Many credit cards have rewards programs to attract new consumers, but did you know some checking accounts also reward their customers for every purchase? Banks, credit unions, and online banks provide these accounts to their members. Rewards checking accounts offer higher APYs and cashback for purchases, but you have to meet certain criteria to get one of these accounts. Adding this account to your banking experience can make it more worthwhile and get you closer to your long-term financial goals.
What is a Reward Checking Account?
A rewards checking account is a bank account that offers perks like an elevated interest rate, cashback on purchases, and other perks. However, these accounts often have high minimum balance requirements to qualify for the rewards and waive the monthly fee. It’s basically a top-tier checking account for people who can fulfill the requirements.
The History and Evolution of Reward Checking Accounts
Rewards checking accounts trace their roots to City National Bank, a community bank in Taylor, Texas. The bank joined forces with BancVue, now known as Kasasa, to offer reward checking accounts in 1997. These accounts have since become mainstream, with financial institutions offering competitive APYs and rewards to attract new customers.
What are the Features and Benefits of a Reward Checking Account?
These are some of the features and perks you can expect from a rewards checking account.
Higher Interest Rates
You will receive a higher annual percentage yield from a rewards checking account than a traditional checking account. The higher APY will help your balance grow at a faster rate.
Cash Back and Rewards Programs
Some rewards checking accounts give you cash back for every purchase that you make. Those rewards can add up and help with various bills.
Low or No Fees
Many rewards checking accounts have low fees that you can waive if you fulfill the minimum balance requirement.
Convenience and Accessibility
Consumers can access their rewards checking accounts from their smartphones, laptops, and other devices. Many financial institutions invest in mobile banking apps to make the entire experience more convenient.
Security and Fraud Protection
Banks invest a lot of money into cybersecurity to keep your account safe. You can set up features like a 2-step login and know that your bank is running data encryption to keep hackers at bay.
Comparing Reward Checking Accounts: What Makes It Different?
It’s no secret that some bank accounts are better than others. These are some of the key details to monitor when reviewing the terms and conditions of each bank account.
Interest Rate Comparison
The APY you receive from your rewards checking account is a big deal. It’s the reason customers store extra money in their checking accounts, so it should be one of the highest rates available. Although the APY isn’t the only factor, it is a decisive one to consider.
Fee Structures
You should review your bank’s fees and check if there are any opportunities to waive them. Most checking accounts let you waive the monthly maintenance fee if you have a sufficient monthly balance.
Rewards Programs
The rewards program varies for each financial institution, but it usually involves receiving cash back for every purchase. You should also see if you receive the same cash back for each purchase or if some categories offer better rewards than others.
Customer Service
Chances are you’ll have questions about your rewards checking account and need some assistance along the way. During these times, you’ll have to reach out to customer support. Checking online reviews before opening an account can save you a lot of frustration. Furthermore, you should see when customer support is available. Some customer service teams are only available on weekdays via email, while others are available 24/7 via email, phone, and live chat.
What are the Requirements and Qualifications?
The requirements vary for each rewards checking account, but these are some of the common qualifications to keep in mind.
Minimum Balance Requirements
Most rewards checking accounts have higher minimum balance requirements than traditional checking accounts. Some banks do not have minimum balances for opening an account but require that you have a minimum balance to receive the maximum APY and rewards.
Monthly Transaction Requirements
Some rewards checking accounts have a minimum number of monthly transactions to qualify for the maximum APY. This minimum varies for each financial institution, and some banks do not require that you make a specific number of transactions each month.
Direct Deposit Requirements
Some banks require that you have at least one direct deposit to your bank account every monthly qualification cycle to receive the best rewards. Bank account cycles are approximately 30 days, but they can vary by a few days, depending on the month. Financial institutions and online banking companies want to see that account holders are adding new funds to their accounts.
Usage of Debit Card
You may have to use your debit card at least 10 times per qualification cycle to receive maximum rewards and APY. Some banks have higher minimums for debit card purchases, while others are more generous with how many debit card transactions you need to qualify.
How to Open a Reward Checking Account
Opening a rewards checking account can help you accumulate extra cash and move closer to your long-term goals. You can follow these steps to open an account.
Choosing the Right Issuer
You can choose from thousands of financial institutions. While you don’t have to compare rewards checking accounts from that many banks, it is a good idea to compare several top choices and determine which one is right for you. Reading online reviews and comparing each bank’s features can help you make the optimal decision.
Application Process
The application process for a rewards checking account is straightforward. You will have to provide your address, Social Security number, photo ID, and other information during the process. Some banks may also require an initial deposit.
What to Watch Out For
Consumers should be wary of bank accounts with hidden or excessive fees. Furthermore, it can be a bad sign if the bank has many negative reviews and a bad rating on the Better Business Bureau.
How to Maximize the Benefits of a Reward Checking Account
A rewards checking account offers numerous perks, but you often have to qualify for some of them. Here’s how you can capitalize on the benefits that this account provides.
Meeting Usage Requirements
You should check a bank account’s requirements before creating one. You’ll only receive the maximum APY and rewards if you fulfill the financial institution’s threshold. It may be better to opt for a bank with fewer rewards if you can easily meet the requirements than going with a rewards checking account with challenging minimum requirements.
Managing Account Fees
Many rewards checking accounts have monthly maintenance fees, but you can waive them if you maintain a sufficient balance. Furthermore, most banks have overdraft fees for their checking accounts. Keeping a positive balance will minimize how many fees you incur from your account.
Leveraging Rewards Programs
The rewards program allows you to receive cash back for each purchase, but some banks have elevated rewards programs. That means some spending categories provide more cashback than others. Leveraging rewards programs with every purchase can help you generate a sizable return in the long run.
Conclusion: Is a Reward Checking Account Right for You?
A rewards checking account offers a higher APY, fewer fees, and better perks than a traditional checking account. However, those advantages come at a cost. You have to keep more money in the bank to receive the maximum rewards. It’s also good to compare accounts with high-yield savings accounts. Sometimes, a savings account offers a higher return, especially since those accounts tend to have higher APYs.
You can get rewarded for every purchase and not have to worry about a stock or real estate investment losing value if you opt for a rewards checking account. Comparing accounts, knowing how much you can keep in your bank account, and assessing your financial situation will help you make the best decision.
