Save money and be informed. CreditDonkey is a bank comparison and reviews website. This website is made possible through financial relationships with card issuers and some of the products and services mentioned on this site. Advertiser Disclosure 

Best Free Checking Accounts of October 2024

By Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the companies mentioned. Opinions
expressed here are author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the
companies.
Ad Disclosure: This article contains references to products from our partners. We may receive
compensation if you apply or shop through links in our content. This compensation may impact how and where
products appear on this site. You help support CreditDonkey by using our links. (read more)

Want to dodge hefty banking fees? Learn about the best free checking accounts in this detailed guide.
No hidden charges or high balances needed.

What is the best bank for free checking?

Minimum Deposit to Open
Discover Bank: Online Checking Account $0 See Offer
Quontic: High Interest Checking $100 See Offer
Consumers Credit Union: Free Rewards Checking $5 See
Offer
Upgrade: Rewards Checking Plus $0 See Offer
BMO Smart Advantage Checking $25 See
Offer
KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® $10 See Offer
Fifth Third Momentum® Checking $0 See
Offer

Many people think that banking has to be expensive. But it does not have to be that way.

In fact, you can enjoy the conveniences of online, branch, or ATM banking without the pesky fees.

These great checking accounts prove you don’t have to break the bank, to bank.

Tip: A checking account is a great way to teach kids about money management.
Find out which accounts you can open for your child and how to choose a first checking account.

What are you most interested in?

Other New Checking Account Promotions You May Like

1. DISCOVER® CASHBACK CHECKING

The Discover® Cashback Debit account is a great choice for free banking. There are no monthly fees,
and you pay $0 for checks, stop payment orders, and insufficient funds.

Plus, you earn 1% cash back when you use your debit card (on up to $3,000 in purchases each month).
That’s potential for some pretty awesome earnings.

But remember, cash back is only for debit card purchases, not for ATM transactions, money orders,
paying friends, or loan payments. See website for details.

You get free ATM withdrawals at over 60,000 locations, including ATMs in popular grocery stores, CVS,
Walgreens, and Costco.

Customer Service
Discover® Bank offers 24/7 phone and email customer
support from a U.S.-based team. Simply call 1(800) 347-7000 or send a message through the online
Message Center.

Not sure about purely mobile banking? You may consider a national bank if you like doing banking in
person.

2. CHASE TOTAL CHECKING®

Chase is one of the largest banks in
the US. Even though it’s so big, Chase has great customer service reviews, plus a highly-rated
mobile app.


Chase Total Checking® isn’t exactly free, but it’s easy to waive the $12 monthly maintenance
fee. All you need is at least $500 in direct deposits. If you can do that, then you don’t need to
worry about maintaining a minimum balance.

$12 or $0 with one of the following, each monthly statement period:

  • Electronic deposits made into this account totaling $500 or more, such as payments from
    payroll providers or government benefit providers, by using (i) the ACH network, (ii) the
    Real Time Payment or FedNow℠ network, (iii) third party services that facilitate payments to
    your debit card using the Visa® or Mastercard® network,
  • OR a balance at the beginning of each day of $1,500 or more in this account,
  • OR an average beginning day balance of $5,000 or more in any combination of this account and
    linked qualifying Chase checking, savings, and other balances.

3. BANK OF AMERICA ADVANTAGE PLUS BANKING®

Bank of America
also offers bonuses for new customers opening a checking
account.

The mobile app is packed with features, like built-in budgeting tools and cash rewards program. You
also get Erica, the virtual assistant, who can help you manage bills, track your FICO score, lock
your debit card, and more.

The monthly fee is easily waived with just a $250 qualifying direct deposit per statement cycle.

Can’t decide between Discover, Chase, and Bank of America? Take a look at how the 3 compare:

4. BMO SMART
ADVANTAGE CHECKING

BMO is a reputable
financial institution primarily. Their Smart Advantage Checking is another excellent option for free
checking. It has no fees on most everyday banking transactions, which spell good news for the
budget-conscious.

Although they charge overdraft fees, note that they are waived if the overdraft was due to an ATM
withdrawal or a one-time debit transaction.

5. BLUEVINE BUSINESS CHECKING

Bluevine is a great choice for small
business owners and freelancers. Not only does it have no monthly fee, you have the potential to
earn a high APY.

Even though Bluevine is an online-only bank, it has a lot of the same features as traditional banks.
So it’s a good fit for a lot of types of businesses.

You get free cash withdrawals from over 37,000 MoneyPass ATMs. And if you need to deposit cash, you
can do so at 90,000+ Green Dot locations and 1,500+ Allpoint+ ATMs (with a small fee). It even gives
you 2 free checkbooks. You can also issue up to 4 additional debit cards for your team members.

You can create up to 5 sub-accounts for free. They get their own account numbers. And they can earn
interest too (up to $250k in combined balance across all the accounts for Standard tier, up to $250k
for Plus tier, and up to $3M for Premier tier).

Bluevine offers optional Plus and Premier tiers. These upgrade plans offer up to
4.25% APY and reduced fees compared to Bluevine Standard on most payment types.

Other Checking Accounts Offers

If none of the above seem like the right fit for you, here are some other checking
account offers.

Is free checking really free?

Not all “free” checking accounts are equal. Some accounts may have requirements you have to meet.

Make sure there are no strings attached to your free checking account by asking the following
questions:

  • Does the account have a monthly maintenance fee?
  • Is there a monthly minimum balance requirement?
  • Am I required to have direct deposit?
  • What types of other fees are associated with the account?
  • What services are not included with free checking? (e.g., wire transfers)

A truly free checking account should mean zero monthly maintenance fees and no
minimum balance requirements.

Ask for a copy of the bank’s fee schedule before you commit. It’ll help you
avoid any unnecessary charges associated with your checking account.

How to Avoid Overdraft Fees

Overdrafts is one of the biggest banking problems for Americans. In just one year, 54% of Americans
overdrafted 2-5 times.[1] With overdraft fees
averaging $35 each, it can add up fast.

So how can you avoid these stressful fees? Luckily, banks usually have some overdraft programs to
help.

  • Sign up for text alerts. You can get an alert when your account balance is low. This way,
    you can add more money before an overdraft happens.

  • Opt out of overdraft coverage. If you don’t sign up for overdraft coverage, your bank
    will auto-decline transactions if you don’t have enough money. This could be embarrassing at the
    cash register, but hey, at least you avoid the fee.

    When a bank says there’s no overdraft fee, what it means is that they will
    just decline transactions when you don’t have enough funds. It doesn’t mean that you can
    overdraw and have a negative balance.

  • Grace period to add funds. Some banks give you a chance to avoid the fee if you deposit
    or transfer money to cover the overdraft by a deadline. This is not a bad option if you realize
    you’ve overdrawn your account and can act quickly.

    For example, Chase gives you until end of the business day to add funds. Capital One gives
    you 1 day to add funds.

  • Overdraft transfer protection. This is when you link a savings account with your checking
    account. When you overdraw, money can automatically be transferred from your savings to cover
    the amount.

    But be aware – some banks charge you for the transfer. Some banks will
    make the transfer for free (like Chase). And note that usual 6/mo transaction limits still
    apply for savings accounts.

  • Overdraft line of credit. This option isn’t available for all banks. But some will let
    you take out a line of credit to cover overdrafts. You pay it back with interest.

Can you have $0 in your checking account?
It’s okay if your checking
account balance falls to $0. However, if it goes below $0, you could incur overdraft fees. And be
careful that some checking accounts charge a monthly fee unless you maintain a certain balance.

If you have a free checking account with no minimums, you could have $0 balance. But if you leave
your account empty and never use it, the bank may automatically close your account.

Hidden Fees to Watch Out For

Even if your account has no service fee, here are common hidden fees you may encounter.

  • Overdraft fee: This is when you don’t have enough money to cover a purchase, but your
    bank covers it. The average bank charges $30-$35 each overdraft. And you can be charged multiple
    times in a single day.

  • Non sufficient funds: This is triggered when your bank rejects a payment because your
    account doesn’t have enough money. Even if you have overdraft protection, you can still be
    charged this fee if you bounce a check. This is also called a returned item fee.

  • Out of network ATM withdrawals: Most banks have their own ATM network. If you’re in a
    pinch and need to use a random ATM, you’ll be charged a fee – usually around $2.50 – $3.50. Some
    banks will reimburse out-of-network ATM fees.

  • Paper checks: Still need to write checks? Some banks charge you for each set of checks.
    If you write checks often, look for an account with free checks.

  • Inactivity fee: Some banks charge an inactivity fee if you don’t have any banking
    activities. It can be as much as $5 – $20 per month. You can avoid this fee by simply making any
    deposit or withdrawal, or using the debit card just once.

  • Paper statement: As more banks are going green, they may charge a fee for printing and
    mailing statements to you. To avoid this, simply opt-out and sign up for electronic statements
    only.

  • Wire transfers: Wire transfers are usually used to transfer money internationally or for
    a big purchase (like a house down payment). They usually cost $25 – $50 each. Some banks may
    offer free domestic wire transfers.

What Experts Say

As part of our series on saving and banking, CreditDonkey assembled a panel of industry experts to
answer readers’ most pressing questions.

Here’s what they said:

What should people look for in a checking account?

Tony Tocco
Professor of Accounting at Rockhurst University

One of the most important features of a checking account to most people
is convenience. The second thing people look for is low cost or fees and … (Continue
reading)

Carrie Johnson
Associate Professor and Extension Specialist at North Dakota
State University

Fees and interest are the two major things people should look at when
trying to decide which checking account is right for them. When comparing … (Continue
reading)

John Longo
Professor of Finance at Rutgers Business School

Perhaps the two most important factors are the fees, if any, and the
interest you may earn on deposits. Today, interest rates are close to zero, … (Continue
reading)

Do Americans spend more but save less compared to other countries?

Dr. Peter Fisher
Senior Fellow, Center for Business, Government & Society;
Clinical Professor at Dartmouth College, Tuck School of Business

It’s very difficult to make international comparisons. It may be more
helpful to think about changes in American savings relative to ourselves (Continue
reading)

Why do banks give away money to customers for new bank accounts?

Bruce Newman, Ph.D.
Professor of Marketing, DePaul University

It’s simple, banks give away money to those people who open up new
accounts as a way to pull them as potential brand loyal customers. Why give … (Continue
reading)

Do banks need branches in the digital age?

Jonathan Morduch, Ph.D.

Jonathan Morduch,
Ph.D.
Professor of Public Policy and Economics, Executive Director of the
Financial Access Initiative, New York University’s Wagner School

I rarely visit the local bank branch, but I do use the ATM to get cash.
I can’t do everything on my phone. Even in the digital age, cash remains … (Continue
reading)

Why are so many people switching to online banking?

Frank Hoy
Beswick Professor of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Worcester
Polytechnic Institute

  1. Advances in technology are making online everything easier almost daily. (Continue
    reading)


Where can I find free checking accounts?

Your best bet for a free checking account is an online bank. These institutions don’t have the overhead
costs of traditional brick-and-mortar banks. Oftentimes, they’ll pass those savings on to you
through no-fee accounts.

Local credit unions and
community banks may also offer free checking accounts. But some may have a minimum balance
requirement in order to waive the monthly service fee.

If you can easily meet the requirements, then don’t overlook those either if they offer the
convenience and features you need.

What are minimum deposit and balance requirements?
The minimum deposit is
how much money you need to open a checking account (usually $0-$100). The minimum balance is
how much you need to maintain in your account, to avoid a monthly fee. True free checking
accounts don’t have a minimum balance requirement.

What is the easiest checking account to open?

If you’ve had some past banking mistakes, it can be hard to open a traditional checking account.

Most banks will do a soft credit check and run your banking history through the ChexSystem. They can
deny you if you’ve had too many overdrafts or a bad credit score.

But not all hope is lost. Second-chance banking offers you an
opportunity to get back into the game, so you can rebuild your banking history.

What to look for in a free checking account

Which bank does not charge a monthly fee for checking accounts?
Here
are some of the best banks with free checking:

When looking for a free checking account, you’ll have plenty of options. Here are some things to
consider as you review your choices:

  • Monthly fee / balance requirements
    If you don’t want any restrictions, then look for a
    bank with no maintenance fees. Most of the banks on our list have no monthly service fee. There
    are a couple of banks that have a fee, but it’s incredibly easy to waive.

    How much should you have in your checking account?
    You should keep
    at least 1 month worth of expenses in your checking account. It’s smart to add a 30% buffer.
    This will give you enough to cover everyday living costs plus any unforeseen expenses.

    The most you should have is 2 months’ worth of expenses. Any money above that will
    be better off in a high yield savings
    account     or investment account.

  • Other banking fees
    Does the bank charge for things like overdrafts, insufficient
    funds, checks, wire transfers? Make sure the bank is transparent about their other fees.

  • Access
    Do you want the option of banking in-person, or are you okay with completely
    online banking? Also make sure the bank has convenient ATMs near where you live and work.

  • Website & Mobile App
    Whether on your computer or mobile device, you want to be
    able to handle your finances from anywhere. Choose a bank with a user-friendly website, mobile
    app, and features like online bill pay and mobile check deposits.

  • Security
    Your bank should be FDIC insured. This means that if the bank defaults, the government will
    pay you back everything you had in the account (up to $250,000).

What you need to open a checking account

To open a checking
account, you will need:

You can open a checking account either online or in-person at a branch. To open an account by
yourself, you need to be at least 18.

Most financial institutions will run a soft credit check on you to see your past banking history and
then approve or deny you for the account.

Can I open a checking account with no money?
Several checking accounts will
allow you to open an account without an initial deposit. These include:

Checking Accounts with Free ATM Transactions

Here are some of the best banks to avoid ATM fees.

  • Axos Reward Checking – unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements

  • Charles Schwab Investor Checking – also reimburses international ATM fees

  • Alliant Credit Union – reimburses up to $20 of ATM fees per month[2]

  • Ally Interest Checking – reimburses up to $10 of ATM fees per month[3]

Some banks, like Capital One, Ally, and Citibank, offer free account access using the Allpoint ATM
network. That means customers won’t pay fees for transactions at more than 55,000 domestic ATMs.
They may, however, be charged fees for out-of-network ATM withdrawals.

Bottom Line

With the rise of online banks, free checking accounts are becoming more popular. Compare accounts-and
banks-to find the best fit for your financial needs. Some banks offer additional perks or bonuses.

And remember, “free” checking isn’t always free. Do some research or speak to a bank representative
to see if your fee-free checking comes with requirements like minimum account balances or direct
deposits.

Best Free Checking Accounts by State

Free Checking Account in Alabama

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Charles Schwab Bank: Schwab Bank Investor Checking™
  • PenAir Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • ASE Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back
  • All In Credit Union: Members Choice Plus Checking
  • Keesler Federal Credit
    Union    : Free4all Checking
  • Ameris Bank: Free Checking
  • Navigator Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Bank Independent: Basic Checking
  • Century Convenient Checking
  • West Alabama Bank: Spirit Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Alaska

  • Charles Schwab Bank: Schwab Bank Investor Checking™
  • Alaska Air Group Credit
    Union    : Personal Checking
  • Credit Union 1 (AK): Free Checking
  • Global Credit Union: Core Checking
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® – $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Arizona

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Alerus Checking
  • Bell Bank: America’s Best Checking
  • Bank of Colorado: Growth Account
  • First Fidelity Bank: Freestyle Checking
  • First National Bank
    Texas    : Service 1 Account
  • Firefighters First
    Credit Union    : Ready Checking
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • Hughes Federal Credit
    Union    : Personal Checking
  • Desert Financial Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Parkway Bank: Free Kasasa Cash® Rewards Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Arkansas

  • Charles Schwab Bank: Schwab Bank Investor Checking™
  • First National Bank
    Texas    : Service 1 Account
  • INTRUST Bank: Safeguard Spending®
  • Carter Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Arkansas Federal Credit
    Union    : Everyday Checking
  • Arvest Bank: Free Blue™ Checking
  • Simmons Bank: Coin Checking
  • Dillard’s Federal Credit
    Union    : DFCU Checking
  • Equity Bank: Simply Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in California

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Charles Schwab Bank: Schwab Bank Investor Checking™
  • Hingham Institution
    for Savings    : Simple Checking
  • Travis Credit Union: Access Checking
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • 1st United Credit
    Union    : Rewards Checking
  • POLAM Checking
  • Firefighters First
    Credit Union    : Ready Checking
  • First Foundation Bank: Personal Checking
  • SAFE Credit Union: Free Checking
  • HomeStreet Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Colorado

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First National Bank of
    Omaha    : Free Checking
  • Fitzsimons Credit
    Union    : Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Bank of Colorado: Growth Account
  • First Fidelity Bank: Freestyle Checking
  • POLAM Checking
  • Meridian Trust
    Federal Credit Union    : MaxRewards Free Checking
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • Independent Financial: Personal Checking
  • Ent Credit Union: No Strings Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Connecticut

  • Charles Schwab Bank: Schwab Bank Investor Checking™
  • Webster Bank: Simple Checking
  • Charter Oak Credit
    Union    : GO Checking
  • Hometown Bank: Get More Checking®
  • Dutch Point Credit
    Union    : Seriously Simple Checking
  • POLAM Checking
  • Liberty Bank: Quarter Back Checking
  • Nutmeg State
    Financial Credit Union    : More-Than-Free Checking
  • USALLIANCE Financial: MyLife Checking
  • Berkshire Bank: Free Checking
  • American Eagle
    Financial Credit Union    : Everyday Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Delaware

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Dover Federal Credit
    Union    : Advantage Checking
  • Del-One Federal Credit
    Union    : Rewards Checking
  • Community Bank
    Delaware    : Mariner Checking
  • First Citizens Community
    Bank    : Free Checking
  • Sun East Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Shore United Bank: Simply Checking
  • Fulton Bank: Simply Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Florida

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Florida Credit Union: Personal Checking Account – $300 Bonus
  • PenAir Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Achieva Checking
  • Wings Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • IncredibleBank Checking Xcel
  • Cogent Bank: Personal Free Checking
  • First Commerce Credit
    Union    : Power Checking
  • Eglin Federal Credit
    Union    : Premium Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Georgia

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Bank of Dudley: Advantage Checking
  • Center Parc Credit
    Union    : Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Atlanta Postal Credit
    Union    : Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Associated Credit
    Union    : Simple Checking
  • Wings Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Marshland Credit Union: Seaside Personal Checking
  • First Commerce Credit
    Union    : Power Checking
  • Robins Financial Credit
    Union    : My$ta$h Account
  • iThink Financial: myWallet Free Checking
  • MembersFirst Credit
    Union    : No-Fee Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Hawaii

  • American Savings Bank: Kalo Essentials Checking
  • First Foundation Bank: Personal Checking
  • Pearl Checking
  • HomeStreet Bank: Free Checking
  • Pentagon Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • HawaiiUSA Federal
    Credit Union    : eLife Checking
  • Hawaii Community
    Federal Credit Union    : Check Advantage
  • Wailuku Federal Credit
    Union    : Checking Account
  • Hawaiian
    Financial Federal Credit Union    : Value Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Idaho

  • Connections Credit
    Union    : Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Horizon Credit Union: Replenish Checking
  • Bank of Commerce: New Generation Checking
  • Spokane Teachers Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • First Tech
    Rewards Checking
  • America First Credit
    Union    : Classic Checking
  • Global Credit Union: Core Checking
  • Idaho Central Credit
    Union    : Central Checking
  • CapEd Credit Union: Cash Back Checking
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® – $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Illinois

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First National Bank of
    Omaha    : Free Checking
  • CIBM Bank: Acceleration Checking
  • First Robinson Savings
    Bank    : Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Flanagan State Bank: Kasasa Cash Back
  • Itasca Checking
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • Connexus Credit Union: Innovative Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Indiana

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First Financial Bank: Simple Checking
  • CIBM Bank: Acceleration Checking
  • First Robinson Savings
    Bank    : Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Members Source Credit
    Union    : Personal Checking
  • Horizon Bank: Everyday Checking
  • Jackson County Bank: Essential Checking
  • First Savings Bank of
    Hegewisch    : Free Checking Plus Interest
  • Allegius Credit Union: Free Kasasa Cash Back Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Iowa

  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • First National Bank of
    Omaha    : Free Checking
  • Veridian Credit Union: Premium Plus Checking
  • Two Rivers Bank &
    Trust    : Free Checking
  • Arbor Bank: Free Checking
  • Community Bank and
    Trust    : Free Checking
  • BTC Bank: Compass Interest Checking
  • DuTrac Community Credit
    Union    : EcoPlus Checking
  • First Federal Credit
    Union    : Charity Checking
  • Bank Iowa: FreeBird Personal Checking
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350

    • Free Checking Account in Kansas

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • First National Bank of
    Omaha    : Free Checking
  • Emprise Bank: High Interest Checking
  • INTRUST Bank: Safeguard Spending®
  • Communication
    Federal Credit Union    : Performance Checking
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • Commerce Bank: Free Checking
  • Truity Credit Union: Essential Checking
  • Arvest Bank: Free Blue™ Checking
  • Legacy Bank: Free E Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Kentucky

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First Financial Bank: Simple Checking
  • Cinfed Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Bank of the Bluegrass: Kasasa® Cash Back Free Rewards Checking
  • Delta Community Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Abound Credit Union: Free Checking
  • WesBanco: Duty First Checking
  • General Electric Credit
    Union    : Simply Free Checking
  • Fifth Third Momentum®
    Checking    : $400 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Louisiana

  • Neighbors Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Cash Back Checking
  • Carter Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Keesler Federal Credit
    Union    : Free4all Checking
  • Fifth District Savings
    Bank    : Easy Interest Checking
  • Synergy Bank: Carefree Checking
  • Home Federal Bank: Cash Back Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Maine

  • Bar Harbor Bank &
    Trust    : Simple Checking
  • Northeast Bank: Propel Rewards Checking
  • Kennebec Federal
    Savings    : Premier Checking
  • Community Credit Union: LeCheque Checking
  • NBT Bank: Classic Checking
  • Eastmill Federal Credit
    Union    : Checking Account
  • Maine Family Federal
    Credit Union    : Checking Account
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® – $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Maryland

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • APG Federal Credit
    Union    : High-Yield Checking
  • Primis Premium Checking
  • Educational
    Systems Federal Credit Union    : Premium Checking
  • Har-co Credit Union: Personal Checking
  • LM Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Atlantic Union Bank: Free Checking
  • Sun East Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • Dollar Bank: Free Checking
  • Pentagon Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Massachusetts

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Cape Ann Savings Bank: Free Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Hingham Institution
    for Savings    : Simple Checking
  • AllCom Checking
  • Webster Bank: Simple Checking
  • Middlesex Savings Bank: Freedom Blue® Checking
  • Hometown Bank: Get More Checking®
  • HarborOne Bank: FreePlus Checking
  • Easthampton Savings
    Bank    : Get Real Checking
  • Abington Bank: Get Real Checking®
  • IC Federal Credit
    Union    : Rewards Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Michigan

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Consumers Credit Union
    (Michigan)    : Simple Checking
  • Wings Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Genius High-Yield Checking
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • IncredibleBank Checking Xcel
  • Preferred Free Checking
  • Michigan
    School and Government Credit Union    : Regular Checking
  • Great River Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • Horizon Bank: Everyday Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Minnesota

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Superior Choice Credit
    Union    : Simple Checking
  • Alerus Checking
  • Falcon National Bank: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Bell Bank: America’s Best Checking
  • Wings Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Connexus Credit Union: Innovative Checking
  • Veridian Credit Union: Premium Plus Checking
  • Great River Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Mississippi

  • All In Credit Union: Members Choice Plus Checking
  • Keesler Federal Credit
    Union    : Free4all Checking
  • Navigator Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Century Convenient Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Missouri

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • First State Bank &
    Trust    : Advantage Checking
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • Gateway Metro
    Federal Credit Union    : Rewards 365 Checking
  • Legacy Reward
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • Arvest Bank: Free Blue™ Checking
  • Bank of Blue Valley: Free Checking
  • CommunityAmerica Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Central Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Montana

  • Horizon Credit Union: Replenish Checking
  • Bank of Commerce: New Generation Checking
  • Citizens Alliance Bank: Simple Consumer Checking
  • First Federal Bank &
    Trust    : Steamboat Consumer Basic Checking
  • Glacier Bank: Totally Free Checking
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Nebraska

  • First National Bank of
    Omaha    : Free Checking
  • ACCESSBank: Basic Access
  • Veridian Credit Union: Premium Plus Checking
  • Meridian Trust
    Federal Credit Union    : MaxRewards Free Checking
  • Pentagon Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • Arbor Bank: Free Checking
  • Lincoln Federal Savings
    Bank    : Free Checking
  • Firstier Bank: E-Checking
  • Banner Capital Bank: Checking with Interest
  • Union Bank & Trust: Simply Free Checking
  • Metro Credit Union (NE): Simply Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Nevada

  • Clark County Credit
    Union    : Essential Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • Sierra Pacific
    Federal Credit Union    : Better Checking
  • America First Credit
    Union    : Classic Checking
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350

    • Free Checking Account in New Hampshire

  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Bar Harbor Bank &
    Trust    : Simple Checking
  • HarborOne Bank: FreePlus Checking
  • Brotherhood Credit
    Union    : Basic Checking
  • Franklin Savings Bank: Easy Checking
  • Piscataqua Savings
    Bank    : eAccess Checking
  • NBT Bank: Classic Checking

    • Free Checking Account in New Jersey

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Blue Foundry Bank: Personal Checking Account – $300 Bonus
  • Apple Bank: Simple Checking
  • Kearny Bank: High-Yield Checking
  • Christian Community
    Credit Union    : Harvest High-Yield Checking
  • USALLIANCE Financial: MyLife Checking
  • New Millennium Bank: Neighborhood Free Checking
  • Altra Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Magyar Bank: Free Checking
  • First Citizens
    Community Bank    : Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in New Mexico

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • First National Bank
    Texas    : Service 1 Account
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • Sandia Area Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Premier Checking
  • America First Credit
    Union    : Classic Checking
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in New York

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Apple Bank: Simple Checking
  • Webster Bank: Simple Checking
  • Kearny Bank: High-Yield Checking
  • Adirondack Bank: Hometown Checking
  • Christian Community
    Credit Union    : Harvest High-Yield Checking
  • Palisades Federal
    Credit Union    : Rewards Checking
  • Broadview Federal
    Credit Union    : Rewards Checking
  • Five Star Bank: Progress Checking
  • Pittsford Federal
    Credit Union    : Personal Checking Account

    • Free Checking Account in North Carolina

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Center Parc Credit
    Union    : Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Atlanta Postal Credit
    Union    : Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • HomeTrust Bank: Simple Checking
  • Coastal Credit Union: Go Green Checking
  • Pentagon Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • Ameris Bank: Free Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking
  • Centra Credit Union: Cashback Checking
  • Fifth Third Momentum®
    Checking    : $400 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in North Dakota

  • Alerus Checking
  • Dakota Plains Credit
    Union    : Kasasa Cash Back
  • Bell Bank: America’s Best Checking
  • First Community Credit
    Union (ND)    : Kasasa Cash Back
  • Great River Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350

    • Free Checking Account in Ohio

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First Financial Bank: Simple Checking
  • Cinfed Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Home Loan Savings Bank: 360° Cash Back Checking
  • Civista National Bank: Free Checking
  • 717 Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Dollar Bank: Free Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking
  • CSE Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Oklahoma

  • Gateway Checking
  • First Fidelity Bank: Freestyle Checking
  • Focus Federal Credit
    Union    : High Interest Checking
  • INTRUST Bank: Safeguard Spending®
  • Communication
    Federal Credit Union    : Performance Checking
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • TTCU Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Truity Credit Union: Essential Checking
  • Arvest Bank: Free Blue™ Checking
  • Central Bank: Free Checking
  • Simmons Bank: Coin Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Oregon

  • Advantis Credit Union: Access Checking
  • Columbia Credit Union: Income Checking
  • HomeStreet Bank: Free Checking
  • First Tech
    Rewards Checking
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® – $300 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Pennsylvania

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Citadel Credit Union: Free Checking
  • First Citizens
    Community Bank    : Free Checking
  • Police and Fire
    Federal Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • Visions Federal Credit
    Union    : Flex Checking
  • Penn Community Bank: Free Checking Plus
  • Sun East Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • Dollar Bank: Free Checking
  • Pentagon Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Rhode Island

  • Webster Bank: Simple Checking
  • HarborOne Bank: FreePlus Checking
  • Berkshire Bank: Free Checking
  • Coastal1 Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Shoreham Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in South Carolina

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Boeing Employees’ Credit
    Union    : Member Advantage Checking
  • Houston Federal Credit
    Union    : myChecking
  • Ameris Bank: Free Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in South Dakota

  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First National Bank of
    Omaha    : Free Checking
  • Heartland State Bank: Regular Checking
  • Plains Commerce Bank: Free Checking
  • American Bank & Trust: Totally Free Checking
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350

    • Free Checking Account in Tennessee

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • HomeTrust Bank: Simple Checking
  • Altra Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Old Hickory Credit
    Union    : Free Kasasa Cash Checking
  • Orion Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • Eastman Credit Union: Beyond Free Checking
  • Simmons Bank: Coin Checking
  • Fifth Third Momentum®
    Checking    : $400 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Texas

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • First National Bank of
    Omaha    : Free Checking
  • First Lockhart National
    Bank    : Gold Cash Back® Checking
  • First National Bank
    Texas    : Service 1 Account
  • First Heroes National
    Bank    : Service 1 Checking
  • Prestige Community
    Credit Union    : Rewards Checking
  • Firefighters First
    Credit Union    : Ready Checking
  • Randolph-Brooks
    Federal Credit Union    : Really Free Checking
  • First Foundation Bank: Personal Checking
  • Houston Federal Credit
    Union    : myChecking

    • Free Checking Account in Utah

  • Deseret First Credit
    Union    : Interest Checking
  • Capital Community Bank: Personal Manager Checking
  • HomeStreet Bank: Free Checking
  • Delta Community Credit
    Union    : Free Checking
  • America First Credit
    Union    : Classic Checking
  • Cyprus Credit Union: Dream Checking
  • Chartway Federal Credit
    Union    : Cash Back Checking
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® – $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Vermont

  • Bar Harbor Bank &
    Trust    : Simple Checking
  • Berkshire Bank: Free Checking
  • Trustco Bank: Free Checking
  • NBT Bank: Classic Checking
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® – $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Virginia

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • HomeTrust Bank: Simple Checking
  • Apple Federal Credit
    Union    : Investors Checking
  • BayPort Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Virginia Credit Union: Regular Checking
  • Primis Premium Checking
  • LangleyPays Checking
  • Member One Federal
    Credit Union    : One Choice Checking
  • Dollar Bank: Free Checking
  • Pentagon Federal
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Washington

  • Horizon Credit Union: Replenish Checking
  • Columbia Credit Union: Income Checking
  • Firefighters First
    Credit Union    : Ready Checking
  • Boeing Employees’
    Credit Union    : Member Advantage Checking
  • Sound Credit Union: Free Checking
  • HomeStreet Bank: Free Checking
  • Spokane Teachers
    Credit Union    : Free Checking
  • First Tech
    Rewards Checking
  • Atlantic Union Bank: Free Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • iQ Credit Union: Basic Checking

    • Free Checking Account in West Virginia

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Pendleton Community
    Bank    : Kasasa Cash Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking
  • WesBanco: Duty First Checking
  • Fifth Third Momentum®
    Checking    : $400 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Wisconsin

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • CIBM Bank: Acceleration Checking
  • Superior Choice Credit
    Union    : Simple Checking
  • First Federal Bank of
    Wisconsin    : Fresh Start Checking
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • IncredibleBank Checking Xcel
  • Connexus Credit Union: Innovative Checking
  • Landmark Credit Union: Rewards Checking
  • Altra Federal Credit
    Union    : Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Wyoming

  • Meridian Trust
    Federal Credit Union    : MaxRewards Free Checking
  • Western Vista
    Federal Credit Union    : Panorama Checking
  • Hilltop Bank: E-Z Checking
  • Firstier Bank: E-Checking
  • Banner Capital Bank: Checking with Interest
  • BMO Smart Advantage
    Checking    : Earn up to $350

    • References

    1. ^ Pew Center on the States, Overdraft America: Confusion and
      Concerns about Bank
      Practices      , Retrieved 10/21/2023
    2. ^ Alliant. Does Alliant rebate fees if I use an out-of-network ATM?,
      Retrieved 10/21/2023
    3. ^ Ally. ATMs & withdrawals FAQs: What are your ATM fees?, Retrieved
      10/21/2023


    Write to Anna G at feedback@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.

    Note: This website is made possible through financial relationships with some
    of the products and services mentioned on this site. We may receive compensation if you shop through
    links in our content. You do not have to use our links, but you help support CreditDonkey if you do.

    8 days ago CreditDonkey updated Fifth Third Momentum® Checking – $400 Bonus
    9/14/2024 CreditDonkey updated BMO Smart Advantage Checking – Earn up to $350
    9/14/2024 CreditDonkey updated BMO Checking Accounts – Earn up to $600
    9/9/2024 CreditDonkey updated Rewards Checking Plus
    – Up to 2% Cash Back
    Subscribe to CreditDonkey: Get updates on the latest deals
    and keep up with the best money moves.

    Your privacy is important to us.
    Unsubscribe anytime

    Bank of America

    Member FDIC

    Bank of America
    Advantage Banking – $300 Bonus Offer

    Learn More
    Expires 1/31/2025
    • The $300 bonus offer is an online only offer and must be opened through the Bank of
      America promotional page.
    • The offer is for new checking customers only.
    • Offer expires 01/31/2025.
    • To qualify, open a new eligible Bank of America Advantage Banking account through the
      promotional page and set up and receive Qualifying Direct Deposits* totaling $2,000 or more
      into that new eligible account within 90 days of account opening. Bank of America Advantage
      SafeBalance Banking® for Family Banking accounts are not eligible for this offer.
    • Once all requirements are met, Bank of America will attempt to pay bonus within 60 days.
    • Additional terms and conditions apply. See offer page for more details.
    • *A Qualifying Direct Deposit is a direct deposit of regular monthly income – such as your
      salary, pension or Social Security benefits, which are made by your employer or other payer
      – using account and routing numbers that you provide to them.
    • Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC.

    Articles on Best Free Checking Accounts

    Banks That Offer Free
    Checking

    Discover top banks for free checking accounts with no minimum balance requirement.
    Open your account with $0 deposit.

    Banks with No Overdraft Fees

    Banks are slowly starting to ditch overdraft fees. If you’re looking to open a new
    account without overdraft fees, here are some of the top picks.

    Easiest Bank Account to
    Open Online

    Find bank accounts you can open online with no minimum balances and credit checks.
    Choose from over 10 top choices like Chime, Capital One, and more.

    Best Reward Checking
    Accounts

    Maximize your money with the top 10 reward checking accounts. Dodge buyer’s remorse
    today.

    Do People Still Use Checks

    Do people still use checks? The short answer is yes. Keep reading to find out how.

    Why Have Two Checking Accounts

    Would having more than one checking account make your life easier or harder? Check
    out the pros and cons of having multiple bank accounts.

    What are you most interested in?

    72%
    Sign-up bonuses

    5%
    Rewards

    8%
    High interest rates

    15%
    Easy access to funds

    Source: CreditDonkey

    About CreditDonkey
    CreditDonkey is a bank comparison website. We publish data-driven analysis to help you save money & make savvy decisions.

    Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author's alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer.

     Advertiser Disclosure: Many of the offers that appear on this site are from companies from which CreditDonkey receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). CreditDonkey does not include all companies or all offers that may be available in the marketplace.

    *See the card issuer's online application for details about terms and conditions. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. However, all information is presented without warranty. When you click on the "Apply Now" button you can review the terms and conditions on the card issuer's website.

    CreditDonkey does not know your individual circumstances and provides information for general educational purposes only. CreditDonkey is not a substitute for, and should not be used as, professional legal, credit or financial advice. You should consult your own professional advisors for such advice.

    About Us | Reviews | Deals | Tips | Privacy | Do Not Sell My Info | Terms | Contact Us
    (888) 483-4925 | 680 East Colorado Blvd, 2nd Floor | Pasadena, CA 91101
    © 2024 CreditDonkey Inc. All Rights Reserved.