Banks are making billions off fees you don’t need to pay.
Overdraft charges, maintenance fees, and ATM surcharges may seem like small amounts, but they quietly drain billions of dollars from account holders every year. Banks count on customers overlooking these fees, making them one of the most profitable parts of the financial industry. The worst part? Most of these fees are completely avoidable if you choose the right bank.
There’s no reason to keep paying a bank just to hold your money when plenty of institutions offer no-fee checking accounts with excellent perks. Some provide cashback rewards, high interest rates, or ATM fee reimbursements, making them a far better deal than traditional big-name banks. If your bank is still charging you for basic services, it’s time to switch. These ten checking accounts let you manage your money without hidden fees, so you can keep more of what you earn and stop lining your bank’s pockets.
1. Capital One 360 Checking lets you earn interest while avoiding fees.
Capital One 360 Checking is a rare find—an account that doesn’t charge monthly fees and still pays interest on your balance. Unlike many traditional banks, it has no minimum balance requirement, no maintenance fees, and no overdraft fees if you use their auto-decline or free transfer options, as reported by Alexandria White at CNBC.
Another major perk is early direct deposit, which allows customers to access their paychecks up to two days earlier. Plus, you get access to over 70,000 fee-free ATMs, including those at CVS and Target. The mobile app is highly rated, making it easy to deposit checks, track spending, and pay bills. If you want a hassle-free account with a bank that won’t nickel-and-dime you, Capital One 360 Checking is a solid choice.
2. Chime Checking Account eliminates overdraft fees and gives early paycheck access.
Chime has built its reputation on being customer-friendly, and its Checking Account is proof. There are no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no overdraft fees—ever. If you sign up for direct deposit, you can also access your paycheck up to two days early.
Another huge advantage is access to more than 50,000 fee-free ATMs through networks like Allpoint and Visa Plus Alliance. For those who occasionally need a little extra cushion, Chime’s SpotMe feature covers overdrafts up to $200 without charging a fee, as stated by Business Wire. The mobile app is sleek, and there are no hidden costs, making this an excellent option for those tired of traditional banking fees.
3. Ally Bank Spending Account provides full-service banking with zero fees.
Ally Bank is an entirely online institution that offers a checking account with no monthly maintenance fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no overdraft fees. Even though there are no physical branches, customers have access to over 43,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide, according to Margarette Burnette at Nerd Wallet.
One of Ally’s standout features is its automatic savings tools, which help you move extra money into a savings account effortlessly. The bank also offers 24/7 customer service and high-rated mobile banking, making it easy to manage everything from your phone. If you’re looking for a full-service bank without the hidden fees, Ally’s Spending Account is a great alternative.
4. SoFi Checking and Savings combines high-yield savings with no-fee banking.
SoFi Checking and Savings offers the best of both worlds—free checking with no monthly fees and a savings account that earns up to 4.60% APY. There are no overdraft fees, no maintenance fees, and no minimum balance requirements.
Customers who set up direct deposit can also receive a welcome bonus of up to $300, adding even more value. Additionally, SoFi offers unlimited reimbursement of out-of-network ATM fees, making it a great choice for those who travel often. With an easy-to-use mobile app and strong customer service, SoFi is an excellent choice for those looking to earn interest while avoiding unnecessary fees.
5. Huntington Asterisk-Free Checking delivers traditional banking without the fees.
For those who prefer a traditional bank with physical branches, Huntington’s Asterisk-Free Checking is a standout option. There are no monthly maintenance fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no charges for online or mobile banking.
Huntington also offers a 24-hour grace period for overdrafts, giving customers time to fix their account before any fees kick in. With branches across the Midwest and an extensive ATM network, this account is ideal for those who want in-person banking without the typical fees that come with brick-and-mortar banks.
6. Discover Cashback Debit pays you for using your debit card.
Most banks charge you for the privilege of holding your money, but Discover’s Cashback Debit account actually pays you back. You’ll earn 1% cashback on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month, which can add up to $360 per year.
In addition to cashback, Discover charges zero monthly fees, overdraft fees, or foreign transaction fees. Customers also get access to over 60,000 fee-free ATMs. If you want to earn rewards on everyday spending without the hassle of credit card interest, this checking account is an excellent alternative.
7. Axos Bank Rewards Checking offers high interest and unlimited ATM fee reimbursements.
Axos Bank’s Rewards Checking is one of the few checking accounts that not only avoids fees but also rewards customers with interest—up to 3.30% APY. There are no monthly fees, no overdraft charges, and unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements.
Since Axos is an online bank, customers rely on digital banking tools, which are some of the best in the industry. The combination of high interest, no fees, and nationwide ATM access makes this account ideal for those looking to maximize their banking benefits.
8. Quontic High Interest Checking gives you cash back and a solid APY.
Quontic Bank offers an impressive 1.10% APY on checking balances while still keeping the account completely fee-free. There are no monthly maintenance fees, no overdraft fees, and no minimum balance requirements.
What sets Quontic apart is its focus on innovation—it’s one of the few banks offering a wearable payment ring, which allows you to make purchases with a simple tap. With a strong APY and tech-forward features, this account is perfect for those looking for a modern banking experience without extra costs.
9. BMO Smart Advantage Checking eliminates fees while keeping banking simple.
BMO Smart Advantage Checking is a no-frills account that eliminates the most common banking fees. There are no monthly maintenance charges, no minimum balance requirements, and free access to over 40,000 ATMs.
This account is a great fit for those who want a reliable, easy-to-use checking option without worrying about hidden costs. While it doesn’t come with cashback or high interest rates, it’s a solid choice for those who prefer a traditional bank without the usual fee traps.
10. First Citizens Free Checking provides fee-free banking with digital convenience.
First Citizens Bank offers a free checking account with no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and a suite of digital banking tools. Customers can make free Zelle transfers, manage their accounts online, and access a wide ATM network without worrying about hidden charges.
With a strong focus on digital banking, First Citizens provides an easy and efficient way to manage money without unnecessary fees. It’s a great option for those who want the reliability of a traditional bank with the flexibility of online convenience.