Welcome to our expertly curated guide on the “Best No-Fee Checking Accounts” available today.
In a financial landscape where every dollar counts, finding a checking account with zero monthly fees can significantly enhance your financial health. Our selection highlights accounts that not only eliminate monthly maintenance fees but also offer low or no minimum balance requirements, and access to fee-free ATMs, ensuring accessibility for everyone.
Enjoy the convenience of nationwide availability, allowing you to manage your finances seamlessly no matter where you are.
Dive into our top picks and discover the perfect no-fee checking account that aligns with your financial goals.
9 Best No-Fee Checking Accounts of 2025 (Updated July 2025)
Best for: Cash Back Rewards
Smartfinancialways rating
5.0/5
Monthly fee
$0
APY
N/A
Overdraft fee
None
Bonus Offer
1% cash back
On up to $3000 in debit card purchases each month
Non-sufficient funds fee
None
Min. opening deposit
None
Account must be funded within 45 days
Out of network ATM fee
None
Online account access
Yes
- Cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month.
- Get paid up to 2 days early with Direct Deposit.
- Monthly fee.
- Overdraft fee.
- Minimum balance fees.
- 1% cash back today – On up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month.Plus, rewards never expire.
- Bank with a no-fee checking account – No. Fees. Period. That means you won’t be charged a fee on our free checking account.
- Get paid early with direct deposit – Get your paycheck up to two days early when you set up direct deposit for your online checking account.
- Add cash to your account – Add cash to your checking account using your contactless debit card at any Walmart in the U.S. — with no fees.
- 60,000+ fee-free ATMs – Easily access the cash from your checking account at stores you already visit.
- No overdraft fees – If a transaction that will result in an overdraft, Discover will pull that money from a designated funding account if you’ve enabled overdraft protection.
- Discover recently introduced a buffer program that allows customers to overdraw up to $200 in debit card purchases, with no fee (to qualify account must be in good standing).
- Fraud protection – A comprehensive set of features and tools to help protect your checking account from fraud.
- Digital wallets – Link your debit card with Google Pay™ , Apple Pay® or Samsung Pay™ and earn rewards on qualifying purchases.
- Send money with Zelle® – Use Zelle® to send and receive money from friends and family.
- Free help removing your personal info from select people-search websites. Activate by mobile app.
- No. Fees. Period. That means you won’t be charged a fee on our free checking account
- The checking account doesn’t charge fees or require a set minimum balance
- Customers can earn cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month
- Discover offers surcharge-free access to more than 60,000 ATMs
- Those enrolled in direct deposit can receive paychecks up to two days early
- Discover® Bank’s Cashback Debit account has a service that may help get your personal information off of certain websites
- The Discover® Cashback Debit account doesn’t earn interest, which some competitors offer on their rewards checking accounts
Best for: Branch Access & full-service Checking
Smartfinancialways rating
4.8/5
Monthly fee
$0.00
APY
0.10%
With $0 min. balance for APY
Bonus offer
$250
Open after Aug22, 2024 & receive at least 2 direct deposits of $500 ea.
Overdraft fee
None
Non-sufficient funds fee
None
Min. balance for APY
$0.00
Out of network ATM fee
None
Online account access
Yes
- Monthly fees.
- Opening balance requirement.
- Overdraft fee and nonsufficient funds fee.
- APY on all account balances.
- Check deposits and cash withdrawals at Capital One-branded, Allpoint and MoneyPass ATM networks.
- ATMs, some of these machines can be found at certain CVS®, Target and Walgreens locations.
- Bonus with Capitol One 360 Checking account. Terms Apply.
- There are no monthly fees with a Capital One 360 Checking account.
- There’s also no minimum balance to open, keep and use your account. And there are no overdraft fees.
- Get Paid Early – Sign up for direct deposit with your 360 Checking account, and you can access your paycheck up to 2 days sooner than payday.
- Add cash to your account – You can add cash to your 360 Checking account at any CVS®, Walgreens or Duane Reade by Walgreens. It’s free, fast and secure.
- Fee-free ATMs – Get cash from 70,000+ fee-free Capital One, MoneyPass® and Allpoint® ATMs—including in select Target®, Walgreens and CVS® stores.
- Free debit card – 360 Checking comes with a no-fee debit card to make purchases and get cash at ATMs.
- Digital payments – With Zelle®, you can pay and get paid free and fast with your checking account with Capital One.
- A top-rated app – Bank 24/7 with the Capital One Mobile app—check balances, make deposits and more.
- In-person support – Visit our branches and Cafés and meet with our friendly Ambassadors.
- Financial goals – Get tips and tools for meeting your financial goals at our Financial Success Hub.
- Pay your bills, get cash, make deposits and transfer money—all without monthly fees and extra trips to the bank.
- Fees: If you request a cashier’s check, send an outgoing wire or have a checkbook printed, you may be charged a fee for these extra services.
- Overdraft protection option 1: Auto-Decline: We generally decline transactions that cause overdrafts on your account.
- Overdraft protection option 2: Free Savings Transfer: Automatic transfer of funds from your savings or money market account to cover overdrafts.
- Overdraft protection option 3: No-Fee Overdraft: No fees charged on approved transactions that put your account balance below $0.
- You can earn interest on the money in your account. As of 6/23/2025, you’ll earn an annual percentage yield (APY) of 0.10%. See rates.
- Interest on your account will be compounded and credited on a monthly basis.
- Any one “Bill Pay” per transaction cannot exceed $100,000.00. Any one “Cashier’s Check” transaction cannot exceed $250,000.
- Total card purchases and withdrawals are limited to $5,000 per day. This includes ATM withdrawals, cash advances, sign, & PIN-based purchases.
- You may also withdraw cash from ATMs using your mobile app. Total withdrawals may not exceed $500 per day and $2,000 per month.
- 360 Checking is available to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents with a U.S. physical address located in one of the 50 United States or Washington, D.C.
- Although it’s primarily an online bank, Capital One offers more than 250 branches in eight states and Washington, D.C., as well as cafe-style locations in various states.
- Checking account customers must agree to receive electronic statements, as paper ones are not an option.
- You must also be a paperless Customer – see Capital One 360 Checking account disclosure below
- No fees. No minimums. No overdraft fees
- Your first order of checks is free
- 360 Checking account earns interest on all balances and requires no minimum balance
- Access to more than 70,000 ATMs in Capital One’s own network and the Allpoint and MoneyPass networks
- Mobile app users can deposit cash at CVS and Walgreens stores
- It offers early direct deposit, which allows you to get paid up to two days earlier than usual
- 360 Checking is an online only account, Capital One offers more than 250 branches in eight states and Washington, D.C.
- Some competitors offer higher rates on interest checking accounts
- Checking account customers must agree to receive electronic statements, as paper ones are not an option
- Capital One charges $30 for outgoing domestic wire transfers. That’s more than some banks charge for this service
Best for: Earning Interest & Money Management
Smartfinancialways rating
4.5/5
Monthly fees
$0
APY
Up to 0.25%
Overdraft fee
$0
Min. balance
$0
No min balance to keep your account open after you fund
Foreign transaction fee
Up to 1%
Of the transaction amount
ATM withdrawls
$0
Any Allpoint ATM in U.S is free, plus $10 reimburse for out of network ATM
Electronic funds transfer
None
No fee to transfer money to or from your accounts at other institute
Online account access
Yes
- Overdraft items.
- Monthly maintenance fees.
- Low daily balance.
- Standard or expedited transfers.
- Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit.
- No-fee ATMs in the ATM network.
- APY on balances less than $15,000.
- APY on balances $15,000 or more.
- Access to your credit report, with no impact to your credit.
- No monthly maintenance fees & no overdraft fees.
- No minimum deposit required to open an account.
- Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit.
- No fees for checks or additional debit cards.
- No fees for standard or expedited transfers.
- Access 75,000+ no-fee ATMS. Receive $10 in monthly ATM-fee reimbursements.
- Earn 0.10% annual percentage yield (APY) on checking accounts with less than a $15,000 minimum daily balance.
- Earn 0.25% annual percentage yield (APY) on checking accounts with minimum daily balances of $15,000 or more.
- Overdraft transfer service moves money from a connected savings or money market account to cover an overdraft on your checking account.
- Qualify for $100 in CoverDraft protection 30 days after depositing at least $100 into your checking account..
- You can receive $250 in protection if you have direct deposits and receive at least two qualifying direct deposits into your account for two consecutive months.
- You’ll have two weeks to bring your negative balance to the black, and Ally will deduct your next check to cover any red ink.
- No fees for incoming wire transfers; $20 for outgoing domestic wire transfers (International wire transfers are not supported).
- Spending buckets: Stay ahead of expenses with buckets. Set money aside for ongoing expenses like rent, groceries, and subscriptions.
- Deposit checks whenever, wherever: Remote check deposit with Ally eCheck Deposit℠. Take a photo and you’re all set.
- Ally Bank does not accept cash, you can deposit into your account using (1) Remote Check, (2) Online transfer, (3) Wire transfer & mail.
- Your debit card and initial check order will arrive in the mail within 10 business days after we receive your opening deposit.
- When re-ordering standard checks, after you submit the request your checks should arrive in 10 business days.
- You can access your account, make payments and move money any time at ally.com or on our app.
- You can also: (1) Use a debit card or checks for purchases and payments. (2) Make payments using online Bill Pay.
- Your card, always in your control: Lock your card in seconds if it’s lost or stolen.
- Cash Back: Get cash back when you shop with your debit card.
- Transfer Money: (1) Between your Ally accounts. (2) From your Ally accounts to your accounts at other institutions.
- Give us a call at 1-877-247-2559 to request an official/cashier’s check, at no charge.
- CoverDraft typically covers: (1) Debit card purchases, (2) Automatic monthly subscriptions, (3) Personal checks or mailed Bill Pay checks, (4) Transfers you initiate at other institutions.
- CoverDraft doesn’t cover: (1) Zelle® payments, (2) ATM withdrawals, (3) Internal transfers between Ally Bank or Ally Invest accounts, (4) Wire transfers.
- Stop payment fee: $15.
- Live chat available.
- Your money, FDIC-insured: Deposits are insured by the FDIC up to the maximum allowed by law.
- No overdraft fees
- No monthly maintenance fee
- No minimum balance requirements
- Money management features
- 75K fee-free ATMs plus $10 in monthly ATM reimbursements
- Earn a solid interest rate on any daily balance
- Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit
- Customer service is available 24/7
- No physical locations
- Cash deposits aren’t accepted
- You can’t send a foreign wire transfer from Ally Bank
- $20 for domestic wire transfers
Best for: Out-of-network ATMs
Smartfinancialways rating
4.6/5
Monthly fee
$0
Foreign transaction fee
None
No fee on debit card in foreign countries
Overdraft / NSF fee
None
*Axos Bank typically rejects a transaction that would result in an overdraft.
APY
Up to 3.30% on balances up to $50,000
With $0 min. balance for APY (see details)
Excessive transactions or withdrawls fee
$10
Min. balance required to open
$0
ATM fee reimbursments
Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements
Online account access
Yes
- Monthly maintenance fees.
- Overdraft fees.
- Minimum Balance Required to Open the Account.
- APY up to 3.30% on balances up to $50,000 (meet terms).
- Large 90,000+ fee-free ATM network.
- No annual fee and no monthly maintenance fee.
- No foreign transaction fee or Overdraft fee.
- The APY on this account is tiered, and you can only earn interest if you receive at least $1,500 per month in direct deposits.
- You’ll earn 0.40% APY if you meet the direct deposit requirement, but you could earn up to 3.3% APY by satisfying all of the following requirements.
- For 3.30% APY Requirement #1: Earn 0.40% APY, When you receive at least $1,500 in direct deposits each month.
- For 3.30% APY Requirement #2: Earn 0.30% APY, Sign up for Axos Personal Finance Manager (PFM) or make at least 10 debit card purchases of $3 or more each month.
- For 3.30% APY Requirement #3: Earn 0.99% APY, Open an Axos Invest Managed Portfolios account and maintain an average daily balance of $2,500 or more.
- For 3.30% APY Requirement #4: Earn 0.99% APY, Open an Axos Invest Self Directed Trading account and maintain an average daily balance of $2,500 or more.
- For 3.30% APY Requirement #5: Earn 0.60% APY, Take out a consumer loan from Axos Bank and use your Rewards Checking account to make your full monthly payment.
- The mobile app is rated 4.4 stars on Google Play and 4.7 on the Apple App Store.
- Cash Deposits Option 1: Use the Axos Bank ATM locator online or in the mobile app to find a participating ATM that accepts cash deposits.
- Cash Deposits Option 2: Axos Bank partners with the Green Dot Network to allow deposits at participating retailers like 7-Eleven, CVS, and Walmart.
- You can also link external accounts in the app to move your money seamlessly.
- All Axos Bank accounts are FDIC insured up to $250,000 per member and up to $500,000 for joint accounts.
- Unlimited Domestic ATM Fees Reimbursed:Cashback Checking does not charge fees on ATM transactions.
- Bill pay: Pay your bills to practically anywhere in the U.S. when you enroll in Axos Bank mobile or online banking.
- Customer service options: 24/7 phone line, automated online chat, secure online messaging and social media.
- Monitor your credit score for free.
The Axos Bank Rewards Checking is offered by Axos Bank, a bank founded in 2000 and based in San Diego, CA.
The Axos Bank Rewards Checking is best for consumers who are looking to invest in other Axos products beyond this checking account.
In order to reach the full 3.3% APY, you’re required to set up direct deposits and sign up for Axos’ Personal Finance Manager, that includes a self directed trading account and a loan.
Pros- Debit card available
- No monthly, overdraft or NSF fees
- Available in all 50 states
- Joint accounts available
- Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements.
- 24/7 customer service for banking products
- Axos mobile app has 4.7 out of 5 stars in the Apple store
- Axos mobile app has 4.4 out of 5 stars in the Google Play store
- No interest on balances
- Stringent monthly requirements to earn higher interest
- 3.30% APY only applies to balances up to $50,000
- Online-only bank no physical branches
Best for: Earn Interest without requirements
Smartfinancialways rating
5.0/5
Monthly fee
$0
APY
1.75%
With $0 min. balance for APY
Bonus offer
N/A
Overdraft fee
None
Non-sufficient funds fee
None
Excessive transaction fee
None
Out of network ATM fee
None
Online account access
Yes
- No minimum balance to earn.
- This checking account does not have monthly fees.
- Checking account APY rate.
- Times the rate of national average.
- Direct deposit up to two days earlier than the standard deposit time.
- No minimum balance to earn.
- Access to more than 90,000 nationwide ATMs.
- Forget monthly fees – Our high-yield checking account has no monthly fees.
- Get cash quicker – Direct deposit up to two days earlier than the standard deposit time.
- Access to The Giving Center – Everything Account customer will have access to donate to IRS-recognized charities within the Mobile App.
- 1.75% APY High yield checking account – You put money into it, preferably from a job depositing it directly. And that money earns money. In this case, 1.75% APY.
- Withdraw your cash at 90,000+ ATMs globally plus nbkc reimburse you up to $12/month in fees for out-of-network ATMs.
- Deposit your cash 90,000+ ATMs globally plus nbkc reimburse you up to $12/month in fees for out-of-network ATMs.
- Cash a check in mobile app or if you want the check to turn directly into cash, head to one of our branches.
- nbkc bank deposits are insured by the FDIC up to $250,000 per depositor.
- NBKC is a full-service community bank that only supports a few physical branch locations, most of its business is done online.
- Deposit account holders can receive support over the phone Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST., and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
- Customer service via live chat is also available from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
- NBKC mobile app receives favorable ratings on iOS and Google Play. Users can set savings goals and get an overall view of their finances by linking external accounts
- APY is variable and subject to change at our discretion, without prior notice. Minimum balance required to obtain APY is $0.01.
- APY rates effective as of – 06/22/2025.
- NBKC does not charge overdraft fees
- There are no monthly maintenance fees associated with the Everything Account
- It offers a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) on all balances, often higher than traditional checking accounts
- You can open and maintain the account without needing to meet a minimum balance
- The account provides access to a vast network of fee-free ATMs (Allpoint and MoneyPass) and reimburses up to $12 per month for out-of-network ATM fees
- The account integrates checking and savings features, allowing you to set savings goals within the same account
- NBKC has a highly-rated mobile app and online platform for easy account management
- No Zelle Access – NBKC does not offer Zelle for person-to-person payments
- Limited Branch Access – NBKC is primarily an online bank, with 4 physical branches limited to the Kansas City area
- No Relationship Benefits – NBKC does not offer relationship-based benefits like higher APYs or lower loan rates for customers who open multiple accounts
Best for: Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements
Smartfinancialways rating
4.6/5
Monthly fee
$0
APY
0.25%
You earn interest no matter your balance
Bonus offer
N/A
Min. opening deposit
$100
One-year earnings
$122
Based on balance & APY in a 1 year period with no withdrawls
Overdraft fee
None
It declines transaction or enroll in a overdraft protection plan
Out of network ATM fee
Fees reimbursed*
*All fees reimbursed on balance of $5,000 & for lower balance $15/ month
Online account access
Yes
- Monthly maintenance fee.
- Overdraft or nonsufficient funds fee.
- APY on all EverBank Performace℠ Checking account balances.
- EverBank offers more than 80,000 fee-free ATMs. see details.
- Unlimited ATM fee reimbursment on balances $5,000 or more.
- 4x the national average.
- No monthly maintenance fee.
- You need $100 to open an EverBank Performance℠ Checking account.
- Interest on this account is compounded daily and credited monthly.
- Earn 0.25% APY on all Performance℠ Checking accounts regardless of account balances.
- EverBank is a mostly online bank serving customers in all 50 states.
- For out-of-network ATMs: All accounts qualify for ATM fee reimbursements. Two reimbursement tiers are offered.
- ATM fee reimbursement Tier 1: For balances of $5,000 or more: Unlimited monthly ATM fee reimbursements.
- ATM fee reimbursement Tier 2: For balances under $5,000: Up to $15 in monthly ATM fee reimbursements.
- EverBank offers more than 80,000 fee-free ATMs but only for withdrawls. You won’t be able to deposit cash.
- EverBank Performance Checking is an interest-bearing checking account fixed with a guarantee that its rate will always be among the top 5% of competitive checking accounts.
- You can deposit money through direct deposit, online transfers, wire transfers, mobile check deposits or by sending a check through the mail.
- Cash deposits: Cash deposits at ATMs are generally not supported. You can make cash deposits in person at EverBank financial center or by mail.
- In case of overdraw: It generally declines transactions that would lead to a negative account balance.
- Offers overdraft protection program: It offers free overdraft transfers from a linked savings account.
- The mobile app offers check deposit and bill pay, but it doesn’t have very high ratings in either the Google Play store or App Store.
- Representatives are available by phone on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on the Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET.
- Physical branches: There are only 11 branches, located mostly in Florida and with two in California.
- Your deposits with EverBank will be FDIC insured up to the standard $250K per depositor for each account ownership category.
- On the go: You can use the EverBank mobile app, Zelle® and digital wallet applications.
- Looking to make a high-value purchase, like a down payment on a house? You can request Official Checks or a wire transfer.
- Call 1.888.882.3837 to open this account by phone, or visit one of our financial centers in Florida or California.
- Earn 0.25% APY on all account balances
- No minimum balance, monthly maintenance or NSF fees
- Offer 80,000+ surcharge-free ATMs
- Out-of-network ATM fees reimbursed up to $15 per for all accounts
- Outgoing international wire transfer available with a fee
- Everbank’s card offer longer extended warranaties on products and price and return protection
- EverBank is a mostly online bank, but there are some bank branches
- Balance of $5,000 required for unlimited ATM fee reimbursement
- Lower yield than the other interest checking accounts
Best for: Students
Smartfinancialways rating
4.9/5
Min. deposit to open
None
APY
None
Mobile check deposit
Yes
Bonus Offer
$125*
Make 10 qualifying debit card or direct deposit transactions
Chase free ATM network
15,000 ATMs
With over 4,700 branches nationwide
Monthly fee
$0*
*Students 17-24 years in school up to the graduation
Out of network ATM fee
$3 inside U.S. & $5 outside U.S.
Online account access
Yes
- Monthly Service Fee for students 17 to 24 years old at account opening, enrolled.
- Minimum deposit required to open a Chase College Checking℠.
- Bonus after completing 10 qualifying transactions within 60 days of coupon enrollment.
- Branches, Chase has the largest branch network in United States.
- Chase ATMs, allowing you to deposit or withdraw cash without fees.
- Service Fee: There is no Monthly Service Fee up to the graduation date provided at account opening (five years maximum).
- Students must be 17 -24 years old to open a Chase College Checking account and must provide school name and expected graduation date at account opening.
- For U.S. Citizens Primary ID can be: Birth Certificate (minor only), Driver’s License w/photo (U.S.), Passport w/photo, Social Security Card, State Issued ID w/photo.
- For U.S. Permanent Residents Primary ID can be: Birth Certificate (minor only), Driver’s License w/photo (U.S.), Passport w/photo, Permanent Resident card w/photo, Social Security Card, State Issued ID w/photo.
- For non U.S. Permanent Residents Primary ID can be: Matricula Consular Card, Passport w/photo, U.S Employment Authorization Card w/photo.
- All non-U.S. students without a Green Card must be living in the U.S. and have a U.S. residential address to open a Chase College Checking account in branch.
- For International students with DS-2019 and Student INS I-20 or ICE I-20 documents, the school’s address cannot be used as a residential address.
- If you’re 18-24 years old and want to open a Chase College Checking account online, you’ll need your Social Security number, a driver’s license or state-issued ID, and contact info. You’ll also need to provide your school name and expected graduation date.
- If you’re 17-year-olds and those without a Social Security Number must open at a Chase branch.
- As a new Chase Checking customer, earn $125 when you open a Chase College Checking℠ and complete 10 qualifying transactions.
- Manage your money on your phone: Keep track of your money, securely, with the Chase Mobile® app.
- Send money quickly, save automatically: Pay and get paid fast with Zelle® – no fees or waiting for days.
- Build your credit – With Chase Credit Journey®, help build and improve your credit with a personalized improvement plan provided by Experian.
- The Monthly Service Fee after expected graduation date is $12 ($15, effective 8/24/2025) .
- After graduation to get $0 fee, Option 1: Have 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, or (iii) third party services that facilitate payment to your debit card using the Visa® or Mastercard® network.
- After graduation to get $0 fee, Option 1: Keep an average ending day balance of $1,500 or more in your checking account.
- Account access and Alerts – With the Chase Mobile® app, set up alerts to monitor your balance, deposits and more.
- Zelle® is intended for payments to recipients you know and trust and is not intended for the purchase of goods from retailers, online marketplaces or through social media posts.
- Bank from anywhere with access to more than 15,000 Chase ATMs, more than 4,700 Chase branches, the Chase Mobile® app and Chase.com.
- You won’t pay a Chase fee for the following: No Monthly Service Fee on a Chase Savings℠ account linked to this account for Overdraft Protection.
- Card Lock – Lock and unlock your debit card if you misplace it.
- JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.
The Chase College Checking℠ provides $0 monthly service fees for up to 5 years for college students ages 17 to 24 enrolled in college or a vocational, technical or trade school.
There’s no minimum deposit required to open a Chase College Checking account.
Debit card purchases are limited to $3,000 per day. ATM withdrawals have several restrictions, depending on the ATM:
Chase in-branch ATM limit: $3,000
Other Chase ATM limit: $1,000
Chase in-branch ATM limit: $3,000
Non-Chase ATM limit: $500
Pros- $125 opening bonus
- Overdraft assistance
- No minimum deposit to open an account
- Mobile check deposit, allowing you to conveniently upload photos of checks and deposit
- Top-rated mobile app, with 4.8 out of 5 stars on the Apple® App Store
- Chase is no. 2 on J.D. Power’s 2019 U.S. National Banking Satisfaction Study
- Send and receive money with Zelle®
- No APY
- Monthly fees, but there are options to waive
- No reimbursement for out-of-network ATM fees
Best for: Welcome bonus & getaway from Overdraft fees
Smartfinancialways rating
5.0/5
Monthly fee
$0
APY
0.50%
With $0 min. balance for APY
Overdraft & NSF fee
$0.00
Bonus offer
Upto $300
Earn up to $300 with direct deposit
Minimum deposit to open
$0.00
Minimum balance required
$0.00
Out of network ATM fee
$0.00
Online account access
Yes
- Earn 7x the national average rate℠.
- APY on your checking balances.
- Monthly fee.
- Overdraft fee.
- Minimum balance fees.
- No monthly fee – You won’t have to pay a monthly fee for all the great features that come with your SoFi® checking account.
- Say goodbye to fees – Pay no monthly, overdraft, or minimum balance fees.
- Up to 2-day early paycheck – Get paid up to two days early by just setting up direct deposit.
- Up to $300 bonus with direct deposit – Earn $50 or $300 cash when you set up direct deposit.
- Mobile Deposit – Skip the trip to the bank. Just snap a photo of your check with mobile deposit and securely add funds to your account anytime, anywhere.
- Zelle® – Easily send, request and receive money using Zelle® – all in just a few taps.
- Automatically get a SoFi debit card at no cost when you open your checking account.
- $0 fraud liability – With the World Debit Mastercard, you’re protected from unauthorized transactions online, in-store, by phone, and at ATMs.
- Access 55,000+ fee-free ATMs – Conveniently access cash from 55,000+ no-fee ATMs within the Allpoint® Network. Find an ATM near you.
- Instant digital wallet – Instantly start using your checking account by linking your debit card to your digital wallet so you can make secure purchases right away.
- Contactless payments – Just tap your chip debit card at checkout for a quick, encrypted transaction without swiping or inserting.
- Earn more with 0.50% APY – Earn 7x the national checking rate with no balance tiers or requirements.
- No-fee overdraft coverage – Overspent by accident? No problem. You’ll be covered up to $50 with no overdraft fees with direct deposit of at least $1,000.
- FDIC-insured – Your deposits are protected up to $250,000 per member, with free access to up to $3M in FDIC coverage for even greater security.
- Joint bank accounts – Managing money together has never been easier. Our joint bank account offers shared access, real-time transaction tracking, and easy bill payments.
- Student banking offer – Banking that fits your college life. Mobile banking, and a $30 cash bonus, you can manage your money confidently while staying focused on what matters most.
- To open a checking account with SoFi – You’ll need Name, date of birth, Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Identification Number (ITIN), primary home address, email address, and phone number.
- No monthly fee ever
- No minimum deposit to open
- Customers can receive early direct deposits at SoFi Bank
- SoFi customers have access to Allpoint network ATMs
- SoFi customers earn a competitive APY
- The SoFi checking and savings account doesn’t have fees, which includes overdraft fees
- You can’t just get a checking account – you have to get both a checking and savings account
Best for: Investors
Smartfinancialways rating
4.4/5
Monthly fees
$0
APY
0.05%
Overdraft fee
None
Min. opening deposit
None
For new investors, “Starter Kit” recommend a deposit of $50 in 30 days
Foreign transaction fee
None
Only purchase or ATM withdrawl amount in U.S dollars
ATM withdrawls
$0
Unlimited ATM fee rebates for cash withdrawls worldwide
Electronic funds transfer
None
Transfer between Schwab bank & another U.S. financial institute
Online account access
Yes
- Account minimums or maintenance fees.
- Foreign transcation fees.
- Overdraft fees & stop payment fees.
- Unlimited ATM fee rebates for cash withdrawals worldwide.
- Earn a 0.05% annual percentage yield (APY) on your account balance.
- Fee to transfer funds electronically between Schwab account and an another U.S. financial institution
- Customer Satisfaction for Direct Bank Checking Accounts for the 7th year in a row.
- Account Servicing: No monthly service fee regardless of account balance.
- The Schwab Bank Investor Checking account is available only as a linked account with a Schwab One® brokerage account.
- The Schwab One brokerage account has no minimum balance requirements, no minimum balance charges, no minimum trade requirements, and there is no requirement to fund this account, when opened with a linked Investor Checking account.
- No Foreign transcation fees, Overdraft fees & stop payment fees.
- No Foreign transcation fees, Overdraft fees & stop payment fees.
- Earn a 0.05% variable interest rate and a 0.05% annual percentage yield (APY) on your account balance..
- ATM withdrawals: Unlimited ATM fee rebates for cash withdrawals worldwide.
- Cashier’s checks:For cashier’s check, please call Schwab Bank Customer Service at 1-888-403-9000..
- Checks returned due to insufficient funds: No fees are charged for a check you write that we are not able to pay because there is not enough money in your account.
- Electronic funds transfers: No fee to transfer funds electronically between your Schwab Bank account and an account at another U.S. financial institution.
- Foreign transactions: No foreign exchange transaction fees for purchases made with your debit card.
- Incoming wires: Domestic wires only (Schwab Bank does not accept wires in foreign currency or from banks outside the U.S. and its territories).
- Outgoing wires: Domestic wires only $25 ea. (Schwab Bank does not send wires to countries outside the U.S. and its territories).
- Schwab Bank Bill Pay™: No fee to use Schwab Bank Bill Pay to pay your bills online or on your mobile device..
- Schwab Bank Visa® Platinum Debit Card: No fee for original or replacement debit cards delivered by regular U.S. mail.
- Contactless debit cards: Pay securely with your Schwab Bank Visa® Platinum Debit Card at contactless-enabled terminals or add it to your mobile wallet.
- Robust mobile app:Make deposits, check balances, move money, and use Zelle®, Apple Pay, or Google Pay for a simple way to pay.
- The Schwab Mobile Deposit service is subject to certain eligibility requirements, limitations, and other conditions. Enrollment is not guaranteed. Standard hold policies apply. Requires a wireless signal or mobile connection.
- Access to Electronic Services may be limited or unavailable during periods of peak demand, market volatility, systems upgrade, maintenance, or for other reasons.
- Tighter security with card lock/unlock, transaction alerts, fraud alerts and travel notifications.
- Access 24/7 assistance: Schwab dedicated teams are standing by and ready to help answer your questions and support your checking or banking needs.
- FDIC insurance: Up to $250,000 per bank account based on ownership type.
- No monthly maintenance fee
- No overdraft fees or NSF fees are charged
- Unlimited ATM reimbursements
- No stop payment charges
- 0.05% variable APY on your account balance
- #1 in Customer Satisfaction for Direct Bank Checking Accounts for the 7th year in a row
- Small yield
- There’s no way to deposit cash into the account
- Bank accounts are online-only
- $25 domestic wire transfer fee (Charles Schwab doesn’t allow for international wire transfers)
- You need to link the checking account to a Schwab One Investor account
Bank Requirements to open a Checking Account in the U.S.
Most U.S. banks typically require some form of;
(1) Valid government-issued photo identification or state-issued driving license along with (2) Basic details about yourself, including your (a) Date of Birth, (b) Your Social Security number, and (c) Your current residential address and (d) Your mobile contact information. (3) Minimum opening deposit depending on the bank.
What is a No-Fee Checking Account?
A no-fee checking account is a type of bank account that allows individuals to manage their daily financial transactions without incurring the typical fees associated with traditional checking accounts. These accounts are designed to provide a cost-effective solution for everyday banking needs, such as depositing checks, withdrawing cash, and making payments, without the burden of monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements.
Common types of checking account fees include:
1. Monthly Maintenance Fees: These are regular charges that banks impose for maintaining the account. They can often be waived if certain conditions, like maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposits, are met.
2. Overdraft Fees: Charged when you spend more than your account balance, overdraft fees can be quite costly. Some banks offer overdraft protection services to help avoid these fees.
3. ATM Fees: These fees are charged when using an ATM outside of the bank’s network. Some banks reimburse these fees up to a certain amount each months.
4. Foreign Transaction Fees: Applied when you use your debit card for purchases in a foreign currency or at a foreign location.
5. Paper Statement Fees: Charged for receiving printed account statements by mail instead of opting for electronic statements.
In no-fee checking accounts, the most commonly waived fees are the monthly maintenance fees and ATM fees. Banks offering no-fee checking accounts often provide free access to a wide network of ATMs and may also offer features like free online banking and mobile check deposits to enhance convenience without additional costs.
How To Pick The Best No-Fee Checking Account For Your Needs
Choosing the best no-fee checking account for your needs involves evaluating several key factors to ensure it aligns with your financial habits and goals. Here are some steps to guide you:
1. Identify Your Banking Needs: Consider how you plan to use the account. Do you need frequent ATM access, or do you prefer online banking? Understanding your banking habits will help narrow down your options.
2. ATM Access and Fees: Look for accounts that offer a wide network of fee-free ATMs. Some banks also reimburse out-of-network ATM fees, which can be beneficial if you travel frequently.
3. Online and Mobile Banking Features: Ensure the bank provides robust online and mobile banking services, such as mobile check deposit, bill pay, and easy money transfers. A user-friendly app can enhance your banking experience.
4. Interest Rates and Rewards: While no-fee checking accounts typically don’t offer high interest rates, some may provide rewards or cashback on purchases. Evaluate these features if earning potential is important to you.
5. Overdraft Protection: Check if the account offers overdraft protection services and what fees, if any, are associated with them. This can prevent costly overdraft fees.
6. Customer Service: Consider the quality of customer service, including availability of support through phone, chat, or in-person at branches.
7. Additional Features: Some accounts offer additional perks like early direct deposit, budgeting tools, or integration with financial apps. Determine which features are most valuable to you..
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a no-fee checking account that best suits your financial lifestyle and helps you manage your money efficiently.
PROS
Usually no monthly service fees
Typically no minimum deposit or balance requirements
They usually offer convenient ways to access your money, such as through ATMs, online banking, and mobile apps
Debit card and fee-free ATM access
Some offer perks like interest, cash back, a welcome bonus and out-of-network ATM reimbursements
By eliminating monthly fees, these accounts allow you to keep more of your money in your account
CONS
Other fees may apply
Some of the top free checking accounts are from online-only banks, so no in-person branch access
APYs offered are not that high
Some accounts may have limited free transactions, with fees applied for excessive activity
Majority of No-fee accounts are offered by online banks that may have limited customer service options compared to traditional banks
Key Takeaway
In In conclusion, selecting the best no-fee checking account requires a thorough understanding of your personal financial habits and priorities. By evaluating factors such as ATM access, online and mobile banking features, interest rates, rewards, overdraft protection, and customer service, you can identify an account that aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals.
Additionally, considering any additional features like early direct deposit or budgeting tools can further enhance your banking experience. By taking the time to assess these elements, you can confidently choose a no-fee checking account that offers convenience, cost savings, and the financial flexibility you need.
Up Next In Checking, compare the other types of best checking accounts:
To summarize our top selections…
Smartfinancialways’s Best No-Fee Checking Accounts for July 2025
Discover® Cashback Debit Checking: 1% Cashback, Best for: Cash Back Rewards
Capitol One 360 Checking®: 0.10% APY, Best for Branch Access & full-service Checking
Ally Bank Spending Account: 0.25% APY, Best for Earning Interest & Money Management
Axos Bank Rewards Checking: Up to 3.30% APY, Best for Out-of-network ATMs
nbkc bank Everything Account: 1.75% APY, Best for Earning Interest without requirements
EverBank Performance℠ Checking: 0.25% APY, Best for Unlimited ATM fee reimbusrsments
Chase College Checking℠, Best for Students
SoFi® Bank Online Checking: 0.50% APY, Best for Welcome bonus & getaway from Overdraft fees
Schwab Bank Investor Checking™, Best for Investors