There are a large amount of banks and Sparkassen (savings banks) in Austria. Banks are private institutions. Sparkassen are run and/or supported and funded by local public authorities. Especially for international money affairs it is recommended to choose an international bank.
Most banking institutions offer a full range of banking, investment and insurance services; many also provide advice on property rentals and purchases. Since services, prices and conditions vary widely, you should shop around before you make a decision. Consumer advice agencies also provide information on banks and Sparkassen. Almost all banks now provide online banking via the Internet, and there are also some pure online banks.
Another possibility is to handle your finances through a PSK account as this is sometimes cheaper than with other banks. PSK means Postsparkasse; there are PSK counters at all post offices and you can withdraw money from your account on production of ID such as passport or identity card. The great advantage of PSK is their large number of offices. However, some people (including the author) consider the PSK service as being a disaster. Banking options include Internet and Telephone channels. Non-cash payments (remittances, credit notes etc.) are effected at the PSK by letter via its branches, to which the completed and signed forms are sent.
Opening times differ from one bank to the next, with most open weekdays from 9 am to 4 pm. In rural areas, banks are sometimes closed 1 to 2.30 pm. Most bank branches have cash machines (ATMs) that allow you to withdraw cash, transfer money and get bank statements 24 hours/day.
Different than in other countries, you generally can withdraw cash money from any ATM without being charged an extra fee. This means no matter which bank you choose for your account, you can still use the thousands of ATMs located in Austria. There is a limit of around 400€ withdrawal per day, which can be extended when you proof sufficient income. The ATMs in Austria will accept all major cards: Maestro, Mastercard, VISA and Cirrus so you can also draw money from your foreign account - but this time at an extra charge.