A checking account is the most basic personal finance tool. It’s a place to keep your money safe and track how much you spend it. If you’re watching your pennies and sticking to a budget, it doesn’t make sense to pay for the privilege of keeping your money in the bank. Stop giving your hard-earned cash away to the bank and look for a no-fees bank account. These bank accounts offer the services you need at no cost.
Ally Bank
Put your money to work in Ally Bank’s Interest Checking Account with a generous APY of .6 percent. This personal bank account has no monthly maintenance fees and comes with standard features like online bill pay and a debit MasterCard. You also enjoy 24/7 live customer service, online and mobile banking and access to your money through Allpoint ATMs.
Axos Bank
Based in San Diego, California, Axos Bank offers its services across the United States. Its Essential Checking account is a fee-free option for anyone who doesn’t want to pay for the privilege of having an account. It comes with online bill pay and mobile deposit services. You also receive ATM fee reimbursements when you use non-network ATMs.
BBVA Compass
You can open a free bank account with the ClearChoice Free Checking account at BBVA Compass for as little as $25. This full-service account offers the options you expect with any checking account, including online bill pay and deposit. You also have the ability to customize the account with additional services and get customizable alerts about what’s going on with your account.
Capital Bank
If you prefer banking with a more traditional bank, consider Capital Bank’s Express Checking account. There’s no maintenance fee as long you have a direct deposit coming in each month. You also have access to digital banking services and online bill pay. It takes just a few minutes to apply for a bank account online and get a response.
Capital One
Not only is Capital One’s 360 Checking account completely fee free, but it also earns interest. There are no minimum balance requirements, and you can access your money through one of the more than 39,000 free ATMs across the country. You can also set up transfers between your accounts at Capital One and other banks for no additional charges.
Chime Bank
Chime Bank’s fee-free checking account offers more than checking services. Sign up for the automatic savings program that deposits 10 percent of your paycheck into your savings account each time you get paid. You also get real-time alerts for all transactions. All of this takes place in the bank’s award-winning mobile app that makes banking a breeze.
First Citizens Bank
You can open a free checking account at this North Carolina-based bank with a $50 initial deposit. The account comes with access to the bank’s digital banking service where you can manage your accounts and budgets. You have access to 475 ATMs in the southeast and additional services like a Together Account, which is designed for teens.
First Internet Bank
Originally named First Interest Bank of Indiana, First Internet Bank offers a completely free checking account for those who want a no-frills banking option. The account includes a free order of checks as well as access to statement and check copies for one year. You also receive a reimbursement for ATM fees up to $10 each month.
Regions Bank
Regions Bank offers a couple of free checking accounts. Its LifeGreen eAccess account is ideal for individuals who prefer to do their banking online or through ATMs. You avoid a monthly maintenance fee by using your debit card for qualifying purchases. The LifeGreen Checking for Students is available to individuals under the age of 25. This account comes with all the features of the LifeGreen Checking account.
US Bank
US Bank’s basic checking account comes with standard features you expect. It takes $25 to open, and you can avoid the maintenance fee with a direct deposit of $1,000 each month. There’s no cost to do your banking at ATMs or use the mobile banking app. If you or another account holder are at least 65 years old, you can take advantage of Premium Checking, a senior bank account with no fees for qualifying individuals.
