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U.S. Bank (usbank.com) has a few checking account options, including a standard account and one for customers who only use debit cards instead of checks. Keep in mind that availability of accounts varies by state.
- Update 3/1/2023: The offer is now up to $600 for the Smartly™ Checking account. Details below.
- Update 2/8/2023: The maximum bonus amount has decreased from $600 to $300. Details below.
- Update 1/4/2023: The bonus has returned and is now up to $600 for a checking and savings account. Details below.
- Update 12/20/2022: The $300 bonus offer has expired. We will update with a new offer when it’s available.
- Update 12/19/2022: Today’s the last day for this $300 bonus offer.
- Update 11/22/2022: The welcome offer for the U.S. Bank Bank Smartly™Checking account has decreased from a $500 offer to a $300 offer.
U.S. Bank Smartly™ Checking is the standard account that’s a solid option for most customers. It costs $6.95 per month, but you can get that fee waived in a number of ways, such as by making monthly direct deposits of more than $1,000 or by keeping an average balance of at least $1,500 in your account. While some banks have higher monthly fees, there are options out there with no monthly fees at all (more common with online-only banking providers).
As part of the MoneyPass® network, U.S. Bank gives its customers free access to more than 37,000 MoneyPass® Network ATMs across the country. But if you use an ATM outside of the network, the bank will charge you an extra $2.50 on top of whatever the ATM owner may charge.
U.S. Bank Smartly™ Checking up to $600 Offer
Earn up to $600 when you open a new U.S. Bank Smartly™ checking account and complete qualifying activities. Subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through April 11, 2023. Member FDIC.
Complete these steps within 90 days of opening your new Bank Smartly™ checking account online:
- Enroll in online banking or the U.S. Bank Mobile App
- Complete two or more direct deposits of $3,000 to $5,999.99 to earn $200, $6,000 to $9,999.99 to earn $400 and $10,000 or more to earn $600.
Applicant must reside in AZ, AR, CA, CO, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NM, NC, ND, OH, OR, SD, TN, UT, WA, WI, WY to be eligible for Checking account
Minimum Balance to Open: $25
When it expires: 4/11/2023

How to Avoid Monthly Maintenance Fees
Waive the $6.95 Monthly Maintenance Fee with one of the following:
- Are 24 and under, 65 and over or a member of the military (must self-disclose), OR
- Have combined monthly direct deposits totaling $1,000+, OR
- Keep average account balance of $1,500+, OR
- Hold an eligible U.S. Bank credit card, OR
- Qualify for one of the four Smart Rewards™ tiers (Primary, Plus,Premium or Pinnacle)
READ MORE: Best U.S. Bank Bonuses, Promotions…
Features and Benefits
U.S. Bank Smartly™Checking includes:
- Mobile and online banking with free credit score access
- Mobile check deposit
- Bill pay
- Send money with Zelle®
- Email and text alerts
- U.S. Bank Visa® Debit Card
- No fee overdraft protection transfers from a linked deposit account, $50 overdrawn Available Balance safety threshold and Overdraft Fee Forgiven program
- Access to U.S. Bank Smart Rewards™ to reap additional benefits
About U.S. Bank
If you’re looking for a new bank to handle your personal finances, U.S. Bank is worth consideration. They offer valuable benefits expected of a big bank, and new features for digital banking and customer service.
U.S. Bank has branches in over 25 states and is the fifth-largest commercial bank in the United States by assets. Owned by U.S. Bancorp, it’s a full-service bank based in Minneapolis, MN that offers checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), loans, and other financial services. It also has online and mobile banking tools that are highly rated.
U.S. Bank is one of a number of large banks that have taken digital banking more seriously in recent years.
PROS
- Thousands of branches in over 25 states
- 24/7 live phone support
- Highly rated mobile app
- Great digital banking experience
CONS
- Better savings rates can be found elsewhere
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Banking Experience with U.S. Bank
When it comes to access and reach, U.S. Bank really shines. Aside from having thousands of branches and ATMs, customer service is available by phone 24 hours a day and on social media for longer hours each day. Customers can also get help through an online chat from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.
The bank’s iOS and Android apps let you deposit checks, move money between accounts, and send Zelle payments to other people. The apps receive great reviews.
READ MORE: See Popular Offers From Banks Like Chase Bank, Bank Of America, BMO Harris, And TD Bank
Bottom Line
It’s not a secret that big banks often offer low interest rates. U.S. Bank is no different.
But, U.S. Bank has great accessibility with its thousands of branches and ATMs. The U.S. Bank Smartly™ Checking account is a great all-around option for most customers seeking a checking solution.
If you enjoy banking online, U.S. Bank is fantastic with digital technology and gives customers a digital-first experience. It gets high marks for its mobile app, which has digital tools and features that make it easier to manage your money and understand your financial situation.
Also, U.S. Bank has been praised for how it handled the pandemic, how it helped different communities, and how ethical it is as a whole.
If you want the benefits of a traditional bank with a large network of branches and ATMs as well as cutting-edge digital tools and features, U.S. Bank is a solid choice.
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