German bank account

Everyone moving to Germany will need a German bank account. Don't worry, this doesn't mean you have to go off post to a local German bank where you don't understand anything. There are 2 banks offered to military, Service Credit Union and Community Bank which is also Bank of America (this is not the same as the state side Bank of America). To have a cell phone account or to pay a landlord for rent you will need a German bank account. You will need to open an account to pay internet, home phone and electric bills. German companies will not accept transfers from state side back accounts. This is very easy to do and should be something you do very soon after arriving! If you don't have an account open then you cannot get a cell phone plan or set up internet! Go to one of the banks and let them know you just arrived and need to set up a new account. They obviously do this with everyone so it will be quick and easy! When paying bills some companies will do an automatic withdraw or you can bring the bill into the bank and fill out a form that will in return send money to the company you owe. You won't need to go into the utilities company to pay a bill. Just remember, if your paychecks are being sent to your stateside bank account then you'll need to transfer money to the German account every month to keep the bills covered!