7 answers
riley
Student
Atlantic, Iowa
3
Questions
Updated
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What qualifications do you need to be a bank teller?
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7 answers
Minda Smith
Operations & Business Leader
2
Answers
Dripping Springs, Texas
Updated
Minda’s Answer
Great customer service, careful attention to details, and strong math skills make being a teller enjoyable and rewarding.
Guillermo Cervantes
Accountant
12
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Guillermo’s Answer
Hello Riley,
I see you are in the United States (US). Requirements in the US are not as rigid as other countries - ex. you are not required to have studied finance at a college level.
To start out you only need to have a high school diploma or GED. That being said, the prior responder made great points. You do need to have basic knowledge of computer usage as a majority, if not all banks, function on electronic systems. There also may be specialized equipment such as money counters that interface (pass information) with computer systems.
It is also important to keep your people skills in mind. Consider that banks have a variety of customers from young to old, and from various different cultures. You have to be empathetic to the youth that has just opened their first account and is learning how to make a deposit, as well as the elder individual that may need a bit more help understanding computerized processes that they may not have used before - similarly you may need to explain processes in more depth to someone who is experiencing their first banking trasaction in the US.
One thing to consider as well is if you want to stay at the teller level or have career advancement. In general career advancement is easier if you do further your education in the finance area beyond the high school level. There are various certifications and degree options available. I encourage you to apply once you meet the minimum requirements, and if hired get a feel for the position and if it is something you want to do long term. If it is, start looking into the certifications and degrees available to you.
Good luck, and you got this!
I see you are in the United States (US). Requirements in the US are not as rigid as other countries - ex. you are not required to have studied finance at a college level.
To start out you only need to have a high school diploma or GED. That being said, the prior responder made great points. You do need to have basic knowledge of computer usage as a majority, if not all banks, function on electronic systems. There also may be specialized equipment such as money counters that interface (pass information) with computer systems.
It is also important to keep your people skills in mind. Consider that banks have a variety of customers from young to old, and from various different cultures. You have to be empathetic to the youth that has just opened their first account and is learning how to make a deposit, as well as the elder individual that may need a bit more help understanding computerized processes that they may not have used before - similarly you may need to explain processes in more depth to someone who is experiencing their first banking trasaction in the US.
One thing to consider as well is if you want to stay at the teller level or have career advancement. In general career advancement is easier if you do further your education in the finance area beyond the high school level. There are various certifications and degree options available. I encourage you to apply once you meet the minimum requirements, and if hired get a feel for the position and if it is something you want to do long term. If it is, start looking into the certifications and degrees available to you.
Good luck, and you got this!
Stacy Prince
Administration
2
Answers
Saint Petersburg, Florida
Updated
Stacy’s Answer
To become a bank teller, you need strong customer service and communication skills, since the role involves daily interaction with customers. Attention to detail and accuracy are critical because tellers handle cash and financial transactions. Basic math skills are needed to count money and balance drawers. Integrity and trustworthiness are essential due to access to sensitive financial information. Finally, basic computer skills and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help tellers manage transactions and systems smoothly.
Angeli Virata
3
Answers
Updated
Angeli’s Answer
Most banks look for candidates who have a high school diploma or equivalent, along with strong customer service and basic math skills. While previous banking experience isn’t always required, having a background where you’ve worked directly with cash handling—such as in retail, restaurants, or other cashier roles—can be a strong advantage. These positions demonstrate not only accuracy with money but also an ability to provide professional, friendly service under pressure.
Some banks also build partnerships with community organizations to provide training programs and pathways into teller roles. These initiatives are designed to open opportunities for individuals who may not have traditional experience but show strong potential in customer service and reliability.
Some banks also build partnerships with community organizations to provide training programs and pathways into teller roles. These initiatives are designed to open opportunities for individuals who may not have traditional experience but show strong potential in customer service and reliability.
Rae Powell
Collections specialist
1
Answer
Brighton, Michigan
Updated
Rae’s Answer
Hi Riley!
I recently left my job as a bank teller to work in a different area of the company.
I started as a bank teller in 2023 and did it for 2 years before moving up into another department.
I was qualified for the position with a high school degree and experience in customer service, money handling, and basic knowledge of cash procedures (preparing cash for deposit and shipment, counting cash, using basic computer programs.)
Most financial institutions will train you on everything you need to know, but be prepared to do a lot of up-front training before getting into the actual work.
To prepare, I recommend working in retail or other customer service positions to get a handle on working with customers and resolving issues, as well as basic cash handling experience. If you're able to, ask your manager to show you how they bundle and count down cash at the begining and end of the day as well, as that helps you understand more about cash handling.
I recently left my job as a bank teller to work in a different area of the company.
I started as a bank teller in 2023 and did it for 2 years before moving up into another department.
I was qualified for the position with a high school degree and experience in customer service, money handling, and basic knowledge of cash procedures (preparing cash for deposit and shipment, counting cash, using basic computer programs.)
Most financial institutions will train you on everything you need to know, but be prepared to do a lot of up-front training before getting into the actual work.
To prepare, I recommend working in retail or other customer service positions to get a handle on working with customers and resolving issues, as well as basic cash handling experience. If you're able to, ask your manager to show you how they bundle and count down cash at the begining and end of the day as well, as that helps you understand more about cash handling.
Candice Edwards
Banker
1
Answer
Broomfield, Colorado
Updated
Candice’s Answer
Hi!
I started my career as a bank teller at age 22 and I am now 42 and love my career. I have a high school diploma and that was the only requirement to apply for this position. I did have cash handling experience from working as a server in a restaurant, so that helped as well. Many banks only require a high school diploma. I have been able to grow my career into a leadership role at the same bank. I would highly recommend this career path to anyone who loves math and computers, because you will use a lot of that knowledge. Working as a team is very important and having great communication with everyone. This career is a great path for those who may not have an interest for college or may be great for someone who wants to be able to excel in a retail banking career long term.
I started my career as a bank teller at age 22 and I am now 42 and love my career. I have a high school diploma and that was the only requirement to apply for this position. I did have cash handling experience from working as a server in a restaurant, so that helped as well. Many banks only require a high school diploma. I have been able to grow my career into a leadership role at the same bank. I would highly recommend this career path to anyone who loves math and computers, because you will use a lot of that knowledge. Working as a team is very important and having great communication with everyone. This career is a great path for those who may not have an interest for college or may be great for someone who wants to be able to excel in a retail banking career long term.
David Boissiere
Chief of Staff to Europe Services Leader
1
Answer
Paris, Île-de-France, France
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Riley,
In Europe, the typical career path in banking usually takes about three years. It starts with a high school degree, followed by an apprenticeship at a bank while continuing education.
To thrive in the changing banking world, it's important for students to develop a mix of financial knowledge, soft skills, and digital expertise.
1. Focus on Advisory and Sales Skills
The role is moving from processing tasks to consulting.
- Understand Products: Learn not just how things work, but why people choose certain financial products. Taking basic finance or business classes can help.
- Build Sales Skills: Practice listening and asking questions, like suggesting a retirement fund to a customer who saves a lot. Get experience in sales or upselling.
- Solve Problems: Banks need people who can tackle unique issues. Highlight any experience where you resolved a tricky customer problem.
2. Become Skilled in Digital Tools
Tellers now help customers with tech issues.
- Learn Software: Be comfortable with different programs and show you can quickly learn new systems.
- Promote Mobile Banking: Be ready to teach customers how to use mobile apps and online banking features.
- Understand Cybersecurity: Know about common scams and the importance of data privacy to help prevent fraud.
3. Improve Your Soft Skills
These human skills are irreplaceable by machines.
- Show Empathy and Patience: Be helpful and calm when customers face technical or financial challenges.
- Communicate Across Cultures: Banks serve diverse communities, so being respectful and effective with all people is important.
- Adapt to Change: The banking industry changes often. Show you can quickly learn new procedures and embrace new ways of working.
In summary, aim to transform your resume to highlight your ability to manage relationships and provide financial advice, rather than just handling cash.
In Europe, the typical career path in banking usually takes about three years. It starts with a high school degree, followed by an apprenticeship at a bank while continuing education.
To thrive in the changing banking world, it's important for students to develop a mix of financial knowledge, soft skills, and digital expertise.
1. Focus on Advisory and Sales Skills
The role is moving from processing tasks to consulting.
- Understand Products: Learn not just how things work, but why people choose certain financial products. Taking basic finance or business classes can help.
- Build Sales Skills: Practice listening and asking questions, like suggesting a retirement fund to a customer who saves a lot. Get experience in sales or upselling.
- Solve Problems: Banks need people who can tackle unique issues. Highlight any experience where you resolved a tricky customer problem.
2. Become Skilled in Digital Tools
Tellers now help customers with tech issues.
- Learn Software: Be comfortable with different programs and show you can quickly learn new systems.
- Promote Mobile Banking: Be ready to teach customers how to use mobile apps and online banking features.
- Understand Cybersecurity: Know about common scams and the importance of data privacy to help prevent fraud.
3. Improve Your Soft Skills
These human skills are irreplaceable by machines.
- Show Empathy and Patience: Be helpful and calm when customers face technical or financial challenges.
- Communicate Across Cultures: Banks serve diverse communities, so being respectful and effective with all people is important.
- Adapt to Change: The banking industry changes often. Show you can quickly learn new procedures and embrace new ways of working.
In summary, aim to transform your resume to highlight your ability to manage relationships and provide financial advice, rather than just handling cash.