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Standout Online Checking Accounts
![universal image alt](https://assets.nerdwallet.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/wealth-inv-hero-01-desktop.png)
$0
0.50%
With $0 min. balance for APY
$300
$0
0.10%
With $0 min. balance for APY
$250
$0
$360
Requirements to qualify
$12.00
Waived with direct deposit or $1,500 minimum balance
$300
Requirements to qualify
A checking account is an all-purpose place to keep money for short- to medium-term financial needs. Your employer can directly deposit your paychecks in the account, you can link it to payment apps such as Venmo and PayPal, you can make wire transfers and mobile check deposits, you can pay bills from it and more. A checking account is a building block to manage your money and make financial tasks easier.
Look for low or no fees and a low or no minimum balance.
The best checking accounts don’t charge fees or require high minimum balances.
Check for a broad ATM network.
If you anticipate that you’ll need to deposit and withdraw cash regularly, look for an account at an institution that has a network of ATMs that you can access.
See if the account has an interest rate.
Most checking accounts offer low or no interest, but you may find an account that offers a good rate.
Look for sign-up bonuses.
Some providers will give you money for opening an account with them. You shouldn’t pick an account based solely on a promotion, but it could help you decide between two comparable options. Keep in mind that bonuses are taxable and that you may need to meet certain requirements to qualify for a bonus.
![universal image alt](https://assets.nerdwallet.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/wealth-investing-step.png)
Savings accounts are another smart way to grow your money
![universal image alt](https://assets.nerdwallet.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/logo-marcus-1.png)
![universal image alt](https://assets.nerdwallet.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/logo-amex-saving-1.png)
at American Express National Bank