Wells Fargo Checking Accounts Stand Alone

Yes. You can open a checking account at Wells Fargo without a savings account. Wells Fargo does not require you to bundle them together, and you are not forced into a package deal. You walk in, open a checking account, and that is what you get.

The confusion usually comes from the fact that Wells Fargo offers many account combinations and packages—some of which pair checking with savings, some of which add investment services or credit cards. But the checking account itself is a standalone product. You can have just that one account and nothing else.

Key Takeaways

  • Wells Fargo checking accounts can be opened alone without a savings account or other products attached.
  • Different checking account types have different monthly fees, minimum balances, and features—choose the one that fits your situation.
  • You can open a checking account online, by phone, or in a branch, and you will need an ID and Social Security number.
  • If you already have a Wells Fargo savings account, you can add a checking account to the same customer profile without closing anything.

The Checking Account Types Wells Fargo Offers

Wells Fargo has three main checking accounts: Everyday Checking, Preferred Checking, and Premier Checking. Each one is a separate product you can open on its own.

Everyday Checking is the basic option. It has a monthly maintenance fee (currently $10 in most states, though this varies), but the fee is waived if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. You get a debit card, online banking, and bill pay. No savings account required.

Preferred Checking is the mid-tier option and typically carries a higher monthly fee. It includes things like higher ATM reimbursement limits and priority customer service. Premier Checking is the premium tier with the highest fee and the most perks. Again, neither requires a savings account.

The fee structure and minimum balance requirements change periodically and sometimes vary by state or region. Before you open an account, ask a Wells Fargo representative or check their website for the current terms in your area.

How to Open a Checking Account Alone

You have three ways to open: online, by phone, or in a branch. Online is usually the fastest.

If you go online, you will need your Social Security number, a valid ID, and basic information like your address and date of birth. You will choose which checking account type you want. You will not be asked to open a savings account, and you will not see a requirement to do so. Once you finish, your account opens when ready or within one business day, and you can use it right away.

If you call Wells Fargo or visit a branch, a representative will walk you through the same questions. Again, they will not require a savings account. If a representative suggests you open one, you can decline. Your checking account alone is a complete, valid product.

What Happens If You Already Have a Wells Fargo Savings Account

If you already bank at Wells Fargo and have a savings account, you can add a checking account to your existing customer profile. You do not have to close the savings account, and the two accounts will be linked under one login. You can move money between them easily online or at an ATM.

Some people do this on purpose—they keep savings separate from checking for budgeting reasons. Wells Fargo makes this straightforward. You can open the checking account in the same way as above, and it will attach to your existing account number and online banking setup.

Monthly Fees and How to Avoid Them

Everyday Checking has a $10 monthly maintenance fee in most places, but Wells Fargo waives it if you meet one of these conditions: keep a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500, depending on your state), set up direct deposit, or maintain a linked savings account with a certain balance. You only need to meet one condition.

If you do not meet any of these, you will pay the fee every month. Some people choose to pay it because they value the account features or the branch access. Others look for a different bank with no monthly fee. That is a choice you make based on your situation.

Preferred and Premier Checking have higher fees and higher minimum balance requirements. Read the fee schedule for your state before you commit.

Debit Card, Online Banking, and Basic Features

Every Wells Fargo checking account comes with a debit card, online banking access, and bill pay. You can set up direct deposit, receive ACH transfers, and write checks (though you have to order checks separately, usually for a small fee). You get access to Wells Fargo's ATM network and can withdraw cash at any of their branches.

If you use ATMs outside the Wells Fargo network, you will be charged a fee by the other bank, and Wells Fargo may charge you a fee as well. Preferred and Premier Checking offer higher ATM reimbursement limits, which is one reason people choose those accounts.

What You Cannot Do With Just a Checking Account

A checking account alone does not give you a savings vehicle. If you want to earn interest on money you are not spending, you would need a savings account or a money market account. Wells Fargo offers both, but they are separate products you would have to open separately.

A checking account also does not include investment services, credit cards, or loans. Those are different products entirely. If you want any of those, you would explore for them separately, and approval depends on your credit and financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to open a savings account with my checking account?

No. Wells Fargo allows you to open a checking account alone. You can open a savings account later if you want to, but it is not required to open or maintain a checking account.

Can I avoid the monthly fee on Everyday Checking?

Yes, if you keep a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or link a savings account with a certain balance. If you do not meet any of these, you will pay the monthly fee. Check your state's current requirements on Wells Fargo's website.

What if I want to close my savings account but keep my checking account?

You can close your savings account without closing your checking account. They are separate products. If you were using the savings account to waive the checking fee, you will need to meet one of the other fee-waiver conditions (direct deposit or minimum balance) to avoid the monthly charge.

Can I open a Wells Fargo checking account online right now?

Wells Fargo allows online account opening, but the exact process and timing depend on your state and current system availability. Visit Wells Fargo's website or call them to confirm the current process and how long it takes to set up your account.

What do I need to open a checking account?

You will need a valid ID, your Social Security number, and basic personal information like your address and date of birth. You can open online, by phone, or in a branch.