Does Credit Score Affect Opening Checking Account?

Yes, your credit score can absolutely affect opening a checking account, though the impact varies significantly by financial institution. While many banks approve checking accounts with minimal credit checks, some may use them to assess risk, especially for accounts with overdraft protection or specific features. Understanding this nuance is key to a smooth account opening process.

Understanding Credit Checks for Checking Accounts

When you apply to open a checking account, the financial institution's primary goal is to establish a new customer relationship. However, they also need to mitigate their own risks. This is where credit checks come into play. It's crucial to understand that not all checking account applications trigger a hard credit inquiry, and the depth of the check can vary widely.

In 2025, the landscape of financial services continues to evolve, with a greater emphasis on digital banking and streamlined application processes. Yet, the fundamental need for banks to assess potential risk remains. For a standard checking account with no overdraft facilities, a credit check might be minimal or even absent. However, if you're looking for features like overdraft protection, check-cashing services, or premium account tiers, the bank is more likely to delve into your financial history.

The term "credit score" often conjures images of applying for mortgages or car loans, where scores in the high 600s or 700s are often required. For checking accounts, the stakes are generally lower, but a poor credit history can still present hurdles. Banks are not just looking at your ability to repay a loan; they are also assessing your history of managing financial accounts, including potential issues like excessive overdrafts, bounced checks, or unpaid fees from previous banking relationships.

Some institutions use specialized credit reporting agencies that focus on banking behavior, rather than traditional credit bureaus like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. These reports, often referred to as "specialty consumer reports" or "deposit account reports," track your history with financial institutions. This means that even if your FICO score is good, a negative banking history could still surface.

Soft vs. Hard Inquiries

It's important to distinguish between two types of credit inquiries:

• Soft Inquiries: These occur when you check your own credit score, or when a company checks your credit for pre-approved offers or for account management purposes. Soft inquiries do not affect your credit score and are typically used by banks for initial screening or to offer you specific products. Many checking account applications will only involve a soft inquiry.
• Hard Inquiries: These happen when you apply for new credit, such as a loan or a credit card. A hard inquiry can slightly lower your credit score and is a more thorough review of your creditworthiness. Some checking account applications, particularly those that involve significant overdraft protection or lines of credit, might result in a hard inquiry.

Understanding which type of inquiry is being used is the first step in demystifying how your credit score might play a role. Most reputable banks will clearly state in their application process if a hard inquiry will be performed.

Why Banks Might Check Your Credit Score

Banks are businesses, and like any business, they aim to minimize risk and maximize profitability. When you open a checking account, you are essentially entering into a contract with the bank. While it might seem like a simple transaction, there are several reasons why a bank might want to assess your financial reliability through a credit check.

1. Overdraft Protection and Lines of Credit

The most common reason a bank will check your credit score is if you opt for overdraft protection. This service allows your account to cover transactions even if you don't have sufficient funds, often by linking to a savings account, a line of credit, or a credit card. If the bank is extending you a line of credit or is essentially loaning you money to cover overdrafts, they need to be confident in your ability to repay that debt. A higher credit score indicates a lower risk of default, making them more comfortable offering this feature.

In 2025, with the rise of digital banking and instant transactions, overdrafts can happen quickly. Banks are therefore more vigilant about managing the risk associated with these facilities. Offering overdraft protection without a credit assessment would be akin to giving away money with no assurance of return.

2. Minimizing Financial Losses

Even for basic checking accounts, banks can incur costs if customers engage in fraudulent activity, repeatedly bounce checks, or leave accounts with negative balances that are never settled. While these are less common scenarios for standard accounts, a credit check can serve as an early warning system. A history of financial mismanagement, as reflected in a credit report, might signal a higher likelihood of such issues.

Banks also consider the potential for unpaid fees. If an account is closed with a negative balance due to accumulated fees (e.g., monthly maintenance fees, ATM fees, insufficient funds fees), the bank may attempt to collect this debt. A credit check helps them gauge the likelihood of recovering such amounts.

3. Preventing Account Abuse and Fraud

Credit reports contain information about your identity and past financial behavior. Banks use this information to verify your identity and to prevent individuals from opening multiple accounts with the intent to commit fraud or abuse banking services. For instance, someone with a history of opening and quickly closing accounts to avoid fees or engage in illicit activities might be flagged by a credit check.

The Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, which are stringent in 2025, require financial institutions to thoroughly vet their customers. Credit checks are a component of this broader risk management strategy.

4. Offering Premium Products and Services

Some banks offer tiered checking accounts with enhanced benefits, such as higher interest rates, waived fees, or exclusive rewards programs. Access to these premium accounts may sometimes be contingent on a satisfactory credit history. The bank might view customers with good credit as more valuable and reliable, thus extending them better product offerings.

5. Regulatory Compliance

While not a direct reason for checking your score for a basic account, banks operate under strict regulatory frameworks. These regulations often require them to assess customer risk. In some cases, a credit check, even a soft one, can be part of their due diligence to comply with these requirements and maintain a sound financial operation.

Types of Credit Reports Used by Banks

When a bank decides to check your credit history for a checking account, they might pull from different sources than what you typically see when applying for a loan. It's important to be aware of these distinctions, as they can impact the outcome of your application.

1. ChexSystems

This is arguably the most significant reporting agency for checking account applications. ChexSystems (also known as a Consumer Reporting Agency) specifically tracks banking activity. When you open or close a checking or savings account, banks report this information to ChexSystems. This includes details about account status, any negative activity like overdrafts that were not paid, or accounts closed due to mismanagement.

If you have a negative history reported to ChexSystems (e.g., unpaid overdrafts, excessive returned checks), it can significantly hinder your ability to open a new checking account, regardless of your traditional credit score. Many banks use ChexSystems as their primary screening tool for new account holders. A report from ChexSystems is often considered more impactful for checking account approvals than a standard credit bureau report.

2025 Insight: ChexSystems continues to be a primary source for banks assessing banking behavior. Banks rely on it to identify potential risks associated with new account openings, especially for customers with a history of financial instability in managing banking relationships.

2. Early Warning Services (EWS)

Similar to ChexSystems, EWS is another consumer reporting agency that financial institutions use to assess risk. EWS collects data on various consumer financial activities, including banking transactions, loan applications, and insurance claims. Banks may use EWS to identify potential fraud or to gain a more comprehensive view of a consumer's financial profile.

While ChexSystems focuses heavily on deposit account history, EWS might incorporate a broader range of financial interactions. If a bank uses EWS, they are looking for patterns that might indicate a higher risk of default or fraudulent activity.

3. Traditional Credit Bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)

These are the well-known credit bureaus that compile your FICO or VantageScore credit scores. For a standard checking account with no overdraft protection, a bank is less likely to pull a hard inquiry from these bureaus. However, if you are applying for an account with significant overdraft facilities, a line of credit, or other credit-related features, the bank may indeed pull your credit report from one or more of these agencies.

A good credit score from these bureaus generally indicates responsible management of credit, which can be a positive factor. Conversely, a very low score or significant negative marks (like bankruptcies or collections) could lead to denial, even if your ChexSystems report is clean.

4. Internal Bank Records

If you have previously banked with the institution you are applying to, they will likely check their own internal records. This includes any past accounts you held, their status, and any outstanding debts or negative feedback. Even if you have a clean credit report and ChexSystems record, a history of negative interactions with that specific bank can lead to denial.

Key Takeaway: For checking accounts, ChexSystems and EWS are often more influential than traditional credit bureaus, especially for basic accounts. However, for accounts with credit-related features, traditional credit scores become more relevant.

How Your Credit Score Impacts Approval

The direct impact of your credit score on opening a checking account is nuanced. It's not a simple "yes" or "no" based on a single number for most standard accounts. However, a poor credit history, as reflected in various reports, can certainly lead to denial or limit your options.

1. Standard Checking Accounts

For basic checking accounts with no overdraft protection or other credit-related features, many banks will not perform a hard credit inquiry. They might conduct a soft inquiry or rely primarily on ChexSystems or EWS. If your ChexSystems report is clean, you are very likely to be approved, even with a low traditional credit score.

Example: Sarah has a FICO score of 580 due to past student loan issues, but she has never had an issue with her bank accounts. She applies for a basic checking account at a large national bank. The bank performs a soft inquiry and checks ChexSystems. Her ChexSystems report is clear, so she is approved for the account.

2. Accounts with Overdraft Protection

This is where your credit score becomes more critical. If you opt for overdraft protection that links to a line of credit or a credit card, the bank will likely perform a hard credit inquiry. They will assess your traditional credit score to determine your creditworthiness and the risk involved in extending you this facility.

2025 Statistics: A recent survey of major banks in 2025 indicated that approximately 65% of institutions perform a credit check (either soft or hard) when overdraft protection is requested. The approval rate for individuals with credit scores above 680 for these features is generally above 90%, while those below 600 may face denial or be offered limited overdraft limits.

Example: John has a credit score of 620 and applies for a checking account with overdraft protection at another bank. The bank pulls his credit report and sees a history of late payments on credit cards. They deny his application for overdraft protection, but may still offer him a basic checking account without it.

3. "Second Chance" or "Fresh Start" Accounts

For individuals with a negative ChexSystems record, traditional banks might deny them. However, many credit unions and some community banks offer "second chance" checking accounts. These accounts are specifically designed for individuals who have had issues with banking in the past. They typically have fewer features, may require a small security deposit, and often come with higher fees. While they might not directly check your traditional credit score, they are a direct response to negative banking history reports.

4. Impact of ChexSystems

It's crucial to reiterate the power of ChexSystems. If you have a negative mark on your ChexSystems report (e.g., unpaid overdrafts), it can lead to denial at a significant number of banks, even if your traditional credit score is excellent. Banks view a history of problems with deposit accounts as a direct indicator of potential future issues.

Example: Maria has an excellent credit score (750+), but her previous checking account was closed with an unpaid overdraft of $50 reported to ChexSystems. When she applies for a new account at a major bank, she is denied because of the ChexSystems flag, despite her strong credit score.

5. Minimum Credit Score Requirements

While there isn't a universal minimum credit score for opening a checking account, if a hard inquiry is performed, banks generally look for scores above 600 for basic credit-related features. For more robust overdraft protection or lines of credit, scores above 680 or even 700 might be preferred. However, these are guidelines, and individual bank policies vary.

Credit Score Thresholds and What They Mean

Understanding credit score thresholds can help you gauge your chances of approval for different types of checking accounts and associated services. It's important to remember that these are general guidelines, and individual bank policies can differ significantly.

1. Excellent Credit (750+)

With an excellent credit score, you are almost guaranteed approval for any type of checking account, including those with premium features and robust overdraft protection. Banks view you as a very low-risk customer. You are likely to qualify for the best interest rates on any linked savings accounts or credit lines and may have access to exclusive banking products.

2. Good Credit (680-749)

A good credit score provides a strong foundation for opening most checking accounts. You should have no trouble being approved for standard accounts and those with overdraft protection. Banks consider you a reliable customer. You might still be eligible for premium accounts and competitive rates on associated credit products.

3. Fair Credit (620-679)

This range can be a bit more variable. For standard checking accounts without overdraft protection, you will likely be approved, especially if your ChexSystems report is clean. However, if you apply for an account with significant overdraft facilities, you might face stricter scrutiny. Some banks might approve you but offer lower overdraft limits or charge higher fees. You may be steered towards "second chance" accounts by some institutions if your banking history is also problematic.

4. Poor Credit (Below 620)

Opening a standard checking account might still be possible, especially at credit unions or banks that don't rely heavily on traditional credit scores for basic accounts. However, approval for accounts with overdraft protection or other credit-related features will be challenging. You will likely be directed towards "second chance" or secured checking accounts. It's crucial to focus on improving your credit score and banking history in this range.

5. No Credit History

If you have no credit history, your traditional credit score will be considered neutral. Banks will likely rely more heavily on your ChexSystems report and other identity verification methods. For basic checking accounts, approval is usually straightforward. For accounts with overdrafts, they might offer a very low limit or deny it altogether due to the lack of established credit behavior.

6. The Role of ChexSystems

As emphasized before, a negative ChexSystems report can override a good traditional credit score. If you have unpaid overdrafts or other negative banking history reported, even an excellent credit score might not be enough to open a new account at many institutions. In such cases, your focus must be on resolving the issues reported to ChexSystems.

2025 Data Point: According to industry reports, over 80% of banks and credit unions utilize ChexSystems for account opening decisions. This highlights its significant influence, often more so than traditional credit scores for deposit accounts.

Table: Credit Score Impact on Checking Account Features (General Guidelines - 2025)

credit score range	Standard Checking Account (No Overdraft)	Checking Account with Overdraft Protection	Premium Checking Accounts
Excellent (750+)	High Likelihood of Approval	High Likelihood of Approval with Favorable Terms	High Likelihood of Approval
Good (680-749)	Very High Likelihood of Approval	High Likelihood of Approval	Likely Approval
Fair (620-679)	Likely Approval (if ChexSystems is clear)	Possible Approval, may have limitations or higher fees	May be limited or require specific conditions
Poor (Below 620)	Possible Approval (especially at credit unions/second chance accounts)	Unlikely for standard overdrafts; may qualify for limited/secured options	Unlikely
No Credit History	High Likelihood of Approval (based on other factors)	Unlikely for significant overdrafts; may offer limited options	May be limited

Alternatives for Those with Low or No Credit

If your credit score or banking history makes it difficult to open a traditional checking account, don't despair. Several alternatives are available in 2025 designed to help individuals manage their money without facing immediate rejection.

1. Second Chance Checking Accounts

These accounts are specifically designed for individuals with a negative ChexSystems record or a low credit score. They are offered by many banks and credit unions. While they might have higher monthly fees, fewer features, or require a minimum balance, they provide a way to get back into the banking system. They often have a waiting period after a negative report before you can apply.

Key Features:

• No traditional credit check required.
• May require a small security deposit.
• Often have monthly maintenance fees.
• Limited features (e.g., no overdraft protection).

2. Credit Union Accounts

Credit unions are member-owned financial cooperatives. They often have more flexible lending and account opening policies than large national banks. Many credit unions do not use ChexSystems or may have more lenient criteria if they do. They often prioritize helping their members, making them a good option for those with credit challenges.

Benefits:

• Member-focused approach.
• Potentially more lenient credit and ChexSystems policies.
• Often lower fees and better interest rates.

3. Prepaid Debit Cards

Prepaid debit cards are not checking accounts, but they offer a way to make purchases, pay bills, and receive direct deposits without a traditional bank account. You load money onto the card, and that's the amount you can spend. They do not require a credit check or a bank account, making them accessible to almost everyone.

Considerations:

• Not a bank account; no interest earned.
• Can have significant fees (activation, monthly, ATM withdrawal, etc.).
• Limited consumer protections compared to bank accounts.

2025 Trend: Prepaid cards continue to be popular for unbanked or underbanked populations, but the rise of digital wallets and alternative payment apps is also offering new avenues for financial management.

4. Online-Only Banks

Some online-only banks have more streamlined application processes and may have less stringent requirements for basic checking accounts. While they still perform checks, their overhead is lower, allowing for more flexibility. It's worth researching their specific policies, as some may be more accommodating than traditional brick-and-mortar institutions.

5. Secured Checking Accounts

Similar to secured credit cards, these accounts require you to deposit funds into a savings account that acts as collateral. This deposit then covers any potential overdrafts or fees. They are a good way to build a banking relationship and demonstrate responsible account management.

When considering these alternatives:

• Read the fine print: Understand all fees associated with the account or card.
• Check reporting: Confirm if the service reports to ChexSystems or traditional credit bureaus, which can be beneficial for future banking.
• Focus on improvement: Use these alternatives as a stepping stone to improve your financial habits and creditworthiness.

Preparing to Open a Checking Account

Whether you have excellent credit or are facing challenges, proper preparation can significantly smooth the process of opening a checking account in 2025. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check Your Credit Reports and Scores

Before you even apply, get a clear picture of your financial standing. You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) annually at AnnualCreditReport.com. Review these for any errors or inaccuracies. Also, check your ChexSystems report. You can request a free report from ChexSystems if you have been denied an account in the past 60 days, or you can purchase one.

Understanding your scores and any potential red flags will help you choose the right type of account and institution.

2. Identify Your Banking Needs

What do you need from a checking account? Consider:

• Overdraft protection: Do you need it? If so, what level of protection?
• Monthly fees: Can you afford them, or do you need an account with no fees?
• ATM access: Do you need a large network of fee-free ATMs?
• Mobile banking: Is a robust mobile app important?
• Direct deposit: Is this a primary need?
• Other features: Bill pay, mobile check deposit, savings account integration, etc.

Knowing your needs will help you narrow down your options and avoid applying for accounts that aren't a good fit.

3. Research Financial Institutions

Not all banks are created equal when it comes to account opening policies. Consider:

• Large National Banks: Often have more sophisticated credit-checking processes but also a wider range of products.
• Community Banks: May offer more personalized service and potentially more flexibility.
• Credit Unions: Member-owned, often with more lenient policies and better rates.
• Online Banks: Typically have lower fees and streamlined digital applications.

Look for banks that specifically advertise "second chance" accounts or have clear policies on their credit inquiry process for checking accounts.

4. Gather Necessary Documentation

You will typically need the following to open a checking account:

• Government-issued photo ID: Driver's license, passport, state ID.
• Social Security number: Required for identity verification and tax reporting.
• Proof of address: Utility bill, lease agreement, or other official mail.
• Initial deposit: The minimum amount required to open the account (this varies widely).

Having these documents ready will speed up the application process.

5. Understand the Application Process

When you apply, the bank will ask for personal information. Be honest and accurate. They will likely perform a soft credit check or a ChexSystems/EWS check. If they indicate a hard credit inquiry, be prepared for that.

6. Ask Questions

Don't hesitate to ask the bank representative about their policies. Key questions include:

• "Do you perform a credit check for this account?"
• "What type of credit check is it (soft or hard)?"
• "Which credit reporting agencies do you use?"
• "What are your policies regarding overdrafts?"
• "Are there any alternative accounts available if I don't qualify for this one?"

By taking these preparatory steps, you can increase your chances of a successful application and choose an account that best suits your financial situation and needs in 2025.

What to Do If You're Denied an Account

Being denied a checking account can be frustrating, especially if you believe you have a good credit score. However, there are specific steps you can take to understand the denial and find alternative solutions.

1. Request the Reason for Denial

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), if you are denied credit or services based on information in a consumer report (like ChexSystems or a traditional credit report), the institution must provide you with the reasons for the denial. They should also provide the name and contact information of the reporting agency used.

Action: Politely ask the bank representative for a written explanation of the denial. If they used a specific report, ask for the name of that report (e.g., ChexSystems). If they don't provide it readily, you may need to follow up with them.

2. Obtain Your Consumer Reports

Once you know which agency was used, obtain your report from them. As mentioned earlier, you can get free traditional credit reports annually from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. For ChexSystems, you can typically request a free report if you were denied an account within the last 60 days, or you can purchase one.

Action: Visit chexhelp.com or contact ChexSystems directly to request your report. Review it carefully for any errors.

3. Dispute Errors on Your Reports

Consumer reports are not always perfect. Errors can occur, such as incorrect account closures, inaccurate negative marks, or outdated information. If you find any inaccuracies on your traditional credit report or your ChexSystems report, dispute them immediately with the reporting agency.

Action: Follow the dispute process outlined by the reporting agency. Provide any supporting documentation you have. Resolving errors can sometimes lead to a reversal of the denial.

4. Address the Root Cause of Denial

If the denial is due to legitimate negative information (e.g., unpaid overdrafts on ChexSystems, significant late payments on credit reports), you need to address the underlying issue.

For ChexSystems denials: Contact the bank that reported the negative information and arrange to pay any outstanding balances or fees. Once resolved, the bank may update your record with ChexSystems, which can take time.

For traditional credit score denials: Focus on improving your credit score by making on-time payments, reducing credit utilization, and avoiding new debt. This is a longer-term strategy but essential for future financial opportunities.

5. Explore Alternative Banking Options

As discussed in the previous section, if you are denied by traditional banks, there are still viable alternatives:

• Second Chance Checking Accounts: Many banks and credit unions offer these specifically for individuals with past banking issues.
• Credit Unions: They often have more flexible policies.
• Prepaid Debit Cards: A functional alternative for making payments and managing funds, though not a bank account.
• Online Banks: Research their specific application requirements.

Action: Research and apply for accounts at institutions known for being more accommodating to individuals with credit challenges. Be upfront about your situation if possible.

6. Wait and Reapply

If your denial was due to a temporary issue or a minor error that you are now rectifying, you might need to wait a period before reapplying. For ChexSystems issues, it can take months or even years for negative marks to fall off your report. For credit score improvements, it's a continuous process.

Action: Set a reminder to check your reports periodically and reapply once you believe your financial standing has improved or the negative marks have been resolved or aged out.

Being denied is not the end of the road. By understanding the reasons, taking corrective action, and exploring alternatives, you can secure a banking relationship.

Credit-Building Strategies for Future Banking Needs

Whether you're aiming for a premium checking account, a mortgage, or simply want to improve your overall financial health, building a strong credit profile is essential. Here are effective strategies to employ in 2025:

1. Pay All Bills On Time, Every Time

Payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score (typically 35%). This includes credit cards, loans, rent, utilities, and any other recurring bills. Even a single late payment can have a negative impact.

Action: Set up automatic payments or reminders for all your bills. If you miss a payment, address it immediately to minimize the negative impact.

2. Keep Credit Utilization Low

Credit utilization refers to the amount of credit you are using compared to your total available credit. Aim to keep this ratio below 30%, and ideally below 10%, for each credit card and overall.

Action: Pay down credit card balances. If you have multiple cards, focus on paying down the one with the highest utilization first. Avoid maxing out your credit cards.

3. Avoid Opening Too Many New Credit Accounts at Once

While having multiple credit accounts can be beneficial, applying for several at once can lead to multiple hard inquiries, which can lower your score temporarily. It can also make lenders perceive you as a higher risk.

Action: Apply for new credit only when you genuinely need it. Space out your applications.

4. Monitor Your Credit Reports Regularly

Regularly checking your credit reports allows you to catch errors, identify fraudulent activity, and track your progress. As mentioned, you can get free reports annually.

Action: Review your reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion at least once a year. Dispute any inaccuracies promptly.

5. Consider a Secured Credit Card

If you have a low credit score or no credit history, a secured credit card can be an excellent tool. You provide a cash deposit as collateral, which typically becomes your credit limit. Using it responsibly and making on-time payments will help build your credit history.

Action: Research reputable secured credit cards and use them for small, manageable purchases that you can pay off in full each month.

6. Become an Authorized User

If you have a trusted friend or family member with excellent credit, they can add you as an authorized user on their credit card. Their positive payment history can then be reflected on your credit report, helping to boost your score. Ensure the primary cardholder uses the card responsibly.

Action: Discuss this option with a trusted individual and understand the implications for both parties.

7. Use a "Credit-Builder" Loan

Some credit unions and community banks offer credit-builder loans. You make payments on the loan, but the funds are held in an account and released to you once the loan is paid off. This demonstrates responsible borrowing behavior.

Action: Inquire at your local credit union or community bank about credit-builder loan programs.

8. Address Negative Marks

If you have negative marks on your credit report (e.g., collections, charge-offs), work to resolve them. Settling or paying off old debts can improve your score over time, although the original negative mark may remain on your report for up to seven years.

Action: Prioritize paying off delinquent accounts. Negotiate with collection agencies if necessary.

Building credit is a marathon, not a sprint. By consistently applying these strategies, you will not only improve your credit score but also gain access to a wider range of financial products and services, including more advantageous checking account options.

Conclusion: Navigating Your Banking Options

In conclusion, the question "Does credit score affect opening checking account?" has a nuanced answer: yes, it can, but the impact varies significantly based on the account type and the financial institution. For basic checking accounts without overdraft facilities, your traditional credit score often plays a minor role, with ChexSystems and other banking behavior reports being more influential. However, if you seek features like overdraft protection or premium account benefits, your credit score becomes a more critical factor.

By understanding the types of credit checks used, the role of agencies like ChexSystems, and the general credit score thresholds, you can better prepare for the application process. If you have a low credit score or a negative banking history, remember that alternatives like second chance accounts, credit union memberships, and prepaid cards are readily available in 2025. Proactive steps such as reviewing your credit reports, gathering necessary documents, and researching institutions will significantly enhance your chances of a successful application. Should you be denied, understanding the reason, disputing errors, and exploring alternatives are key to securing the banking services you need. Building and maintaining good credit is a continuous process that opens doors to better financial products and opportunities, including the most suitable checking account for your needs.