💡 To open an account (Girokonto) you need a passport or residence permit and a registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung); in Germany there is a right to a basic account (Basiskonto).
💡 Kontoführungsgebühr is the account maintenance fee, Kartengebühr the card fee, kostenlos free; ask what is included in the price.
💡 The card and PIN arrive in two separate letters within a few days; if they don't come, contact the branch. Never share the PIN.
💡 Online-Banking is online banking, TAN a one-time confirmation code, App the bank's app; access data is sent by letter.
💡 If a cash machine keeps your card, go into a branch of that bank or phone the number shown on the machine; the card is often returned on the spot, otherwise it is blocked and replaced.
💡 Offices, the Jobcenter among them, often ask for Kontoauszüge (account statements) for the last months; you can print them at a machine in the bank or download a PDF in online banking.
💡 To confirm a transfer the bank asks for a TAN (one-time code): the bank's app often shows it as a push notification; if there is none, check that notifications are allowed on your phone.
💡 In a transfer (Überweisung) you state the recipient's IBAN, name, amount and Verwendungszweck (reference). A German IBAN begins with DE.
💡 A Dauerauftrag is a standing order for the same amount (e.g. rent); a Lastschrift is a direct debit authorised by the recipient (e.g. for services).
💡 If a transfer went by mistake contact the bank immediately: in some cases the payment can be recalled or a refund requested; the sooner the better.
💡 For a transfer to Ukraine the bank usually asks for the IBAN, the BIC (SWIFT) and the full name of the recipient; fees and times differ, so compare the branch, online banking and special services.
💡 A Briefmarke is a postage stamp; a letter abroad needs a different stamp from one within Germany; ask Inland or Ausland.
💡 A Nachsendeauftrag is mail forwarding to the new address for a period; arranged online or at the post office. Also tell your bank and employer the new address.
💡 A Vollmacht is a power of authorisation; for another person to collect a parcel they need the notice, ID and a signed authorisation.
💡 A Einschreiben is registered mail: after posting you get a receipt (Einlieferungsbeleg) with a tracking number; keep it as proof that the letter was sent.