• No minimum balance requirement
• Maximum deposit of $250,000 per day

American Express offers a solid option for people out there looking for a savings account. It offers one of the top rates and It does not have any monthly fees or minimum balance requirement, but you can only make up to 6 transfers per calendar month. But again, if you plan on many transactions, then a checking account is probably better for you.

Nationwide

• Limit of 6 withdrawals/transfers per calendar month
• No minimum balance requirement
• No initial deposit requirement

ING Direct offers a very competitive rate for its Orange Savings Accounts. It has a standard limit of 6 withdrawals/transfers per calendar month. However, the fact that ING Direct provides consumers with free ATM access is a plus that makes ING Direct savings account stands out. It is a good choice for someone who mainly banks online.

Nationwide

• Six transactions/transfers per statement cycle with no fees
• No minimum balance requirement

With no monthly fees, no minimum balance, and no initial deposit requirement, this savings account is good for people who do not have a lot of money to put into a savings account. The six transactions/transfers per statement cycle limit can be a trouble for people who need to move around money frequently, but then you can use a checking account for that.

Nationwide (with branches in Utah and Pennsylvania)

• 1.00% APY
• Can make up to 6 preauthorized transfers from your savings account per statement cycle

Discover's Online Savings Account offers a solid rate for your deposits. However, there are a lot of restrictions and fees associated with Discover Bank’s services such as you cannot withdraw or transfer too many times from this savings account. Therefore, this savings account is best for people who do not need to move money around frequently and who do not want to invest in CDs.

Nationwide

• $25 fee if the account is closed in first 90 days
• Initial deposit requirement: $1,000
• No monthly service charges if you maintain the $1,000 minimum balance

Ultima Direct savings account offers a very competitive rate for those in the right market. There is a $1,000 opening balance and you will be assessed with a $10 monthly service charge if your balance dips below that. This is a worthy option if you can maintain the balance requirement and don't mind a small rural bank in Minnesota.

Nationwide (with branches in Minnesota)

• Initial deposit requirement: $100
• No monthly service charge
• Maintain a $50,000 balance for the 0.80% APY

OneWest Bank Green Savings account offers a competitive rate for those who fit the right profile: $50,000 account balance. You can open an account with a low ($100) requirement but you will only get 0.50% unless you are able to maintain the $50,000 balance. So it's is a good fit for someone who keeps that balance.

Regional (Southern California only)

• 10% quarterly bonuses based on interest earned with an average balance over $10,000
• $5,000 minimum balance required to open

CapitalOne InterestPlus Online Savings Account is a very good option for those with the right needs. It offers one of the top APY in the market, charges no fees, and has a quarterly bonus for accounts with balance over $10,000. This is an excellent fit for people who have money at hand that they want to keep liquid.

Nationwide (with branches in Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Virginia)

• Minimum balance to obtain the 0.70% APY is $500
• Maximum principal deposit balance: $1,000,000
• No minimum balance

The FNBO Direct savings account offers a competitive rate of 0.70%. You will need to maintain a balance between $500 up to $1,000,000, which is likely to cover a good 99% of the population segment. There are no monthly fees to worry about either.

Nationwide (with branches in Iowa and Nebraska)

• 0.80% APY for accounts with balance between $300 and $100,000
• Initial deposit requirement: $100
• No monthly minimum balance requirement

Amboy Direct is offers an above average choice for consumers. It offers a decent APY if you maintain at least $300 in your account. There is also a maximum cap of $100,000 account balance limit per client but we find it rare to many people who keep over $100k in their savings account.

Nationwide (with branches in New Jersey)

• Initial deposit requirement: $500
• No minimum monthly balance
• Same rate regardless of your account balance

Heartland Bank Direct’s online savings account is a solid option for depositors. It offers a competitive interest rate and has no minimum balance after you open the account. This can be useful for those who don't like to be required to maintain certain account balances.

Nationwide (with branches in Colorado and Missouri)

• $1 to open an account
• No minimum monthly balance
• No balance requirement for the rate

HSBC offers a competitive rate with its Online Savings Account. As a truly global and well-established bank, HSBC provides a large ATM network that provides convenience to its customers. It is a very solid choice for customers who prefer a big name bank with global access and offer a high rate compared to peers in the same category.

Nationwide

• No minimum balance requirement
• No initial deposit requirement

iGObanking's high yield savings account is about as free as it goes. This savings account has no restrictions and requirements and you can transfer money in and out of IGOsavings as many times as you want. The rate is on par with most of the peers. So it's a good option for those who want a piece of mind with a solid rate.

Nationwide (with branches in the state of New York)

• Unlimited ATM withdrawals / Free ATM Card
• Up to $6 per month automatic ATM fee reimbursement
• $250 minimum monthly average daily balance ($4 monthly fee if below balance)

What makes Allstate Bank stand out is that it provides a free ATM card along with unlimited ATM withdrawals ($6 per month automatic reimbursement for ATM fees from other banks); not many banks offer this type of ATM convenience. On the other hand, it only offers an average APY (0.6%) along with many balance requirements.

Nationwide (with branches in Illinois)

• 0.65% APYwith a balance of $1,000 or more
• $10 monthly service charge & no interest if account falls below $1,000
• $25 fee if account closed within 90 days of opening

HeritageDirect Savings offers an average interest rate compared to its peers in the same category. You will need the $1,000 to open the account and must maintain that balance in order to avoid fees. So you should only consider it if you fall into that category.

Nationwide (with branches in Minnesota)

• 0.85% APY for balance between $1 to $1,000,000
• No monthly fees
• No minimum monthly balance

SalemFive Direct's eOne Savings account is one of the best of its class at the moment. You get a very competitive APY with literally no fees and balance requirements. This is a very good fit for people who dislike maintaining a certain balance for rates or to avoid fees.

Nationwide (with branches in Massachesetts)

• Must maintain a $25,000 balance for the 0.55% APY
• No limit on monthly transactions
• No Monthly Fees

What makes Third Federal Savings & Loans stand out is that it does not impose limits on monthly transactions nor does it require a minimum monthly balance. Its initial deposit requirement ($10) is negligible, but to get the 0.55% APY, you must maintain $25,000 balance.

Nationwide (with branches in Ohio and Florida)

• Maintain a $2,500 daily balance to avoid a $10 maintenance fee
• $100 minimum initial deposit to open

Grand Yield Direct offers a decent interest rate with its savings accounts. The $10 maintenance fee if you daily balance dips below $2,500 can be a dealbreaker for some people. However, the fact that interest is compounded daily may be an upside for Grand Yield Direct.

Nationwide (with branches in the state of New York)

• Interest paid monthly
• No minimum monthly balance

NewDominion Direct offers an average rate compared to its peers. The big pluses include interest compounded daily and no initial deposit requirement. A decent option for someone who doesn't want too mant restrictions on the account.

Nationwide (with branches in North Carolina)

• No Initial deposit requirement
• No minimum monthly balance

EmigrantDirect's American Dream Savings Accounts offer a decent interest rate with virtually no restrictions. There are no fees and no minimum balance requirements. It is a good fit for someone who wants a savings account and none of the restrictions.

Nationwide (with branches in New York)

• 0.65% APY with a balance of $100,000 or more
• Savings Plus accounts require $100 minimum deposit each month

E-Loan offers an above average interest rate with its Saving Plus savings account. One upside of E-Loan is that it will not assess or charge any fees in connection with its customers’ E-LOAN account(s). On the other hand, The 0.65% requires that you must keep balances above $100,000.

Nationwide

• Must maintain $15,000 balance to qualify for the 0.80% APY
• No ATM fees at any ATM / Free checks & debit card
• No minimum monthly balance

Not only does Ally Bank reimburse you for any ATM transaction fees, but it also offers other premier customer services and benefits such as free, unlimited checks and a free debit MasterCard. Lastly, 0.80% APY is a very high APY compared to other banks. It is a very good option for people who maintains such balance in their checking accounts.

Nationwide (with branches in Utah and Pennsylvania)

• Unlimited 2% cash back for non-PIN debit card purchases for first 90 days starting on the account opening day
• After first 90 days, 2% cash back for all non-PIN purchases if balance is over $5,000

This checking account is a deal that is too good to be true. Unlike other checking accounts that reward their customers with APY, PerkStreet Financial’s checking account rewards its customers with 2% cash back when customers use their debit cards to purchase items. What makes this checking account even more amazing is that you can get free songs and free coffee with your non-PIN debit card purchases. Lastly, you can also earn up to 5% cash back at certain retail stores during special times. This is a deal that must not be missed!

Nationwide

• 1.10% APY for balance of $100,000 or more
• No overdraft charge (free overdraft protection) / $50 cash bonus on day 50 after opening an account
• Worldwide cash access + Free ATM access at over 35,000 locations nationwide

ING Direct’s Orange Checking account not only offers great APY rates, but it also provides excellent customer service, such as free postage and free ATM access at over 35,000 locations nationwide. Moreover, unlike other banks who punish customers for having too much money in account, at ING Direct, the more money you put into your account, the higher your APY rate gets.

Nationwide

• 1.06% APY for balances up to $250,000
• Above $250,000 earns 0.80% APY

Incredible Bank offers a very competitive APY rate (1.11%) available out there in the market for checking accounts. There is a small minimum initial deposit requirement of $1,000 that can be easily satisfied. This is a great checking account for people who value APY rate the most.

Nationwide (with branches in Wisconsin and Michigan)

• Unlimited ATM fee reimbursement / First order of checks free
• Cash Back on all non pin-based purchases ($0.005 for each $1 debit card purchase via signature-based transactions)

What makes Salem Five Direct’s checking account stand out is its cash back reward program that rewards its customers on their non pin-based purchases. Other reward features, such as free use of any ATM and first order of checks free, are also pluses. However, there are still rooms for improvements for the APY rate (0.35%).

Nationwide

• ATM reimbursement up to $20 per statement cycle
• Minimum monthly balance: $15,000
• Free initial checks/Free Master Card Debit Card

Compared to other banks with nearly identical APY rate, Evergreen Bank’s checking account seems to offer less. Not only does it have a minimum monthly balance requirement, but it also limits the amount of ATM transaction fee refunds to only $20 per statement cycle.

Regional (Illinois)

• Free use of any ATM (unlimited reimbursement)
• Free standard checks and a Visa� Platinum Debit Card

Charles Schwab’s checking account’s APY rate (0.20%) is mediocre. However, it does offer some convenient benefits, such as unlimited reimbursement of ATM fees and free standard checks. There is also no minimum balance requirement. It is a good option for those who highly desire convenience.

Nationwide

• 0.76% APY on balance of $100,000 to $10,000,000
• Unlimited ATM reimbursements
• No monthly fees

Everbank’s checking account offers a fairly high APY rate (0.76%). Furthermore, it reimburses its customers for ATM transaction fees, and it also offers other thoughtful customer services such as free access to Billpay system. However, it does require a balance of $100k to qualify for the rate. This checking account is a good deal for those who keep that balance in their checking accounts.

Nationwide (with branches in Florida)

• 0.15% APY on balances $5,000 and above
• Free unlimited checking and bill pay
• $15 monthly fee applied when balance is under $5,000 each month
• Unlimited ATM fee refunds at any bank nationwide

E*Trade’s max-rate checking offers standard rates but does have a somewhat high minimum balance requirement ($5,000) and minimum initial opening deposit requirement, which can bring inconvenience to some consumers. It does offer unlimited ATM access and fee refunds, which can be useful for those who hold accounts.

Nationwide (with branches in Arizona, California, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington)

• 1.06% APY for balances of $50,000 and up
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle
• Free ATM card / Free initial order of checks

To earn the 1.06% APY, you must maintain a balance of $50,000 or more, which can be a problem to consumers who do not have this much capital. Many other banks do not have such high balance requirement yet offer similar APY rate with unlimited ATM fee reimbursement. Good to people with high balance.

Nationwide

• No minimum balance requirement
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle
• No ATM fees at any ATM

Ally Bank offers a competitive rate (0.89%) and very good complementary benefits such as unlimited ATM fee reimbursement and interest being compounded daily. Furthermore, there are no minimum balance requirement and minimum initial opening deposit. A very good option for anyone looking for a money market depository account.

Nationwide (with branches in Utah and Pennsylvania)

• 1% Rate Bonus for 1st 60 days
• 18,000 ATMs nationwide
• up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle, including 3 by check

This NEA-Sponsored Monkey Market account is a great deal as not only does it offer a high APY rate (1.07%), but it also offers an additional 1% rate bonus for 1st 60 days. Moreover, the fact that Bank of America has so many branches and so many ATMS in the United States provides convenience to customers.

Nationwide

• 0.80% APY for balances of $25,000 and up
• Minimum monthly balance: $2,500
• Free initial order of checks
• ATM fee reimbursement up to $10 per cycle / 6 withdrawals per statement cycle

Not only is the APY rate (0.90% if you keep a $25k balance) mediocre, but there are also lots of restrictions such as minimum monthly balance of $2,500 and initial opening deposit requirement of $2,500. Many other banks do not have such restrictions yet offer higher APY rate with unlimited ATM fee reimbursement; there are better deals out there.

Regional (Illinois)

• Free checks for life / free VISA debit card
• up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle

The upsides of Flagstar’s money market account are that it does not ask for minimum balance nor does it ask for minimum opening deposit. Its APY, 0.90%, is very solid, and the Bank also offers free checks for life. Flagstar’s money market package is fairly appealing.

Nationwide (with branches in Michigan, Indiana, and Georgia)

• 1.15% APY for balance between $10,000 and $150,000
• Withdrawal limitations: Total of six (6) transfers per statement cycle

AmTrust Direct offers a very competitive APY (1.15%) for its money market account. Although there are a couple of limitations, such as $500 minimum to open and withdrawal limitations, this is a great deal for any consumer given the high APY rate.

Nationwide (with branches in New York and New Jersey)

• 0.85% APY for balance $100,000 and over
• Initial opening deposit: $1,000
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle

Unlike other banks who complement their high APY with services such as free checks for life, OneWest Bank is attractive only due to its above average APY (0.85%). There is a tier balance requirement of $100,000, so it can be difficult for customer without the high balance capacity.

Regional (for residents of Southern California)

• 1.00% APY for balance $2,500 and up
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle
• $2,500 minimum opening balance

Discover’s money market account provides a high APY rate of 1.00% if you have a balance of $2,500. This money market account is best for people looking for a reputable bank offering a competitive rate.

Nationwide

• 0.80% APY for balances above $30,000
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle

Amboy Direct’s money market account offers a mediocre APY (0.80%) for balance above $30,000. This account is best for people who have a lot of money at hand ($30,000+) that they do not need to use and transfer on a regular basis.

Nationwide (with branches in New Jersey)

• 0.75% APY for balances of $25,000 and up
• Minimum monthly balance: $1,500 (average daily balance)
• Up to 6 withdrawals/transfers (checks included) per cycle
• Free initial order of checks (3 checks can be written per cycle) / ATM fee rebate up to $5 per cycle

MetLife Bank offers a money market account with a mediocre APY rate (0.75%) with limitations such as only 3 checks can be written per cycle. However, the fact that interest is compounded daily and that the Bank provides ATM fee rebate up to $5 per cycle may make up for the low APY rate.

Nationwide (with branches in New Jersey)

• 1.01% APY and balance of $100,000 and over
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle

VirtualBank’s money market offers a great APY rate (1.01%), but you must keep the balance above $100,000. The balance requirement of $100,000 can be a problem for consumers who do not want to commit this much money into this money market account. However, its low initial opening deposit and no monthly fee can perhaps make up for the balance requirement.

Nationwide

• 0.85% APY for balance $10k to $50k.
• APY goes as high as 1.01% for higher tiers
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle

AIG Bank offers a solid APY for its MMA's. You get 0.85% APY if you maintain $10,000 to $50,000 in your account, and it gets up to as high as 1.00% with higher tiers. There is also an initial opening deposit requirement of $2,500. This is a good fit for people who likes to keep a high balance in their accounts.

Nationwide

• No minimum monthly balance
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle
• Free ATM card / free checks

Even though 0.65% APY is not a particularly high rate, Capital One does not pose restrictions upon its money market customers (such as minimum initial opening deposit and minimum monthly balance). It also provides free checks and free ATM card, typical benefits for money market customers in the industry.

Nationwide (with branches in Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Virginia)

• $1 per withdrawal or telephone transfer in excess of 4 per month
• No minimum monthly balance requirement
• Free account access at over 1,800 M&T Bank ATMs

Unlike most banks, M&T Bank charges its money market account customers when they withdraw more than four times per month. Therefore, this account is best for people who do not need to transfer or withdraw their money at all. The APY (0.15%) is low, so consumers should look into other banks’ money market accounts before settling on this rate.

Nationwide (with branches in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, West Virginia, Florida, Delaware, and Toronto - Canada)

• 0.60% APY for balance of $100,000 or more
• Minimum monthly balance: $2,500
• Unlimited in-person and ATM withdrawals / Free checks

What differentiates National Bank of Kansas City’s money market account from its competitors is that you can make unlimited in-person and ATM withdrawals whereas most other banks only allow up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle. However, its extremely high minimum balance to earn the 0.60% APY ($100,000) can be a turn off for some customers.

Nationwide (with branches in Kansas and Missouri)

• 0.76% APY for balance up to $10,000,000
• No monthly fee if average daily balance is $5,000
• Up to 6 withdrawals/transfers per statement cycle
• Available as an IRA

What makes EverBank’s money market account stand out is its above average APY rate (0.76%). However, on the other hand, its minimum monthly balance requirement ($5,000) can be a problem for consumers who do not want to commit this much money into this money market account. So it is best for someone who doesn't mind keeping at least $5,000 in this account at all time.

Nationwide (with branches in Florida)

• No minimum monthly balance requirement
• No minimum initial opening deposit
• No more than 6 transfers and withdrawls can be made in any calendar month

Although OnBank does not have a minimum monthly balance requirement or a minimum initial opening deposit requirement, it poses other inconvenience upon its customers, such as the inability to write checks on OnBank Money Market Savings accounts as well as the lack of an electronic ATM card.

Nationwide

• 0.70% APY for balances of $100,000 and up
• Up to 6 withdrawals per statement cycle
• Free ATM card / Free initial order of checks

To earn the 0.70% APY, you must maintain a balance of $100,000 or more, which can be a problem to consumers who do not have this much capital. Many other banks do not have such high balance requirement yet offer higher APY rate with unlimited ATM fee reimbursement; there are better deals out there.

Nationwide

• Interest paid monthly
• Up to six pre-authorized debits per month
• Maintenance fee waived with $500 minimum daily balance or $1,000 average daily balance

NewDominion Bank’s money market account offers a mediocre APY rate (0.65%). However, the fact that interest is compounded daily can be good for certain consumer segment. Its minimum daily balance requirement ($500) is very low, so this balance requirement should be very easy to satisfy.

Nationwide (with branches in North Carolina)

• 0.4% APY (balance of $25,000 or more)
• Minimum initial opening deposit : $1,000

To earn the mediocre 0.4% APY, you must maintain a balance of $25,000 or more, which can be a hassle to consumers. Moreover, Beal Bank does not complement its money market account with benefits such as unlimited ATM fee reimbursement and free checks, making its money market account undesirable and unappealing.

Nationwide (with branches in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Washington D.C., Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington)

• Amounts above $25,000 will earn 0.5% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.05%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $100 / Worldwide ATM fee refunds
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • 1 direct deposit, ACH automatic payment, or online bill pay
  • E-Statement

First Arkansas Bank & Trust’s cash rewards checking account offers a solid APY rate (3.03%), and the requirements to obtain the rate can be easily satisfied. Moreover, the Bank also offers unlimited worldwide ATM fee refunds which can be very appealing for people who access their ATM frequently and from multiple locations.

Nationwide (with branches in Arkansas)

• Amounts above $15,000 will earn 1.01% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.05%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $100
• Unlimited ATM fee refunds / Overdraft privilege available
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • 1 direct deposit or ACH Auto Debit
  • E-Statement

Heartland Community Bank couples its solid APY rate (3%) with great benefits such as unlimited ATM fee refunds. Many of its competitors offer ATM fee refunds as well, but they frequently set a limit to how much ATM fee refund you can get. This benefit of Heartland Community Bank makes this rewards checking account very appealing to people who need to withdraw money from different ATMs frequently.

Regional (Arkansas)

• Amounts above $25,000 will earn 1% APY / Amounts above $50,000 will earn 0.03% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.03%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $100
• Network of over 500 fee-free ATMs
• Up to $3 worldwide ATM fee refund as long as you withdraw at least $100
• Rate Requirements:
  • Sign up for Direct Deposit (if available)
  • 12 debit card purchases
  • E-Statement

Compared to many other banks that provide ATM fee refund up to at least $20, Legacy Bank’s ATM fee refund up to $3 promise does sound a little bit weak. However, its high APY (3%) rate may make up for the weak ATM fee refund policy.

Regional (Oklahoma)

• Amounts above $10,000 will earn 0.5% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.05%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $1
• Unlimited worldwide ATM fee refund
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • E-Statement

Blackhawk Bank’s Easy Money Checking offers a solid APY rate (3.01%) coupled with great benefits such as unlimited worldwide ATM fee refund and overdraft protection. What is more interesting about this rewards checking account is that its requirements are less than most other banks’, requiring only 10 transactions per cycle.

Regional (Wisconsin and Illinois)

• Amounts above $15,000 will earn 0.75% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.1%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $100
• Unlimited nationwide ATM fee refund
• Overdraft bounce protection of $750
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • At least 1 direct deposit or direct withdrawal
  • E-Statement

Classic Bank offers a great rewards checking account that provides a solid APY rate (3.01%) with requirements that can be easily satisfied. In addition to the great APY rate, Classic Bank also provides an overdraft bounce protection of $750, a benefit which many other rewards checking accounts do not offer.

Nationwide (with branches in Texas)

• Amounts above $10,000 will earn 0.5% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.1%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $1 / Overdraft Reserve available
• Nationwide ATM fee refunds up to $20 per cycle
• Rate Requirements:
  • 1 Automatic Payment or Direct Deposit
  • 15 debit card purchases
  • E-Statement

Liberty Bank offers a great rewards checking account (Kasasa Cash) that provides a solid APY rate (3.01%) with requirements that can be easily satisfied. In addition to the great APY rate, Liberty Bank also provides overdraft reserve, a benefit which many other rewards checking accounts do not offer.

Nationwide (with branches in Illinois)

• Amounts above $20,000 will earn 0.50% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.05%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $100
• Unlimited ATM fee refunds nationwide
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • 1 Direct Deposit or 1 ACH Auto Debit
  • E-Statement

What makes Southeast National Bank’s reward checking account stand out among others is its unlimited check writing feature. Many of its competitors do not provide this benefit to its rewards checking account customers. Moreover, the fact that you can get unlimited ATM fee refunds nationwide at Southeast National Bank is also a plus. The solid 3.00% APY makes it a very attractive option for those who qualify.

Regional (Illinois counties of Henry, Rock Island, and Mercer, and Iowa counties of Clinton, Muscatine, and Scott)

• Amounts over $10,000 will earn 1.00% APY / If requirements are not met: APY will be 0.25%
• Free worldwide ATM transactions
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • E-Statement

What make All America Bank’s reward checking account stands out are its unlimited worldwide ATM transaction fee refund and its high APY rate (3%). The requirements to obtain the high rate can be easily satisfied too. This rewards checking account is a great choice for consumers.

Nationwide (with branches in Oklahoma)

• ATM refunds: up to $25 per cycle when the minimum requirements are met
• Free Debit Card with ScoreCard Rewards
• Rate Requirements:
  • 1 direct deposit or ACH Auto Debit
  • E-Statement
  • Spend $1,000 or more in signature-based, point-of-sale (POS) transactions

Bank of Blue Valley offers a solid rate (3%) through its reward checking account. The requirements to obtain this rate (3%) can be troublesome but the APY rate justifies the requirements. The ATM refund is attractive as well.

Nationwide (with branches in Kansas)

• 0.10% APY applies to balances over $15,000 / 0.10% APY applies to all balances if qualifications are not met
• Unlimited nationwide ATM fee refunds / Minimum initial opening deposit: $100
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • 1 automatic payment or direct deposit transfer
  • E-Statement

Kasasa Cash is a great rewards checking account due to its solid APY rate (3%) and requirements that can be easily satisfied. Moreover, the fact that you can receive unlimited ATM fee refund is also a plus. Lastly, even if you are unable to fulfill your requirements for this month, you can get the 3% APY rate back next month as long as you satisfy the requirements then.

Regional (Arkansas)

• Amounts over $25,000 will earn 0.50% APY / If requirements are not met: APY will be 0.25% and no ATM fee refund
• ATM transaction fee refund up to $20 per cycle
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • 1 Direct Deposit or ACH auto debit
  • E-Statement

Williamstown Bank offers a very good rewards checking account with high APY rate (3.05%) coupled with great benefits such as ATM transaction fee refund up to $20 per statement period and no minimum balance requirement. Its requirements can be easily satisfied, so there should not be any hesitations on whether to apply for this account if you live in the region.

Regional (Wood County, West Virginia or Washington County,�Ohio)

• Amounts above $20,000 will earn 0.26% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.05%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $25
• ATM fee refunds automatically rebated and posted (up to $20)
• Rate Requirements:
  • 15 or more signature-based purchases
  • 1 or more direct deposit
  • E-Statement

Wisconsin Community Bank’s cash rewards checking account offers a very good APY rate (3.03%), and the requirements to obtain the rate can be easily satisfied. However, currently this account is only available to Wisconsin Community Bank’s local service area.

Regional (Wisconsin)

• Amounts above $25,000 will earn 0.51% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.1%
• Initial deposit: $100
• ATM Fee refunds up to $25 per cycle / $500 Overdraft Privilege
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • E-Statement

Focus Bank’s Maximum Free Checking account offers a solid APY (2.51%) rate with requirements that can be easily satisfied. Moreover, it is one of the few rewards checking accounts out there that provide overdraft privileges and free checks. However, this account is only available to residents of Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee and parts of Illinois.

Regional (Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, and parts of Illinois)

• Amounts at or above $50,000 will earn 0.51% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.01%
• Reimburses up to $25 in ATM fees nationwide per month
• Rate Requirements:
  • 8 debit card purchases
  • 1 Direct Deposit or ACH Auto Debit
  • E-Statement

Lake City bank’s rewards checking account offers a solid APY rate (2.51%), but if requirements are not met, APY rate will drop to 0.01%, so it is crucial to make sure that you meet the requirements. The fact that it provides unlimited check writing is also a plus.

Regional (Indiana Counties of Allen, DeKalb, Elkhart, Fulton, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Marion, Marshall, Noble, Pulaski, St. Joseph, Whitley, and any of their contiguous counties)

• Amounts above $20,000 will earn 0.75% APY / If requirements are not met: APY will be 0.1%
• ATM fee refunds nationwide up to $25 per cycle
• Minimum initial opening deposit: $100
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • 1 Direct Deposit or ACH Auto Debit
  • E-Statement

Opportunity Bank couples its solid APY rate (2.5%) with great benefits such as ATM fee refunds. This benefit of Opportunity Bank makes this rewards checking account very appealing to people who need to withdraw money from different ATMs.

Regional (Texas)

• Amounts above $20,000 will earn 0.26% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.05%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $25
• ATM fee refunds automatically rebated and posted (up to $20)
• Rate Requirements:
  • 15 debit card purchases
  • Direct deposit
  • E-Statement

Arizona Bank & Trust’s cash rewards checking account offers a great APY rate (3.03%), and the requirements to obtain the rate can be easily satisfied. However, currently this account is only available to Arizona Bank & Trust’s local service area.

Regional (Arizona)

• Amounts over $30,000 will earn 0.75% APY / If requirements are not met: APY rate will be 0.1%
• Minimum initial deposit requirement: $50
• $50 closing fee if account closed within 12 months
• Rate Requirements:
  • 20 debit card purchases
  • E-Statement

Crossroads Bank’s Effingham First Checking account offers a good APY rate (3.05%) coupled with requirements that can be easily satisfied. However, it does not offer ATM transaction fee reimbursements, a benefit which many other banks offer.

Regional (Illinois)

• Amounts above $15,000 will earn 0.15% APY / If requirements are not met: APY will be 0.1%
• Minimum initial opening balance: $100 / First order of checks free
• ATM fee refund up to $5 per transaction to a maximum of $20 per cycle
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • 1 direct deposit or 1 automatic debit
  • E-Statement

Community West Bank offers a great rewards checking account with a solid APY rate (2.53%) supplemented by great benefits such as unlimited check writing and first order of checks free. However, its maximum balance, $15000, to earn the 2.53% APY is fairly low as compared to other banks.

Nationwide (with branches in California)

• Amounts above $25,000 will earn 0.50% APY / If requirements are not met: APY will be 0.05%
• Unlimited ATM fee refund nationwide
• Minimum initial opening deposit: $25
• Free identity fraud service / $750 overdraft privilege
• For every debit card purchase, earn points for “free stuff” - from merchandise and services to travel and dining
• Rate Requirements:
  • 1 automatic deposit/withdrawal or electronic payment services
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • E-Statement

What makes Southbridge Savings Bank’s rewards checking account stand out is the fact that you can earn points for free gifts (such as travel and dining) every time you use your debit card for purchases. Not many of its competitors offer this kind of reward point system. Its current APY rate is at a competitive 2.50%, making it an attractive option for those in the market.

Regional (Massachusetts)

• Amounts above $25,000 will earn 0.5% APY / If requirements are not met: APY will be 0.15%
• Automatic refunds on all ATM fees nationwide
• Bill Pay free for the first three months (after three months, Bill Pay will be free if three monthly online payments are made)
• Minimum initial opening deposit & Minimum balance requirement: $50
• Rate Requirements:
  • 10 debit card purchases
  • 1 direct deposit or ACH
  • E-Statement

CB&S Bank offers a mediocre APY (2.05%) rate coupled with good benefits such as automatic refunds on all ATM fees nationwide and unlimited check writing. However, the fact that you have to pay for the Bill Pay service if three monthly online payments are not made may turn down some consumers who are adverse to fees.

Regional (Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee)

• No minimum balance / no initial opening deposit requirement
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee / Early withdrawal penalty equals 60 days' interest

One thing worth noticing is that Ally Bank does not have a minimum balance requirement when many of its competitors do. The early withdrawal penalty (60 days’ interest) is understandable, and the APY rate is very competitive. This is a great CD account for people who do not want to commit a lot of money as it does not have a minimum balance requirement.

Nationwide (with branches in Utah and Pennsylvania)

• Interest credited quarterly
• If you close account before the end of the quarter, you will receive interest accrued to closure date
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Interest may be withdrawn at any time after it is credited / Early withdrawal penalty: one-half (1/2) of the term's interest on the amount withdrawn

One thing worth noticing is that this CD account has a very high minimum balance requirement ($10,000) when most of its competitors require only around $1,000. Moreover, the fact that interest is compounded quarterly means that money will grow at a slower rate compared to many other CD accounts that have interest being compounded daily. However, the fact that you can receive the interest accrued to closure date when you close your account makes this CD stand out as not many CD accounts have such a great feature.

Nationwide (with branches in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Washington D.C., Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington)

• No additional deposits until maturity
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

What makes OneWest Bank’s CD account stand out is the fact that interest is compounded daily. Moreover, the minimum balance requirement ($1,000) is also very low, so it can be easily satisfied. Lastly, OneWest also offers a competitive APY rate.

Regional (residents of Southern California)

• $1,000 minimum balance, balance must be < $50,000
• Interest paid annually
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

Unlike many of its competitors, AloStar Bank of Commerce has a maximum balance restriction of $49,999. The fact that your balance in this account must be less than $50,000 makes this CD account unsuitable to people who wish to commit a lot of money in a CD. However, one upside of this CD account is the fact that interest is compounded daily, so money can be grown at a very fast rate.

Nationwide

• Interest credited monthly
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

Discover Bank offers a very competitive CD with a very high APY rate. One thing worth noticing is that the interest is compounded daily. This CD also gives you the convenience of withdrawing posted interest from your CD account at any time.

Nationwide

• No additional deposits until maturity
• Early withdrawal penalty for a CD is 90 days of interest for a CD with a term of 12 months or less or 180 days of interest for a CD with a term greater than 12 months

AIG Bank offers a very competitive CD account with a high APY rate and a low minimum balance requirement. However, the early withdrawal penalty is very high for this account � 180 days of interest for a CD with a term greater than 12 months. Therefore, this account is best for people who are certain that they will not withdraw money from the account prematurely.

Nationwide

• Living Trust account ownerships available
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

Bank of Internet USA offers a very competitive APY rate for its CD accounts. Moreover, you can also set up your CD account as a living trust account, a feature that not many banks offer. Lastly, the fact that interest is compounded daily means money in a Bank of Interest USA’s CD account will grow at a very fast rate.

Nationwide

• Transfers from existing BankUnited accounts do not qualify
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

BankUnited’s CD account offers a competitive APY rate with great features such as interest being compounded daily. However, one thing worth being aware of is that BankUnited is not a very financially healthy bank; in 2009, BankUnited Financial Corporation filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Therefore, it may be wise for consumers to avoid this bank.

Regional (Florida)

• $97,000 maximum initial deposit
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

One thing worth noticing is that Ascendia Bank’s CD account compounds its interest monthly when many of its competitors compound interest daily. This means that money in an Ascendia Bank’s CD account would not grow as fast. However, Ascendia Bank’s minimum balance requirement ($500) is fairly low and can be easily satisfied. The bank also offers a very competitive APY rate for its CD accounts.

Nationwide

• May make 3 deposits before maturity if account term is 6 months or longer
• Interest earned can be transferred monthly to any other PMB account
• Early withdrawal penalty: 180 days' interest on the amount withdrawn

One thing worth noticing of this CD account is that it has a very high minimum balance requirement ($10,000). Moreover, this CD account also has a very severe early withdrawal penalty: 180 days’ interest on the amount withdrawn. However, the fact that you can make three deposits into your account before maturity makes this CD stand out among others that do not allow additional deposits until maturity.

Nationwide (with branches in California)

• No additional deposits until maturity
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

Although OnBank’s CD account does not offer the highest APY rate available in the market, it has one of the lowest minimum balance requirements ($500). The fact that interest is compounded daily is also a plus. This CD account is best for people who do not want to commit much money in a CD.

Nationwide

• Interest credited monthly
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Check for interest earned may be sent directly each month provided the CD has a minimum balance of $20,000
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

One thing worth noticing is that Intervest National Bank’s CD account compounds its interest daily and you can withdraw interest each month if your CD account has a minimum balance of $20,000. This interest withdrawal requirement will probably turn down some potential customers as many of its competitors do not have an interest withdrawal requirement.

Nationwide (with branches in Florida and New York)

• Interest credited to your balance monthly
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

AmTrust Direct offers a CD account with a solid APY rate that is very competitive in the market. The fact that interest is compounded daily is also a plus. Furthermore, minimum balance requirement ($1,000) is also very low and can be easily satisfied.

Nationwide (with branches in New York and New Jersey)

• No minimum initial opening deposit
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

American Express offers a CD account with a very competitive APY rate and minimal requirements (no minimum initial opening deposit). Aside from these two features, this CD account is a pretty standard one in the current market.

Nationwide

• No additional deposits until maturity
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

One thing worth noticing is that Third Federal Savings and Loans’ CD account compounds its interest quarterly when many of its competitors compound their interest daily. However, the fact that the minimum balance requirement ($500) is very low may make up for that.

Nationwide (with branches in Ohio and Florida)

• No additional deposits until maturity
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

What makes Nova Savings Bank’s CD account stand out is the fact that interest is compounded daily. Moreover, the minimum balance requirement ($500) is also very low, so it can be easily satisfied. This is a great CD account with a highly competitive APY rate coupled with requirements that can be easily satisfied.

Nationwide (with branches in Pennsylvania and New Jersey)

• No additional deposits until maturity
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

Eastern Savings Bank’s CD account offers a very competitive APY rate coupled with standard requirements such as $1,000 minimum balance. However, this CD account is only available to Maryland residents only, implying that Eastern Savings Bank can only provide regional services. Therefore, this account is not suitable for people who live outside of Maryland.

Regional (Maryland)

• Interest is simple interest
• Posted interest may be withdrawn at anytime
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

American Enterprise Bank of Florida’s CD account offers a mediocre APY rate, but its minimum balance requirement ($500) is one of the lowest in the current market. However, one thing consumers should be aware of is the fact that the interest is simple interest, meaning that money in this CD account will not grow as fast as money in an account that offers compounding interest.

Regional (Florida)

• Interest credited monthly
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Interest can be reinvested or transferred monthly into another VirtualBank account
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

One thing worth noticing is that VirtualBank’s CD account has a very high minimum balance requirement ($10,000) when most of its competitors require only about $500 to $2,500 minimum balance. This high minimum balance requirement will be a burden to people who do not want to commit this much money in a VirtualBank’s CD account.

Nationwide

• To qualify, must have one of the following: $15,000 in total Fulton Bank deposit or $20,000 in combined deposits and consumer loan balances (excluding mortgage and credit card balances)
• No additional deposits until maturity
• Withdrawals other than interest subject to early withdrawal fee

Although Fulton Bank’s CD account offers a very high APY rate, consumers must commit a lot of money to qualify for the great rate. To qualify, you must have at least $15,000 in total Fulton Bank deposit or $20,000 in combined deposits and consumer loan balances. This qualification requirement is a huge barrier to consumers who may not want to commit this much money in Fulton Bank.

Nationwide (with branches in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Virginia)