First Bank's checking account fees and minimums
First Bank offers checking accounts with no monthly maintenance fee, but the specifics depend on which account you open. The bank operates in multiple states—primarily the Southeast and Midwest—and account terms can vary by location and the specific product you choose.
The most common First Bank checking product is their basic checking account, which carries no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement to open. However, First Bank does charge fees for certain actions: overdraft fees, out-of-network ATM fees, and fees for stopping payment on a check. The overdraft fee structure varies, so you should confirm the current amount with your local branch or the bank's website, as these fees change periodically.
If you maintain a relationship with First Bank—such as having a savings account, credit card, or loan with them—you may see fee waivers or reductions on some services. Ask your branch directly about relationship discounts, as these are not always advertised online.
Key Takeaways
- First Bank's basic checking account has no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance to open an account.
- The bank does charge overdraft fees and out-of-network ATM fees, so you should review the fee schedule before opening.
- First Bank operates primarily in the Southeast and Midwest, so availability depends on your state.
- Having other products with First Bank—savings, loans, or credit cards—may reduce or waive certain fees.
How to find First Bank's current fee schedule
First Bank publishes a fee schedule for each account type, but the document is usually available only at a branch or through their website's account disclosures section. The fastest way to get accurate information is to call your local First Bank branch or visit in person, since fee structures can differ between states and change without broad announcement.
When you call or visit, ask specifically about overdraft fees, ATM fees, and whether any fees are waived if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance. Some branches offer promotions that waive fees for the first few months, so it is worth asking what is currently available in your area.
Overdraft protection and fees
First Bank offers overdraft protection, which means the bank can cover a transaction that would otherwise bounce your account into negative territory. However, using this protection costs money. Each overdraft typically triggers a fee, and if your account stays negative for several days, you may face additional daily fees.
You can link a savings account to your checking account to cover overdrafts automatically, which may cost less than an overdraft fee—or nothing at all, depending on the bank's current policy. Some customers choose to opt out of overdraft protection entirely, which means transactions will straightforward be declined if you do not have funds. Ask your branch which option makes sense for your situation.
ATM access and out-of-network fees
First Bank has ATMs throughout its service area, primarily in the Southeast and Midwest. If you use an ATM that does not belong to First Bank, you will typically pay a fee—both the out-of-network fee charged by First Bank and a fee charged by the ATM operator's bank.
The total cost of using an out-of-network ATM can range from $2 to $4 per transaction, depending on the ATM location and operator. If you frequently need cash, locate First Bank ATMs near your home, work, and regular destinations to avoid these fees. You can find ATM locations on First Bank's website or through their mobile app.
Direct deposit and account features
First Bank checking accounts come with a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access. Setting up direct deposit of your paycheck or other regular income may may have access to you for fee waivers or account perks, though this varies by location and current promotions.
Online bill pay is included with most First Bank checking accounts at no extra charge. You can also set up automatic transfers between your First Bank accounts. These features do not cost extra, but confirm with your branch that they are included in your specific account type.
Comparing First Bank to other banks in your area
First Bank's no-monthly-fee structure is common among regional banks and credit unions, but the real cost difference comes from overdraft fees, ATM fees, and minimum balance requirements. Before opening an account, compare First Bank's overdraft fee amount to what other banks in your area charge—the difference can add up quickly if you occasionally overdraw.
If you live in a First Bank service area, you have access to their branch network and ATMs, which is a real advantage over online-only banks. However, if you travel frequently or live outside their service region, an online bank or a bank with a national network might cost less in ATM fees over time.
What happens if you close your account
First Bank does not charge a fee to close a checking account, but you should give the bank time to process any outstanding checks or automatic payments before closing. Contact your branch to close the account, and ask them to confirm that no pending transactions remain.
If you have a negative balance when you close, you will still owe that amount. The bank may send you a bill or attempt to collect through other means, so settle any overdraft before closing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does First Bank offer a student checking account with lower fees?
Some First Bank locations offer student checking accounts with reduced or waived fees, but this varies by branch and state. Contact your local branch to ask whether a student account is available and what fees it includes or excludes.
Can I avoid overdraft fees by opting out of overdraft protection?
Yes. If you opt out, transactions will be declined when you do not have sufficient funds, and you will not be charged an overdraft fee. However, a declined transaction may still trigger a fee from the merchant or your employer, so this is not always a cost-free solution.
What is the minimum deposit to open a First Bank checking account?
First Bank's basic checking account requires no minimum deposit to open. However, some promotional accounts or premium checking products may have opening deposit requirements. Ask your branch what deposit, if any, is needed for the specific account you want to open.
Does First Bank reimburse out-of-network ATM fees?
Standard First Bank checking accounts do not reimburse out-of-network ATM fees. Some premium or relationship-based accounts may offer reimbursement, so ask your branch whether fee reimbursement is available to you.
Can I use First Bank ATMs if I live outside their service area?
No. First Bank ATMs are only in their service region. If you live outside the Southeast or Midwest, you will pay out-of-network fees for every ATM withdrawal, making First Bank less practical as your primary bank.