Most checking accounts don’t reward you for using them—but some do. A rewards checking account can put extra cash in your pocket through cashback on purchases, high interest on your balance, or even a sign-up bonus. Unlike traditional accounts, these options help you maximize your money without extra effort.
Many of the best rewards checking accounts have no monthly fees, nationwide ATM access, and early direct deposit. Whether you want to earn cash back on daily spending or boost your savings with a high APY, these accounts offer valuable benefits without the hidden costs.
5 Best Rewards Checking Accounts
These checking accounts offer the best ways to earn rewards, whether you’re looking for cash back, high interest, or extra perks—all without hidden fees.
1. Current: Best for Everyday Cash Back
Current offers a rewards checking account that makes earning cash back effortless. Every time you use your debit card, you can earn points redeemable for cash back or other rewards—no complicated requirements or spending categories.
2. Stash Stock-Back® Checking: Best for Investing Rewards
Stash offers a rewards checking account with a twist—you earn stock every time you use your debit card.
3. Discover Cashback Debit Account: Best for No-Fee Cash Back
Discover’s Cashback Debit Account makes it easy to earn rewards on everyday spending without worrying about fees.
4. LendingClub LevelUp Checking: Best for Member Rewards
LevelUp Checking from LendingClub Bank is a rewards-style checking account for members that gives you cashback on everyday spending and loan payments.
5. American Express Rewards Checking: Best for Membership Rewards
American Express Rewards Checking combines everyday banking with the ability to earn Membership Rewards® points—making it one of the few debit accounts that truly rewards spending.
How to Choose the Best Rewards Checking Account
Not all rewards checking accounts are created equal. The best one for you depends on how you spend, how much you keep in your account, and which perks matter most. Here’s how to decide which account fits your financial habits.
Cashback vs. High Interest
The biggest difference between rewards checking accounts is how they pay you back: through cashback on purchases or high interest on your balance. Which type of rewards makes the most sense?
- Choose cashback if:
- You frequently use your debit card for everyday purchases.
- You want immediate, guaranteed rewards without needing to keep a large balance.
- You don’t typically maintain a high checking account balance.
- Choose high interest if:
- You keep a steady balance in your checking account.
- You want your money to grow passively rather than earning rewards through spending.
- You can meet the balance and transaction requirements to qualify for the highest APY.
Some accounts combine both features, but they often come with transaction or deposit requirements. Be sure to check if the rewards structure aligns with your financial habits.
Fee Considerations
Even the best rewards checking accounts can come with fees that reduce your earnings. Here’s what to watch for:
- Monthly maintenance fees: Some banks waive these if you meet balance or deposit requirements, but others don’t.
- Overdraft fees: Some accounts offer overdraft protection, but others charge up to $35 per overdraft.
- ATM access fees: Look for accounts with nationwide fee-free ATMs or ATM fee reimbursements if you frequently withdraw cash.
- Transaction requirements: Some interest-bearing accounts require a set number of debit purchases each month to earn the best rate.
A rewards checking account should save you money, not cost you more in hidden fees. Always read the fine print to make sure the rewards outweigh any potential costs.
Sign-Up Bonuses and Perks
Many banks offer cash bonuses or extra perks to attract new customers. Here’s what to consider:
- Sign-up bonuses: Some accounts offer bonuses for opening an account and meeting deposit requirements.
- ATM fee reimbursements: If your bank doesn’t have a large ATM network, reimbursements can help you avoid out-of-network fees.
- Early direct deposit: Some accounts let you access your paycheck up to two days early with direct deposit.
- Overdraft protection: The best accounts offer fee-free overdrafts or a buffer before fees apply.
- Additional perks: Some banks provide extras like credit card rewards boosts, travel discounts, or even crypto rewards.
The best rewards checking account isn’t just about cashback or interest—it’s about finding an account that fits your banking needs without unnecessary fees or restrictions.
How to Maximize Your Checking Account Rewards
Earning rewards from your checking account is great, but getting the most out of it requires a little strategy. Whether your account offers cashback or high interest, here’s how to maximize your benefits.
Use Your Debit Card Strategically
If your account offers cashback on purchases, using your debit card wisely can help you earn the most rewards.
- Prioritize eligible spending: Some accounts offer higher cashback rates for specific categories like gas, dining, or groceries.
- Avoid using credit when debit is rewarded: If your account requires PIN or signature-based transactions to earn cashback, choose the right method at checkout.
- Watch for spending caps: Many cashback accounts limit rewards to a certain amount per month. Know the limits so you can maximize your earnings without expecting more than what’s offered.
Maintain a High Balance
For accounts that pay interest on your checking balance, keeping your money in the account can boost your earnings.
- Check balance requirements: Many high-yield accounts only pay the top APY if you meet a minimum balance threshold.
- Avoid dipping below limits: If your balance drops under the required amount, you may miss out on the highest interest rate.
- Consider linking accounts: Some banks offer better rates if you also have a savings or investment account with them.
Set Up Direct Deposit
Many rewards checking accounts require direct deposit to unlock the best perks, including high interest rates, cashback, or sign-up bonuses.
- Meet the minimum deposit requirement: Some accounts require a specific dollar amount in direct deposits each month to qualify for rewards.
- Get paid early: Many banks offer early direct deposit, giving you access to your paycheck up to two days before payday.
- Use direct deposit to avoid fees: Some accounts waive monthly fees if you have qualifying direct deposits.
Automate Transactions
Some rewards accounts require a certain number of transactions each month to qualify for the best benefits. Automating payments can help you meet these requirements without extra effort.
- Set up recurring payments: Use your debit card for subscriptions, utility bills, or other recurring expenses.
- Schedule small purchases: If your account requires multiple debit transactions per month, plan small purchases like coffee or snacks to ensure you qualify.
- Monitor your activity: Check your account regularly to confirm you’re meeting the spending or transaction requirements to earn the highest rewards.
By using these strategies, you can maximize the cashback, interest, and perks your rewards checking account offers while keeping fees and missed benefits to a minimum.
Final Thoughts
A rewards checking account can help you earn money on everyday banking, whether through cashback, high interest, or sign-up bonuses. The key is choosing an account that aligns with your spending and saving habits while avoiding unnecessary fees.
Before opening an account, review the requirements carefully to ensure you can consistently meet them. With the right strategy, you can maximize your rewards and get the most value from your checking account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I lose my rewards if I don’t meet the account requirements?
Yes, many rewards checking accounts have monthly requirements such as maintaining a minimum balance, making a certain number of debit transactions, or receiving direct deposits. If you don’t meet these requirements, you may not earn cashback, high interest, or other perks for that statement cycle. Some accounts may also charge fees if the requirements aren’t met.
Do rewards checking accounts come with spending limits?
Some cashback rewards accounts have a cap on the amount of cashback you can earn each month. Similarly, high-interest checking accounts often have balance limits where only a certain amount qualifies for the highest APY, while balances beyond that amount earn a lower rate.
Can I open multiple rewards checking accounts?
Yes, you can open multiple accounts, but managing them effectively can be challenging. If each account has spending or direct deposit requirements, you’ll need to ensure you meet them to qualify for rewards. Additionally, spreading your money across multiple accounts may prevent you from maximizing high-yield interest rates.
Are online-only banks better for rewards checking?
Online banks often offer higher interest rates, lower fees, and better rewards than traditional banks because they don’t have the overhead costs of physical branches. However, they may lack in-person customer service or have limited cash deposit options, which can be a downside for some users.
What happens if I switch jobs and my direct deposit stops?
If your account requires direct deposit to unlock rewards, you may lose benefits if your paycheck stops being deposited while transitioning jobs. Some banks allow a grace period, but others will immediately adjust your rewards or charge fees. It’s a good idea to check the account terms and plan accordingly.
