Indiana Bank & Trust Company has a high interest checking account coined Maximum Yield Checking. Their best checking account offers the following interest rates given if certain monthly requirements are met:

* 3.01% APY for deposits through $25,000
* Any funds beyond $25K gets 0.10% APY
* 0.10% base interest rates if requirements are not satisfied
* Free use of ATM in any state

Account holders can take advantage of this money in the bank deal if the following: completed 10 purchases using the debit card, use online banking, opt for e-statement, and receive a direct deposit or set up an automatic payment via ACH.

You can open this checking account with an initial funding of $500 as indicated on the application. The bank does not collect any service charges per cycle and do not require any minimum balance. You also get free access to the bank’s bill payment system.

The bank offers this high yield checking account only to residents of Indiana. You can complete an application online or you can go to a branch nearest you. If you apply online, the bank will send you the signature card which you have to send back together with some other documents.

If you are being careful for any dings on your credit score, you need to take note that the bank does a hard credit pull upon application. They clearly state that on the application form. You can contact the bank to inquire about their products and services through 877-626-7000.

Indiana Bank & Trust Company has offices spread across the state particularly in Indianapolis, Seymour, Salem, Osgood, North Vernon, Madison, Hope, Greensburg, Columbus, Brownstown, Batesville, and Austin.

The bank has some good ratings. Bankrate.com gives it 3 stars for its performance while BauerFinancial issued 3 ½ stars for soundness and safety. These were based on their June and September 2009 data. It is registered with the FDIC covered under certificate number 28285.

Foothill Credit Union operating in California has an attractive local money in the bank deal through their MyChoice Checking. The checking account has the following interest rates:

* 3.00% APY for balances through $25,000
* No earnings if monthly qualifications are not met
* ATM surcharges of up to $20 can be refunded every cycle

We cannot find the interest rate given to portions of the deposit going beyond the $25K for this reward checking account. The full benefits of the best checking account can be enjoyed if you meet the monthly requirements: use the MasterCard Debit Card to make at least 10 purchases, make an electronic deposit or withdrawal, and opt for electronic statements.

The bank does not collect monthly service fees and they do not have any minimum balance requirements. Your ATM withdrawal has a daily cap of $300.

Membership to the Foothill Federal Credit Union is basically based on a select employer list in San Gabriel Valley. You can check out the details of membership on the credit union’s website. There is a one time membership fee of $5 and a minimum required deposit of $50.

Foothill FCU has offices in Glendora, El Monte, Covina, and Arcadia, California.

The credit union received 4 stars from BauerFinancial and Bankrate.com for soundness and safety. These were based on their June and September 2009 data.

The credit union is insured with the NCUA under charter number 12425.

Savoy Bank headquartered in New York City has an attractive reward checking account offering that gives 2.60% APY for balances through $100K. The interest rate is guaranteed by the bank until 15 April 2010.

The best interest rates can be enjoyed given that the monthly conditions are met. If you will go over the $100K line, these funds will get an interest rate of 1.30% APY. If the account holder fails to satisfy the monthly requirements, the best checking account rates will revert to the regular interest rate structure. ATM surcharges incurred worldwide will also be reimbursed by the bank.

Here are the account requirements that you need to meet every month:

* Account holder must purchase using the debit card
* Set up an ACH deposit or one direct deposit
* Choose to receive electronic statements instead of the paper account statements

Interested individuals may open the checking account for as low as $1. The bank does not collect any service fees. The account also comes with free check and free use of the bill payment system.

You need to go to a branch to open an account if you are a new customer. Its only branch is in New York City. You can call them through 646-775-4000 if you have any questions with regard to their products and services.

It is fairly a young financial institution founded in 2008. It is tagged as a startup company with BauerFinancial. Bankrate.com issed 3 stars for soundness and safety based on their June 2009 data.

The bank is registered with the FDIC through certificate number 58641.

Mid America Bank & Trust has a very attractive money in the bank deal for consumers in Missouri. The bank has very competitive interest rates for their best checking account:

* 5.55% APY for balances through $25,000
* Deposits above the $25K line gets 1.00% APY
* The base interest rate is 0.10%
* ATM surcharges of as much as $15 every month will be reimbursed

The best interest rates are earned as long as the monthly requirements are met:

* Account holder must complete 10 purchases using the debit card
* Set up at least one ACH auto debit or direct deposit
* Use online banking
* Choose e-statements over paper statements

This best reward checking account can be opened with an initial fund of $20. The bank does not collect any service fees nor does it set any balance requirements. Account holders also get free checks and free access to the online bill payment system.

Interested individuals can complete an online application if you want to open an account. The current interest rates have an old date of posting. The checking account rates may change any time so it will be wise to check the website for the latest numbers. You can call them through 1800-720-7178.

Mid America Bank & Trust has offices in Rolla, St. Robert, and Dixon in Missouri in case the online application does not work for you.

The financial ratings of this bank are a bit weak. Bankrate.com issued the lowest possible grade of 1 star for soundness and safety. BauerFinancial issued 2 stars for performance. These were based on their June 2009 data.

The bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 1624.

GreenBank is currently opening an attractive checking account bonus of $100 for opening a new checking account. The requirements of this money in the bank deal are fairly easy to satisfy.

Interested consumers for this reward checking account can apply online. You can go to complete an application and click submit. You need to open a checking account within 2 months after your registration. If you are not comfortable doing things online, you can also visit one of their branches to open this checking account.

The checking account promo has the following requirements:

* Personal Checking – Account holder must have at least 2 direct deposits of $100 each within 2 months upon account opening

* Business Checking – Account holder must at least make a purchase using the Business Check Card and use the online bills payment system to settle at least $100 within 45 days upon account opening

Once you have registered, opened a checking account, and satisfied the requirements, the bank will send you a certificate good for a Visa Gift Card for $100. You will be able to receive this gift card about 4 to 6 weeks upon completing the requirements of the program.

Take note that you must be careful when you register and open the account. All the names, address, and other important details you supply during the registration must match what you give during account opening.

You will also be disqualified for this checking account bonus if you close the account prior to completion of the program.

If you have questions with regard to the bank’s products and services, you can call their customer service through 1800-639-5111.

The main office of the bank is in Greenville, Tennessee. The bank has several branches in Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina. The bank is covered by the FDIC.

There is a good money in the bank deal with Quad City Bank & Trust headquartered in Iowa. They are offering a 5.00% APY for the deposits through $25,000 for their U Account. The base interest rate for this checking account is 0.01% APY.

The best interest rates can be enjoyed if the monthly requirements are met. Account holders must complete 15 purchases using their Visa checking account card. They also must keep a valid email address.

The interest rates that we have here are posted on Quad City Bank & Trust’s website as of January 6. You call their customer service line to know the latest figures through 563-388-4783.

The initial deposit needed to open an account is just $100. The bank does not collect monthly fees and do not set a balance requirement. The bank also refunds ATM fees but this was not detailed on their website.

One positive note for consumers on this reward checking account is that it does not have any ACH debit or direct deposit requirements. The reimbursement of ATM charges seems to be not dependent on meeting the monthly requirements.

They don’t have an online application so you need to go to a branch to open an account. They have offices in the cities of Moline, Davenport, and Bettendorf in Iowa.

The bank has good financial ratings. Bankrate.com stamps their report with 3 stars for soundness and safety. BauerFinancial tags the bank with 4 stars for its excellent performance. These ratings were based on their June 2009 data.

The bank is covered by the FDIC since 1994. It is insured through certificate number 33867.

Flagstar Bank still pushes for their $100 bonus for opening a personal checking account. This checking account bonus is offered to new checking account customers only and requires an opening deposit of at least $50. This money in the bank deal also requires account holders to establish a direct deposit income of at least $250 every month. The direct deposit must be setup within 2 months after account opening.

This checking account deal was tipped to us by one of our readers. There is an online application that you can use to open an account. This checking account promo is not offered outside the states of Michigan, Indiana, and Georgia since the system prompted us to call their toll free number 800-642-0039 to inquire for other checking products we can take advantage of. You can also type in M7 as the promo code.

The $100 bonus will be added to your account about a month after you set up the direct deposit. The bank also needs the account to be active for six months for the promo to be good.

Flagstar Bank has other checking accounts like the eChecking, Interest Checking, and Free checking which may suit your needs. These are also on a zip code bases so it will be best to visit their website to know about the current interest rates and special deals.

Flagstar Bank has offices in Georgia, Michigan, and Indiana. The bank is indexed with the FDIC under certificate number 32541.

The bank still claims that they are sufficiently capitalized despite being hit hard by the financial crisis. The reviews are quite mixed. The bank gets 3 stars for soundness and safety from BauerFinancial while Bankrate.com gave 1 star for performance. These were based on their June 2009 data.

Consumers in Florida have a high reward checking account that they can take advantage of from Legacy Bank of Florida . The current top interest rate for this money in the bank deal is 2.00% APY for balances through $50,000 if the monthly requirements are met. Any funding above the $50K line gets 0.50% APY. The base interest rate is 0.10% given if the requirements are not sufficed. The bank also refunds ATM fees charged in any state for as much as $20 every month.

This best checking account has the following requirements:

* Completed at least 10 purchases using the debit card
* Set up an auto debit or a direct deposit
* Use online banking
* Opt to receive electronic statements

The current interest rates can be enjoyed when you open an account with a minimum initial funding of $100. The bank does not collect any monthly fees nor require any minimum balance. You will also be able to access their online bills payment system when you are an account holder.

If you go for a high yield checking account that will not require any use of debit cards or anything that will have a rate ceiling, Legacy Bank also has an investment checking which has an attractive interest rate of 1.70% APY for balances through $5,000. Any deposits above $5K will get at least 50% of the prime rate. It will be wise though to keep your balance above $5,000 so you can avoid a monthly fee of $15 and get a better rate than 0.05%.

Interested individuals can open an account by visiting the nearest branch. The bank has offices in Pompano, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, and Boca Raton which are all in South Florida.

The ratings of Legacy Bank of Florida are a bit weak. Bankrate.com tagged it with their lowest performance grade of 1 star. BauerFinancial issued 2 stars for its soundness and safety. These ratings are based on their June 30, 2009 data. Despite the ratings, there are no actions taken against the bank by the regulators.

Be wise and stay within the insurance limits of the FDIC. Legacy Bank of Florida is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 58247.

Lumbee Guaranty Bank headquartered in North Carolina has a very attractive interest rate for their best checking account called LGB Rewards Checking. The current interest rates are as follows if you meet the monthly requirements:

* 4.50% APY for deposits through $25,000
* 1.00% APY for any portion of the funds above $25K
* Base interest rate of 0.10% earned if requirements are not satisfied
* ATM surcharges of up to $4 per month can be refunded ( a maximum of $1.50 per item will be reimbursed after $4)

These best reward checking rates require that you meet the following:

* Complete 10 purchases using the Visa World Check Card
* Set up an auto debit through ACH or a direct deposit
* Opt for electronic statement

You can enjoy the highest interest rates by opening an account for as low as $100. There are no minimum balance requirements nor are there any service charges.

You can fill up and submit an online application from the bank’s microwebsite but you need to drop by a branch to complete the process.

The interest rates that we have here are based on what is posted on the website. It has an old date of September 2009 so it will be wise to contact the bank to know the latest figures. You can also call the bank through 910-521-9707.

Lumbee Guaranty Bank has offices in the cities of Fayetteville, Saint Pauls, Fairmont, and Pembroke all in North Carolina.

The ratings of the bank are strong. Bankrate.com issued 4 stars for its excellent performance based on their June 2009 data. BauerFinancial stamped 4 stars on its soundness and safety report which was based on their September 2009 data.

The bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 20568.

River City Bank offers their best reward checking account called Smart checking. It remains to be very competitive over the past year and has the current interest rates:

* Guaranteed rates of 5.00% APY for balances through $25,000 until March 31, 2010
* Deposits above $25K get 1.50% APY
* Base interest rate of 0.05% APY will be earned if requirements are not met

Account holders can enjoy the benefits of the highest interest rates if they satisfy the following requirements: make at least 12 purchases using the debit card, setup one ACH debit or direct deposit, and opt for electronic statements.

The website states that the bank does not impose any balance requirements nor collect any monthly service fees for this money in the bank deal. They also reimburse ATM fees incurred any where across the globe. You can find out about the details of their refund policy on their website. It is definitely a plus factor for this best checking account as it is has a very generous policy on ATM surcharges.

We can not find an online application so it seems that you need to drop by one of their branches to open an account. They have offices in Carrolton and Rome, Georgia.

River City Bank has good financial ratings. Bankrate.com issued 3 stars for soundness and safety while BauerFinancial stamped 3 ½ stars on their performance report. These evaluations were based on their June 2009 data.

The bank is insured with the FDIC through certificate number 58289.

The Kemba Credit Union based in Ohio is pushing for Get Green Checking which is their high interest rate checking account. The best interest rates are given if certain monthly requirements are met:

* Deposits through $25,000 earn 3.50% APY
* Funds above the $25K line get 0.25% APY
* Base interest rate of the checking account is 0.15% APY
* Reimburses up to $20 of ATM fees every month

The current interest rates are still used on the micro website of the bank. It has an old date so it will be wise to get the latest numbers from the bank before filling up any application form.

You can enjoy the rates of this best checking account if you can suffice the following requirements: complete 12 debit card purchases, make an automatic payment or receive a direct deposit, use online banking, and opt for electronic statements.

Interested consumers can open an account without having to worry about minimums on opening balance and maintaining requirements. The bank does not collect any monthly service fees as well. According to the prints on the micro website you can open multiple accounts but you need to meet the monthly qualifications for each checking account.

The Kemba Credit Union welcomes membership application from individuals who live, worship, work, or study in the following counties of Ohio: Warren, Preble, Montgomery, Miami, Highland, Hamilton, Greene, Clinton, Clermont, Clark, Butler, and Brown. You can visit their membership page to see the full details for the sign up. The credit union requires a balance of at least $5 in a savings account.

They have offices in West Chester, Harrison, Amelia, and Cincinnati, Ohio. There is also a branch in Bluffton, Indiana.

The financial ratings of the credit union are quite strong. Bankrate.com gave 4 stars for their soundness and safety. BauerFinancial, on the other hand, stamped 5 stars on their performance evaluation.

The Kemba Credit Union is insured with the NCUA through charter number 61810.

The R Bank is offering a very competitive interest rate for their reward checking account called R Best checking. The checking account can earn the following interest given that the monthly requirements are met:

* 4.13% APY highest interest rate for balances through $35,000
* 1.52% APY for deposits above the $35K cap
* The base interest rate is 0.10% APY given if you do not meet the requirements on a particular cycle
* ATM fees of as much as $20 every cycle can be refunded

The best interest rates can be earned if the account holder can complete at least 12 purchases using the check card, setup an ACH debit or receive a direct deposit, and receive electronic statements.

Interested individuals can open this best checking account for an initial deposit of $100. According to the bank’s website, they do not ask for any monthly service fees and they do not require any minimum balance.

The current interest rates are not posted on the bank’s website. We requested for the latest figures from their customer service and it has an effective date of December 7, 2009. These checking account rates may be changed any time without notice. It will be wise to inquire with the bank prior to signing up for anything.

We were also informed by the customer service that they entertain applications by mail. It might be a problem for the bank if the influx of application gets a bit high, so we tag this as a local money in the bank deal.

R Bank is headquartered in Round Rock, Texas just near Austin. The bank is a new company founded in June 2009. It is a small bank with less than twenty employees and about $15 million in assets. Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial labels the bank as a start up. R Bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 58935.

The United Bank of Kansas pushes for their high yield checking account with current interest rates topping at 4.41% APY. The money in the bank deal called United Premier Checking has the following interest rates given that the monthly requirements are satisfied:

* 4.41% APY for balances through $30,000
* 0.91% APY for deposits above $30K
* Base interest rate of 0.20% APY
* Account holders get ATM refunds of up to $15 per month

Account holders can enjoy the current interest rates if they at least complete 12 purchases using their debit card signing at the point of sale. They also need to make at least 1 ACH automatic debit or set up a direct deposit.

The best checking account can be opened with a minimum initial funding of $100. The bank does not collect any monthly service fees and they do not impose any balance requirements. Account holders can also use the bills payment system.

We cannot find a link for an online application for this checking account. It seems that you need to visit one of their offices to sign up for an account. They have branches n Atchison, Lancaster, Whiting, Horton, and Lenexa all in Kansas.

The interest rates posted on the bank has an old date of October 2009 but we were able to confirm that they are still in effect. To check for the latest numbers, you can visit their website or call the branch nearest you.

The financial ratings of the bank are above average. Bankrate.com issued 4 stars for its performance while BauerFinancial tagged their report with 3 ½ stars for soundness and safety. These are based on their June 2009 data.

United Bank of Kansas is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 17104.

Sonoran Bank N.A. headquartered in Arizona has a high yield checking account with the following current interest rates gained when monthly requirements are satisfied:

* 5.03% APY for balances through $30,000
* Deposits above the $30K line gets 1.25% APY
* Base interest rate is 0.01 given when requirements are not met
* ATM surcharges nationwide are refunded every month

You can enjoy the highest interest rates of this reward checking account if you make at least 12 purchases using the debit card, receive a direct deposit or set up an automatic payment via ACH, and receive electronic statement.

Interested consumers can open the account with an initial deposit of at least $100. There are service fees and minimum balance requirements to worry about.

You can tandem this high interest checking account with a high yield savings account which gives 3.01% APY on all balances as long as you meet the requirements of the checking account.

An application can be started online. You will be required to visit a branch to complete the process. You can contact the bank through 602-393-6950 if you have any inquiries

Sonoran Bank N.A. is a one-office bank with its headquarter in Phoenix Arizona. The bank is indexed with the FDIC since 2006 covered by certificate number 58252.

Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial issued 3 stars for their review of the bank’s performance, soundness, and safety. These evaluations were based on their June and September 2009 data.

First Security Trust Bank based in Kentucky offers a reward checking account with high interest rates. The program is called Free Extreme Checking which has current interest rates of 4.50% APY. The best interest rates will be given if certain monthly requirements are satisfied:

4.50% APY guaranteed through 1 September 2010 for deposits up to $25,000
Funds above the $25K line earns 1.01% APY
If the requirements are not sufficed, the base interest rate of 0.10% is given
ATM fees incurred anywhere in the globe is refunded as much as $25 every cycle

You need to satisfy the following monthly requirements to enjoy the best interest rates:

Complete 10 purchases using the debit card
Make a direct deposit or set up an automatic debit
Opt to receive electronic statements

Interested individuals can open this high yield checking account for a minimum of $100. The bank does not impose any balance requirements nor do they collect monthly service fees. The checking account also gives you free access to the online bill payment system. The first set of 150 checks is on the bank.

It appears that you need to visit a branch to open this checking account. They have offices in Crescent Springs, Edgewood, and Florence. These cities are mostly located on the northern portion of Kentucky metro.

The bank is a sister company of Commonwealth Bank & Trust Company which also operates under Commonwealth Bancshares holding.

The financial ratings of the bank are fair. Bankrate.com gave 3 stars while BauerFinancial issued 3 ½ stars when they reviewed the bank’s performance using their June 2009 data. First Security Trust Bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 34863.

Perkstreet Financial gives consumers who open a checking account with them for $25 can receive a bonus of $50 if they can keep the account for 3 months. This checking account promo is scheduled to last until December 31.

This checking account bonus deal is only open for those who are new checking account customers of Perkstreet Financial. The bonus of $50 will be credited to the account 15 days after the third month.

According to the checking account page, the bank does not require any direct deposit but there is a $4.50 fee if your account is inactive for a month. An easy way out of this is to deposit or withdraw some amount from your account, use the debit card, or pay a bill online.

The bank does not impose any balance requirements. It also does not collect ATM fees if you use the STAR network. The first booklet of checks is on the bank. Another attractive feature of this checking account is the 1% cashback when you use the debit card for non-PIN purchases. The cashback reward for the debit card may actually earn you more than the interest rate of the checking account itself.

There is an online application for those who want to open an account. You can click the promo box and the special offer will be submitted with your application. We heard from some customers that there is no hard credit pull when you apply. You can call 866-792-2834 if you have any inquiries about their products and services.

The Perkstreet Financial operates under the umbrella of Bankcorp Bank which is covered by the FDIC. They have been indexed with the FDIC since 2000 under certificate number 35444. Perkstreet Financial itself is not listed with the FDIC but we have confirmed through Bankcorp that it is affiliated with them.

The First Tennessee Bank is pushing for their best checking account promo which gives consumers a chance to earn extra $150. This checking account special will be running until the 31st of December 2009.

You can earn the $100 by opening a checking account online or by dropping by a branch and presenting the copy of the promo. This checking account requires $300 of initial funding. The checking account bonus of $100 will be credited to your account in six weeks time if you meet the requirements. This should also be reported on your Form 1099-NT.

This money in the bank deal is offered for new checking account households only. The bank also requires that you maintain the account for at least six months to get the bonus cash.

The next $50 of the checking reward will be for existing or new clients who still needs to use Bill Pay Online. You need to pay at least six bills before 2009 ends to get the $50. Remember this offer is good if you have not used the bill payment system of the bank since August 2009.

The bills will be paid on the actual date of payment or when the funds are taken out of the account. The bank will send the $50 bonus as a direct deposit into your account. This $50 bonus is limited to one per household.

It seems that any checking account can qualify for this offer, even the Free Checking Account which does not have and monthly service fees.

This checking account bonus is only offered to the market coverage of First Tennessee. The online application form will ask for your zip code and it will not allow you to continue if you have a zip code outside their market area.

The bank has offices spread across Tennessee but they also operate branches in Mississippi, Arkansas, Virginia, and Georgia. The bank is insured with the FDIC through certificate number 4977.

The First Federal Bank headquartered in North Carolina gives their highest interest rate for their best checking account if the monthly requirements are satisfied:

4.50% APY for balances through $25,000
Deposits above $25K earns 1.01% APY
Base interest rate is 0.10%
ATM fees of up to $4.99 are refunded while $5 and over will require receipts

The best interest rate for the checking account can be enjoyed as long as the account holder satisfies the monthly requirements: complete 10 purchases using the debit card, make an ACH auto debit or a direct deposit, and use online banking at least once.

Interested consumers can open the checking account for a minimum of $50. The bank does not impose any balance requirements nor do they collect monthly service fees. An account holder can also use the online bill payment system for free.

You can access an online application. It seems it may be necessary to drop by a branch to complete the application.

First Federal Bank has offices spread across North Carolina. These branches are located in Fuquay Varina, Erwin, Clayton, Benson, Angier, and Dunn cities.

The bank doesn’t have a very impressive financial rating. Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial reviewed its performance and stamped their reports 2 stars and 3 stars, respectively.

First Federal Bank is insured by the FDIC with certificate number 31077.

Citizens First Bank headquartered in Iowa gives their highest interest rates for their reward checking account called Smart e-checking:

5.01% APY for deposits up to $25K
1.25% APY for balances above $25K
If monthly requirements are not met, the bank gives a base interest rate of 0.50%
ATM fees of as much as $25 incurred anywhere in the U.S. is refunded every cycle

The current interest rates of their best checking account can be enjoyed as long as the account holder can satisfy the monthly requirements: make at least 10 purchases using the debit card, complete 2 electronic transactions like bill pay or direct deposit, use online banking, and opt for electronic statements.

Interested consumers can open the checking account for an initial deposit of at least $100. The account gives you access to check writing, touchstone banking, and mobile banking. The bank does not charge monthly service fees and does not have balance requirements..

It seems that a branch visit is necessary to open this reward checking account. The bank has offices in Camanche and Clinton.

Citizens First Bank has some strong financial ratings. Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial both gave the bank 4 stars for soundness and safety. The ratings were based on their June 2009 collected data.

The bank is insured by the FDIC through certificate number 35477.

The South Division Credit Union offers members a high yield checking account called Freedom Green Checking that can earn as much as 4.01% APY for balances up to $25,000. Aside from the current interest rate, the bank also refunds ATM fees incurred nationwide for a max of $25 per cycle.

The best checking account with the credit union gives the highest interest rates if the account holders can meet the monthly requirements:

Make 12 signature purchases using the VISA debit card
Set up an ACH or a direct deposit for at least $250
Use online bill payment system
Receive e-statements

The checking account requires an initial funding of at least $50. You need to have a balance of $300 after six months to avoid a $6 service charge. The credit union does not charge any monthly fees and do not impose minimum balance requirements. Account holders also have access to STAR, CO-OP, and CASH AMERICA ATMs which are surcharge free.

South Division Credit Union welcomes individuals practically from all states with zip codes between 01000 and 99999. Children can sign up for the Kid’s Club; students (first checking and savings for students),; and adults can enjoy the benefits of full range of products. You can complete an online application and the credit union will contact you to complete the process.

The credit union has offices in Chicago, Midlothian, and Evergreen Park. Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial gives the credit union 4 stars for soundness and excellent performance. They based the financial ratings on their June 2009 data.

The union is insured by the NCUA and also covered privately by the ESI.

CharterBank gives their highest interest rate for their best checking account if account holders meet certain requirements on a monthly basis:

Balances through $25,000 earns 5.01% APY
Deposits above the $25K line gets 1.01% APY
If monthly requirements are not sufficed, base rate is 0.10% APY
Bank refunds ATM fees as much as $20 every cycle

This reward checking account can give you the best interest rates if you can complete at least 10 purchases using the check card, set up an automatic payment or a direct deposit, and opt for electronic statements every month.

The high yield money in the bank deal requires $50 for initial funding. The bank does not collect any monthly service fees nor do they impose any balance requirements.

When you go to the reward checking account page you can find an apply button which you can click to download the application form. You need to visit a branch to complete the process.

The bank has offices in Opelika, Auburn, and Valley in Alabama; Lagrange, Newnan, and West Point in the state of Georgia.

CharterBank has some mixed ratings with 2 stars being stamped by bankrate.com and 3 ½ stars coming from BauerFinancial for soundness and safety. These performance ratings were based on their June 2009 data.

The bank is secured by the FDIC under certificate number 30720.

Texas consumers have a money in the bank deal with Diamond Checking account offered by The First State Bank . The best checking account gives the current interest rates as long as the account holder meets the monthly requirements:

4.00% APY for balances through $25,000
Deposits above the $25K line gets 1.01% APY
The base interest rate is 0.25%
Up to $10 of ATM fees are refunded every month

The highest interest rates can be enjoyed if account holders can complete at least 12 purchases using the debit card, set up an ACH auto debit or a direct deposit, and opt for electronic statements sent to a valid email address. These are monthly requirements that must be met.

The high yield checking account only requires an initial deposit of at least $100. The bank does no collect monthly service fees nor do they impose balance requirements. The first order of checks is on the bank.

Interested individuals can open an account online. The First State Bank has branches in Sweeny, Blessing, Bay City, El Campo Ganado, Wharton, and Louise in Texas.

The bank received strong ratings from bankrate.com which issued 5 stars for soundness and safety. BauerFinancial gave 4 stars upon reviewing the bank’s performance. These figures were based on their June 2009 data.

The First State Bank is covered by the FDIC under certificate number 17588.

Incredible Bank , the new internet division of River Valley Bank, invites consumers to take advantage of their best checking account that has a high interest rate of 2.02% APY for balances through $250,000. Any deposit above $250K gets 1.00% APY. The interest rates are still posted as of November 18 but may change any time.

This high yield checking account is not a reward checking account but the current interest rate is comparable to the highest interest rates given to savings accounts. This checking account does not involve paper checks but everything is done electronically. Payments can be coursed through the free online bill payments system or by using the debit card.

Consumers who want to take advantage of the high interest rate money in the bank deal can open this checking account with an initial deposit of $1000. You can fund the account by sending in a check or by ACH transfer. You can also easily manage the account by initiating deposits or withdrawals via ACH at other banks. Account holders receive electronic statements on a monthly basis.

The bank does not impose balance requirements. The bank charges $5 for incoming wire transfers and $20 for outgoing domestic wires. Another plus is that the bank also reimburses ATM fees automatically.

Some of our readers have confirmed that the bank does a hard credit pull when you apply for this account.

Incredible Bank was just recently opened and everyone is wondering if they can keep the interest rates competitive. According to the CSR, the bank plans to keep the interest rates attractive but she doesn’t have information up to when it will last.

The bank is not that big with deposits amounting to $740 million. We have seen small banks able to keep the interest rates up but they usually hold the applications once they have reached their goals. If Incredible Bank can maintain the rates up then this might be a good long-term investment. The bank may be able to sustain since they cut the checking account costs by offering it as an electronic account without the paper checks and statements.

We also have contacted River Valley Bank to confirm if Incredible Bank is really affiliated with them. The mother company is headquartered in Wausau, Wisconsin. They operate about 18 offices in Michigan and Wisconsin.

River Valley Bank gets strong ratings from Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial. Both institutions stamped their reports with 4 stars for soundness and safety. The bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 19772.

North Carolina based Carolina Premier Bank offers their best checking account that gives the highest interest rates if the account holder meets certain monthly requirements:

5.00% APY for balances through $25,000
0.50% APY for deposits above $25K
Base interest rate is 0.50% if monthly requirements are not satisfied
ATM fees incurred anywhere in the U.S. is reimbursed

In order to enjoy the highest interest rate for this checking account, account holders must be able to do the following on a monthly basis:

Account holder must make at least 12 purchases using the debit card; amount must be at least $5 each
Set up an auto debit or a direct deposit
Complete at least one online bills payment
Choose to receive electronic statements

The bank also requires consumers to open another account with them to take advantage of the benefits of this money in the bank deal. You can maintain a certificate of deposit or a savings account to get the best checking account rates. The initial deposit required to open the checking account is as little as $200.

The bank does not impose any balance requirements nor do they collect any monthly service fees.

The website of the bank was down when we visited it so we confirmed this info through their customer service line. The CSR told us that customers can open the passbook savings account for $200 which has current interest rates of 2.10%. This account does not charge any monthly fees.

It is not typical for a reward checking account program to ask clients to open an additional account. The minimum purchase of at least $5 is also not very common. This puts a bit of pressure on the debit card holder to spend more but that is how banks come up with funds to keep the high interest offerings.

Interested individuals can drop by a branch to open this checking account. Their office is in Charlotte, North Carolina. Caroline Premier is a start up bank which was established in 2007. Bankrate.com gives the bank 3 stars for its performance based on their June 2009 data.

Carolina Premier Bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 58516.

South Carolina Bank and Trust is inviting consumers to take advantage of their Mad Money Checking account. This attractive money in the bank deal is their best checking account. It offers the following interest rates given that some monthly requirements are met:

3.25% APY for deposits through $25,000
Portions above $25K earn 0.05%
Base rate is at 0.05% given if conditions are not satisfied

Account holders must do the following to make most of the current interest rates:

Complete 10 purchases using the Visa debit card
Make a direct deposit or set up an auto draft for a third party
Opt for electronic statements over printed statements

The above requirements are waived for the first month.

Interested consumers can open this checking account for as low as $50. The bank does not require any minimum balance nor do they collect any service fees. Aside from the attractive interest rates, account holders also get free access to phone and mobile banking.

You can open multiple accounts but you must meet the requirements for each account to get the highest interest rate for this checking account deal.

It seems that a branch visit is necessary to open an account. The bank has offices in Walterboro, Orangeburg, Myrtle Beach, Lexington, Greenville, Fort Mill, Columbia, and Charleston in South Carolina.

South Carolina Bank and Trust is still running their Mad Money Mondays promo. You can open a checking account in specific branches on certain Mondays this November and you will get a cash bonus of $100.

The November schedule will be the following:

November 16

Hilton Head at 81 Main Street
Hilton Head at 5 Park Lane

November 23

Charleston at 46 Broad Street
Summerville at 402-D North Main Street
Mt. Pleasant at 1032 Johnnie Dodds Boulevard
James Island at 315 Folly Road
Moncks Corner at 317 North Highway 52

The bank has strong ratings for performance, soundness and safety. Both bankrate.com and BauerFinancial issued 4 stars when they reviewed the bank’s status using their June 2009 financial data. South Carolina Bank and Trust is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 13425.

The First Nebraska Bank pushes for their Real Checking account, a high yield checking account that has the following interest rates:

5.00% APY for deposits through $25,000
Funds above the $25K tier earns 0.50% APY
Base rate is at 0.25%
Reimburses ATM fees incurred anywhere in the U.S. of as much as $25 per cycle

This best checking account from First Nebraska requires for the following monthly requirements:

Account holder must complete 10 purchases using the Visa check card
Set up an automatic payment or a direct deposit
Receive e-statements

The bank only asks for an initial deposit of $25 to open the reward checking account. They do not collect any service fees and do not impose any requirements on minimum balance.

According to the customer service representative of the bank, consumers can open multiple accounts but you have to meet the requirements for each of the account to maximize the high interest rates.

You can start an application using the online form at the bank’s micro website. Interested individuals are still required to complete the process by visiting a branch.

First Nebraska bank operates offices in Stanton, Valley, Emerson, Decatur, Columbus, Brainard, and Arcadia.

The bank receives favorable financial ratings for soundness and safety. Bankrate.com stamped its performance with 5 stars based on their March 2009 data. BauerFinancial issued 4 stars using their June 2009 data during the evaluation. First Nebraska Bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 12248.

First State Bank invites consumers to take advantage of their high-yield checking account called First Reward Checking. The current interest rates for this money in the bank deal are as follows if the monthly requirements are met:

4.25% APY for balances through $25,000
Deposits above the $25K cap earns 1.01% APY
If the requirements are not met, the rates drop to 0.15%
Unlimited refund of incurred ATM fees anywhere across the country

Account holders must be able to complete at least 12 purchases using the Visa Check Card, set up an ACH auto debit or a direct deposit, and opt for electronic statements. These must be fulfilled every month.

This best checking account from First State Bank only requires $25 to open. The bank does not impose any minimum balance to maintain nor do they collect any monthly service charges. Individuals who want to open multiple accounts may do so but be reminded that you will only be able to enjoy the highest interest rates if you are able to meet the monthly requirements for each of the account.

Consumers can complete an application form posted on the bank’s website. You will still be required to go to one of their branches to complete the process.

The bank has several branches in Tennessee. They operate offices in cities like Nashville, Dresden, Hendersonville, Union City, Jackson, Lexington, Knoxville, and Dyersburg.

The financial ratings of the bank are a bit weak. Its performance report was stamped with 3 stars and 2 stars from BauerFinancial and Bankrate.com, respectively. These were based on their March and June 2009 data.

The bank has a long business history dating back to 1887. It is a member of the FDIC covered by certificate number 1479.

Northwest Savings Bank lists a checking account bonus on their website. Consumers who open a Switch Checking Account can get as much as $100.

This best checking account offered by the bank requires at least $100 to open. Account holders may qualify for the rewards checking account promo by setting up a direct deposit of at least $100 every month. The direct deposit may come from your social security, pension, paycheck, or any other source of your regular income.

The direct deposit must be executed by the account holder’s employer or by an outside agency. ATM deposits, account transfers, and funding coursed through a branch are not considered by the bank as direct deposits.

The bank will post the $100 checking account bonus to the account upon the verification of the direct deposit. This process usually takes within a week after verification of the funding. The $100 credit must be reported using form 1099.

We checked with the bank and the customer service said that their free checking account will qualify for this offer. This one does not have any service fees or monthly charges. The first booklet of check is on the bank. Take note that the bills payment will be free if you use it on a regular basis or at least once every month.

Northwest Savings Bank provides an online application form for interested consumers. The promo website states that even individuals outside the market area of Northwest may apply for this offer. You can also drop by one of their branches to open an account.

The bank has offices spread across Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 28178.

South Dakota consumers can still take advantage of the best checking account offered by Reliabank Dakota called Ultimate Checking that earns 4.07% APY for balances through $25,000 and 1.01% APY for balances above the $25K ceiling. The monthly requirements to earn these high checking account interest rates are the following:

Account holder must complete 12 purchases using the check card
Set up at least a direct deposit, auto debit through ACH, or bills payment
Opt for electronic account statements

If the above requirements are met the current base interest rate is 0.25%. This reward checking account requires an initial funding of at least $50. The bank does not impose any monthly service charges or balance requirements.

Interested individuals can open an account online. Aside from South Dakota residents, the bank accepts applications from outside their market coverage.

The current interest rate of 4.07% APY is one of the highest nationwide. On the $25K cap, there are only two banks giving higher interest rate: 4.30% APY at Royal Banks of Missouri and 4.51% APY at Bank of the Sierra.

The checking account offer has been on for a while but still check with the bank before signing for anything. Reliabank is not a big institution and often small banks tend to change the availabilities of their money in the bank promos. This year the trend has been for local banks to limit their offerings to their market coverage.

Another possibility we are looking at with these kinds of high interest checking account promo with small banks is that they will not reduce the availability of the product but decrease the interest rate they offer.

Reliabank has branches spread across South Dakota particularly in Hartford, Watertown, Hazel, Hayti, and Estelline.

The bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 16221.

The QNB Bank headquartered in Pennsylvania offers a great money in the bank deal through their eRewards Checking, their best checking account which gives the following interest rates if the monthly requirements are satisfied:

3.25% for balances through $25,000
Funds above the $25K line gets 1.01% APY
The base rate is at 0.15% APY given if the requirements are not met
Incurred ATM fees of as much $25 are refunded every cycle

Account holders can make most of the highest checking account rates if every month the following requirements are met:

Complete 12 transactions using the checking card
make a direct deposit or perform an ACH transaction
choose e-statements over printed statements

This checking account only needs $25 of initial deposit. According to the bank, they do not collect any service fees every month and they do not set a minimum for balance requirements. Having the checking account also gives account holders access to the bills payment service over the internet.

Interested consumers can apply for an account online. It seems that this is a local money in the bank deal in Pennsylvania since you will be asked for your zip code. The system rejects any zip code which is outside their market coverage.

QNB Bank has branches in Quakertown, Pennsylvania and proximate towns.

Based on their June 2009 financial records, Bankrate.com issued 4 stars when they reviewed the bank’s performance. BauerFinancial gave 3 stars for QNB’s safety and soundness.

The bank is a member of the FDIC.