PUB. 18 2021 ISSUE 3

Issue 3 • 2021 13 Bank On certified accounts in communities with 50% or more people of color. The importance of having a banking relationship has never been more apparent than during the COVID-19 pandemic. From obtaining Paycheck Protection Program loans to receiving economic impact payments quickly, countless stories speak to the benefit of having a trusted banking partner – and the disadvantages of not having one. “For a long time, we’d known that we have consumers that don’t have bank accounts in our market. It could be for cost; it could be for convenience. There could be a lot of reasons. The stimulus checks brought the issue to light a little more,” says Gary Kleer, CEO of First Bank Richmond in eastern Indiana, whose bank recently had its Easy-Fit Checking Account Bank On certified. “When we saw this initiative being offered, we decided to get on board so that we could offer our consumers a more safe and affordable way to handle their money.” As we strive for a more equitable and inclusive society, one of the most constructive ways banks can help move the needle is to ensure that every American has the opportunity to access the banking system. That’s why the Bank On certification is so important – it signals to those who may be hesitant to come in the door and start that banking relationship that the bank offers a product they can trust to meet their needs. Many banks are already offering checking account options to meet Bank On standards – but it’s time to go the extra step and get them certified – for free – with the Bank On seal of approval. If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to visi t aba. com/BankOn to learn more about the Bank On movement, how to certify an account product and why other banks were motivated to get involved. ABA staff is available to meet with your bank about the Bank On process and answer your questions; reach out anytime through our dedicated inbox: bankon@aba.com . Together, we can bring more Americans into the banking system—a crucial step toward ensuring economic prosperity for all. n Rob can be reached by email Rob at nichols@aba.com . As we strive for a more equitable and inclusive society, one of the most constructive ways banks can help move the needle is to ensure that every American has the opportunity to access the banking system.