Best Free Checking Accounts of November 2024

By Anna G, personal finance expert at CreditDonkey
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$0See Offer
Quontic: High Interest Checking$100See Offer
Consumers Credit Union: Free Rewards Checking$5See Offer
KeyBank: Key Smart Checking®$10See Offer
Upgrade: Rewards Checking Plus$0See Offer
Fifth Third Momentum® Checking$0See 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

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.

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.

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:

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. But if you're interested in more than just free checking, here are banks that offer bonuses without requiring a direct deposit.

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:

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:

  • Government issued ID, like a driver's license
  • Social Security Number
  • Proof of address (lease or utility bill)
  • Contact information (name, home address, email address, phone number)
  • Date of birth
  • Money for the opening deposit (if required)

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 - $200 Bonus
  • Charles Schwab Bank: Schwab Bank Investor Checking™
  • ASE Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back
  • PenAir Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Bank Independent: Basic Checking
  • TVA Community Credit Union: Freedom Checking
  • Keesler Federal Credit Union: Free4all Checking
  • All In Credit Union: Members Choice Plus Checking
  • West Alabama Bank: Spirit Checking
  • Ameris Bank: Free Checking
  • Navigator Credit Union: Free 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 - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Alerus Financial: Interest Checking
  • Bell Bank: America's Best Checking
  • Sierra Pacific Federal Credit Union: Better Checking
  • Bank of Colorado: Growth Account
  • First Fidelity Bank: Freestyle Checking
  • Hughes Federal Credit Union: Personal Checking
  • Firefighters First Credit Union: Ready Checking
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • First National Bank Texas: Service 1 Account

    • Free Checking Account in Arkansas

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

    • Free Checking Account in California

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Charles Schwab Bank: Schwab Bank Investor Checking™
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • Golden 1 Credit Union: Student Checking
  • Provident Credit Union: Super Reward Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • Travis Credit Union: Access Checking
  • POLAM Checking
  • First Foundation Bank: Personal Checking
  • Firefighters First Credit Union: Ready Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Colorado

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First National Bank of Omaha: Free Checking
  • Fitzsimons Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • TBK Bank: Launch Checking
  • Bank of Colorado: Growth Account
  • First Fidelity Bank: Freestyle Checking
  • POLAM Checking
  • Independent Financial: Personal Checking
  • Meridian Trust Federal Credit Union: MaxRewards Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Connecticut

  • Charles Schwab Bank: Schwab Bank Investor Checking™
  • Connex Credit Union: Unbank Checking
  • Charter Oak Credit Union: GO Checking
  • Hometown Bank: Get Real Checking®
  • POLAM Checking
  • Liberty Bank: Quarter Back Checking
  • Nutmeg State Financial Credit Union: More-Than-Free Checking
  • USALLIANCE Financial: MyLife Checking
  • Sikorsky Credit Union: Standard Checking
  • Dutch Point Credit Union: Seriously Simple Checking
  • Webster Bank: Simple Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Delaware

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Dover Federal Credit Union: Interest Checking
  • First Citizens Community Bank: Vantage Checking
  • Community Bank Delaware: Mariner Checking
  • Del-One Federal Credit Union: Rewards Checking
  • Fulton Bank: Simply Checking
  • Shore United Bank: Simply Checking
  • Sun East Federal Credit Union: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Florida

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Florida Credit Union: Personal Checking Account - $300 Bonus
  • Cogent Bank: Personal Free Checking
  • IncredibleBank Checking Xcel
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • ConnectOne Bank: Totally Free Checking
  • PenAir Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • American Momentum Bank: Basic Checking
  • Wings Credit Union: High-Yield Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Georgia

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Atlanta Postal Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Checking
  • Center Parc Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Wings Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Bank of Dudley: Advantage Checking
  • First Commerce Credit Union: Power Checking
  • Robins Financial Credit Union: My$ta$h Account
  • MembersFirst Credit Union: No-Fee Checking
  • iThink Financial: myWallet Free Checking
  • Southeastern Cashback

    • Free Checking Account in Hawaii

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

    • Free Checking Account in Idaho

  • Connections Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Horizon Credit Union: Tether Checking
  • Bank of Commerce: New Generation Checking
  • First Tech Rewards Checking
  • Spokane Teachers Credit Union: Free Checking
  • CapEd Credit Union: Cash Back Checking
  • Idaho Central Credit Union: Central Checking
  • Global Credit Union: Core Checking
  • America First Credit Union: Classic Checking
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® - $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Illinois

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First National Bank of Omaha: Free Checking
  • First Robinson Savings Bank: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Connexus Credit Union: Innovative Checking
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • Flanagan State Bank: Kasasa Cash Back
  • Itasca Checking
  • First Savings Bank of Hegewisch: Totally Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Indiana

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First Robinson Savings Bank: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Elements Financial: Student Edge Checking
  • First Savings Bank of Hegewisch: Totally Free Checking
  • CIBM Bank: Acceleration Checking
  • Fort Financial Credit Union: Standard Checking
  • Members Source Credit Union: Personal Checking
  • F&M Bank: Smart Checking
  • First Financial Bank: Simple Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Iowa

  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • First National Bank of Omaha: Free Checking
  • TBK Bank: Launch Checking
  • Bank Iowa: FreeBird Personal Checking
  • Veridian Credit Union: Premium Checking
  • RIA Federal Credit Union: Smart Checking Bundle
  • Arbor Bank: Free Checking
  • DuTrac Community Credit Union: EcoPlus Checking
  • Community Bank and Trust: Free Checking
  • Two Rivers Bank & Trust: Free Checking
  • First Federal Credit Union: Charity Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Kansas

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • First National Bank of Omaha: Free Checking
  • TBK Bank: Launch Checking
  • Emprise Bank: High Interest Checking
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • Communication Federal Credit Union: PayMe Checking
  • Union Bank & Trust: Simply Free Platinum Checking
  • INTRUST Bank: Safeguard Spending®
  • Equity Bank: Simply Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Kentucky

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Cinfed Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Bank of the Bluegrass: Kasasa® Cash Back Free Rewards Checking
  • General Electric Credit Union: Simply Free Checking
  • First Financial Bank: Simple Checking
  • Delta Community Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Abound Credit Union: Free Checking
  • WesBanco: Duty First Checking
  • Fifth Third Momentum® Checking: $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Louisiana

  • Synergy Pays Checking
  • Fifth District Savings Bank: Totally Free Checking
  • Keesler Federal Credit Union: Free4all Checking
  • Home Federal Bank: Smart Rewards Checking
  • Neighbors Federal Credit Union: Free Cash Back Checking
  • Carter Credit Union: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Maine

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

    • Free Checking Account in Maryland

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Securityplus Federal Credit Union: Xceptional Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • APG Federal Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Har-co Credit Union: Personal Checking
  • Educational Systems Federal Credit Union: Premium Checking
  • Primis Premium Checking
  • Fulton Bank: Simply Checking
  • Shore United Bank: Simply Checking
  • Rosedale Federal Savings & Loan Association: Everyday Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Massachusetts

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Greenfield Savings Bank: Totally Free Checking
  • Leader Bank: Zeugma Reward Checking
  • RiverWorks Credit Union: Traditional Checking
  • AllCom Checking
  • Brotherhood Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • St. Anne's Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • Easthampton Savings Bank: Basic Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • Abington Bank: Get Real Checking®
  • Hometown Bank: Get Real Checking®

    • Free Checking Account in Michigan

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • IncredibleBank Checking Xcel
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • 4Front Credit Union: Straight4ward Rewards Checking
  • Community Choice Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • Honor Credit Union: Benefits Checking
  • OUR Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • Genius High-Yield Checking
  • Wings Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Preferred Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Minnesota

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Falcon National Bank: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Alerus Financial: Interest Checking
  • Connexus Credit Union: Innovative Checking
  • Bell Bank: America's Best Checking
  • Wings Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Veridian Credit Union: Premium Checking
  • Royal Credit Union: Smart Checking
  • Thrivent Credit Union: Simply Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Mississippi

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

    • Free Checking Account in Missouri

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • First State Bank & Trust: Advantage Checking
  • Legacy Reward
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • Gateway Metro Federal Credit Union: Rewards 365 Checking
  • Equity Bank: Simply Free Checking
  • Bank of Blue Valley: Free Checking
  • Central Bank: Free Checking
  • Hawthorn Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Montana

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

    • Free Checking Account in Nebraska

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

    • Free Checking Account in Nevada

  • Sierra Pacific Federal Credit Union: Better Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • Clark County Credit Union: Essential Checking
  • America First Credit Union: Classic Checking

    • Free Checking Account in New Hampshire

  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Brotherhood Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • HarborOne Bank: FreePlus Checking
  • Lighthouse Checking
  • Savings Bank of Walpole: Non-Interest Checking
  • Bar Harbor Bank & Trust: Simple Checking
  • St. Mary's Bank: Beyond Checking
  • Piscataqua Savings Bank: eAccess Checking
  • Franklin Savings Bank: Easy Checking
  • NBT Bank: Classic Checking

    • Free Checking Account in New Jersey

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Blue Foundry Bank: Personal Checking Account - $300 Bonus
  • ConnectOne Bank: Totally Free Checking
  • First Citizens Community Bank: Vantage Checking
  • Kearny Bank: High-Yield Checking
  • FirstBank (NJ): Basic Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • Christian Community Credit Union: Harvest High-Yield Checking
  • Crest Savings Bank: Freedom Account
  • USALLIANCE Financial: MyLife Checking

    • Free Checking Account in New Mexico

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • First National Bank Texas: Service 1 Account
  • Sandia Area Federal Credit Union: Free Premier Checking
  • America First Credit Union: Classic Checking

    • Free Checking Account in New York

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Adirondack Bank: Hometown Checking
  • ConnectOne Bank: Totally Free Checking
  • Walden Savings Bank: Super NOW Checking
  • Bank of Greene County: Totally Free Checking
  • First Citizens Community Bank: Vantage Checking
  • Kearny Bank: High-Yield Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • Christian Community Credit Union: Harvest High-Yield Checking
  • Pittsford Federal Credit Union: Personal Checking Account

    • Free Checking Account in North Carolina

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Atlanta Postal Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Checking
  • Center Parc Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Coastal Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • HomeTrust Bank: Simple Checking
  • Ameris Bank: Free Checking
  • Pentagon Federal Credit Union: Free Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking
  • Centra Credit Union: Cashback Checking

    • Free Checking Account in North Dakota

  • Alerus Financial: Interest Checking
  • Dakota Plains Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back
  • First Community Credit Union (ND): Kasasa Cash Back
  • Bell Bank: America's Best Checking
  • Great River Federal Credit Union: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Ohio

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Cinfed Credit Union: Kasasa Cash Back Checking
  • Wright-Patt Credit Union: Totally Fair Checking
  • Incenta (Pathways Financial Credit Union): Basic Checking
  • Pathways Financial Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • Home Loan Savings Bank: 360° Cash Checking
  • 717 Credit Union: Free WOW Checking
  • Cincinnatus Savings and Loan: Simply Free Checking
  • F&M Bank: Smart Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Oklahoma

  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Focus Federal Credit Union: Traditional Checking
  • Gateway Checking
  • First Fidelity Bank: Freestyle Checking
  • CrossFirst Bank: Personal Banking Account
  • Communication Federal Credit Union: PayMe Checking
  • Prosperity Bank: Simply Free Checking
  • INTRUST Bank: Safeguard Spending®
  • Equity Bank: Simply Free Checking
  • Central Bank: Free Checking
  • Truity Credit Union: Essential Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Oregon

  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Columbia Credit Union: Income Checking
  • Advantis Credit Union: Access Checking
  • First Tech Rewards Checking
  • HomeStreet Bank: Free Checking
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® - $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Pennsylvania

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • American Heritage Credit Union: Totally Free Checking
  • First Citizens Community Bank: Vantage Checking
  • TruMark Financial Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • Clearview Federal Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • Fulton Bank: Simply Checking
  • Visions Federal Credit Union: Flex Checking
  • Pentagon Federal Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Penn Community Bank: Free Checking Plus

    • Free Checking Account in Rhode Island

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

    • Free Checking Account in South Carolina

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Houston Federal Credit Union: myChecking
  • Boeing Employees' Credit Union: Member Advantage Checking
  • Ameris Bank: Free Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in South Dakota

  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • First National Bank of Omaha: Free Checking
  • American Bank & Trust: Totally Free Checking
  • Heartland State Bank: Regular Checking
  • Plains Commerce Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Tennessee

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • HomeTrust Bank: Simple Checking
  • Orion Federal Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Old Hickory Credit Union: Free Kasasa Tunes Checking
  • Altra Federal Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Eastman Credit Union: Beyond Free Checking
  • Simmons Bank: Coin Checking
  • Fifth Third Momentum® Checking: $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Texas

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Customers Bank: Interest Checking
  • First National Bank of Omaha: Free Checking
  • TBK Bank: Launch Checking
  • A+ Federal Credit Union: Value Checking
  • Air Force Federal Credit Union: Value Checking
  • American Momentum Bank: Basic Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • Complex Community Federal Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • City Credit Union: Basic Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Utah

  • Deseret First Credit Union: Interest Checking
  • Freedom Credit Union (UT): High-Yield Checking
  • Capital Community Bank: Personal Plus Manager Checking
  • TAB Bank: Spend Rewards Checking
  • Delta Community Credit Union: Free Checking
  • HomeStreet Bank: Free Checking
  • Chartway Federal Credit Union: Cash Back Checking
  • Cyprus Credit Union: Dream Checking
  • America First Credit Union: Classic Checking
  • KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® - $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Vermont

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

    • Free Checking Account in Virginia

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Apple Federal Credit Union: Investors Checking
  • LangleyPays Checking
  • BayPort Credit Union: High-Yield Checking
  • Virginia Credit Union: Regular Checking
  • Primis Premium Checking
  • Member One Federal Credit Union: One Choice Checking
  • Signature Federal Credit Union: Standard Checking
  • Fulton Bank: Simply Checking
  • Shore United Bank: Simply Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Washington

  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Columbia Credit Union: Income Checking
  • Horizon Credit Union: Tether Checking
  • iQ Credit Union: Basic Checking
  • Cathay Bank: Basic Checking
  • Firefighters First Credit Union: Ready Checking
  • Boeing Employees' Credit Union: Member Advantage Checking
  • Gesa Credit Union: Smart Checking
  • First Tech Rewards Checking
  • Sound Credit Union: Free Checking
  • Atlantic Union Bank: Free Checking

    • Free Checking Account in West Virginia

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Pendleton Community Bank: Kasasa Cash Checking
  • United Bank: Free Checking
  • WesBanco: Duty First Checking
  • Fifth Third Momentum® Checking: $300 Bonus

    • Free Checking Account in Wisconsin

  • PNC Bank: Virtual Wallet Checking Pro - $200 Bonus
  • First Citizens Bank: Free Checking
  • Associated Bank: Access Checking®
  • Huntington: Asterisk-Free Checking
  • Connexus Credit Union: Innovative Checking
  • IncredibleBank Checking Xcel
  • CIBC Bank: iCan Checking
  • First Federal Bank of Wisconsin: Fresh Start Checking
  • CIBM Bank: Acceleration Checking
  • Simplicity Credit Union: Really Free Checking
  • Landmark Credit Union: Premium Checking

    • Free Checking Account in Wyoming

  • Meridian Trust Federal Credit Union: MaxRewards Free Checking
  • Western Vista Federal Credit Union: Panorama Checking
  • Banner Capital Bank: Simply Free Checking
  • Firstier Bank: E-Checking
  • Hilltop Bank: E-Z Checking

    • 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.

    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

    Next Page:
    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 poll of 1,021 respondents

    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.