Florida Central Credit Union is still pushing for their high interest checking account called Ultimate Checking Account which yields 4.50% APY for balances through $15,000 and allows free use of ATMs nationwide. Any deposit over $15K will earn 1.00% APY while the base interest rate is pegged at 0.10% APY given if the monthly requirements are not met.

You can enjoy the benefits of this best reward checking account with the credit union if you fulfill the following monthly requirements:

• Receive electronic statements
• Make at least 12 transactions using the check card
• Set up 1 direct deposit or auto debit via ACH

This best checking account does not collect any service fees every month nor do they maintenance of any minimum balance. The reward checking account gives you free access to online banking and bills payment system. You also get an overdraft privilege $300/$700.

Florida Central Credit Union was instituted in 1959 and was originally called Tampa Central Credit Union. The credit union offers its products and services to the greater Florida region exclusive to the southeastern portion.

Interested individuals can accomplish an online application to become a member and to open an account. You need to print the accomplished forms and send it to the credit union. You will need to include copies of your driver’s license and social security card, and that of the joint account holder if any. Once the application is approved, you will receive your account information through a packet that will be sent back to you.

If you have any questions with regard to the checking account or how you can join Florida Central CU. You can call them through 813-879-3333 or 1800-528-3330. You may also want to ask them with regard to any fees or other factors which may affect the earnings of your savings.

Florida Central Credit Union is a member of the NCUA.

Consumers in Louisiana have a money in the bank deal that they can take advantage of, Ouachita Independent Bank offers attractive interest rates for their OIB Reward Checking Account. The current interest rates are the following and you can benefit from them given you meet certain monthly requirements:

• 3.15% APY for balances through $25,000
• 0.51% APY for portions of the deposit above the $25K line
• 0.05% APY base interest rate if requirements are not met
• Refund of ATM fees incurred nationwide are unlimited

Account holders can enjoy the highest interest rates of this reward checking account given that they suffice the following monthly requirements:

• Complete 12 transactions using the debit card; ATM transactions do not qualify
• Setup an auto ACH debit or a direct deposit every qualifying cycle
• Opt for electronic statements

You can open the reward checking account with Ouachita for an initial deposit of at least $100. The bank does not collect any monthly service fees nor do they require any balance to maintain.

The account comes with a MasterCard check or debit card and free use of the online bills payment system.

The interest rates that we have here are still posted on the bank’s website as of May 14. It will be best to check for the latest figures before signing up for anything since they can be changed any time without notice.

Ouachita Independent Bank has several branches spread across Monroe, West Monroe, Bastrop, Shreveport, and Bossier in Louisiana. The bank is insured with the FDIC.

INOVA Federal Credit Union continues to push for their best reward checking account tagged as Ovation Checking. The high yield checking account earns 4.00% APY for balances through $20,000 given that account holders meet certain monthly requirements:

• Complete at least 15 purchases that are signature based using the debit card
• Set up a direct deposit of at least $200
• Opt for electronic statement
• Minimum balance of $1,500

The current interest rate is still listed on the upper right portion of the front page of the FCU’s website. You can see it as tab leading you to the information page about the Ovation Checking account. We can not find the interest rates for the deposits above $20,000 but according to the checking account page, it will be reverted back to whatever is the effective dividend rate for checking accounts.

Unlike other reward checking accounts, this one offered by INOVA does not mention anything about ATM fee refunds. You can use the ATM for fees via CO-OP network spread across the country or through Alliance One. Please take note that it will cost you $1 for using foreign ATMs and also when you make PIN-based purchases using your debit card.

Membership to the credit union is employment based or through affiliate organizations. You can check out their membership page to know more about the details on how you can sign up. You will also be able to click a link that says “Join Now” on the upper left portion of the web page. The link will bring you to an online application. This will also let you choose Ovations Checking account. The credit union will also require you to open a savings account for at least $5. If you want to know more about their products and services, you can contact them through 1800-826-5465.

INOVA FCU has several offices in Indiana particularly in Granger, Mishawaka, Michigan City, and Elkhart. They also have branches in several states like California (Berkeley), North Carolina (Clayton), New Jersey (Wayne and Morristown), Connecticut (Orange), and in New York (Tarrytown). They are also a member of the Credit Union Service Center which permits you to do transactions at offices of other credit unions across the country.

INOVA Federal Credit Union was instituted in 1942 and was originally created for the workers of Miles Laboratories. Miles was an independent firm until it transitioned to become a subsidiary of Bayer AG. It was eventually absorbed into the operations of the parent company.

The credit union received 2 stars from both Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial for its soundness and safety. INOVA FCU is covered by the NCUA through charter # 4968.

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union has some money in the bank deals for its members. One attractive deal is the $50 checking account bonus received as a gift card when you open a Green Checking account. The credit union will also give the account holder an eco bag as part of the checking account promotion.

The fine print on the promo page lists the requirements so you can qualify for the checking account promo. The Green Checking account requires the following to qualify for the $50 bonus:

• The Green Checking account must be a new account coming with a savings account as base
• Account holder must register for an online banking
• Use online bill pay
• Apply for an eStatement
• eNotice
• Setup a direct deposit
• Debit card

The Q&A also discloses that the account has $5 fee per month. This checking account maintenance fee can be waived if the account holder completes at least 5 transactions using the debit card, opt for an electronic statement, and use online banking.

This checking account does not require a minimum balance. Members can open the Green Checking account for a minimum of $50 aand it requires at least $5 into a savings account.

The bonus for this checking account is not great but you may also want to explore the certificate of deposit offerings of the credit union so you can make most out of the promo.

Membership to the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union is open for those who live, study, work, or worship in the Highland or Polk County which are both in Florida. The credit union requires a share savings deposit of $5. You can check out their membership page to see the full details about signing up.

MIDFLORIDA was instituted in 1954 as the Polk County Teachers Credit Union. It has expanded its reach through the communities of Polk and of the Highland county.

The credit union has some superior financial ratings. BauerFinancial issued 5 stars for its soundness and safety. Bankrate.com has not issued a report about the credit union for some reason. The bank has declared its assets amounting to $1.4 billion.

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union is covered by the NCUA through charter# 68600.

Flagstar Bank brings back the S.M.A.R.T Interest Checking where you can lock on a checking interest rate of 2.00% APY for balances through $100,000. The guarantee for this best checking account is now only for 3 months unlike the whole year guarantee during its previous run. An alternative to the offered interest rate is a $100 checking account bonus.

This checking account promotion requires the following:

• Open a new personal checking account
• Initial deposit should be at least $150
• Set up a direct deposit with $250 coming in every month
• Establish direct deposit within the first 60 days after account opening
• The offer is only good if the customer opens an interest checking account with Flagstar

The online application for the checking account promo, the system will ask for your zip code. If you are living outside GA, IN, or MI the system will prompt you to call 800-642-0039.

Flagstar Bank was hit hard by the bursting of the mortgage bubble back in 2007. The bank recently garnered some funds via sales of shares amounting to around $287 million. The financial ratings of the bank are still on the downside with Bankrate.com issuing 1 star for its performance while BauerFinancial stamped 2 stars for their soundness and safety. Be wise and stay within the FDIC limits.

The bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 32541.

NewAlliance Bank offers bonus of as much as $150 when you open a personal checking account and suffice some banking activities online. The checking account bonus is still posted on the promo page of the bank as of May 5. Here are some details about the checking account bonus:

• You can earn $25 for using your debit card for 10 signature transactions
• Set up a direct deposit and receive $500 of direct deposit to earn another $25
• Another $25 can be yours for enrolling with Bill Pay
• If you can do all of the three requirements above before 31 July 2010, the bank will double what you are supposed to get and give you $150

When you visit the checking account promo page, do not forget to read the small prints. Here are some important details you should not miss:

• Open a personal checking account for at least $50 on or before 30 June 2010
• The bonuses for the promo will be deposited to your NewAlliance checking account by 15 September 2010; it is not transferable and cannot be redeemed as cash
• This offer can be withdrawn by the bank any time
• The bank limits the bonus to $150 per household

Those with an existing checking account may also qualify for the bonus given that you have not received a direct deposit through your personal checking account as of March 2010, or you have less than 4 debit card transactions that are signature based, or you are not enrolled for Bill Pay as of the end of March 2010.

It looks like you need to visit on of their branches to open an account. They have branches spread across South Central Massachusetts and Connecticut.

The financial rating of NewAlliance Bank is quite strong. It got 5 stars from BauerFinancial for soundness and safety while Bankrate.com issued 4 stars for a very good performance. The bank has a declared asset amounting to around $8.4 billion.

The bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 18261.

Golden Plain Credit Union still offers their best reward checking account they call Golden Rewards Checking that has current interest rates as high as 6.01% AY for balances through $25,000. Funds above the $25K line earn 0.51% APY. The bank also refunds ATM fees of as much $25 every cycle as long as the account holder meets the necessary requirements.

The monthly requirements to enjoy the best checking account interest rates are the following:

• Complete at least 10 transactions using the Visa Check Card
• Opt for electronic statements
• use Golden Plains Online

The interest rates drop to 0.21% if the above monthly requirements are not met. This reward checking account deal is only open for members who are residents of Kansas. This top interest rate can be enjoyed with an initial deposit of at least $100. The credit union does not collect any monthly service fees.

The credit union also limits a member to have only one rewards checking account. The max is 2 for every household.

Membership to Golden Plains Credit Union is open to members of the Lee Richardson Zoo. The credit union collects a minimum membership fee of $25. Those who live in Kansan or in the Liberal Trade area are also eligible to sign up. You can check out their Membership Page to know more about the details of joining the credit union. Golden Plains require a savings account balance of at least $10.

Interested individuals can join the credit union and open an account through one of their branches.

Golden Plains Credit Union is covered by the NCUA through charter number 62542. It has declared assets amounting to around $212 million. They have a member base of about 40,000 individuals.

Synergy Bank is pushing for a high yield reward checking account called Kasasa Cash. This best checking account has the following current interest rates given that the account holder fulfills certain monthly requirements:

• 3.80% APY for balances through $25,000
• 0.80% APY for portions of the deposit above $25K
• Base interest rate of 0.10% if the monthly requirements are not sufficed
• Unlimited refunding of ATM fees incurred nationwide

You will be able to enjoy the best interest rates above if you are able to satisfy the following requirements every month:

• Complete at least 12 purchases using the debit card
• Make an automatic payment via ACH or set up at least one direct deposit
• Opt for electronic statements

Interested individuals can open an account with an initial deposit of$100. The bank does not require any minimum balance nor do they collect service fees.

The bank offers Kasasa Saver in tandem with the Kasasa Cash. This offer is good for those with deposits more than $25K. You can earn as much as 1.80% APY for balances through $25K, 0.80% APY for funds over the $25K line, base rate is 0.10%. You also need to meet monthly requirements to enjoy these best interest rates.

You can use the online application that you can find on Kasasa.com. It seems though that this deal is only good for Louisiana residents since only zip codes from that place are accepted by the system. It took zip codes from Shreveport (71101), New Orleans (70141, and Baton Rouge (70801).

Synergy Bank has branches in Gray and Houma, Louisiana.

The financial ratings of the bank are quire strong. BauerFinancial issued a 4-star report for its soundness and safety based on their December 2009 data. Bankrate.com stamped their performance report with 5 stars.
Synergy Bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 34978.

Coulee Bank still offers their reward checking account that offers competitive interest rates:

• 3.33% APY for deposits of up to $25,000
• 0.51% APY for portions of the funds above $25K

This checking account also reimburses ATM fees of as much as $20 every cycle. The interest rates drop to 0.10% if you do not meet the monthly requirements.

Account holders must suffice the following per cycle to enjoy the best interest rates:

• Make at least 10 point of sale purchases using the debit card
• Opt for an electronic statement
• Make direct deposit or an auto debit via ACH

You can open an account for $50 for an initial deposit. There is no reason to worry about monthly fees or for any balance requirements. There is an application that you can access on their website.

Coulee Bank has branches in La Crosse and Onalaska, Wisconsin. The bank is covered by the FDIC through certificate number 18361.

Britton & Koontz Bank, NA is pushing for their Smart Rate Checking which is high yield reward checking account that earns the best interest rates given that monthly requirements are met:

• 5.25% APY for deposits through $30,000
• 1.01% APY for portions of the funds above $30K
• Base interest rate of 0.10% when requirements are not met

The best checking account requires the following every month:

• Make 12 points of sale debit transactions
• Make at least one automatic debit or deposit
• Use online banking
• Opt for electronic statements

You can open multiple accounts but take note that you have to meet the requirements for each of the reward checking account.

We can not find anything about ATM fee reimbursements which could be one factor for the attractive interest rates.

Interested consumers need to visit a branch to open an account. They have offices in Vicksburg and Natchez in Mississippi. They also have a branch in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

BauerFinancial tagged their performance report with 5 stars while Bankrate.com stamped their report with 3 stars. These were based on their March 2009 data.

Britton & Koontz is insured with the FDIC with certificate number 4995.

MBT Bank is still offering their Ultra Checking account which is actually a reward checking account that offers among the best interest rates in the market given that the monthly requirements are met:

• 5.15% APY for balances through $25,000 (this is guaranteed until May 15, 2010)
• 1.01% APY for portions of the deposit above $20K
• 0.25% base interest rate if the monthly requirements are not sufficed
• ATM refunds of up to $15 per month

This best checking account is not on the bank’s website any more but we called the bank and we were able to confirm that they still offer the checking account to local residents.

The checking account has the following monthly requirements:

• Make at least 10 purchases using the debit card
• Set up an ACH automatic debit or a direct deposit
• Request for electronic statements

Interested consumers can open the reward checking account for $100 initial deposit. The bank does not collect monthly service fees and balance requirements.

If you are in the bank’s market area you can still grab this money in the bank deal. MBT has branches spread across Iowa particularly in the cities of Lake Mills, Clear Lake, Forest City, and Crystal Lake.

MBTBank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 16307.

The Westby Co-op Credit Union has a reward checking account that offers attractive interest rates. Given that you meet the monthly requirements, you can enjoy the following best interest rates:

• 3.55% APY for balances through $30,000
• 1.00% APY for portions of the funds above $30K
• Base interest rate is at 0.25% given when you don’t suffice the requirement in a given cycle
• ATM fees of up to $10 every month are refunded

This best reward checking account needs you to do the following every month:

• 10 Checkmate transactions that are signature based
• Make at least 1 direct or an automated transfer
• Use online banking
• Opt for electronic statements

The checking account does not require any minimum balance. The bank also does not collect any monthly service fees.

Westby accepts membership applications from individuals who work or live in Wisconsin counties of La Crosse, Iowa, Grant, Monroe, Juneau, Sauk, Crawford, Richland, and Vernon. You can check out their eligibility section to know the details with regard to membership.

The co-op credit union has offices in Cashton, Reedsburg, Viroqua, Richland Center, and Westby.

The ratings of Westby Co-op Credit Union are above average. BauerFinancial issued 3 stars for its performance. Bankrate.com gave the credit union 4 stars for its soundness and safety.

The credit union is covered by the NCUA through charter number 67208.

The Farmers State Bank offers their best reward checking account that has the current interest rates:

• 5.51% APY for deposits up to $25K
• 0.25% base interest rate if the monthly requirements are not met

This money in the bank deal called Go Green Rewards earns the best checking account rates given that the account holder meets the monthly requirements:

• Use the debit card from Visa to complete 10 purchases
• Set up at least one direct deposit
• Make at least 5 DDs for cellphone bills, utility bills, etc.
• Have 2 transactions through the ATM
• Use the FSB bills payment system to pay at least 1 bill

Interested individuals can open an account for a minimum deposit of $100. There is no monthly service charge. The bank also does not set any balance requirements. We can not see anything about ATM surcharges for reimbursement.

A branch visit is necessary to open an account. The Farmers State Bank has branches in Holton and Circleville, Kansas.

The bank has some above average financial ratings. Bankrate.com issued 3 stars for the bank’s soundness and safety while BauerFinancial issued 4 stars for performance.

The Farmers State Bank is insured with the FDIC since 1935 with certificate number 15258.

Residents of Washington and Idaho have a local money in the bank deal they can take advantage of. Inland Northwest Bank offers a high yield reward checking account that ahs the current interest rates:

• 4.01% APY for deposits through $25,000
• 1.01% APY for portions of the deposit above $25K
• Base interest rate of 0.20% given when monthly requirements are not satisfied

The best checking account has the following monthly requirements:

• Complete 12 purchases using the debit card
• Make one electronic withdrawal or deposit
• Opt for electronic statements

Interested consumers can open the checking account for $100. There are no requirements for minimum balance and maintenance fees every cycle.

You need to visit one of their branches to get this checking account. The bank has branches in the Idaho cities of Post Falls, Spirit Lake, and Coeur d’Alene. In Washington you can drop by their offices in Airway Heights, Spokane Valley, and Spokane.

The financial ratings of the bank are a bit weak. Bankrate.com only issued 2 stars for its performance. BauerFinancial stamped their soundness and safety evaluation with 3 stars. These were based on their June 2009 data. Given these ratings, it will be best to stay within the FDIC limits.

Inland Northwestern Bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 27601.

Harborstone Credit Union offers BreakFree Checking, a high interest reward checking account, which has some competitive interest rates given that the monthly requirements are sufficed:

• 3.00% APY for balances through $50.000
• 0.05% APY on portions of the funds above $50K
• Base interest rate is 0.05% if the account holder does not meet the monthly requirements
• Reimbursement of ATM fees incurred in any state

The earnings of the best reward checking account can be enjoyed if you make at least 12 purchases using the debit card from Visa. You also need to make at least 2 payments using the online bill pay system.

The current interest rates are still posted on the website of the bank but remember that these can be changed any time. Earnings of this account are compounded and credited on a monthly basis.

The reward checking account can be opened with an initial fundnign of $25. You do not have to worry about any balance requirements nor for any monthly service charge with this checking account. You also get free checks with his account.

Harborstone, headquartered in the state of Washington, accepts applications from individuals who work, worship or live in the state. Those who are retired members of the Coast Guard, Marine, Navy, Army, or the US Air Force are also eligible to sign up. Retired personnel of the civil service are also qualified to join regardless of their current residency. You can check out the membership page of the credit union to learn more of the details.

On the website, you can click an online membership if you want to apply. The credit union asks for a one-time signup fee of $5 plus a $25 deposit into a savings account.

Harborstone has offices in several cities in the Washington state. They have branches in Puyallup, Spanaway, Lakewood, Lacey, Gig Harbor, Fife, Bonney Lake, and in McChord AirForce Base.

The ratings for soundness and safety of the credit union are quite strong. Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial issued 4 stars for their report based on their June 2009 data. The credit union is covered by the NCUA through charter number 66399.

The First National Bank of Dieterich headquartered in Illinois invites consumers to take advantage of their high interest reward checking account called Prime Rewards Checking. The current interest rates are very competitive and can be earned as long as you meet the monthly requirements:

• 4.01% APY for deposits through $25,000
• 1.75% APY for portions of the fund above $25K
• 0.20% APY base interest rate if the monthly requirements are not met
• Refunds ATM fees incurred anywhere in the US

The interest rates for this best checking account can be enjoyed if you are able to fulfill the requirements every cycle:

• Make 10 purchases using the debit card
• Use online banking
• Opt for electronic statements

Interested individuals can open this checking account for an initial deposit of $25. The bank does not collect any monthly service fees and they do not impose any requirements for minimum balance. Like most of these money in the bank deals, it also give you access to their online bills payment system.

You can click a link to an online application on the Prime Rewards Checking webpage. Take note that this is a local reward checking account deal available only to residents of certain counties in Illionois like Coles, Cumberland, Clark, Crawford, Richland, Clay, Fayette, Shelby, Jasper, and Effingham.

First National Bank of Dieterich has offices in Effingham, Newton, and Dieterich.

The bank has some strong financial ratings. Bankrate.com issued 4 stars when it reviewed its performance. BauerFinancial meanwhile evaluated the bank’s soundness and safety and stamped their report also with 4 stars.

The bank is insured with the FDIC through certificate number 3787.

The Old Florida National Bank has a high interest reward checking account that offers their best interest rates given that the monthly requirements are satisfied:

• 3.04% APY for deposits through $25,000
• 0.50% APY for portions of the fund above $25,000
• Base interest rate is 0.50% APY
• ATM fees for up to 6 transactions per month are refunded

Account holders must be able to accomplish the following to enjoy the benefits of the high yield checking account:

• Complete 10 purchases using the debit card
• Make at least one direct deposit via ACH
• Use online banking to pay a minimum of one bill

This money in the bank deal does not require any monthly service fees and any minimum balance. The checking account also gives you free access to the online bill payment system. The account also does not pay more than ten paper checks every cycle.

You need to go to one of their branches to open this reward checking account. They have offices spread across Florida particularly in the cities of Orlando, Inverness, Apopka, Winter Park, Altamonte Springs, and Longwood.

The ratings of the bank are fair. Both bankrate.com and BauerFinancial gave the bank 3 stars for its performance, soundness, and safety. These were based on their June 2009 data.

The bank is covered by the FDIC since 1982 with certificate number 24244.

The Center National Bank headquartered in Minnesota offers a high yield checking account called Centers Rewards Checking. This money in the bank deal has the following interest rates as of last week given that the monthly requirements are satisfied:

• 4.11% APY for deposits through $25,000
• 1.01% APY for portions of the deposit above $25,000
• 0.25% base interest rate if the monthly requirements are not sufficed
• Unlimited refunds for ATM fees incurred nationwide

This best reward checking account has the following requirements:

• Use the debit card for at least 10 purchases
• Set up a direct deposit or an automatic payment via ACH
• Opt to receive electronic statements

The best checking account does not impose any monthly balance or monthly maintenance charges. It also does not have a requirement for minimum deposit when opening the account.

According to the customer service representative, it has been almost a year since Center National Bank offered this reward checking account. The 4.11% APY best interest rate was offered since the start but again this can be changed any time.

Interested individuals can open an account online but you still need to drop by one of their branches for signature verification and ID. The bank has offices in Plymouth and Litchfield in Minnesota.

The bank has some strong financial ratings. Bankrate.com issued 4 stars for the bank\s performance while BauerFinancial stamped their report with 5 stars for soundness and safety. These were based on their September 2009 collected data.

Center National Bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 10976.

HCSB, A State Banking Association still offers their best interest rates for their reward checking account. The best checking account has the following current interest rates:

• 3.26% APY for balances through $25,000
• 1.01% APY for deposits above $25K
• 0.05 base interest rate if account holder does not meet the monthly requirements
• ATM fees of up to $20 every cycle are refunded

You can enjoy the best interest rates of this money in the bank deal if you are able to complete the following monthly requirements:

• Complete at least 12 debit card purchases
• Set up an ACH automatic debit or a direct deposit
• Opt for electronic statements

Interested individuals can open an account with an initial deposit of $100. Before you have to drop by a branch to complete the process of opening this checking account but you can apply now via the CheckingFinder.com website.

The bank does not collect any service fees nor do they require minimum balance on a monthly basis. You also get free access to their online payment system.

HCSB has branches spread across the state of Texas particularly in Hart, Tulia, and Plainview. They also have offices in Fredericksburg and Kerrville.

The financial ratings of the bank are above average with Bauerfinancial tagging them with 3 ½ stars for soundness and safety. Bankrate.com issued 3 stars for upon reviewing their performance.

The bank is insured with the FDIC since 1934 through certificate number 14562.

Take note that HCSB is not HSBC. The bank was originally known as the Hale County State Bank operating in West Texas and then they went on business in Hill Country State Bank. We have included the “a State Banking Association” to avoid any confusion. You can check out the About Us page of the bank to know more about the company.

BancorpSouth Bank offers attractive interest rates for their best checking account called Performance Checking. The current interest rates are a bit lowered compared to the previous years but are very competitive compared to the money in the bank deals with other banks. The balance ceiling too is better than average at $30K.

This local reward checking account is also being offered by a bank with about 289 branches across the Southeast. The interest rates may vary for every state this deal is offered:

• 3.25% APY for balances through $30K in Tyler, TX and Baton Rouge, LA
• 3.00% APY for balances through $30K for Huntsville, AL and Destin, FLO

You might not be able to see the checking account interest rates right away. Interested individuals will be able to see the rates when you start with the online application. You need to click on the application, go through choosing your state, city, and then click on the link for performance checking and you will see the interest rates for this checking account.

The reward checking account requires that you satisfy the following monthly requirements to enjoy the best interest rates:

• Make at least one ACH creditor debit in the form of an automatic payment of bills, or a direct deposit
• Complete at least 12 debit card purchases
• Opt for an online statement
• Enroll for an internet banking access

The bank also refunds ATM fees incurred when you use non-BancorpSouth ATMs. They refund the service charged for using your BancorpSouth ATM and puts in $2.00 for each of the first 5 ATM transactions on a non-BancorpSouth machine. The rate drops to the standard going on interest rates if you do not meet the monthly requirements. Any deposit above $30K also gets the standard rate.

You can open the Performance checking account for as low as $500. The bank does not collect any monthly service fees and they do not require any minimum balance to maintain.

Other perks you get include free debit card, online statement, and internet banking.

Another good feature is that you can combine this with the Performance Savings account which you can open for only $25. As of March 11 it has a competitive savings account interest rate of 1.50% APY. You can also get a combo statement for the checking and savings account. Take note though that you can only enjoy the best savings account rates when you get it with the checking account.

Although there is an online application it appears you need to be near a branch to open an account. Most of BancorpSouth offices are located in Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessees, Alabama, and Mississippi. They also have some branches in Missouri, Florida Panhandle, and East Texas.

BancorpSouth Bank has some strong financial ratings. Both bankrate.com and BauerFinancial issued 4 stars for soundness and safety.

The bank is covered by the FDIC with certificate number 11813.

PriorityOne Bank invites consumers to take advantage of their rewards checking account that offers the best interest rates given that certain monthly requirements are met:

• Earn 3.50% APY for balances through $25,000
• Earn 0.50% APY for portions of the deposit over $25,000
• Base interest rate is 0.10% if the monthly requirements are not met
• Bank gives ATM fees incurred nationwide

In order to enjoy all the benefits of their high interest checking account, the account holder must be able to do the following every month:

• Complete 10 purchases using the debit card
• Make at least one direct deposit, bill payment, or automatic payment
• Use online banking
• Opt for electronic statements over paper statements

Interested individuals can open an account for a minimum deposit of $50. The bank does not collect any monthly service fees and they do not impose any balance requirements. They also give you a free access to their online bills payment system. Another interest checking bonus is that you can get a $25 for surrendering debit cards and checks from your old bank.

This offer is only good for the local market area of the bank in Mississippi. You need to drop by a branch to open this checking account. The bank has offices spread across the state particularly in Morton, Mendenhall, Magee, Pelahatchie, Pearl, Richland, Brandon, Hattiesburg, Seminary, and Collins.

The financial ratings of PriorityOne are quite strong. Bankrate.com issued 4 stars for its performance while BauerFinancial stamped their soundness and safety report with 5 stars. These ratings were based on their September 2009 data.

PriorityOne Bank is covered by the FDIC since 1975 through certificate number 21906.

SunTrust Bank is still offering their best checking account bonus of up to $150 if you open a new checking account with them and use their Bill Pay online.

The promo page for the checking account bonus is still up and it outlines how you can get the $150 bonus:

1. You need to provide your email address so SunTrust can sen you an email of a step by step guide on how you can open an account and get the $150 checking bonus.

2. Once you open a personal checking account, you need to register it on suntrust.com/solid by April 30, 2010 at the latest

3. Account holders must make at least 3 bill payments via online banking within two months after opening the checking account

4. Once you have completed the above steps, SunTrust will deposit $50 into the registered checking account until about 10 weeks after the last payment is processed

You will be able to get the next $100 checking account bonus if you suffice the following requirements:

1. Qualify for the $50 bonus

2. Make at least 3 payments for the next 3 consecutive months using your SunTrust checking account registered for the promo

3. The additional $100 will be deposited to your checking account within 10 weeks after your last bill payment transaction for the promo

We were able to speak with the customer service that they only do a soft credit pull when you open an account. We also have confirmation from some of our friends that they just do a soft pull. You really don’t have to worry then if you are avoiding dings on your credit score.

SunTrust is a big financial institution with about $125 billion in deposits. The bank has branches spread across several states including Washington DC, West Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Mississippi, Maryland, Georgia, Florida, Arkansas, and Alabama.

The bank received a downgrading from Standard & Poor due its losses in 2009 as an effect of its exposure to the real estate crash and the aftereffects of unemployment.

The ratings of the bank now are a bit weak with 3 stars coming from BauerFinancial and 1 star from Bankare.com for soundness and safety. SunTrust is a member of the FDIC with certificate number 867.

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.