How to apply for a U.S. Bank account
Subtitle: You can either select the SmartlyTM Checking account, which offers rewards and essential features, or go for a Safe Debit account to maintain financial control.
How to Open a U.S. Bank Account
If you’re interested in opening a checking account with U.S. Bank, here are the steps you need to follow.
U.S. Bank offers two options:
- The U.S. Bank Smartly Checking account requires a minimum opening deposit of $25 and comes with a monthly maintenance fee of $6.95.
- The U.S. Bank Safe Debit Account is an online banking experience that provides a debit card and access to online and mobile banking. However, it does not offer paper checks, and it has a non-negotiable monthly fee of $4.95.
If you choose the U.S. Bank Smartly Checking account, you can waive the monthly fee by meeting certain criteria:
- Being age 24 or younger, or age 65 or older.
- Being a member of the military.
- Signing up for monthly direct deposits of $1,000 or more.
- Maintaining an average account balance of at least $1,500.
- Having a balance of $20,000 or more, which qualifies you for one of the elevated tiers of the account’s Smart Rewards™ program. This program offers benefits such as higher interest rates on savings and waivers of ATM fees charged outside of U.S. Bank’s network.
It’s worth noting that U.S. Bank operates in 26 states, so before considering it as a banking option, make sure your state is on the list.
How to Get Started?
To apply for a U.S. Bank checking account, go to their website and complete the online application. You must be 18 years or older and a legal U.S. resident. You’ll need the following information:
- Your Social Security number.
- A valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, state or military ID).
- A minimum opening deposit of $25 to activate your account (payable with a credit, debit, or prepaid card, a transfer from another U.S. Bank account, or a transfer from another financial institution).
How to Contact Customer Service
If you need assistance or technical support, U.S. Bank offers customer service at 1-800-USBANKS (872-2657). They will connect you with the right banker to help you.
Choosing Between Wells Fargo and U.S. Bank
When deciding between Wells Fargo and U.S. Bank, both are well-established institutions with a wide reach. However, Wells Fargo operates in 37 states compared to U.S. Bank’s 26 states.
While both banks offer various checking account options, Wells Fargo makes it easier to avoid monthly fees compared to U.S. Bank. U.S. Bank requires larger direct deposits to earn a no-fee checking account.
Overall, Wells Fargo is the preferred choice for most consumers. However, if you’re a teen or a senior citizen, U.S. Bank’s options may be better suited for you.
To learn more about Wells Fargo’s checking accounts, click the button below.
