Best Checking Accounts in the USA
🔹 1. Chase Total Checking®
- Apply Link: https://www.chase.com/personal/checking/total-checking
- Eligibility:
- Must be 18+ years
- U.S. resident with valid ID
- Required Documents:
- Government-issued ID (e.g., Driver’s License or Passport)
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- Benefits:
- $200 sign-up bonus (if qualifying deposit made)
- Access to 16,000+ ATMs & 4,700+ branches
- Mobile app & online banking
- Overdraft protection available
🔹 2. Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®
- Apply Link: https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/checking/
- Eligibility:
- Age 18+
- U.S. address and SSN
- Required Documents:
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- SSN
- Address verification document
- Benefits:
- $100 bonus offer
- Mobile alerts and budgeting tools
- Preferred Rewards for extra benefits
- Zelle® transfers for free
🔹 3. Wells Fargo Everyday Checking
- Apply Link: https://www.wellsfargo.com/checking/everyday/
- Eligibility:
- 18+ years (or legal guardian needed if underage)
- U.S. residency
- Required Documents:
- SSN or ITIN
- Valid photo ID
- Address proof
- Benefits:
- $300 bonus with qualifying deposits
- Large branch & ATM network
- Mobile check deposit
- Fraud monitoring
🔹 4. Capital One 360 Checking®
- Apply Link: https://www.capitalone.com/bank/checking-accounts/360-checking-account/
- Eligibility:
- Age 18+
- U.S. Citizen or Resident
- Required Documents:
- SSN
- Valid ID
- Address verification
- Benefits:
- No monthly fees
- No overdraft fees
- Access to 70,000+ fee-free ATMs
- Fast direct deposit
🔹 5. Discover Cashback Debit Checking
- Apply Link: https://www.discover.com/online-banking/checking/
- Eligibility:
- Age 18+
- U.S. Resident
- Required Documents:
- SSN
- Valid ID
- Residential address
- Benefits:
- 1% cashback on up to $3,000 monthly purchases
- No monthly fees
- Free access to 60,000 ATMs
- No overdraft fees
📝 Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Choose a bank from the list above.
- Click on the application link and go to the bank’s official site.
- Fill in personal details: name, SSN, address, date of birth.
- Upload/submit required documents.
- Fund your account (if required minimum deposit).
- Submit your application.
- Get instant confirmation or wait 1–2 business days.
📌 Tips:
- Always check for bonus offers and fee waivers.
- Link your debit card to mobile payment apps for more convenience.
- Some banks offer student or senior accounts with extra perks.
FAQs – Best Checking Accounts USA
1. Q: What is a checking account and how is it different from a savings account?
A: A checking account is primarily used for day-to-day transactions like deposits, withdrawals, bill payments, and debit card use. A savings account is used for storing money long-term and earns interest.
2. Q: Can I open a checking account online without visiting the bank?
A: Yes, most major U.S. banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Capital One allow you to open a checking account entirely online by submitting personal details and ID documents.
3. Q: Is there any minimum balance required?
A: Some checking accounts have minimum balance requirements to avoid monthly fees (e.g., Chase Total Checking requires $1,500 daily to waive fees), while others like Capital One 360 or Discover have no minimum balance or fees.
4. Q: Can non-U.S. citizens open a checking account?
A: Yes, some banks allow non-citizens to open accounts with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and a valid passport or visa, but options may be limited.
5. Q: How long does it take to activate the account and get the debit card?
A: Account activation is usually immediate or within 1 business day. Debit cards typically arrive via mail within 5–7 business days after approval.