A checking account provides a convenient way to deposit and withdraw funds, but consumers have an overwhelming number of checking account options — ranging from online-only banks to traditional brick-and-mortar locations.

Choosing the right checking account can make a big difference in your financial health. A bank provides a home base for your earnings and grows with you as you move through different stages of your life. Additionally, its team of financial professionals can help provide valuable guidance as your financial needs evolve.

As you are searching for the best checking account, keep these 5 strategies in mind.

#1: Do you prefer online only or in-person banking?

Some banks are completely online, while other banks, such as Zions Bank, provide in-branch services with online banking to manage your finances anywhere. As you consider your checking account options, it’s helpful to evaluate your banking habits, comfort with technology and ability to travel to physical branches.

Even if you primarily conduct your banking online, it can be valuable to have access to a physical branch to obtain financial guidance and support.

#2: Does the checking account charge ATM usage fees?

Even in the digital age, many consumers still use cash for day-to-day purchases. Before choosing a checking account, evaluate your ATM habits and see if your prospective bank provides easy access to ATMs. If you use ATMs often, choose a bank with a broad network of ATMs or one that will reimburse ATM fees outside its network.

#3: Evaluate checking account fees and overdraft options

Because there may be monthly fees associated with checking accounts, make sure you understand the fee structure before opening an account. These fees may be waived by certain conditions, such as maintaining a minimum balance.

Overdraft fees can be a common pitfall, but in 2023, Zions Bank made sweeping changes to overdraft fees as part of the its ongoing commitment to provide products and services that best serve clients’ financial needs. Zions Bank’s OnBudget^® Banking account helps keep customers aligned with their financial goals with a predictable monthly service fee of $5, mobile banking and no overdraft fees.

#4: Are there mobile banking options?

In today’s fast-paced society, having integrated mobile banking features for your checking account can add significant value. Look for features such as mobile and online bill pay, mobile check deposit and integration with payment apps such as Zelle^®.

As you research your checking account options and are considering mobile banking app features, check out reviews on the app store. The best banking apps have average scores close to 5 stars and positive client reviews.

#5: Does the financial institution give back to your community?

When you put your money in a bank, it doesn’t just sit there. It’s used to create financial opportunities for individuals and businesses in your community. Many community banks — including Zions Bank — fund local businesses and help enrich their communities in many ways.

For example, as one of the top U.S. Small Business Administration lenders in Utah and Idaho, Zions Bank has funded thousands of small businesses that create jobs in their communities. The bank contributes to hundreds of nonprofit organizations annually through donations and sponsorships, and its employees also donate an estimated 100,000 hours toward community service annually. 

When you open a checking account with a community-minded bank, your funds are leveraged to create economic opportunity and improve the quality of life in your community.

Choosing the right checking account requires careful consideration. Armed with these five strategies, it’s time to visit the Zions Bank website to compare checking accounts or to submit an online application or stop by a local Zions Bank branch to speak with a banker about your checking account options.