Bank Balance
A bank balance, also known as an account balance, refers to the amount of money available in a bank account at a specific point in time. It represents the net difference between the total deposits (credits) and withdrawals (debits) made to an account. The bank balance is a key indicator of an individual’s or business’s financial health and liquidity.
Bank balances can change frequently due to deposits, withdrawals, interest payments, fees, and other transactions. Account holders can typically access their bank balance through various means, such as online banking, mobile apps, monthly statements, or by visiting a local branch or ATM.
It is essential to monitor your bank balance to ensure that you have sufficient funds to cover expenses, avoid overdraft fees, and manage your overall financial situation.
Example of a Bank Balance
Let’s consider a fictional individual named John who has a checking account at his local bank. Here’s an example of how his bank balance might change over a short period:
- Initial balance: $1,000
- John receives his paycheck via direct deposit: +$2,500 (New balance: $3,500)
- John pays his rent using a check: -$1,200 (New balance: $2,300)
- John withdraws cash from an ATM: -$100 (New balance: $2,200)
- John pays his electricity bill via online banking: -$75 (New balance: $2,125)
- John receives interest payment: +$5 (New balance: $2,130)
After these transactions, John’s bank balance is $2,130. Throughout this period, John’s bank balance changed due to deposits (paycheck and interest), and withdrawals (rent, ATM, and electricity bill). It is essential for John to track his bank balance to ensure he has enough funds to cover his expenses and avoid any overdraft fees or insufficient fund penalties.