Best No-Fee Checking Accounts
April 2024
Having a good checking account is practically a necessity. However, that doesn't mean all of them are created equal! While some offer great features and benefits, many of them also come with high fees and confusing limitations. Check out our list of best no-fee checking accounts below to find the perfect checking account for you. You will also learn the difference between no-fee and free accounts.
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Are you tired of paying a monthly service fee for the "privilege" of depositing your hard-earned money in your checking account? If so, you’re not alone - many people run into this problem, and they’re sick of it! Stop paying to spend your own money! Fortunately, we’ve put the best no-fee checking accounts into a simple list, so you won’t have to waste hours researching them yourself. Instead, save yourself the stress (and some cash) with our list of no-fee checking accounts.
So what’s the difference between “no-fee” and “free”?
Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not identical. A no-fee checking account is exactly what it sounds like a checking account that doesn’t charge a monthly service fee. Some checking accounts market themselves as no-fee accounts because they waive the monthly fee if you meet certain requirements, such as maintaining a minimum balance. Free checking accounts, on the other hand, don't have a monthly service fee, at all. Usually, they also provide other free services, such as no-ATM fees.
Which features should I look for in a checking account?
Although there are plenty of "nice-to-have" features available, these are the essential features you’ll want from your checking account.
- Low (or no) minimum balance requirement.
- Low (or no) minimum deposit to open an account.
- Ease-of-access to your money (such as physical branches or a mobile app).
- Large ATM network
- FDIC Insurance (up to $250,000)
Frequently Asked Questions
While there are many great options when it comes to checking accounts, just because an account works great for your friend doesn’t mean it will work great for you. When you’re trying to figure out which bank to choose, consider these questions.
What banks offer free checking accounts?
Many different banks offer free checking accounts, but the offers are always changing, so check above for the most current offers.
Which banks don't charge a monthly fee?
Banks are always changing their terms and conditions, so there’s no set answer. The list above will tell you which banks don’t charge a monthly fee.
Who has the best no-fee checking account?
The best no-fee checking account can change from month-to-month, depending on bank offers and sign-up bonuses. Check the list of checking accounts above to find the best current offer!
Will I Need Access To A Physical Branch?
If so, an online bank is probably not the best choice for you, despite their tendency to have low or no fees.
Does This Bank Have In-Network ATMs Near Where I Live?
It’s important that you have access to in-network ATMs. Otherwise, you could end up paying a lot in fees just to access your own money!
Can I Deposit Cash Or Checks?
Many online banks don’t allow you to deposit cash, so if you use cash consistently, a brick-and-mortar bank may be a better option for you. However, many banks do offer mobile deposit of checks, so that shouldn’t be an issue regardless of the type of bank you choose, although it doesn’t hurt to double-check!
Can I open a checking account with no money?
Yes! Although not all banks will let you open an account without a deposit, many will, and others only require a low deposit of $50 or less for you to open an account with them.
What is the best bank with no fees?
There’s no set answer for the best bank with no fees because banks are always changing their offers and terms in an effort to attract new customers. Check the list above to see which bank currently has the best offer!
About the Author
SuperMoney
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