A bankbook is a small booklet that records your transactions with a bank. It is also known as a passbook, savings book, or deposit book. A bankbook can help you keep track of your savings, withdrawals, interest, and fees. It can also serve as a proof of identity and address when you need to access your bank account.

In this article, we will explain what a bankbook is, how to use it, and what are its benefits and drawbacks.

A bankbook is a physical document that contains your account number, name, address, and balance. It also has pages where the bank prints your transactions, such as deposits, withdrawals, transfers, interest, and fees. Each transaction has a date, amount, and description. Some bankbooks also have a barcode or a magnetic strip that can be scanned by the bank’s machines.

A bankbook is usually issued when you open a savings account or a fixed deposit account with a bank. You can also request one if you have an existing account without a bankbook. You will need to present your identification documents and pay a small fee to get a bankbook.

To use a bankbook, you need to bring it with you whenever you visit the bank to make a transaction. You will need to hand over your bankbook to the teller or insert it into the machine. The bank will then update your bankbook with the latest transaction details and return it to you. You should check your bankbook for any errors or discrepancies and report them to the bank immediately.

You should also update your bankbook regularly by visiting the bank or using an automatic teller machine (ATM). This will help you keep track of your account balance and activity. You should also keep your bankbook in a safe and secure place and avoid losing or damaging it. If you lose your bankbook or it gets stolen, you should inform the bank as soon as possible and request a replacement.

A bankbook has several benefits, such as:

• It helps you monitor your account balance and transactions easily.
• It provides you with a physical record of your banking history.
• It can serve as a proof of identity and address when you need to access your account or other services.
• It can help you avoid overdrafts, fees, or fraud by alerting you of any unusual activity.
• It can encourage you to save more by showing you your interest earnings and goals.

A bankbook also has some drawbacks, such as:

• It can be inconvenient to carry around and update frequently.
• It can be lost, stolen, or damaged easily.
• It can be outdated or inaccurate if the bank does not update it properly or if there are delays in processing transactions.
• It can be incompatible with some online or mobile banking services that require electronic statements or cards.
• It can be subject to fees or charges by the bank for issuing, replacing, or updating it.

A bankbook is a useful tool for managing your savings account or fixed deposit account with a bank. It can help you keep track of your transactions, balance, interest, and fees. It can also serve as a proof of identity and address when you need to access your account or other services. However, a bankbook also has some drawbacks that may make it inconvenient or impractical for some users. You should weigh the pros and cons of using a bankbook before deciding whether to get one or not.