Welcome to our expertly curated guide on the “Best Rewards Checking Accounts” available today. In the realm of personal finance, choosing a rewards checking account can significantly enhance your banking experience.
The best rewards checking accounts offer benefits, including interest, cash back on debit card purchases, ATM-fee reimbursements and more.
Our selection highlights accounts that offer competitive interest rates, ensuring your money grows while you spend. Enjoy the benefits of cash back on debit card purchases, turning everyday transactions into rewarding opportunities.
Additionally, take advantage of ATM-fee reimbursements, providing you with the freedom to access your funds without unnecessary charges.
These accounts are a great for anyone who uses a debit card and checking account on a daily basis and wants to get rewarded for it.
Dive into our top picks and discover the perfect rewards checking account that aligns with your financial lifestyle.
9 Best Rewards Checking Accounts of 2025 (Updated July 2025)
Best for: All-in-One Checking Account
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: Best for to 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*
*With at least $5000 in 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 all checking account 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 fees, or minimum balance fees.
- There is no minimum deposit requirement to open a SoFi Bank Account.
- SoFi Bank reserves the right to close any Account which has not been funded within thirty (30) days after the date of Account opening
- Up to 2-day early paycheck – Get paid up to two days early by just setting up direct deposit.
- Either $50 or $300 bonus Option 1 – New and existing customers earn $50 cash with at least $1,000 total Eligible Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period.
- Either $50 or $300 bonus Option 2 – New and existing customers earn $300 cash with at least $5,000 total Eligible Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period.
- SoFi Debit Card – Mastercard Worldwide debit card issued to you by SoFi Bank for use in connection with your SoFi Checking Account, no card for Sofi Savings Account.
- 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.
- You can deposit cash directly to your SoFi Checking Account using your SoFi Debit Card through a retail merchant that participates in the Green Dot Reload @ the Register program.
- Your SoFi Checking Account comes with check‐writing privileges. A check will be paid only to the extent that there are available funds in your account.
- 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, no qualifying 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.
- SoFi Bank Accounts are available only to U.S. citizens and both permanent residents & non-permanent residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia.
- All U.S. residents should be (i) are at least 18 years of age, (ii) have a valid Social Security number or “ITIN”, and (iii) have a physical residential street address in the United States.
- SoFi Bank Account may only be used for personal, family, or household purposes & cannot be opened or used for business purposes.
- SoFi Bank Account may be owned and titled in the name of one person, or it may be titled jointly with another person who may perform such activities as deposit, transfer or withdraw.
- When two people are listed as owners of an Account, the Account is a “joint account” and each owner is a “joint owner.”
- 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.
- You may access your Account online through a personal computer at www.sofi.com or through the SoFi Mobile App on Apple Store & Google Play on your mobile device or via a personal computer.
- 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 of 0.50%
- SoFi Checking Account comes with check‐writing privileges
- 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
- Only customers with qualifying direct deposits are eligible for up to $50 of overdraft coverage
Best for: Checking Account Interest Rate
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: Cash Back
Smartfinancialways rating
5.0/5
Monthly fee
$0
APY
0%
Overdraft fees
None*
*Axos Bank typically rejects a transaction that would result in an overdraft.
Rewards
1% cash back on card purchases*
*Balance above $1,500, earn up to $2,000 in cash back per month
Check writing
Unlimited check-writing priviliges
Min. balance requirement
$1,500 to earn 1% cash back
ATM fee reimbursments
Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements
Online account access
Yes
- Monthly maintenance fees.
- Foreign transaction fees and overdraft fees.
- Minimum Balance Required to Open the Account.
- Cash back on signature-based transaction purchases.
- Large 90,000+ fee-free ATM network.
- No annual fee and no monthly maintenance fee.
- No foreign transaction fee or Overdraft fee.
- Earn up to 1.00% cash back on signature-based transaction purchases.
- Earn up to $2,000.00 per month in cash back on your signature-based transactions.
- Receive free starter kit of checks (if ordered at account opening).
- AXOS Cashback Checking gives you unlimited check-writing priviliges.
- Customers are required to maintain a $1,500 average daily balance or higher to earn the highest tier of 1% cash back.
- Customers whose daily balances falls below $1,500, cash back earned drops to 0.50% for the month.
- Cash back calculation is based only on signature-based transactions, and cash-back rewards can only be deposited into your Axos Bank checking account with no other cash-out options.
- Purchases made at Super Markets, Super Stores, Grocery Stores, Wholesale Stores, Discount Stores, USPS, and financial or money transfer institutions are not eligible.
- Purchases made using virtual wallets, funds transfer services, or other similar technology are not eligible
- Axos Bank deposits any cash back you earn into your CashBack Checking account on a monthly basis.
- 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.
- Axos Bank checking accounts are insured up to $250,000 per person by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
- 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 Cashback Checking is offered by Axos Bank, a bank founded in 2000 and based in San Diego, CA.
Axos Bank Cashback checking is available in 50 states and Washington, DC.
Axos is an online bank ideal for people who appreciate the convenience of online-only banking, especially mobile banking, with numerous banking options.
Pros- Debit card available
- No monthly service fees
- Available in all 50 states
- Joint accounts available
- No minimum balance required to open the account
- Earn up to $2000 with 1% cash back on signature-based purchases
- Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursement.
- 24/7 customer service for banking products
- Better Business Bureau has given Axos an A+ rating
- 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 signup bonus
- Grocery store and virtual wallet purchases ineligible
- Only signature-based transactions earn cash back
- Customers must maintain a $1,500 average daily balance to earn 1% cash back
- Higher than average wire transfer fees
- Online-only bank no physical branches
Best for: Outstanding Customer Experience
Smartfinancialways rating
5.0/5
Monthly fee
$0
APY
1.00%
1.00% APY on all balances as of 12/14/2022
Bonus offer
N/A
Overdraft fee
None
Rewards Points
1 point per $2 spent
On eligible purchases using your debit card
Minimum balance requirements
None
Out of network ATM fee
None
Online account access
Yes
- Monthly fees.
- Fee to open.
- Minimum balance requirement.
- Earn a 1.00% APY. 10X higher than the national rate.
- World-class customer service and fraud monitoring.
- Send or receive money with no fee using Zelle® right from the Amex® App or online.
- Earn 1 Membership Rewards® points on every $2 spent on eligible Debit Card purchases.
- $0 monthly fees, No fee to open, no minimum balance requirement.
- 1.00% APY on account balance – Earn a 1.00% APY on checking account —10X higher than the national rate.
- Debit Card Rewards – Earn 1 Membership Rewards® points on every $2 spent on eligible Debit Card purchases.
- Backed by Amex – 24/7 world-class customer service and fraud monitoring.
- Rewards – Redeem those points for deposits right into your Amex Rewards Checking account.
- Mobile Check Deposits – The Amex® App helps make mobile deposits simple – just take pictures with your smartphone. Submit checks payable in U.S. Dollars only.
- Digital Transfers: You can transfer money when you need to from an eligible account that’s connected, including the American Express® High Yield Savings Account.
- Digital Wallet: Add your American Express® Debit Card to your digital wallet to make fast and convenient payments in store and online.
- Zelle® – Send or receive money with no fee using Zelle® right from the Amex® App or online. Enrollment required.
- AMEX is currently accepting applications from Card Members with a U.S. Basic Consumer Card issued by American Express National Bank with at least 35 days tenure.
- Deposit Funds: Link one of your other bank accounts, you can enable an online transfer into your Amex Rewards Checking account.
- Direct Deposit: Visit americanexpress.com and go to direct deposit to explore setup options.
- Direct Deposit Automation: Use automated direct deposit switching to transfer your direct deposit to your American Express® Rewards Checking account.
- Wires: You can receive incoming wire transfers from external banks into your Rewards Checking account for no fee.
- Withdraw Cash: At ATMs, including unlimited fee-free ATM withdrawals with your Debit Card at over 70,000 Allpoint® and MoneyPass® ATM locations nationwide.
- Find ATMs: Visit americanexpress.com to find a full list of fee-free Allpoint® and MoneyPass® ATMs near you.
- Transfer Funds: Transfer money from your Amex Rewards Checking account to another financial institution online or in the Amex® App.
- American Express charges a foreign currency conversion fee for transactions that are not in U.S. dollars, as well as a fee for outgoing wires.
- APY on your Amex Rewards Checking account is variable and may change at our discretion at any time before or after the account is opened without notice.
- P2P & Pay Bills: Use your account number and routing number on your Amex Rewards Checking account home page to pay bills or make P2P payments on third party sites directly.
- If you experience an error processing a transfer or deposit on your account, please call us at 1-877-221-2639.
- No Fees: No monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no opening deposit requirements
- Rewards: Earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every $2 spent on eligible debit card purchases
- High-Yield Interest: 1.00% APY on account balance
- ATM Access: Access to a large network of MoneyPass ATMs for fee-free withdrawals
- Mobile Check Deposit: Deposit checks remotely using the mobile app
- No Overdraft Fees: Since it’s a debit card, transactions will simply decline to avoid fees
- Keep Amex MR points alive: The rewards points earned can help keep your Amex Membership Rewards points alive
- There is no cap on how many points you can earn
- Limited Availability: The account is only available to existing American Express cardholders
- Limited Cash Deposits: There are limited options for making cash deposits
- Foreign Transaction Fees: A 2.7% foreign transaction fee applies to purchases made outside the U.S.
- No physical branches: As an online bank, Amex doesn’t offer physical branch access
- Requires existing Amex card: You need to already hold an Amex card to open the account
Best for: High-Yield Interest bearing Checking
Smartfinancialways rating
4.8/5
Monthly fee
$0.00
APY
1.10%
All balances, make at least 10 qualifying debit card POS of $10 or more
Bonus offer
N/A
Min. opening deposit
$100
Estimated earnings
$220*
*Based on deposit amounts for a 1 year period
Min. balance for APY
$0
Out of network ATM fee
None
Online account access
Yes
- Monthly fees.
- Overdraft fees.
- Foreign collection fees.
- Non-sufficient-funds fees.
- APY on all balance tiers when you make at least 10 qualifying debit card transactions of $10 or more per statement cycle.
- Leave your debit card behind. With the Quontic Pay Ring, always have access to your money with this payment wearable.
- 90,000 surcharge free ATMs across the nation.
- Send and receive payments to your contacts through Zelle.
- US-based support. Chat live, request a call or speak through your computer’s audio.
- Minimum opening deposit of $100.
- No Nonsense Fees- No monthly fees, no overdraft fees, no foreign collection fees.
- Earn 1.10% APY on all balance tiers when you make at least 10 qualifying debit card point of sale transactions of $10 or more per statement cycle.
- Interest is compounded daily and deposited into your account each month based on your account daily balance and satisfying the point of sale eligible transactions requirements per statement cycle.
- In a cycle where there are not that many qualifying transactions, 0.01% APY is applied.
- No pockets no problem- Leave your debit card behind. With the Quontic Pay Ring, always have access to your money with this payment wearable.
- You will be able to sign up for Online Banking, Mobile Banking and be provided with a Quontic Debit Card.
- You won’t have to pay ATM fees while using your Quontic Debit Card at any participating AllPoint® Network ATMs, MoneyPass® Network ATMs, SUM® program ATMs.
- You won’t have to pay ATM fees while using your Quontic Debit Card at Citibank® ATMs located in Target, Speedway, Walgreens, CVS, Kroger, Safeway, Winn Dixie, and Circle K.
- Debit Card Security Lock – FDIC Insured and secured. Lock and unlock your debit card.
- Remote check deposit, bill pay, and account transfers.
- Make and receive payments when you link your card with Zelle, Apple Pay, Google Pay & Samsung Pay.
- Financial Tools – Track your spending and monitor credit with a full credit report, and credit report monitoring.
- Synced Accounts – A birds-eye view of all your bank accounts, and loans in one place.
- Biometric Authentication – Log in to your account securely with your fingerprint or facial recognition.
- Support when you need it – 100% US-based support. Chat live, request a call or speak through your computer’s audio.
- ATM-processed transactions; transfers between accounts; purchases made with debit cards not issued by our bank; cash over portions of point-of-sale transactions are not qualified POS transactions.
- Peer-to-peer payments (such as Apple Pay Cash*); loan payments or account funding made with your debit card and purchases made using third-party payment accounts are also not qualified as POS transactions.
- High Interest Checking Account is a conditional tiered variable rate account wherein you must deposit $100.00 to open this account.
- Founded in 2009 as a community bank, New York City-based Quontic has evolved into a digital bank that serves customers across the country.
- FDIC-Insured – Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.
- High Interest: Quontic’s High-Interest Checking Account offers a competitive APY, especially for larger balances
- No Monthly Fees: No monthly maintenance fees associated with the account, regardless of balance or other requirements
- No Overdraft Fees: Quontic Bank does not charge overdraft fees, a potential cost savings for those who may overdraw their account
- Fee-Free ATMs: Quontic provides access to a large network of ATMs, including Allpoint, Citibank, and MoneyPass
- Online and Mobile Banking: Quontic is an online bank, so its services are accessed primarily through online and mobile banking
- $100 opening deposit
- No brick-and-mortar branches
- Transaction Requirements: To earn the high interest rate, you may need to meet specific criteria, such as making a certain number of debit card transactions per month
- Not Ideal for In-Person Banking: Quontic may not be suitable for customers who prefer in-person banking services or who need to visit a physical branch
Best for: Cash back on purchases, recurring payments & subscriptions
Smartfinancialways rating
4.8/5
Monthly fee
$0.00
APY
N/A
Bonus Offer
N/A
Overdraft fee
None
Rewards
2% cash back upto $500/year*
*$1000 direct deposit, 2% cash back on purchases in eligible categories
Min. balance
None
Out of network ATM fee
$2.50
No-fee cash withdrawls from 55,000 Allpoint ATMs
Online account access
Yes
- Monthly Maintenance Fees.
- Overdraft Fees & minimum balance requirement.
- Cash back on common everyday expenses, recurring payments and subscriptions.
- No-fee cash withdrawal Allpoint ATMs nationwide.
- No Monthly Maintenance Fees.
- No recurring fees just to access and manage your account.
- Up to 2% Cash Back: On common everyday expenses, recurring payments and subscriptions..
- Mobile Check Deposits: Deposit checks right from your mobile phone.
- Customers who set up monthly Eligible Direct Deposits of at least $1,000 within sixty (60) days after account opening earn 2% cash back on purchases in eligible categories.
- Without direct deposit, you’ll still earn 1% cash back on common purchases and 0.50% cash back on all other eligible spending.
- Cash back eligible categories: Convenience stores, drugstores, restaurants and bars (including deliveries), gas stations, utilities (including electric, gas, sanitary and water) and monthly subscriptions (including phone, cable, TV and other streaming services)..
- Cash back non-eligible categories: Grocery stores and supermarkets (including affiliated gas stations), travel purchases, medical bills, retailers and online merchants, rent, mortgage, insurance, car payments, or other monthly subscriptions or bills.
- You earn 1% cash back on other purchases made with your debit card that don’t fall into those categories.
- Active Accounts with a monthly direct deposit of at least $1,000 are eligible for additional benefits such as 4.02% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) when add a Performance Savings Account with this Checking.
- Cusotmer accounts with less than $1,000 in monthly Eligible Direct Deposits sixty (60) days after account opening will not earn any cash back.
- Upgrade doesn’t accept cash deposits: You can deposit money through mobile check deposit, direct deposit or by making transfers from an external account.
- Customers can make no-fee cash withdrawals from more than 55,000 Allpoint ATMs nationwide.
- If you use an out-of-network ATM, Upgrade will charge you $2.50 and the ATM owner also might charge you a fee.
- Upgrade offers live customer service by phone every day: On weekdays from 5 am to 7 pm PT, and on weekends from 6 am to 5 pm PT.
- If you use an out-of-network ATM, Upgrade will charge you $2.50 and the ATM owner also might charge you a fee.
- Upgrade is a neobank and though it partners with a traditional bank, it does not have branches.
- Funds deposited at a neobank are ultimately held at the partner bank.
- A neobank such as Upgrade is a third-party banking technology platform that partners with a bank to provide accounts to customers.
- The funds are FDIC insured in the event of the partner bank’s failure and only if the neobank maintained accurate deposit records.
- Upgrade is a neobank and though it partners with a traditional bank, it does not have branches.
- When you open an account, we will ask for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow us to identify you. We may also ask to see your driver’s license or other identifying documents..
- Checking accounts are insured up to $250,000 in FDIC insurance through Cross River Bank. Deposits to Performance Savings are eligible for FDIC and/or NCUA deposit insurance up to $250,000 through Cross River Bank, Member FDIC and Participating Institutions.
- No monthly fees
- Competitive rate on performance savings account
- 2% cash back competitive rewards checking account
- Extended phone customer service hours
- No cash deposit
- No branch access
- No overdraft protection program
- Complicated rewards program for some cusotmers to follow along for 2% cash back
Best for: Consumers who invest heavily into Axos’ suite of products
Smartfinancialways rating
4.6/5
Monthly fee
$0
Foreign transaction fee
None
No fee on debit card in foreign countries
Overdraft / NSF fees
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: Checking alongwith Savings Accounts
Smartfinancialways rating
4.9/5
Monthly fee
$0
APY
1.00%
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
- Monthly fees.
- Minimum balance required to open the account.
- APY on account balances.
- Available for eligible Bask Interest Checking account customers.
- Earn an extra 3.00% APY on top of 1.00% — totaling 4.00% APY on qualifying activities.
- No Fees – No monthly account fees, so you can keep more of what you earn.
- 1.00% APY on account balances, plus earn an extra 3.00% APY1 on top of the base rate of 1.00% APY — totaling 4.00% APY through August 29, 2025, when qualifying activities are met.
- 4.00A APY: To qualify, complete $2,500 monthly automated deposits and maintain an average monthly balance of $2,500 in your Bask Interest Checking account through the reward period.
- ATM Access – With your Bask debit card, you can access more than 55,000 surcharge-free Allpoint® ATMs.
- Mobile-first Banking – Easily manage your accounts at any time with the Bask mobile app.
- Interest paid monthly – Bask Bank uses your daily Bask Interest Checking Account balance to calculate interest each day and interest is paid monthly.
- The sum of your deposits with Bask Bank and Texas Capital Bank is insured to at least $250,000 per depositor for each account ownership category.
- The annual percentage yield is accurate as of Monday, June 23, 2025. Rate is variable and subject to change after account opening.
- Surcharge-free guarantee – Bask Bank guarantees you will not pay a surcharge at any Allpoint® ATM. Some locations may have more than one ATM, not all of which are part of the Allpoint Network.
- If an account remains unfunded for fifteen (15) business days, we reserve the right to close that account.
- There are no monthly account fees
- Bask Bank’s Interest Checking account earns a top-notch yield for a checking account
- Customers get a debit card and access to more than 55,000 ATMs through the Allpoint network
- Several promotions are available, including additional interest if you complete certain qualifying activities
- No physical branches
- Accounts may be closed if not funded within 15 days
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 Rewards Checking Account & What are their types?
A Rewards Checking Account is a type of bank account that offers incentives to account holders for using the account in specific ways. These incentives can include earning interest on the account balance, cashback on purchases, or other rewards like travel points. The idea is to encourage customers to use their checking accounts more actively, such as by making a certain number of debit card transactions, maintaining a minimum balance, or setting up direct deposits.
There are several types of Rewards Checking Accounts, including:
1. High-Interest Checking Accounts: These accounts offer a higher interest rate on the balance compared to standard checking accounts. To qualify for the high interest, account holders may need to meet certain criteria, such as making a minimum number of debit card transactions each month or maintaining a specific balance.
2. Cashback Checking Accounts: These accounts provide cashback on purchases made with the account’s debit card. The cashback percentage can vary, and there may be limits on the amount of cashback that can be earned each month.
3. Points-Based Rewards Checking Accounts: Similar to credit card rewards programs, these accounts allow users to earn points for various activities, such as using their debit card or paying bills online. The points can then be redeemed for merchandise, travel, or other rewards.
4. Hybrid Accounts: Some accounts combine features of both high-interest and cashback accounts, offering a mix of interest earnings and cashback rewards.
Each type of Rewards Checking Account has its own set of requirements and benefits, so it’s important for consumers to compare options and choose one that best fits their financial habits and goals.
How To Pick The Best Rewards Checking Account For Your Needs
Choosing the best rewards checking account for your needs involves evaluating several key factors to ensure that the account aligns with your financial habits and goals. Here’s a breakdown of the important keywords to consider:
1. Interest Rates: Some rewards checking accounts offer interest on your balance, which can be higher than standard checking accounts. It’s important to compare the Annual Percentage Yield (APY) offered by different accounts. A higher interest rate can help grow your savings over time, but be sure to check the conditions required to earn the advertised rate.
2. Fees: Look for accounts with low or no monthly maintenance fees, as these can eat into your rewards. Also, consider other potential fees such as overdraft fees, ATM fees, and foreign transaction fees. Some accounts waive these fees if you meet certain criteria, such as maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposits.
3. ATM Access: Consider the availability of fee-free ATMs in your area. Some banks offer extensive ATM networks or reimburse out-of-network ATM fees, which can be a significant benefit if you frequently withdraw cash.
4. Reward Types: Rewards checking accounts can offer various types of incentives, such as cashback on purchases, points that can be redeemed for travel or merchandise, or higher interest rates. Determine which type of reward aligns best with your spending habits and financial goals.
5. Minimum Balance Required: Some accounts require you to maintain a minimum balance to avoid fees or to qualify for rewards. Ensure that you can comfortably meet these requirements without affecting your financial flexibility.
6. Cash Deposits: If you frequently deposit cash, check whether the bank offers convenient options for cash deposits. Some online banks may have limited options for cash deposits, which could be a drawback if you handle cash regularly.
7. Direct Deposits: Many rewards checking accounts offer additional benefits or waive fees if you set up direct deposits. This can include higher interest rates or cashback rewards. Consider whether you can arrange for your paycheck or other regular income to be directly deposited into the account.
8. Reward Limits: Be aware of any caps on the rewards you can earn. Some accounts limit the amount of cashback or points you can earn each month or year. Understanding these limits can help you maximize your rewards and choose an account that offers the best value for your spending patterns.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a rewards checking account that not only meets your immediate banking needs but also provides valuable incentives that enhance your overall financial strategy.
PROS
Best accounts have no or low monthly fees.
May offer ATM fee reimbursements
Earn cash-back rewards or interest
Potential for higher returns compared to regular checking
CONS
May require high minimum balances
May have restrictions on eligible transaction types
Limited availability—not all banks offer them
Lower interest rates than savings accounts
Key Takeaway
In conclusion, selecting the best rewards checking account requires a careful evaluation of various factors to ensure it aligns with your financial habits and goals.
Key considerations include (1) the interest rates offered, which can significantly impact your savings over time, and (2) the fees associated with the account, such as monthly maintenance and ATM fees, which can erode your rewards if not managed properly.
Additionally, the availability of fee-free ATM access and the types of rewards offered—whether cashback, points, or higher interest rates—should match your spending patterns and preferences.
It’s also crucial to consider the minimum balance requirements, as failing to meet these can result in fees or reduced rewards. For those who frequently deposit cash, the convenience of cash deposit options is important, while setting up direct deposits can often unlock additional benefits or waive certain fees.
Lastly, understanding any reward limits is essential to maximize the value you receive from the account. By thoroughly assessing these elements, you can choose a rewards checking account that not only meets your immediate banking needs but also enhances your overall financial strategy through valuable incentives.
Up Next In Checking, compare the other types of best checking accounts:
To summarize our top selections…
Smartfinancialways’s Best Rewards Checking Accounts for July 2025
Discover® Cashback Debit Checking: 1% Cashback, Best for All-in-One Checking
SoFi® Bank Online Checking: 0.50% APY, Best for to getaway from Overdraft fees
nbkc bank Everything Account: 1.75% APY, Best for Checking Account Interest Rate
Axos Bank CashBack Checking: 1.00% Cash Back, Best for Cash Back
American Express Rewards Checking: 1.00% APY, Best for Best Customer Experience
QUONTIC Bank High Interest Checking: 1.10% APY, Best for High-Yield Interest Checking
Upgrade – Rewards Checking Preferred: 2% Cash Back, Best for: Cash back on purchases, recurring payments & subscriptions
Axos Bank Rewards Checking: Up to 3.30% APY, Best for Consumers who invest heavily into Axos’ suite of products
Bask Bank Interest Checking Account: 1.00% APY, Best for Checking alongwith Savings