U.S. Bank Checking Accounts

Checking account options from U.S. Bank

U.S. Bank Smartly Checking

Minimum opening deposit: $25

Current promotions: Earn up to $700 when you open a new U.S. Bank Smartly Checking account and a Standard Savings account and complete the following qualifying activities:

1. Open a U.S. Bank Smartly Checking and Standard Savings account by June 27, 2024

2. Within 90 days of account opening, enroll in online banking or download the U.S. Bank Mobile app

3. Make at least two qualifying deposits into your new checking account. Your bonus is determined by your deposit total

• Earn $100 when you deposit $3,000 to $4,999.99
• Earn $300 when you deposit $5,000 to $9,999.99
• Earn $500 when you deposit $10,000 or more
• Earn $300 by depositing at least $15,000 in new money to your savings account by July 17, 2024. and maintaining it until October 31, 2024

Monthly fees: $6.95 or $0 (to waive the monthly maintenance fee, have an average balance of $1,500 or more, have an open qualifying U.S. Bank consumer credit card, or have combined monthly direct deposits totaling $1,000+)

Interest rates: Up to 0.01% (depending on state)

ATM fees: $0 for U.S. Bank ATMs; up to two non-U.S. Bank ATM fees waived per statement (if a member of Smart Rewards)

Overdraft protection:

• Overdraft Protection Transfer Fee waived when you link an eligible account to your checking account and overdraw less than $50
• Overdraft Fee Forgiven program allows fees to be waived when you overdraw more than $50 and make a qualifying deposit before 11 p.m. ET the day you’re charged the fee
• Otherwise, you’ll get charged an Overdraft Paid Fee of $36 for each item paid on your behalf when the overdraft is $5.01 or more (and your negative balance is $50.01 or more)
• No fee for overdraft items $5 or less

Additional benefits:

• Access additional perks with Smart Rewards, including exclusive benefits and pricing discounts; automatically move through the four-tiered program by combining balances from eligible accounts
• Automated financial tools, market insights, and goal planner tools
• Mobile check deposits and automated bill pay
• Zelle instant transfers

Our verdict: The U.S. Bank Smartly Checking account is a solid choice for those seeking a fee-free checking account with convenient mobile banking features. The ability to waive the monthly maintenance fees and lower minimum balance requirements make it accessible to a wide range of customers, and the mobile banking features, including mobile check deposit and budgeting tools, add convenience. Plus, the Smart Rewards program is an added perk to make your relationship with the bank go further.

However, the account does not earn interest on the balance, which may be a drawback for those looking to grow their money. Additionally, the account’s limited physical branches may not be ideal for those who prefer in-person banking.

Pros

• Ability to waive monthly maintenance fee
• Mobile banking features
• Smart Rewards benefits and discounts
• Overdraft protection available

Cons

• Minimum deposit required
• Potential monthly maintenance fee
• Physical branches only available in 26 states
• Minimal interest earned
• Other fees (such as for wire transfers, stop payments, and paper statements)

Apply now: U.S. Bank Smartly Checking

Learn more: U.S. Bank Smartly Checking Account Review

Expert tip from Thomas

The most compelling checking account offered by U.S. Bank is the Bank Smartly Checking Account. It capitalizes on the financial institution’s robust digital capabilities to provide exclusive benefits and pricing discounts based on how you save and spend money, a cutting-edge mobile app that allows you to effortlessly monitor your transactions and slick budgeting tools that help you plan and manage your finances. The account also comes with generous overdraft protection and the potential for no monthly maintenance fees.

Safe Debit Account

Minimum opening deposit: $25

Current promotions: None

Monthly fees: $4.95 per month (offers benefits including a U.S. Bank Visa Debit Card, access to the U.S. Bank Mobile App, and mobile check deposit)

Interest rates: N/A

ATM fees: $0 for U.S. Bank ATMs; $2.50 per non-U.S. Bank ATM transaction

Overdraft protection: No overdraft fees, but you will not be able to use your debit card or withdraw funds until you transfer or deposit enough money to bring your available balance to positive

Additional benefits:

• Free credit reporting tools
• Access to goal planner and Money Tracker tools
• Zelle transfers

Our verdict: The U.S. Bank Safe Debit Account is a good option for individuals looking for a basic, no-frills checking account with no overdraft fees. The account offers the convenience of a debit card for everyday purchases and ATM withdrawals, without the risk of overdraft fees, since transactions that would overdraw the account are declined. This can be beneficial for those who want to avoid the possibility of overdrafting and incurring costly fees. However, it’s important to note that the account does not offer check-writing capabilities, and your balance will not earn any interest.

Pros

• Checking account functionality with debit card access
• Relatively low monthly fee
• No overdraft fees
• Free credit score and money tools
• Low opening deposit

Cons

• No interest earning opportunities
• No checks
• No monthly fee waiver

Apply now: U.S. Bank Safe Debit Account

How to open a checking account with U.S. Bank

To open a checking account with U.S. Bank, follow the steps below.

1. Choose a checking account: Explore U.S. Bank’s checking account options online or visit a branch to learn about the features and requirements of each account.

2. Gather required documents: You’ll typically need to provide personal information, such as your Social Security number, a government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport), and proof of address (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement).

3. Apply online or in-person:

• Online: Visit the U.S. Bank website and follow the instructions to apply for a checking account online. You may need to provide your personal information and fund the account with an initial deposit.
• In-person: Visit a U.S. Bank branch and speak with a representative. They can help you choose the right checking account and assist with the application process.

4. Fund your account: If required, make an initial deposit to fund your new checking account. This can typically be done via a transfer from another bank account, a check, or cash.

Learn More: Guide to Opening a U.S. Bank Checking Account

Benefits of U.S. Bank checking accounts

U.S. Bank offers several benefits with its checking accounts. Some key advantages are as follows:

1. Variety of account options: U.S. Bank provides a range of checking account options to suit different needs, from basic accounts with no monthly fees to accounts that offer additional perks and benefits.
2. Online and mobile banking: Manage your account easily with U.S. Bank’s online and mobile banking services. You can check your balance, transfer funds, pay bills, and more from your computer or smartphone.
3. Debit card rewards: Some U.S. Bank checking accounts offer rewards for using your debit card, such as cash back on purchases or rewards points.
4. ATM access: With a U.S. Bank checking account, you can access a large network of ATMs nationwide for free or with reduced fees.
5. Overdraft protection options: U.S. Bank offers overdraft protection services to help you avoid overdraft fees and declined transactions.
6. Additional features: Depending on the account you choose, you may have access to additional features, such as free checks, discounts on loans, and waived fees for money orders and cashier’s checks.
7. Customer service: U.S. Bank is known for its strong customer service, with representatives available to assist you by phone, online, or in-person at branches.

Next steps after opening a U.S. Bank account

1. Receive your account materials: U.S. Bank will provide you with a debit card, checks (if applicable), and informational materials. You can start using your new checking account once you receive these materials.
2. Review account terms and fees: Familiarize yourself with the terms and fees associated with your account. This can help you avoid unexpected charges and make the most of your account benefits.
3. Set up account features: Once your account is open, you can set up additional features, such as online banking, mobile banking, direct deposit, and overdraft protection, if desired.
4. Order checks (if applicable): If your account includes checks and you haven’t received them yet, you can order them through U.S. Bank’s online banking platform or by visiting a branch.
5. Set up alerts: Consider setting up account alerts to stay informed about your account activity. You can receive alerts for low balances, large transactions, and deposits.

FAQs