Choosing the right checking account might seem simple—after all, it’s just where your money goes, right? But not all checking accounts are created equal. Whether you're opening your first checking account or considering switching to something that better fits your lifestyle, it's important to compare your options. Here’s what to consider when choosing a checking account that’s right for you.

 

How Do You Use a Checking Account

Start by thinking about how you’ll use your checking account on a daily basis. Here are some things to think about.

• Do you deposit paychecks through direct deposit?
• How often do you withdraw cash?
• Do you use services like cell phone protection, roadside assistance or pet care services?
• Do you want to earn interest? Do you normally keep a high balance in your checking account?
• Do you use your debit card frequently?
• Do you want fuel discounts or buyer’s protection and extended warranties on purchases?

Understanding your banking habits will help you decide which features matter most—like ATM access, online banking tools or overdraft protection.

For example, if you’re tech-savvy and pay most of your bills online, you’ll want a checking account with a strong online and mobile banking experience, which all of our checking account options have. If you want to earn interest and you’re able to keep a minimum balance of $1,500 or more, our Premium Interest Checking might be right for you.

 

Check for Monthly Fees and Balance Requirements

Make sure you’re aware of any monthly fees or balance requirements before choosing a checking account. Some checking accounts offer ways to waive monthly fees by meeting simple criteria, like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Taking advantage of these features can help you avoid fees and make the most of your checking account.

If you’d like to avoid fees all together, try looking for accounts that offer no monthly fees and no minimum balance.

For example, Partner Colorado’s Simply Free Checking account has no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirement and offers a debit card with rewards—making it an excellent option for everyday use.

 

ATM Access and Convenience

Your checking account should be easy to access whenever and wherever you need it. Make sure the account offers a large ATM network. If you travel a lot or move around for work, nationwide ATM access and multiple locations can be very useful.

As a credit union member, you have access to over 30,000 surcharge free CO-OP ATMs and over 5,000 CO-OP Shared Branches.¹ CO-OP Shared Branching is a national network of participating credit unions that allow members to conduct most banking transactions as if they were at their own credit union branch. So even when you’re away from your home credit union location, you can still conduct your banking transactions at a Shared Branch anywhere in the country.

 

Online and Mobile Banking Features

A good checking account should make your life easier—not harder. Look for accounts that offer the following convenient features.

• Online banking
• Mobile check deposit
• Bill pay
• Easy money transfers
• Financial management tool For example, My Financial Partner lets you view all your financial accounts in one place. You can set financial goals, create a budget and track your spending.
• Custom alerts and notifications

Partner Colorado’s mobile banking app, for example, gives members the power to manage their money on the go, deposit checks remotely and even set up alerts for low balances, large transactions or upcoming bill payments. These alerts can help you stay on top of your checking account and prevent potential issues before they become problems.

 

Consider Overdraft Protection Options

Nobody plans to overdraft a checking account, but mistakes happen. That’s why it’s important to look for checking accounts that offer overdraft protection, which typically link to a savings account or line of credit.

 

Think About Added Benefits

Some checking accounts offer more than just a place to hold your money. For example, Partner Colorado’s Benefits Checking offers perks like cell phone protection, identity theft aid, credit monitoring and reports, roadside assistance, pet care services, fuel discounts and more, for only $7 per month.²

Some of our checking accounts give you an option to earn interest, like our Premium Interest Checking and Direct Interest Checking accounts.

These extras can add real value, especially if you’re looking for an account that goes beyond the basics.

Choosing the right checking account is about more than just where you store your money—it’s about finding a tool that fits your life and helps you manage your finances. At Partner Colorado, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit, whether you're looking for a checking account that offers benefits, earns interest or is just simply free. Visit one of our branches or explore your checking options online to get started today.

¹Surcharge-free transactions are available for debit and ATM card holders of participating credit unions. ²View full disclosures here.