The Best Checking Accounts in Connecticut for 2024
Local banks in Connecticut are worth considering if you’re looking for a place to open a checking account. The best checking accounts in Connecticut have a lot to offer, so continue reading this page to find out how you may benefit from opening one. If you’ve ever thought about online banking, we also have information about that option.
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Best Checking Accounts in Connecticut
You don’t want to keep your money just anywhere, so it makes sense to investigate what banks provide to their customers. Below, we look at some of the best checking accounts in Connecticut so you can get an idea of what local banks offer.
Jewett City Savings Bank
Jewett City Savings Bank has a checking account with no monthly fees, minimum balance requirement, or transaction limits. Also, customers have access to online and mobile banking services.
The bank’s direct checking account is good for those with monthly recurring payments, so they can conveniently maintain their account and avoid monthly fees. Also, this account earns interest when people have a balance of at least $100.
Litchfield Bancorp
Litchfield Bancorp has general checking accounts for all customers and those designed for specific demographics. For example, the basic checking account is available to everyone and can be opened with a $25 deposit. This account has no monthly fees, and customers can receive 40 free welcome checks.
A student checking account is also available for those 16 to 26 years old. This account also has a $25 minimum opening balance, 40 free welcome checks, and no monthly maintenance fees.
The Milford Bank
The Milford Bank has checking accounts with numerous advantages, including free mobile and online banking, bill pay, and access to an online learning center. You can do your banking online or by phone and visit the six local branches.
There is no monthly fee for having a debit card, and customers have access to Zelle to send and receive payments conveniently.
Find Online and Traditional Checking Accounts
A large number of banks and credit unions in Connecticut offer checking accounts, and there’s strong competition among them to offer the best perks and the lowest fees. Use the list below to find the best checking account to fit your financial goals.
Pros & Cons of Local Banks
Are you intrigued about what a local bank can do for you and how opening a checking account at a bank in Connecticut may be beneficial? Although there are some upsides to doing business with local banks, remember that it’s not always a positive experience. Here are some pros and cons of doing business with local banks for you to consider.
Pros
- Fees charged on checking accounts can be more reasonable than with other options
- Interest-bearing checking account rates are competitive
- Financing is available to small businesses and individuals in the community that they may not have access to at other financial institutions
- Consumers don’t feel like they’re just a number when they interact with customer service representatives
- Local banks are familiar with the geographic location they’re in and care about the needs of the community
Cons
- You may not have a lot of choices when it comes to the types of accounts you can open
- You may not be able to do in-person banking when it’s convenient for you because of limited hours of operation
- You may not have access to many ATMs, which may cause you to be charged fees for out-of-network withdrawals
- You may not be able to get services that other banks provide because local banks may not offer services based on the latest financial trends
What to Look for When Choosing a Checking Account in Connecticut
Do you want to do your banking at a branch? Do you prefer to do it online through a website or app? Do you make a lot of withdrawals at ATMs and want to ensure you don’t rack up fees? These are all considerations you may have when looking for a checking account in Connecticut.
To help you make your choice, we discuss some of the most essential features of a checking account.
Service and Other Fees
Some fees are harder to avoid, such as monthly fees for maintaining your account.
Some fees, like ATM, overdraft, and insufficient funds, can be controlled based on your behavior. However, it’s best to avoid this entirely by finding a checking account in Connecticut that doesn’t charge fees. If you can’t find one, look for a company allowing you to waive fees in certain circumstances.
ATM and Branch Access
Access to your money is critical, and the best banks will be the ones with several branches you can choose from and many ATM options to make withdrawals without being charged fees.
Be sure to investigate how many ATM and branch locations any bank has available so you can get a sense of how convenient it will be to withdraw money.
Interest Rates or Bonuses
Not every bank will offer interest rates on a checking account, and in fact, it’s not the norm. However, more and more banks are providing this benefit to attract customers, so the best checking accounts in Connecticut will be interest-bearing.
Also, some banks may allow you to receive bonuses, such as cash back on debit card purchases, to sweeten the deal further.
Mobile Banking
Mobile apps can further make access to your money convenient, and the best banks in Connecticut will have an app that gives you several features—including the ability to make mobile deposits, transfer money between accounts, and link to peer-to-peer payment apps like Zelle.
If having access to a mobile app is essential to you, look for banks that have apps with the most robust features.
Online Checking for Connecticut Residents
A local bank might be the best choice for you. However, you should explore all options, especially if you’re looking for a convenient, bank-from-anywhere option. Online checking accounts are another checking option that offers many benefits.
The following are some online banks that can give you a taste of what you can expect if you open a checking account with them.
Grasshopper
The Grasshopper business checking account offers a digital banking solution with no monthly fees, providing convenience for small business owners. With FDIC insurance, easy online account opening, and competitive rates, it’s a viable option for businesses seeking streamlined financial management.
While lacking physical branches, Grasshopper compensates with unlimited transfers, purchase rewards, and low minimums. Users can manage accounts effortlessly with access to the mobile app and online platform.
Grasshopper’s responsive customer support further enhances its appeal. Although limited to checking accounts, its interest rates surpass national averages, making it a solid choice for businesses prioritizing growth.
SoFi Money
SoFi Money checking and savings presents a digital banking option with notable advantages, offering an industry-leading interest rate with no fees and direct deposit bonuses.
A solid choice for people seeking fee-free banking and competitive interest rates, SoFi suits customers who prefer electronic banking. However, its lack of branch locations and the inability to have just a checking account may deter some users.
Account holders benefit from attractive features, including online bill pay, person-to-person transfers, and goal-based savings. With FDIC insurance, easy online management, and fee-free structures, SoFi Money combines checking and savings to offer digital-centric users a cost-effective and convenient choice.
Citi Priority Checking
The Citi® Priority Checking account offers various benefits, such as a substantial signup bonus, fee waivers, and special deals. It suits individuals with significant cash deposits and those seeking extra banking perks.
However, it requires a minimum deposit for eligibility and incurs a high monthly maintenance fee, albeit waivable with a minimum balance. Notably, the account lacks interest, making it less attractive for those prioritizing deposit earnings. Accessible online or in person, it’s ideal for existing Citi customers or frequent travelers needing in-person banking.
Despite minor drawbacks, the account provides valuable perks, including travel benefits and investment access, making it a viable option for specific financial needs.
Pros & Cons of Online Checking Accounts
People are increasingly turning to online banking options when they open checking accounts. Is this a good choice for you? Be sure to consider the pros and cons below before choosing an account at an online bank.
Pros
- You may be able to get help from customer service representatives 24 hours a day
- You may be able to do more mobile banking than you would with traditional banks
- You can earn higher interest on an interest-bearing checking account
- You may be charged lower fees than you would with other banks
- Your money is safe because online banks are FDIC-insured
Cons
- If you want to make cash deposits, it can be difficult with an online bank
- If you want to do your banking in person, that’s not an option because there are no branches
- If you want a variety of banking solutions like mortgages, the offerings of online banks may be limited
How to Choose: Connecticut vs. Online Checking Account
Do you like the idea of building a relationship with your bank? Do you enjoy doing your banking face-to-face? Then, a local bank in Connecticut could be the best option.
However, if you feel comfortable doing your banking online and don’t need to make in-person transactions, then you may find online options to be a good choice because, despite not having brick-and-mortar locations, your money will be every bit as safe as it would at a local bank. It’s also likely that you’ll find online banking more convenient than in-person banking.
What to Know About Connecticut Checking Accounts
- Banks in Connecticut are required to offer basic banking accounts that have low or no fees. The accounts must include checks, access to ATMs, debit cards, and electronic monthly statements for no additional fees.
- The law requires that Connecticut banks disclose all fees to consumers when they open a checking account. This information must be provided clearly and efficiently so all customers are fully aware of the various fees they may incur on their account.
- Generally, people must be at least 18 years of age to open a checking account in Connecticut. However, banks may offer special accounts for minors opened by a parent or guardian who becomes a joint account holder.
- Although Connecticut banks are allowed to charge fees to consumers, there is a limit on how much they can charge. The state limits all fees, including maintenance, minimum balance, and overdraft fees.
