Last Updated: 01/21/2026
First Tech Rewards Checking®
Claimed
Last Updated: 01/21/2026
SuperMoney User Recommendation Score +64
Strongly recommended22 total votes
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Highlights
Community Rating
Strongly recommended
Welcome Offer
Starting at $0(Verified 06/21/2024)
Disclaimer popup with additional information
Cashback Rewards
N/A
APY (Annual Percentage Yield)
4.00%(Verified 06/21/2024)
Disclaimer popup with additional information
Monthly Service Fee
$0(Verified 01/21/2026)
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Number of Reviews
First Tech Rewards Checking® Review
The First Tech Rewards Checking® is offered by First Tech Federal Credit Union, a credit union founded in 1952 and based in San Jose, CA. First Tech Rewards Checking® is available in 50 states and Washington, DC.
Key Takeaways
- Up to 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY). This account offers an annual percentage yield of up to 4.00%, which is much higher than the average for the checking accounts that we track (see terms and conditions for more details).
- No monthly maintenance fees. This account does not charge any monthly account fees.
- Small minimum initial deposit. You only need $10 to open an account.
- ATM fee rebates. This account will reimburse you for ATM fees (see terms and conditions for details).
- Bill pay. Pay your bills to practically anyone in the United States when you enroll in First Tech Federal Credit Union mobile or online banking.
First Tech Rewards Checking® Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
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First Tech Rewards Checking® FAQ
Are checking accounts from First Tech federally insured?
Yes, your checking accounts are insured up to $250,000 per share owner for each account ownership category. The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), a federal agency, administers the insurance fund and regulates federally insured credit unions. The fund is backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government.
What APY does First Tech Rewards Checking® offer?
| Description | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| APY (Annual Percentage Yield) | 4.00% (see terms and conditions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
First Tech Rewards Checking® offers an APY of 4.00% (APY stands for annual percentage yield, rates may change). This is higher than the typical APY for online-only checking accounts, which is around 1% APY.
Membership is required and subject to approval. 20 Transactions Any debit & credit card transactions with minimum monthly spend of $500 and Monthly direct deposit/ ACH of $1,000+ and eStatement enrollment. APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Rates effective as of 02.01.2023 and are subject to change at any time. Membership Savings has a 0.05% APY. First Tech Rewards Checking (FTRC) Qualified APY is 4.00% on the first $15,000 and 0.10% on remaining balance; FTRC Non-Qualified APY is 0.01% on all balances. Terms and conditions apply.What are the account minimums for First Tech Rewards Checking®?
First Tech Rewards Checking® requires a minimum initial deposit of $10.
| Description | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Minimum Average Balance to Avoid Monthly Service Fee | Starting at $0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Minimum Balance to Earn APY | $0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Minimum Opening Deposit | Starting at $10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
What fees does First Tech Rewards Checking® charge?
The good news is that this account does not have a monthly Service Charge.
| Description | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Monthly Service Fee | $0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Paper Statement Fee | Starting at $3 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ATM Fee: In-Network | Starting at $0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ATM Fee: Out-of-Network (within the U.S.) | Starting at $2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| NSF Fee | $28 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Overdraft Item Fee | Starting at $33 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Early Account Closure | Starting at $0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Returned Deposit Fee (Domestic) | Starting at $10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Card Replacement Fee (Standard Delivery) | Starting at $0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Online Bill Pay Fee | Starting at $0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stop Payment Fee | Starting at $20 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Check Copy | $2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign Transaction Fee (Debit Card) | Starting at 1% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wire Transfer Fee - US Domestic (Outgoing) | Starting at $20 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wire Transfer Fee - International (Outgoing) | Starting at $50 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wire Transfer Fee - International (Incoming) | Starting at $5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Returned Deposit Fee (International) | Starting at $10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wire Transfer Fee - US Domestic (Incoming) | Starting at $5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Does First Tech Rewards Checking® charge overdraft fees?
Yes, First Tech Rewards Checking® charges a $33 fee for every overdraft.What features and perks does First Tech Rewards Checking® offer?
This account includes the following features:
- ATM rebates - This account will reimburse you for domestic ATM fees .
- Check images with statement - Reconciling your accounts and complying with document retention standards is easier when you have access to a copy of your checks.
- Fraud monitoring - First Tech Rewards Checking® monitors transactions for potentially unauthorized activity, such as when a debit card is unexpectedly used in a different location or you make a sudden string of costly purchases.
- Online Bill Pay - Online Bill Pay allows you to pay bills easily from your account.
- Mobile Banking Services - First Tech Rewards Checking® allows you to manage your money online or with a mobile app. This includes depositing checks1 in your account with a mobile app on your smartphone.
- Nationwide ATM network - Conveniently transact at a nearby ATM.
How do people rate the customer service and user experience of First Tech Rewards Checking®?
Overall, First Tech Rewards Checking® is strongly recommended based on community reviews that rate customer service and user experience.
First Tech Rewards Checking® Disclosure: First Tech Rewards Checking® is a tiered rate account. Membership is required and subject to approval. 20 Transactions Any debit & credit card transactions with minimum monthly spend of $500 and Monthly direct deposit/ ACH of $1,000+ and eStatement enrollment. APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Rates effective as of 02.01.2023 and are subject to change at any time. Membership Savings has a 0.05% APY. First Tech Rewards Checking (FTRC) Qualified APY is 4.00% on the first $15,000 and 0.10% on remaining balance; FTRC Non-Qualified APY is 0.01% on all balances. Terms and conditions apply.
SuperMoney Disclosure: SuperMoney.com is an independent, advertising-supported service. The owner of this website may be compensated in exchange for featured placement of certain sponsored products and services, or your clicking on links posted on this website. Read more...
Editorial Disclaimer: Editorial and user-generated content on this page is not provided or commissioned by the issuer. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone and have not been approved or otherwise endorsed by any financial institution, including those that are advertising partners.
Message from First Tech Rewards Checking®
Hours of Operation
Sunday
Closed
Monday
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Tuesday
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Wednesday
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Thursday
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Friday
9:00AM - 6:00PM
Saturday
10:00AM - 1:00PM
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Rating not yet determined (4 Reviews)
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Learn MoreSuperMoney Net Recommendation Score
SuperMoney users strongly recommend this product, giving it a user recommendation score of +64, or 4.3 on a 5-point rating scale.
+64
-1000+100
No one recommends
Everyone recommends
First Tech Rewards Checking® Community Reviews
Would you recommend First Tech Rewards Checking® to your friends?
AM
Athena M.
Jan 20, 2024
May or may not recommend
The rewards program offers points on everyday transactions and additional perks for direct deposits, providing flexibility for various lifestyles. The fee structure is transparent, with no monthly service fees and fee-free ATMs. The mobile banking experience is user-friendly, with advanced security features. Customer service is excellent, and the overdraft protection options provide peace of mind. The overall experience is really pleasant, highly recommend for those seeking a rewarding and hassle-free ...Show More
RW
Ryan W.
Dec 19, 2023
May or may not recommend
As a satisfied customer of First Tech Federal Credit Union, I'm thrilled to share my positive experience with their services. The standout feature for me has been the First Tech Rewards Checking account. It offers up to 4.00% APY, which is exceptionally high compared to many other banks. Notably, Money Magazine recognized this account as the 2023 Best Rewards Checking Account among all credit unions, a testament to its value.
First ...Show More
SM
Shalom M.
Dec 5, 2023
May or may not recommend
First Tech Rewards Checking: Exceptional Banking
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
First Tech Rewards Checking has exceeded my expectations. The rewards program adds genuine value, making everyday banking more rewarding.
The user-friendly online and mobile platforms simplify financial management, while the transparent fee structure ensures no surprises. Customer service is consistently excellent — prompt, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful.
In summary, First Tech Rewards Checking is a top-notch choice for those seeking a rewarding and hassle-free banking experience. ...Show More
EM
Emily M.
Nov 19, 2023
May or may not recommend
It's a pretty developed bank. They offer a higher-than-average rewards system as well. But to make real money from it, you would have to have 5K deposited.
Overall, it is a good bank. Has some decent offers. I would recommend it. However, it was not my favorite account in my lifetime.
BM
Billy M.
Nov 17, 2023
May or may not recommend
First Tech Rewards Checking stands out as a fee-friendly option that provides the flexibility of a checking account and the interest-earning potential of a savings account. Overall, it's a strong choice for individuals looking to optimize their savings while enjoying convenient banking features.
Akinlaja C.
Nov 11, 2023
May or may not recommend
What sets First Tech Rewards Checking® apart from other rewards checking accounts is its focus on rewarding customers for their everyday banking habits. Instead of requiring customers to jump through hoops to earn rewards, First Tech rewards customers for simply using their checking account and credit card. This makes it a great option for people who want to earn rewards without having to change their spending habits.
Another unique feature of ...Show More
AC
Audree C.
Nov 8, 2023
May or may not recommend
First Tech Rewards Checking has exceptional service! I've been with them for a few months now and it's one of my favorite checking accounts. The cash back is super helpful as well as the considerate customer service, I've never had a problem they couldn't help me with. The fact that they also have no monthly fee is super convenient for me, I recommend them to everyone.
ID
Irini D.
Nov 3, 2023
May or may not recommend
First Tech Rewards Checking has some amazing services and was great to work with. Have some amazing ratings and when I was talking with their customer service they were very nice and helpful in answering all my questions.
YA
Yesmin A.
Nov 1, 2023
May or may not recommend
First Tech Federal Credit Union offers a wide range of financial services with a focus on technology and innovation. Their competitive rates and member-centric approach make them a strong choice for those seeking a modern banking experience.
GM
Gina M.
Oct 29, 2023
May or may not recommend
I was hit with a pretty expensive overdraft fee. When I tried to talk to customer service about the issue no one really cared to listen. Other cards I have will usually dismiss the first time or ultimately will allow you to overdraft as long as the money is returned quickly. In general I think they need to just up their game and be a bit more understanding and tech ...Show More
LJ
Lexie J.
Oct 25, 2023
May or may not recommend
The services are great! This checking account pays me and helps me make the most of my money.
GF
Gabriel F.
Oct 2, 2023
May or may not recommend
I recommend this
"I've been a First Tech Rewards Checking customer for some time, and I'm delighted with the benefits it offers. The high-interest rates on balances and the cashback rewards make it a standout choice for me. The mobile app is intuitive and easy to use, making managing my finances a breeze. Plus, their customer service is top-notch. I highly recommend First Tech Rewards Checking to anyone seeking a rewarding ...Show More
Scottmarketing
Jul 17, 2023
May or may not recommend
First Tech Rewards Checking offers an exceptional deal for those seeking a rewarding checking account. With an impressive APY of up to 4.00%, it surpasses industry standards. The account boasts a $0 monthly fee and requires just a small $10 initial deposit. Enjoy the convenience of ATM fee rebates and bill payment services. Additionally, First Tech provides enticing cash back offers on loans, HELOCs, and credit cards. With nationwide ATM ...Show More
Tara T.
Jul 13, 2023
May or may not recommend
I would probably recommend the First Tech Rewards Checking® Checking Accounts to people who are looking for a high-interest checking account and who are willing to meet the minimum balance requirement. However, I would not recommend it to people who are looking for an account with overdraft protection.
SH
Sama H.
Jul 11, 2023
May or may not recommend
The First Tech Rewards Checking account is a type of checking account offered by First Tech Federal Credit Union. It is a unique account that provides various rewards and benefits to account holders. With this account, you can earn points for every qualifying purchase made with your debit card. These points can then be redeemed for a wide range of rewards, such as travel, merchandise, gift cards, or even cash ...Show More
JT
Jesse T.
Apr 21, 2023
May or may not recommend
Although this checking account does not come with a sign up bonus, it dose not have a monthly fee either and only requires a $10 minimum to open an account, which makes it very convenient. Their phone support is also great and there are plenty of people willing to help with any questions or concerns.
BK
Bethany K.
Apr 20, 2023
May or may not recommend
I notice several great things about First Tech Rewards Checking accounts. First, the high APY of 4%! That's incredible! Next I appreciate the low fees. The credit union I currently use has much higher fees, especially for the stop payment process. Lastly, how convenient that First Tech is available nation wide!
JM
Jacob M.
Apr 19, 2023
May or may not recommend
I would highly recommend the First Tech Rewards Checking account at First Tech Federal Credit Union. This account offers a range of benefits and features that make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and rewarding checking account.
First and foremost, the account offers a generous rewards program. You can earn points for every dollar you spend using your debit card, and these points can be redeemed for ...Show More
U
Anonymous
Apr 14, 2023
May or may not recommend
It takes to long I've been talking with them since Monday it's Thursday no word fom them
ES
E S.
Mar 31, 2023
May or may not recommend
i'm not sure it is legit but thought i try once
Showing 20 of 22 reviews
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