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Step 1
Find banks that offer free checking accounts. This is a simple proposition since banks are competing for business in today’s economy. Look online at banks in your area for offers.
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Step 2
Decide if you want to do online banking or at a branch office of the bank. Determine if you need to go in person or can bank using ATMs and the Internet to help make your decision on which bank to choose.
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Step 3
Review the options. Each bank will have different minimum requirements to open free checking accounts, for example:
- Some banks require a minimum deposit of $100 plus a set number of debit card purchases each month.
- Other banks require an automatic transfer from the checking account to the savings account each month.
- Some banks offer free checks and ATM fees.
- Other banks offer free online banking and bill pay.
Decide what options work best for you. -
Step 4
Go online to the bank’s website or go to a local branch of the bank to open the free checking account. Ensure that you have the funds in hand needed to open the account. Check ahead of time if a check from another account will work or if you need to take cash.
Call the bank directly if you have any questions regarding their free checking accounts. -
Step 5
Sign any paperwork needed and get the temporary checks from the bank so you can use the free checking account. Keep copies of this paperwork in a file with the bank name on it.
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Step 6
Review the guidelines and requirements of free checking accounts to know your responsibilities for minimum balances in checking and savings, and so on.
