I have something life-changing to share with you, if you aren’t already in the know: mobile banking. We have all been able to access bank account information on the Internet for years, but now banks are offering apps for mobile devices like your phone or tablet. According to Pew Research, 61% of Internet users bank online and 35% of cell phone owners bank using their mobile phones. While the mobile functions are slightly limited compared to the full online interface at this point, there are several great advantages to connecting with your finances wherever you are.

5 Reasons to Try Mobile Banking

1. Person-to-person payments: With just a few swipes, you can instantly send a payment to anyone, anywhere within the U.S. No more check writing or “Let me run to the ATM” IOU’s. All you need is an email address or phone number and a mobile payment will be automatically sent and recorded in your online “check register”. Most banks will allow you to send payments to others within the same bank for free, but charge fees to send money outside.

2. Check deposits: This feature literally rocks my world every time I use it. When someone writes me a check, all I do is endorse it, snap a picture of the front and back and upload it to my Bank of America app. When check is posted to my account within 3-5 business days, I shred the paper and never have to wait in line to deposit again.

3. Money management: Picking up the kids and not sure if you have enough in checking to run by the grocery store? With mobile banking, you can check your account balances, transfer funds and monitor credit card purchases anywhere you are.

4. Pay bills: Pay bills and view paperless statements whenever you need to. Whether you are away on business or vacationing at the beach, a forgotten bill is a forgotten worry. Pay bills instantly or schedule them for the future – either way, it’s another to-do item you can check off the list.

5. Secure banking: Mobile banking is considered to be safer than both internet and physical banking, due to encryption technology. You can set alerts to notify you of irregular account activity or changes to your personal information, and information cannot be stored on your device.

Ask your institution today if they have a mobile bank app. If they answer is no, and you find yourself looking for a new place to stash your cash, here are a few things to consider when shopping for a new bank.  

Do you use mobile banking?