Commonwealth Bank & Trust Company invites consumers from the states of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky to take advantage of their best checking account program which allows account holders to get a $150 checking account bonus.

The checking account bonus can be achieved in installments of $15 given for every bill payment you make. This bonus checking account deal is valid for new Extreme Checking account clients.

The bank requires that the account must be open for at least 2 months to qualify for the bonus. They also limit the offer to one bonus per individual. The maximum checking account bonus is $150 which must be reported to the IRS.

Interested consumers can open an account for as low as $100.

The extreme checking account has been on for quite some time now. It has the following current interest rates if certain monthly requirements are sufficed:

• 4.50% APY for balances through $25,000
• 1.01% APY for deposits above $25K
• Base interest rate of 1.01% APY if the monthly requirements are not met

This reward checking account requires that you make 10 purchases using the debit card, have a direct deposit or automatic payment, and sign up for electronic statements. These are monthly requirements.

Interested individuals can open an account online. According to the bank, they only do a soft credit pull when you open an account with them. If you have questions about their products and services, you can contact the bank through 1866-840-2661.

This is a good grab since it is rare to find a high yield reward checking account that comes with a bonus offer.

Commonwealth Bank and Trust Company has branches in Simpsonville, Anchorage, Shelbyville, and Louisville. The ratings of this bank are quite strong. Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial stamped their performance report with 4 stars.

The bank is indexed with the FDIC with certificate number 10146.

Pacific Mercantile Bank based in California is pushing for their Premium Interest Checking account which is a high interest reward checking that has the following interest rates:

• 2.00% APY for balances between $1,500 and $100K
• 0.40% APY for deposits below $1,500 and above $100K
• ATM fees of as much as $25 for up to 8 transactions are waived every cycle

Take note that the current interest rates for this best reward checking account has blended earnings ranging at 0.40% APY for $1,500 fund and 2.00% APY for a cap of $100K.

The monthly requirements for this checking account are as follows:

• 5 debit transactions to pay a third party
• One of the 5 transactions should be done through bill pay over the internet for a minimum of $25
• Make one deposit

According to the customer service of the bank, the reward checking account will be converted to their regular checking account if the monthly requirements are not met. This regular checking account has current interest rates of 0.10% APY. There will also be a monthly service fee of $10 if your balance falls below $1,500.

The interest rates that we have here are still posted on their website as of February 12. This may be changed any time without notice. If you want to check with the bank, you can call them through 877-450-2265.

Interested individuals must visit one of their offices to open an account. They have branches spread across California particularly in the cities of Ontario, San Juan Capistrano, Newport Beach, Long Beach, La Jolla, Costa Mesa, and Beverly Hills.

The financial ratings of the bank are a bit weak. Both BauerFinancial and bankrate.com issued 2 stars for its below peer performance. It will be wise to stay within the limits of the FDIC. The bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 34940.

Adams Bank & Trust offers a very attractive money in the bank deal through their SuperSmart e-checking program. This best reward checking account has the following interest rates:

• 4.00% APY for balances through $35,000 which is a guaranteed rate until May 31, 2010
• 2.00% APY for funds above $35K
• 0.20% base interest rate in case you don’t meet the monthly requirements
• Up to $10 of ATM fee reimbursement every month

The best interest rates of this reward checking account can be enjoyed if you meet the following monthly requirements:

• 25 signature or PIN based purchases using the debit card
• One direct deposit or payment via ACH
• Sign up for e-statements

This checking account requires an opening deposit of at least $100. There is a $7 membership fee every month you don’t meet the requirements.

If you think the 25 debit card purchases is too much for you, the bank can offer the Smart e-Checking for you which has easier monthly requirements but of course lower interest rates:

• 2.00% APY for deposits up to $25,000
• 1.00% APY for portions of funds above $25K
• 0.15% base interest rate if the requirements are not met
• Refund of ATM fees up to $10 per cycle

The monthly requirements for this checking account are:

• 15 purchases using the debit card(signature based or PIN based)
• 1 direct payment or direct deposit
• Opt for electronic statements

This Smart e-Checking does not have a monthly membership fee in case you do not suffice the requirements of the account.

It seems that branch visit is necessary to open an account. They have offices in Colorado and Nebraska.

The requirement on the heavy use of a debit card is two faced. Bad side of it is that it is very rare for reward checking programs like this to ask for more than 10 debit card transactions every cycle. It is also not quite usual to charge a monthly fee if the monthly requirements are not met by the account holder. On the good note, this strict requirements will push the account holder to use his checking account more often and help the bank keep the attractive interest rates for a longer period of time.

The ratings of this bank are impressive. Both bankrate.com and BauerFinancial issued 4 stars for soundness and safety. The bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 18489.

Bank of Agriculture and Commerce headquartered in California is pushing for their best reward checking account called Ultimate Checking. This best checking account offers the following interest rates:

• 3.09% APY for funds through $25,000
• Regular checking account rate for deposits above $25,000
• Regular checking account rate if the account fails to meet the monthly requirements
• ATM reimbursement of up to $2 every transaction

The benefits of this reward checking account can be enjoyed if you meet the following requirements:

• Make 10 purchases using the debit card
• Set up a direct deposit
• Pay a bill online
• Log in to online banking
• Opt for electronic statements over traditional paper statements

This money in the bank deal requires an initial deposit of at least $100. You do not have to worry about maintaining a certain daily balance or any monthly service charges. The first order of your checks is also on the bank.

Interested individuals can complete an application online. The form though says that this checking account offers is only good for residents of Contra Costa, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin which are counties of the state of California.

The interest rates being offered by the bank is a bit low compared to its competition. Most banks also do not have bills payment as a requirement. On the positive note though, they add another option for consumers who want to have a good investment for the future. There are not many credit unions and banks in California which offer reward checking accounts.

The bank has offices in the different cities of California particularly in Modesto, Lodi, Discovery Bay, Oakley, Concord, Brentwood, Antioch, and Stockton.

The financial ratings of the bank are impressive with both bankrate.com and BauerFinancial giving it 4 stars for performance, soundness, and safety.

The bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 19434.

The Citizens & Northern Bank still offers their e-z Money Checking account which is actually a high yield rewards checking account that can earn the following interest rates if you meet the monthly requirements:

• 2.50% APY best interest rate for balances through $25,000
• 0.50% APY for funds which are above the $25K line
• Base interest rate of 0.10% given if the requirements are not sufficed

In order to enjoy the high yield of their best checking account, the bank requires the following:

• Set up a credit or debit transaction via ACH
• Make 10 purchases at least using your Visa Check card
• Use a valid email address and sign up for electronic statements

The bank does not collect any service fees for this checking account and they do not have any minimum balance requirements. You also get to use their bill payment system online for free.

Aside from the offered interest rates for this money in the bank deal, they will also refund ATM fees of up to $20 every month if you meet the monthly requirements.

You don’t have to worry if you apply towards the end of the month since you will be automatically qualified to receive the higher interest rates. Your ATM fees for the first month of the account will also be not subjected to the monthly requirements.

Interested individuals can open an account by accomplishing the application form online. The bank though will still require you to visit one of their branches to complete the process. The bank will ask for two IDs and they will require one to have a picture of you for verification purposes.

The rates have fallen slightly for this reward checking account but they remain to be very competitive. Take note that this has a variable interest rate so the numbers may change any time.

Citizens & Northern Bank has several branches spread around Central Pennsylvania. They have offices in Knoxville, Laporte, Coudersport, Port Allegany, Williamsport, Emporium, and Athens.

The bank’s ratings are a bit weak so it will be safe to stay below the limits of the FDIC. Bankrate.com issued 2 stars for performance based on their June 2009 collected data. BauerFinancial stamped their soundness and safety report with 3 stars based on their data September of last year.

The bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 7799. The bank is under the umbrella of Citizens and North Corporation. The mother company also holds First State Bank of New York.

Commercial Bank headquartered in TN and KY offers a high interest reward checking account through their Hometown Rewards Checking that has the highest interest rates:

• 3.01% APY for deposits through $25,000
• 0.51% APY for funds above $25K
• 0.05% base interest rate if requirements are not sufficed
• ATM fees are refunded every cycle

You can enjoy the benefits of this best reward checking account if you are able to make at least 1o purchases using the debit card and set up a direct deposit or automatic payment every month.

The best checking account from Commercial Bank requires a $100 opening deposit. The bank does not impose any balance requirements and they do not charge any monthly fees. You will also be able to use their bill payment online.

Interested individuals need to drop by a nearest branch to open an account. The have offices spread across Tennessee and the state of Kentucky. Some of these branches are located in the cities of Barbourville, Cumberland, Luttrell, Kingsport, Harrogate, and Pineville.

The interest rate posted on the bank’s website has an old date but we have spoken to a customer service representative and were told that these are still in effect. The figures may change any time so it will be best to contact the bank prior to signing up for anything. If you have questions about their products and services you can call them through 423-869-5151.

The rating of the bank is satisfactory with BauerFinancial giving it 3 ½ stars for performance and Bankrate.com issuing 3 stars for soundness and safety.

The bank has been indexed with the FDIC since 1976. They are covered through certificate number 22354.

Aspire Federal Credit Union offers a very attractive money in the bank deal through their best reward checking called Kasasa Cash. The current interest rates can be enjoyed when you suffice certain monthly requirements:

• 3.51% APY for deposits up to $25,000
• 1.01% APY for the funds above $25K
• Refunds ATM fees of as much as $25 incurred nationwide

You can enjoy the best interest rates of this high yield reward checking account if you fulfill the following:

• Complete 12 debit card purchases
• Set up a direct deposit or make at least one automatic payment
• Sign up for electronic statements

The best checking account from the credit union can be opened for as low as $50 initial funding. They do not require any minimum balance to maintain and do not collect any monthly service fees. You also automatically qualify for the interest rates for the first month of the account. You also get free access to their bills payment system.

This checking account is not listed on the Aspire website but is still posted on the website of Kasasa . You can watch the video there to get a glimpse of its features and benefits. This offer is offered to all zip codes.

The First ROI and BancVue are the main companies pushing for the reward checking account. When you click on the Aspire FCU application on the Kasasa page, it will take you to the page of Andera which is commonly used for online applications. From there you can sign up for membership to the credit union and open the Kasasa Cash account.

You can check out the membership page of Aspire FCU to check if you are eligible to join. It seems they are not that strict since they encourage you to choose from the drop down menu of organizations and join whichever interests you. Aspire Federal Credit Union asks for a share savings deposit of at least $5. You can call the credit union through 888-322-3732 and choose option 1 or through 1800-995-3666. They also have a very helpful live chat representative.

This credit union is the former FAA Eastern Region Federal Credit Union. Some of the branches of the credit union are in FAA facilities which are not open to everyone. Aspire has offices in Virginia, New York, New Jersey, and New Hampshire.

The financial rating of Aspire FCU is above average with 4 stars for soundness and safety coming from BauerFinancial based on their September 2009 data. Bankrate.com stamped their performance report with 3 stars. The credit union is covered by the NCUA through charter number 5800.

First City Bank headquartered in Florida still offers their best reward checking account. The checking account interest rates have fallen but they remain to be very competitive. The current interest rate is 3.01% APY for deposits through $25,000 and 1.25% APY for anything above that cap.

This best reward checking account also refunds ATM fees of as much as $25 per cycle if you meet certain monthly requirements. Every month, you need to complete 10 transactions at point of sale using your check card, enroll for online banking, and have a direct deposit or at least one ACH debit.

The best checking account interest rates fall to 0.10% if you do not meet the monthly requirements.

Interested individuals can open an account for as low as $100. First City Bank does not collect any monthly fees and they take care of the first order of checks so you don’t have to pay for them.

Other perks with the account are the usual free stuffs like direct deposit, online bills payment, online banking, and telephone banking. It also comes with free notary service and one consultation session about wealth management.

It seems this money in the bank deal is offered nationwide. There is an online application that you can use. All you have to do is give some basic information then the bank will mail to you a packet including a signature card which you need to complete and send back to them.

Another option if you want to open an account is by visiting one of their branches. They have offices in Fort Walton Beach, Destin, and Mary Esther in Florida. You can also give the bank a call through their toll free number 888-244-5151.

It will be best to ask for any fees which may affect the earnings of your deposits. The interest rates that we have here are still posted on their website as of February 11 but they can be changed any time without notice.

First City Bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 16748.

BBVA Compass Bank offers up to $150 worth of checking account bonus when you open a new checking account with them. This money in the bank deal is available in the states of Texas Florida, New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and Alabama.

The checking account bonus program allows a new account holder to earn the first $75 by using the Online Bill Pay system. The next $75 requires a direct deposit. If you are interested, you must open a checking account with the bank by February 28, 2010.

Here is how you should go about this best checking account promo to earn the online bill payment $75 bonus:

• Open a Compass checking account and register for Online Bill Pay on or before February 28.2010
• For the first 3 months after account opening, pay a minimum of 5 bills online every month
• Basically you get $25 for each month you use the system to pay your bills up to a total of $75

Take note of the fine prints. Online payments of your bills must be made to a 3rd party and should be $25 at least to be qualified for the checking account bonus. Each $25-part of the bonus will be deposited to your checking account within 3 months after your fifth qualified online bills payment of every month.

The other $75 for Payroll Direct Deposit can be achieved this way:

• Upon opening of the checking account (by February 28) you should also sign up for the Payroll Direct Deposit
• Set up the first direct deposit to your checking account within the first month upon opening
• The $75 bonus will be credited to your account within 4 months after the first recurring set direct deposit

This checking account requires an opening fund of at least $25. It is also limited to new checking account households. With regard to the bonuses, the bank limits a max of $150 per bonus or 1 individual per household participating in the promotion. The checking account bonuses are usually paid every last banking day of the month. You will also be required to income tax reporting.

Although the bank has opened a branch in California, they still do not offer this checking account bonus in that state since they haven’t transitioned over the operations of the acquired Guaranty Bank. If you are from California and want to check out this deal, it might be worth a phone call to the bank.

Also take note that before, Compass has been known to make hard credit pulls when you open an account. BBVA Compass is indexed by the FDIC and covered through certificate number 19048.

Cross Keys Bank headquartered in Louisiana offers their best checking account called Gold Key Rewards Checking. This high yield checking account gives the following interest rates given that you suffice some monthly requirements:

* 4.05% APY for deposits through $25,000
* Any funds above $25K earn 1.00% APY
* Base interest rate is 0.10% given if requirements are not satisfied
* Up to $25 ATM fees incurred in any state can be refunded every cycle

The highest interest rates for this checking account can be enjoyed given that the following requirements are met:

* Account holder must complete at least 12 purchases using the Visa Check Card
* Receive a direct deposit or set up an auto debit via ACH
* Enroll in internet banking
* Opt for electronic statements

Interested consumers can open an account for as little as $100. The bank does not charge any monthly fees and do not oblige customers to maintain a certain minimum balance. The bank limits this reward checking account to one for every primary account holder.

You can find an online application form on their website. You can also checkout CheckingFinder.com and this program is listed. We tag this as a national deal since it accepts all zip codes upon application. This might be changed any time without notice.

Cross Keys Bank has offices in Waterproof, Talluhah, St. Joseph, Sterlington, Rayville, Monroe, and West Monroe.

The bank has excellent ratings for soundness and safety. Bankrate.com issued 4 stars while BauerFinancial gave the bank 5 stars.

The bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 9322.

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.