Key Takeaways
- The right checking account depends on your financial habits, such as fee tolerance, balance maintenance, and travel needs.
- Consider if you want interest, perks, or access to ATM networks, especially if you travel frequently.
- At First County Bank, a range of checking accounts are available to fit individual needs, including accounts with perks and minimal fees.
Let’s face it, most of us don’t spend a whole lot of time thinking about our checking accounts. And, we shouldn’t have to.
Your checking account should never get in the way of your day-to-day life. But, it should make it easy and affordable for you to do what you need to do – whether it’s getting fast access to your money or paying bills.
But not all checking accounts are the same.
Some come with no fees, and others minimum balance requirements to waive fees. The key is finding the checking account that’s the right fit for the way you manage your money.
What to Consider When Choosing a Checking Account
Here are some questions to consider to help you find the checking account that’s just right for you:
What Are the Fees?
Fees vary from bank to bank and account to account and may include monthly maintenance fees or per item fees, plus charges for other things, such as overdrafts, stop payments, etc. Before you choose an account, look carefully at the fee structure. Can you easily waive fees by maintaining a minimum balance or by having direct deposit?
What Are the Minimum Balance Requirements?
Speaking of minimum balances, those vary from bank-to-bank, too. Look at your previous account statements to determine the balances you maintain each month to see if you’ll meet account minimums.
Do You Have Other Accounts With the Financial Institution?
If you have savings or CDs or even loans with the same financial institution, you may want to open a relationship checking account, which lets you combine your account balances to waive fees.
Do You Want to Earn Interest?
Do you keep significant balances in your account and want to earn interest on them? Not all checking accounts pay interest, so consider that when choosing. A higher-yield checking account can help you earn more on your money.
Do You Travel and Need Access to Cash?
ATM fees can really add up. So, if you do travel, make sure you choose an account that offers surcharge rebates or free access to a network of ATMs.
Do You Want Extra Perks?
Relationship accounts often come with added perks to save you money. For example, our ValueAccess Checking with BaZing offers gas savings, roadside assistance, cellphone protection and more ( see Disclosures for details).
How Do You Like to Bank?
Do you prefer to bank in person or online? An online account may make it easy for you to access your money, but what if you want to do your banking in person? Can you even do that? And if you can, will you get charged for banking in person?
We Have the Right Checking Account For You
At First County Bank, we offer a range of checking accounts. But you only need one – the one that’s the perfect fit for you. Find your account today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What fees should I consider when choosing a checking account?
Common fees include monthly maintenance fees, overdraft charges, and ATM fees. Some accounts allow you to waive these fees by meeting minimum balance requirements or setting up direct deposits.
2. Can I earn interest on my checking account balance?
Yes, some checking accounts offer interest, often called high-yield checking accounts. If you keep significant balances in your account, choosing an interest-bearing option could help you earn more on your money.
3. What are the benefits of a relationship checking account?
A relationship checking account allows you to combine balances from multiple accounts, which can help waive fees and may offer additional perks like ATM rebates, interest options, and other savings.
