By Jennifer Tucker
October 25, 2024 | 2 Min. Read
If you think all checking accounts are created equal, you might be in for a surprise. While a checking account is one of the most common banking products, you now have more choices than ever before. With all the options available, how do you know which bank account is right for you? It starts with thinking about how you want to use your account day-to-day.
Before you open a free checking account, it’s helpful to consider whether it meets your everyday banking needs. Here are the top features you should look for in the best checking accounts:
These days, there’s an app for everything, and your checking account is no exception. Mobile banking can change how you use your checking account and often makes managing your money easier. Depending on the account you choose, mobile banking will enable you to:
The Marine Credit Union Mobile App and Online Banking give you access to all the banking features you know you need. Plus, we offer enhanced tools to make your digital banking experience even better, like tracking your budget and spending habits and managing multiple accounts with ease. With top-notch security and encryption in our mobile app and online banking system, you’ll also get peace of mind.
Many banks offer options to help you avoid fees if you overdraw your account, like enrolling in overdraft protection. This allows an automatic transfer from another account—like your savings account—if the balance in your checking account becomes negative. While it’s still important to monitor your account daily, overdraft protection can help keep it in good standing.
At Marine Credit Union, we have overdraft protection to help you reduce and avoid fees.
Many financial institutions charge a monthly service or maintenance fee for a checking account. Be sure to understand these fees or what’s required to avoid them. For example, some banks or credit unions require a minimum balance, a certain number of debit card purchases, or other transactions. Research the requirements before opening an account so you aren’t caught off guard by fees you didn’t expect. Compare accounts and their rules to see which account is best for you and your everyday banking.
Marine Credit Union’s My Relationship Checking is a free account that gives you better access to your money without being charged for it, along with added perks.
It seems like we’re faced with more (and more expensive) fees everywhere we turn. A checking account that allows fee-free ATM transactions can help you avoid costly withdrawal fees and make access to your funds more convenient.
At Marine Credit Union, you can withdraw from any ATM in our network without a fee. You’ll never get an ATM fee from MCU.
Opening a bank account gives you control over your finances. The features and tools tied to your checking account will help you set up direct deposit, manage bills, make payments, and more.
Marine Credit Union’s checking accounts come with a free debit card and the ability to take control of your spending by using debit card controls to turn your card off and on with the click of a button.
For added ease and convenience, many financial institutions offer digital account opening, saving you a trip to the bank to open an account. This can save you a trip to the bank to open an account. It’s often as easy as going to the bank’s website and clicking “Apply Now” or “Open an Account.”
You can open an account online with Marine Credit Union. And whether you decide to open your account online or in person, it pays to be prepared with all the information you’ll need for account opening.
Whether you’re opening a checking account for the first time or you’re a long-time account holder, managing your finances can be tricky. The best checking accounts offer added support to help you determine your expenses, create your budget, and plan for your long-term financial goals.
Marine Credit Union offers free financial education courses through GreenPath, a financial wellness nonprofit.
Whether you’re looking for a simple account for everyday transactions or added features to help you save towards your long-term goals, there’s an account for you. At Marine Credit Union, we have a variety of checking accounts to meet your needs, and we offer the information and tools you need to master your account.