How to Start a Free Checking Account
No matter how much or how little money you have, you want to make the most of every dollar. Paying high fees for something as simple and basic as a checking account simply does not make sense, not when there are so many free checking options available. Taking the time to find a free checking account can save you hundreds of dollars in fees and charges over the course of a single year, so it is definitely worth your while to find the best account.
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Instructions
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Contact the bank where you have your other accounts and ask if it offers a free checking account. Some banks offer more favorable terms to customers who hold more than one account, so you might be able to find a free checking account that way.
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Visit credit unions as well as banks in your area. Credit unions often offer free checking accounts with low minimum balance requirements. When evaluating free checking accounts, read the fine print and understand the minimum balance requirement for each account. In addition to the minimum balance requirement, some banks require customers to set up a direct deposit to avoid fees. Be sure you meet the qualifications for the account before you open it.
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Visit your local bank branch and ask for a new account specialist. Discuss the free checking options with the bank representative, and choose the one that best meets your needs. If you normally keep a high balance, you might qualify for a free checking account that earns interest. If your balance is lower, look for a free checking account with a low balance requirement.
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Complete the application for the free checking account and provide the bank representative with a driver's license or other official documentation. This identification will be required to open the bank account.
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Fund your new account by giving the account specialist a cash deposit or writing a check from another account. Indicate whether you want to order checks. Some banks charge for checks, even on free checking accounts. If you plan to do all your banking electronically, you might not need to write paper checks.
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References
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