
A simple bank checking account is perfect for everyday needs, and it's easier to set up than you think. You can open one online or in person at a bank branch.
One of the best things about a simple checking account is that it has no monthly maintenance fees. This means you can use it for all your daily expenses without worrying about extra charges.
You'll also get a debit card and checks to make transactions and pay bills. These are convenient for shopping, dining, and other everyday expenses.
Some simple checking accounts even offer mobile banking apps, allowing you to check your balance and transaction history on the go.
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Account Features
A simple checking account can be a great option for everyday banking needs. Some accounts have a low opening balance requirement, such as $50.
You can avoid monthly maintenance fees in some cases. For example, if you enroll in eStatements, have a monthly direct deposit, or maintain a daily account balance of $1,000 or more, you won't have to pay the $10 per month fee.
The account also offers unlimited check writing, which is convenient for managing your finances.
Chase Total
The Chase Total Checking account is a simple option for those who want to avoid overdraft fees. This account offers a straightforward banking experience.
One of the standout features of Chase Total Checking is that it has no overdraft fees. This can be a huge relief for people who have struggled with overdraft charges in the past.
If you're looking for a no-frills checking account, Chase Total Checking might be the way to go. It's designed to be easy to use and understand.
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Account Alerts
Account Alerts are a great feature that can help you stay on top of your finances.
You can get Account Alerts for $12 per month, or you can opt for a free alternative.
Chase Secure Banking
Chase Secure Banking waives the Monthly Service Fee if you have electronic deposits totaling $250 or more, such as payroll or government benefits, made through ACH, Real Time Payment, FedNow, or third-party services using Visa or Mastercard.
You won't be charged a Monthly Service Fee for at least the first two statement periods after opening a new or converted account.
To avoid the Monthly Service Fee, you need to meet one of the requirements each statement period, which includes having electronic deposits totaling $250 or more.
New and converted accounts are exempt from the Monthly Service Fee for the first two statement periods, so you don't have to worry about it right away.
Students 13 to 17 years old with a parent/guardian as a co-owner and linked to their parent's account can also avoid the Monthly Service Fee.
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Account Type: Free
If you're looking for a free checking account, Simply Checking is a great option. There is no monthly service charge for this account.
The Simply Checking account does come with a $3 paper statement fee, but you can avoid this fee by switching to eStatements.
Chase Secure Banking also offers a way to avoid a monthly service fee, but you need to have electronic deposits made into your account totaling $250 or more.
This can include payments from payroll providers, government benefit providers, or even third-party services that facilitate payments to your debit card.
Account Details
To open a simple bank checking account, you'll need to provide some basic information, including your name, address, and Social Security number. This is a standard requirement for most banks.
You can choose from a variety of account options, such as a basic checking account or a checking account with debit card rewards. The account type you choose will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
A simple bank checking account typically comes with a debit card, which you can use to make purchases and withdraw cash from ATMs. This is a convenient feature that allows you to manage your finances on the go.
You'll also need to fund your account with an initial deposit, which can be done via direct deposit, wire transfer, or check. The minimum deposit requirement will vary depending on the bank and account type.
With a simple bank checking account, you can expect to pay minimal fees, such as a monthly maintenance fee or overdraft fee. These fees will be clearly outlined in your account agreement.
You can manage your account online or through a mobile banking app, making it easy to keep track of your transactions and balance. This is a great feature for those who want to stay on top of their finances.
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Fees and Charges
Most simple bank checking accounts come with a low monthly maintenance fee, which is often waived if you meet certain requirements, such as maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit.
This fee is typically around $10 to $15 per month, but it can vary depending on the bank and the specific account.
Some banks also charge fees for certain services, like overdrafts or ATM usage outside of their network, but these fees are usually minimal.
How to Avoid Fees
To avoid fees, you can meet one of the requirements for Chase Total Checking. If you have electronic deposits made into your account totaling $500 or more each statement period, the Monthly Service Fee won't apply.
You can also avoid the fee by keeping a balance of $1,500 or more in your checking account at the beginning of each day. Alternatively, you can keep an average beginning day balance of $5,000 or more in your account and linked qualifying balances.
New accounts are exempt from the Monthly Service Fee for the first two statement periods. After that, you'll need to meet one of the requirements to avoid the fee.
Monthly Service Charge
If you enroll in e-statements and/or use a debit card, you can have your monthly cycle service charge reduced or eliminated.
You can also avoid the origination fee on a Community Line of Credit for Overdraft Protection, and there's no annual fee on this type of credit.
To earn 5.00% APY on balances up to $40,000, you must meet certain qualifications.
These requirements include making 16 posted and cleared debit card transactions (excluding ATM transactions) per statement cycle, and having one posted and cleared ACH automatic debit or credit per statement cycle.
You'll also need to receive a monthly eStatement on this account to qualify for the higher APY.
Account Performance
With Performance Checking, you can earn a decent interest rate on your money. You can earn 5.00% APY on balances up to $40,000 when you meet the qualifications.
To qualify, you'll need to keep your average daily balance above $4,000 to avoid a $14 cycle service charge. This is a pretty high balance requirement, but it's worth it if you can meet it.
Keep in mind that if you don't meet the qualifications, you'll earn a much lower interest rate of 0.50% APY on balances above $40,000. This is still better than some other checking accounts, but it's not as good as the 5.00% APY you can earn when you qualify.
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Impact

Our account's Impact feature is a game-changer for anyone looking to save money on their monthly cycle service charge. By reducing or eliminating this charge based on your everyday spending and/or usage of e-statements, you can keep more of your hard-earned cash.
This innovative technology is a key part of what makes our account so popular - it's a smart way to save you money, without you having to lift a finger.
Performance
You can earn a high interest rate with Performance Checking, up to 5.00% APY on balances up to $40,000 when qualifications are met.
To earn this rate, you'll need to meet certain qualifications, but the details aren't specified in the provided text.
The APY effective date is December 1, 2024, and fees may reduce your earnings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a simple bank account?
A simple bank account is a basic account that allows you to receive payments, pay bills, and transfer money. It's a straightforward way to manage your finances with a debit card and online banking.
Is Simple bank safe to spend?
Simple's Safe-to-Spend feature helps you understand your spending limits by considering your available balance, savings goals, and planned expenses. This tool gives you a clear picture of what you can afford, making budgeting easier and more transparent.
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