—Whether you are sending a gift or splitting a bill, transferring money no longer requires you to constantly carry cash.
• Overdraft coverage—Ensure checking and everyday debit card transactions clear when account balances are low.
• Bill pay—Set up recurring or one-time payments electronically without writing a check and mailing the payment.
• Access eStatements—Get a clear and concise look at the previous month’s transactions and important account information.
  

When you need access to your accounts fast, there’s no better way than by reaching into your pocket or purse and grabbing your phone. Mobile banking helps you keep up with the modern, lightning-fast pace of the world.

Remember when you used to have to call or go into a branch to perform even the most basic banking task? Imagine the time you are saving by checking your balance, making deposits and transferring funds between accounts, on your mobile app. It all adds up to more time to do the things you love!