No-Fee Chequing Accounts: Discover the Best Options in Canada
In Canada, both traditional and digital banks have evolved to better serve their customers, including no-fee chequing accounts.
Known as “no-fee chequing accounts” or “no-fee bank accounts,” these accounts offer practically all the services of a regular bank account but without the traditional monthly fee.
This type of account is ideal for those who want to avoid bank costs without giving up essential services. Discover more in the content below!
How Do No-Fee Chequing Accounts Work?
No-fee chequing accounts in Canada operate similarly to conventional accounts but with the benefit of no monthly maintenance fee.
Customers can usually enjoy services like transfers, bill payments, deposits, and withdrawals, depending on each bank’s policies.
Some accounts also offer advantages such as free interbank transfers and ATM usage. However, it’s important to note that each bank provides a specific set of services, varying by financial institution.
Therefore, it’s essential to review what each no-fee bank account offers, as some banks may charge for specific services, such as international transfers, even without monthly fees.
How to Open a No-Fee Chequing Account
Opening a no-fee chequing account is a straightforward process. For many digital banks, everything can be done online by filling out a personal information form and verifying identity.
To open a no-fee chequing account, applicants must reside in Canada and, in most cases, be at least 18 years old.
Although some digital banks don’t have physical branches, it’s possible to carry out all transactions directly through their app or website.
Required documents for opening a no-fee bank account include photo identification, proof of residence, and, in some cases, a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
After approval, customers can start using their account, and some banks offer welcome bonuses or incentives for new users.
Top No-Fee Bank Accounts in Canada
We’ve listed the main no-fee chequing accounts available in Canada, along with their pros, cons, and what each one has to offer.
EQ Bank
EQ Bank is known for its modern, digital approach to banking services. With the no-fee chequing account offered by EQ Bank, customers have access to free transfers, deposits, bill payments, and competitive savings interest options.
Pros:
- No monthly maintenance fees
- Free Interac e-Transfers®
- Interest earned in the chequing account, which is rare among banks
Cons:
- No physical branches
- ATM fees may apply, depending on the network
EQ Bank is ideal for those who want to centralize their banking and savings without paying extra fees.
Simplii Financial
Simplii Financial is the digital brand of CIBC, one of Canada’s major banks. The no-fee chequing account from Simplii provides comprehensive services, including free ATM withdrawals at CIBC ATMs.
Pros:
- Free withdrawals at CIBC ATMs
- No monthly fee
- Linked credit card options with rewards
Cons:
- Fees for withdrawals at other ATMs
- Support only online or by phone
Simplii Financial is a good option for those who want easy access to CIBC ATMs but don’t need in-person support.
Tangerine Bank
Tangerine is a division of Scotiabank, and its no-fee chequing account is among the most popular in Canada. Tangerine’s no-fee chequing account allows free transfers and bill payments and offers access to Scotiabank ATMs.
Pros:
- Free withdrawals at Scotiabank ATMs
- Intuitive and user-friendly digital interface
- Incentive programs for new customers
Cons:
- Fees for out-of-network ATM withdrawals
- Limited in-person support to some centers
With Tangerine, customers enjoy the security of a large bank combined with the innovation of a fintech.
Neo Everyday
Neo Financial, a Canadian fintech, offers Neo Everyday, a no-fee chequing account combining banking services with rewards. This account provides cashback at partner stores, as well as free transfers and payments.
Pros:
- Cashback at selected purchases
- No monthly fee
- 100% digital interface
Cons:
- No physical branches
- Cashback limited to specific partners
Ideal for those who want a digital experience with reward benefits but don’t require in-person support.
Alterna Bank
Alterna Bank is known for its no-fee chequing and savings accounts. Its no-fee chequing account allows free transfers and withdrawals at a wide network of ATMs.
Pros:
- No maintenance fees
- Access to a wide network of ATMs
- Integrated investment options
Cons:
- Limitations on out-of-network withdrawals
- Online-focused support
Alterna Bank is a good choice for those looking for a free chequing account with investment options.
Motusbank
Motusbank, a digital credit union, offers a no-fee chequing account with free transfers and ATM withdrawals.
Pros:
- No monthly fee
- Interest on chequing account
- Personalized credit union service
Cons:
- Limited to a 100% digital experience
- Fees for out-of-network ATMs
Motusbank is ideal for those seeking a digital cooperative bank and interest-earning chequing options.
Advantages of No-Fee Chequing Accounts
No-fee chequing accounts offer significant benefits for those looking to save and avoid bank fees. Key advantages of no-fee chequing accounts include:
- Savings: Avoiding monthly maintenance fees results in significant annual savings.
- Ease of Opening: Accounts are quickly and easily opened without bureaucracy.
- Technology: Digital banks and fintechs invest in intuitive apps and websites for easy account management.
- Accessibility: Some banks integrate with services like Interac e-Transfer® for convenient transfers.
However, some no-fee bank accounts may charge fees for specific services like out-of-network ATM withdrawals or priority support. Each customer should assess their banking profile before selecting the most advantageous account.
Tips for Choosing the Best No-Fee Chequing Account
To select the best no-fee chequing account, consider factors such as ATM network, transfer and payment options, reward programs, and support.
Likewise, remember that free ATM access is essential for frequent withdrawals. Make sure transfers and payments are not charged.
Some accounts offer cashback or points, which may be interesting for those who make frequent transactions. However, for those who prefer in-person support, digital banks may not be the best option.
No-fee chequing accounts are a great option for residents in Canada who want to save on banking fees without compromising essential services.
Whether you prefer a fully digital bank or a larger, more traditional bank, there are various no-fee bank accounts available, such as those offered by EQ Bank, Simplii Financial, Tangerine, Neo Financial, Alterna Bank, and Motusbank.
Evaluate each option to choose the no-fee chequing account that best suits your profile and enjoy the benefits of a no-fee chequing account!
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