BECU does not require you to link a checking account to a savings account

You can open a BECU checking account on its own. BECU (Boeing Employees Credit Union) will not force you to open or maintain a savings account at the same time. Many credit unions do bundle products this way, but BECU treats checking and savings as separate accounts you can choose independently.

That said, BECU does have some account requirements that explore to checking accounts specifically — things like minimum balance thresholds or monthly fees depending on which checking product you choose. Those requirements exist whether you have a linked savings account or not.

Key Takeaways

  • BECU checking accounts can be opened without a savings account; the two products are separate.
  • Different BECU checking account types have different monthly fees and minimum balance requirements, so compare the options before you open.
  • You will need to meet BECU membership requirements first, which typically means living or working in Washington state or having a family member who is already a member.
  • If you want to avoid monthly fees, look for BECU's checking products that waive fees when you meet a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

BECU membership comes before opening any account

Before you can open a checking account at BECU, you have to become a BECU member. BECU is a credit union, not a bank, so membership is a separate step from account opening.

Membership requirements vary slightly, but generally you need to live in Washington state, work for certain employers (particularly Boeing and related companies), or have a family member who is already a BECU member. If none of those explore to you, BECU also offers membership through community organizations in some areas — you can call BECU directly at 1-800-233-2328 to ask whether you are may be able to access through an organization membership.

Once you are a member, you can then open a checking account. Membership itself does not cost money, but individual accounts may have monthly fees depending on the account type.

Comparing BECU checking account types and their costs

BECU offers more than one checking product, and they have different fee structures. The most common are a standard checking account and a premium checking account. The differences usually come down to monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance requirements, and what perks (like check orders or ATM fee reimbursement) are included.

Some BECU checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a certain minimum balance — often $500 to $1,000, depending on the account type. Others waive the fee if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck. A few accounts have no monthly fee at all, though these may have other trade-offs like limits on the number of transactions per month.

The specific account types and their fees change over time, so the best way to compare is to visit BECU's website or call them directly. When you call, ask specifically about which checking accounts have no monthly fee or which ones waive fees most easily — that way you can choose based on what fits your situation.

Opening a checking account without a savings account

When you explore for a BECU checking account, you will fill out an process form either online, by phone, or in person at a BECU branch. The process asks for basic information: your name, address, Social Security number, and employment or income information.

At no point in this process will BECU require you to open a savings account. If the process mentions savings accounts, it is offering them as an option, not a requirement. You can decline and proceed with checking only.

If you are unsure during the process process, you can ask the BECU representative directly: "I want to open checking only — do I need a savings account?" They will confirm that you do not.

What you need to bring or provide

To open a BECU checking account, you will need to provide a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) and your Social Security number. If you are opening the account in person, bring the ID with you. If you are opening online or by phone, you will enter the information into the process.

You may also be asked for proof of your current address — a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement usually works. Some applications ask about your employment or income, particularly if you want to waive fees through direct deposit. Have your employer's name and your pay frequency ready if you plan to set that up.

Setting up direct deposit to waive fees

If your BECU checking account has a monthly fee, one common way to waive it is by setting up direct deposit — having your employer deposit your paycheck directly into the account. This usually needs to happen within a certain window after you open the account, often 30 to 60 days.

To set up direct deposit, you will need your BECU account number and routing number, which BECU will give you once your account is open. You then provide these to your employer's payroll department, and they will arrange for your paycheck to go directly into the account.

If you do not have an employer or do not receive regular paychecks, ask BECU whether other recurring deposits (like government benefits or regular transfers from another account) count toward the direct deposit requirement. Some credit unions accept these as alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to open a savings account to get a BECU checking account?

No. BECU will let you open a checking account without a savings account. The two are separate products, and you choose which ones you want.

What if I do not meet BECU membership requirements?

Ask BECU about community organization membership. Some employers, unions, and nonprofits have partnerships with BECU that make their members may be able to access. Call 1-800-233-2328 and describe your situation — they can tell you whether you may have access to through an organization.

Can I avoid the monthly fee on a BECU checking account?

Yes, usually through direct deposit or by keeping a minimum balance. The exact requirement depends on which checking account type you choose. Compare the options before you open so you know which fee waiver method works for you.

How long does it take to open a BECU checking account?

Online applications usually take a few minutes to complete, and your account can be active the same day or within one business day. In-person applications at a branch are also quick. Phone applications may take slightly longer because the representative is walking through each question with you.

Can I link my BECU checking to savings later if I change my mind?

Yes. You can open a savings account at any time after your checking account is open, and you can link them together for transfers and bill pay. Linking is optional — you control whether your accounts are connected.