Top Checking Accounts of 2022: Find the Best for You

Having the right checking account comes with several benefits and conveniences, from free ATMs to automatic bill pay. Your checking account can also end up costing you money in the form of monthly maintenance fees and overdraft charges.

Finding the best fit depends on various factors, including how you make deposits, what type of balance you carry, and how you spend.

To help narrow down your choices, we’ve compiled a list of the year’s best checking accounts in different categories. Even if you already have a checking account, it’s smart to review your options to make sure your bank is working for you.

Online Checking Accounts

Many people prefer the convenience of a strong online presence with great customer service over going to a bank’s physical location. Luckily, there are plenty of heavy-hitters with online checking options for anyone who’s constantly on the go.

Check out our best checking accounts that allow you to handle all your banking needs online.

Chime

High Interest Rate Checking Accounts

Interest rates on any type of bank account aren’t very high today, but that doesn’t mean they’re unheard of. And while you usually have to open a savings account to receive any type of yield on your balance, there are some checking accounts that offer interest on your deposits. Here are our top picks.

Credit Union Checking Accounts

Credit unions typically require some type of common bond to qualify for membership, like working in a particular industry or living in a specific community. However, many national credit unions have wide membership requirements, but they offer some great financial products once you’re in.

Establish a strong relationship with a credit union and you’ll set the stage to get approved for future financial needs, including personal loans or car loans.

Checking Accounts with Sign-Up Bonuses

A little free cash never hurt anyone, and two banks are currently offering some attractive sign-up bonuses. That means if you follow a few guidelines upon signing up, you’ll get a pre-determined deposit of cash right into your new checking account. Here are today’s best deals for checking accounts with sign-up bonuses.

Overview

Chase currently offers a similar promotion for new customers. You can receive a $200 bonus by setting up a direct deposit into your Chase Total Checking account.

You’ll need to start with a minimum deposit of $25 to open the account, and then link an employer or government benefit to deposit directly into your Chase account within 60 days. You’ll then receive the bonus within just 10 days of completing these actions.

For this account, Chase does charge a monthly service fee of $12 unless you qualify for one of these exemptions:

• At least $500 in monthly direct deposits
• $1,500 minimum daily balance
• Daily average balance of $5,000 in all linked Chase accounts

For a larger sign-up bonus, consider the Chase Premier Plus Checking account. You can receive $300 if you sign up with direct deposit and open the account with at least $25. You’ll also need to keep the account open for at least six months.

There is a $25 monthly fee associated with this account, but here’s how you can get that waived:

• Maintain an average daily balance of $15,000 across Chase accounts
• Sign up for autopay on your Chase mortgage