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🗓️ Nov 2026 🏷️ English for Daily Life · Banking English 🕒 8 min read
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| Opening an account | → | I’d like to open a bank account. |
| Making a deposit | → | I’d like to deposit this money. |
| Withdrawing money | → | I’d like to withdraw $200. |
| Sending a transfer | → | I need to transfer money to another account. |
| Checking a fee | → | Is there a fee for this transaction? |
| Currency exchange | → | What is today’s exchange rate? |
| Reporting a lost card | → | My bank card has been lost or stolen. |
🗣️ Example Conversation
👩 Customer: Hi. I’d like to open a bank account.
🧑 Bank Employee: Certainly. What type of account do you need?
👩 Customer: I need an account for everyday purchases and direct deposit.
🧑 Bank Employee: Do you have identification and proof of address?
👩 Customer: Yes. I have my passport and a utility bill.
🧑 Bank Employee: Great. I’ll explain the account options and monthly fees.
👩 Customer: Thank you. Is there a minimum balance?
🧑 Bank Employee: It depends on the account you choose.
🪪 Opening or Updating an Account
“What documents do I need?”
“What types of accounts are available?”
“Is there a monthly fee?”
“Is there a minimum balance?”
“Can I use online banking?”
“How do I set up direct deposit?”
“I need to update my address.”
Bring the identification and supporting documents requested by the bank. Requirements can vary by institution, account type, and location.
💵 Deposits, Withdrawals and Transfers
“I’d like to deposit this cheque.”
“When will the money be available?”
“Can I withdraw this amount in cash?”
“What information do I need for the transfer?”
“How long will the transfer take?”
“Can I cancel the transfer?”
“Can I get a receipt, please?”
💱 Fees and Currency Exchange
“Is there a service fee?”
“Are there any additional charges?”
“What is the total cost of the transfer?”
“What is the exchange rate today?”
“How much will the recipient receive?”
“Can you show me the fee before I confirm?”
Before approving a transfer or currency exchange, confirm the exchange rate, all fees, and the final amount the recipient is expected to receive.
💳 Bank Card Questions and Problems
“My card is not working.”
“My card was declined.”
“My card has been lost or stolen.”
“Could you block the card immediately?”
“How can I order a replacement?”
“I don’t recognize this transaction.”
“How do I change my PIN?”
Never share your PIN, password, full card security code, or one-time verification code with someone who contacts you unexpectedly. Use the bank’s official contact information or app when reporting a problem.
🔧 Problem → Need → Request
Problem: You see a card transaction you do not recognize.
Need: You need the bank to review the transaction and protect the account.
Request: “I don’t recognize this transaction. Could you review it and tell me what I need to do next?”
Quick Tip ✅
Prepare your main request before you reach the counter.
Then confirm the fee, timing, and final amount before approving anything.
