How to get a free bank account

It may take a little work, but isn't it worth it if you can save hundreds in fees?

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By Moneywise Dec. 23, 2020

You're paying a monthly fee for your checking account? That's so wrong. Free checking isn't as common as it used to be, but it's still around -- though you might have to do some digging.

It's worth the effort. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau says Americans pay $15 billion in checking fees every year. A checking account can come with as many as 50 different fees.

But they're often avoidable. Here's how to find free checking.

1. Look past the big guys

Choosing the wrong checking account can potentially cost you hundreds of dollars a year in fees.

Speed up your hunt for free checking by eliminating the big-name brick-and-mortar banks right out the gate. They tend to have monthly maintenance fees for checking.

Bank of America caused an uproar recently when it switched some checking customers over to new accounts charging a $12 monthly fee, unless they maintained a $1,500 balance or direct-deposited at least $250 a month.

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2. Check out credit unions

The easiest way to find free checking is to head to your nearest credit union. A 2018 Bankrate survey found that 82% of the nation's largest credit unions offer free checking, versus just 38% of banks.

Some credit unions and community banks offer rewards checking, which comes with higher interest rates and perks such as fee refunds when you use out-of-network ATMs.

Can't find a credit union nearby? Navy Federal Credit Union and Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) operate nationally, and most customers pay no or low fees. But you may need to meet eligibility requirements to join.

3. Look online

Digital or "direct" banks are another haven from fees. Axos, for example, offers a checking account free from maintenance fees, overdraft fees and ATM fees — and it can help you get your paycheck up to two days early.

Even some large, well-established banks offer free online checking, including Discover, Ally and Capital One.

Doing your banking online has few disadvantages, though it may not be a good choice if you like having the option of going to a bank branch for in-person help if you need it.

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4. Consider your banking habits

Do you have a bad knack for overdrawing your account? Do you like having a little bit of cash in your wallet, even if it means using an ATM that's not in your bank's network?

Finding the bank that’s the ideal match and is least likely to hit you with checking fees can take some work. You’re going to need to track your usage patterns meticulously.

Focus on banks where you can most easily avoid fees with your particular banking habits. Free checking is out there — you just have to go get it.

A High-Yield Savings Account Is The Easiest Way To Make Passive Income In 2023

High-yield savings accounts are a great way to generate high interest and inflation-proof your savings over time. This option ensures your cash is at the ready when you need it, without forfeiting growth to do so.

You could earn 10x more interest by keeping your hard-earned cash in a high-yield savings account. Find some of the best options here.

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Moneywise

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