Full Chase ecosystem: Sapphire credit cards, Chase Mortgage, Chase Invest, auto loans
Strong mobile app with Zelle, Apple Pay, and digital banking features
Cons
$12/month fee requires meeting a waiver condition — no-strings-attached free checking options (Ally, Capital One 360) are simpler
Savings account rates well below online-first banks — do not use Chase savings for your emergency fund
Out-of-network ATM fees apply — $3 per transaction at non-Chase ATMs
No ATM fee reimbursement for non-Chase ATMs
Chase Total Checking requirements
US resident with SSN/ITIN
At least 18 years old
ChexSystems check standard — available in all US states
Chase Total Checking alternatives
Ally Interest Checking(Ally Bank) — Online-primary banking users who want a $0-fee checking account that earns interest and reimburses ATM fees. Read reviewGet started at Ally Bank →
Capital One 360 Checking(Capital One Bank, N.A.) — Consumers who want a no-fee checking account with the option for occasional in-person banking at a Capital One location. Read reviewGet started at Capital One Bank, N.A. →
Discover Cashback Debit(Discover Bank) — Debit card users who want cash-back rewards typically only available on credit cards. Read reviewGet started at Discover Bank →
Bottom line
Chase Total Checking — The largest US branch network — 4,700+ branches, 16,000+ ATMs, full Chase ecosystem. Best for: Consumers who want branch access, already use Chase credit cards, or need a mortgage/loan relationship at a single major bank.. Compare it against alternatives before applying; the right fit depends on your situation, credit, and goals.
Questions about Chase Total Checking
What is the monthly fee for Chase Total Checking and how do I waive it?
Chase Total Checking carries a $12 monthly service fee, waivable by: (1) receiving $500+ in direct deposits per statement period; (2) maintaining a $1,500 minimum daily balance; or (3) maintaining an average daily balance of $5,000 or more across linked eligible Chase accounts. Most employed adults with direct deposit qualify for waiver #1. Verify current waiver conditions at chase.com — terms can change.
Is Chase Total Checking FDIC insured?
Yes. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. is an FDIC-insured institution and one of the largest banks in the US. Deposits are insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per ownership category. Verify FDIC status at fdic.gov.
Are there Chase ATM fees?
Transactions at Chase-owned ATMs are free for Chase Total Checking customers. Out-of-network (non-Chase) ATMs may charge a $3 Chase fee plus any fee from the ATM owner. Chase does not reimburse out-of-network ATM fees on the Total Checking account. Verify current ATM fee policy at chase.com.
How we rate
Every pick gets a 1–5 ClearValue Rating computed from four weighted factors: Editorial confidence (30%), Cost (25%), Value (25%), and Accessibility (20%).
Scored consistently across every product and independent of any compensation. Full methodology →
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