Maria needed to open a new bank account for her savings. She walked into the local bank on Monday morning. The bank was not very busy, so she did not have to wait long. A friendly bank employee asked how she could help. Maria explained that she wanted to open a savings account. The employee invited her to sit down at her desk. She asked Maria to show her passport or identity card. Maria took out her passport from her bag and handed it over. The employee typed some information into her computer. She asked Maria for her home address and phone number. Maria gave all the details the employee needed. The employee explained the different types of accounts available. There was a basic account with no monthly fee. There was also a premium account with better interest rates. Maria decided to open the basic account first. The employee printed some forms for Maria to sign. Maria read through the important terms and conditions. She asked about the minimum deposit required. The employee told her that fifty euros was enough to start. Maria took out some cash from her wallet. She counted out one hundred euros for her first deposit. The employee gave her a receipt for the money. Then she explained how to use online banking. Maria would receive a password by mail in a few days. She could also download the bank app on her phone. The employee showed her how to check her balance online. Maria asked about withdrawing money from ATMs. The employee explained that the first five withdrawals each month were free. After that, there would be a small fee. Maria nodded and said she understood. The employee gave her a temporary bank card to use. Her permanent card would arrive by post within a week. Maria asked about transferring money to other accounts. The employee showed her how to do this on the app. It was very easy to send money to friends and family. Maria thanked the employee for all her help. She felt happy that opening the account was so simple. Before leaving, she asked about the bank's opening hours. The bank was open from nine to five on weekdays. On Saturdays, it was open until one in the afternoon. Maria put her new bank card safely in her wallet. She said goodbye and walked out of the bank. On her way home, she downloaded the banking app. She was looking forward to managing her savings online. Opening a bank account had been easier than she expected.

At the Bank
English Story for Elementarys (A2)
This A2 English story is designed for elementarys learning English. It includes simple vocabulary and short sentences to help you improve your reading and listening skills. Click any word to see translations and hear pronunciation.
About this story
Maria visits a local bank to open a new savings account. A friendly employee guides her through the process, explaining account types and fees. Maria provides her documents, makes her first deposit, and learns about online banking features. She leaves with a temporary card, pleased that the process was simple and straightforward.
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Vocabulary
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