In today’s digital age, opening a checking account online has become
increasingly convenient and efficient. Many banks offer the ability to open an
account from the comfort of your home, without needing to visit a branch. This
guide will explore some of the top banks where you can open a checking account
online, detailing their features, benefits, and the application process.
Top Banks for
Opening a Checking Account Online
1. Chase Bank
Chase Total Checking®
Chase is one of the largest and most reputable banks in the
United States, offering a variety of checking accounts that can be opened
online. The Chase Total Checking® account is a popular option due to its robust
features and widespread ATM network.
Features:
- Minimum Opening Deposit:$0
- Monthly Service Fee:$12 (can be waived with direct
deposit or maintaining a minimum balance)
- Access to ATMs: Over 16,000 ATMs and 4,900 branches
nationwide
- Mobile Banking: Comprehensive mobile app with features
like mobile check deposit and account alerts
How to Open:
1. Visit the Chase website and navigate to the Chase Total
Checking® page.
2. Click on "Open an Account."
3. Provide your personal information, including your Social
Security number and contact details.
4. Fund your account with the initial deposit (if
applicable).
5. Review and submit your application.
2. Bank of America
Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®
Bank of America offers a range of checking accounts that
cater to different needs. The Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking® account
is well-suited for everyday banking needs and offers various ways to avoid the
monthly fee.
Features:
- Minimum Opening Deposit: $100
- Monthly Service Fee: $12 (can be waived with direct
deposit, maintaining a minimum balance, or qualifying student status)
- Access to ATMs: Over 16,000 ATMs and 4,300 financial
centers
- Mobile Banking: Feature-rich mobile app with budgeting
tools, alerts, and mobile check deposit
How to Open:
1. Go to the Bank of America website and find the Advantage
Plus Banking® page.
2. Click "Open Account."
3. Enter your personal information and select account
preferences.
4. Fund your account with at least $100.
5. Complete the application and submit it.
3. Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo Everyday Checking
Wells Fargo is known for its extensive branch network and
reliable banking services. The Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account is
designed for easy, everyday banking with a low minimum opening deposit.
Features:
- Minimum Opening Deposit: $25
- Monthly Service Fee: $10 (can be waived with direct
deposit or maintaining a minimum balance)
- Access to ATMs: Over 13,000 ATMs and 5,400 branches
- Mobile Banking: Robust mobile app with features like
Zelle®, mobile deposit, and budgeting tools
How to Open:
1. Visit the Wells Fargo website and locate the Everyday
Checking page.
2. Click "Open Now."
3. Fill in your personal information, including
identification and contact details.
4. Fund your account with the minimum opening deposit of
$25.
5. Review and submit your application.
4. Ally Bank
Ally Interest Checking Account
Ally Bank is a popular online-only bank that offers
competitive interest rates and no monthly maintenance fees. The Ally Interest
Checking Account is ideal for those who prefer online banking and value higher
interest on their deposits.
Features:
- Minimum Opening Deposit: $0
- Monthly Service Fee: None
- Interest Rates: Competitive APY on all balances
- Access to ATMs: Free access to over 43,000 Allpoint ATMs
and up to $10/month reimbursement for out-of-network ATM fees
- Mobile Banking: Comprehensive mobile app with mobile
check deposit, bill pay, and account alerts
How to Open:
1. Navigate to the Ally Bank website and find the Interest
Checking Account page.
2. Click "Open Account."
3. Provide your personal information, including your Social
Security number and contact details.
4. Fund your account (if desired, no minimum deposit
required).
5. Complete and submit your application.
5. Capital One
360 Checking®
Capital One offers the 360 Checking® account, which is a
fee-free online checking account with many features and a wide network of
fee-free ATMs.
Features:
- Minimum Opening Deposit: $0
- Monthly Service Fee: None
- Access to ATMs: Over 70,000 fee-free ATMs
- Mobile Banking: Advanced mobile app with mobile check
deposit, bill pay, and person-to-person payments
How to Open:
1. Visit the Capital One website and navigate to the 360
Checking® page.
2. Click "Open Account."
3. Enter your personal information, including your Social
Security number and contact details.
4. Fund your account (optional, no minimum deposit
required).
5. Review and submit your application.
Tips for Opening a
Checking Account Online
1. Prepare Your Information: Ensure you have all necessary
information ready, including your Social Security number, identification, and
contact details.
2. Understand the Requirements: Be aware of the minimum
deposit requirements and any criteria for waiving monthly fees.
3. Compare Features: Different banks offer different
features and benefits. Choose an account that aligns with your financial needs
and lifestyle.
4. Check for Promotions: Some banks offer sign-up bonuses
or other incentives for opening an account online. Look for these promotions to
maximize your benefits.
Conclusion
Opening a checking account online is a convenient and
efficient way to manage your finances. Whether you prefer the extensive branch
and ATM networks of traditional banks like Chase and Bank of America, or the
competitive interest rates and digital convenience of online banks like Ally
and Capital One, there’s an option for everyone. By following the steps
outlined above, you can easily open a checking account online and start
enjoying the benefits of modern banking.