Banking, Managing Finances and Credit Cards When Blind or Low Vision

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Using tools, strategies, and support, it’s entirely possible to manage your finances independently. This page provides information on accessible banking services, managing money, and using credit and debit cards. 

Building a Strong Banking Relationship 

Establishing a positive relationship with your bank is essential for accessing the services and support you need. 

  • Introduce Yourself: Building a rapport with your bank manager and staff can be beneficial. Clearly communicate and explain your needs.  
  • Customer Service Assistance: Bank representatives can assist with withdrawals and deposits, and they can help you organize money if needed. 
  • Choose Optimal Banking Times: Consider visiting your bank during less busy hours to avoid crowded spaces, long wait times and potential frustrations. 

What Accessible Services Are Available at My Bank? 

Many banks offer accommodations to support customers with blindness or low vision: 

  • Account Statements: Request large print, braille, or audio formats. 
  • Banking Information: Obtain large print, braille, or audio versions of booklets explaining services, products, and ATM usage. 
  • Online and Telephone Banking: Utilize accessible online platforms and dedicated phone lines. 
  • TTY Services: For individuals with hearing impairments, many banks offer toll-free TTY lines for communication.  
  • ATM accessibility: Raised buttons and audio guidance can assist  blind or low users. 

Can I Write a Check If I Can’t See? 

Several options exist to make check management easier for people with blindness or low vision: 

  • Raised-Line Checks: These checks feature larger print, raised lines, and expanded check registers. 
  • Large Print Checks: Available through your bank or Deluxe Corporation, these checks are easier to read. 
  • Check Templates: Designed with openings for standard checks, these templates offer guidance for signing. 
  • Signature Guides: These tools assist in accurately placing your signature on checks. 

How Do I Identify Money? 

  • Safeguarding Your Money: Consider using waist packs or zippered pockets to deter theft. 
  • Sorting and Separation: Use envelopes, pockets, or a wallet to organize different denominations. 
  • Electronic Money Identifiers: Portable standalone devices, such as the iBill, or smartphone apps can identify bill denominations through haptic feedback and/or verbal announcements. 
  • Low Vision Techniques: Large print numbers on newer bills and magnifiers can assist with identification. 
  • Coin identification: In the US, coins have unique sizes, shapes, and edges making them easy to identify with touch. 
  • Tactile Methods: Folding bills differently to distinguish denominations.  
  • Keep the $1 bill flat and unfolded.
  • Fold the $5 bill in half crosswise (with the short ends together).
  • Fold the $10 bill in half lengthwise (with the long sides together).
  • Fold the $20 bill like a $10 bill lengthwise, and then in half again crosswise.

Credit and Debit Card Use 

  • Signature guidance: Employ techniques like paper creases, Post-it notes, or credit card edges to locate the signing line. 
  • Card identification: Mark your cards for easy recognition. 
  • Security: Prioritize card safety, monitor transactions regularly, and consider using separate cards for different purposes. 

Additional Tips and Considerations 

  • Tax Preparation: Explore accessible resources and assistance for tax-related tasks. 
  • Bill Payment: Utilize electronic billing, online payments, or phone options for convenience. 
  • Reader Assistance: If needed, carefully select and supervise a trusted individual to assist with bill payment. 

Conclusion 

By implementing these strategies and taking advantage of available resources, you can effectively manage your banking and financial affairs.