While it’s great that Synovus Bank doesn’t charge you a monthly maintenance fee, it’s also a noninterest-bearing account. It’s probably best for those who intend on using this an account for daily use or don’t plan on keeping a lot of money in it.

All checking accounts come with bill pay and online and mobile banking. You also get a Visa check card that you can add to Apple Pay®, Google Pay™ or Samsung Pay®. You can use this card to access Synovus Bank ATMs, as well as over 1,190 surcharge-free ATMs through the Publix Presto! network.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Free Checking account

You’ll need to head a branch to open an account. You’ll most likely need to provide your state-issued ID and Social Security number to do so.

If you’re looking for more from a checking account, this could be a good choice for you. The rates could change depending on whether you have multiple accounts with Synovus Bank. The rates aren’t advertised on the bank’s website, so it’s best to call to find out the current ones.You may also get bonus rates depending on your average daily balance amounts. If you can maintain $15,000 across your deposit, loan and credit card accounts, you can earn an extra 0.05%. For those who can reach a $25,000 average daily balance across Synovus Bank accounts, you can earn a 0.15% bonus rate.

Other features of the account include free standard checks, up to four ATM withdrawal refunds a month and online and mobile banking. You’ll also get discounts such as 50% off designer checks and safe deposit box rentals. The Visa Platinum check card comes with benefits such as purchase security and lost luggage insurance.

The monthly maintenance fee seems steep considering there are no-fee accounts out there, but you can get it waived in a variety of ways. You can either maintain a $5,000 minimum average balance in the Preferred Account, a $15,000 average daily balance across your deposit, loan and credit card accounts, or $25,000 if you want to include your CD or IRA accounts.

If you do end up paying the monthly maintenance fee, you can knock off $2 if you’re registered for e-statements and online and mobile banking. You also can waive monthly fees on two other Synovus checking or money market accounts. To do so, you’ll need to contact the bank.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Preferred Account

To open a Preferred Account, you’ll need to head to a branch. Synovus Bank will likely ask you for a way to fund the account, proof of ID and your Social Security number. To find out more, call customer service at 888-796-6887.

This account is for those who are at least 55. The cool part is you can get some savings compared to the Preferred Account — perks such as a lower monthly maintenance fee and free notary services. You also get a box of standard checks for free and other benefits such as zero liability protection with your Visa check card. You do earn some interest with this account, but it isn’t advertised on its website, meaning you’ll need to contact Synovus Bank for details.Like the Preferred Account, you can waive the monthly maintenance fee with the Gold Checking account. To do so, you’ll need to maintain a minimum average daily balance of $1,000 or have at least $500 in monthly direct deposits each month. If you registered for e-statements and online and mobile banking, you can get a $2 credit each month if you are paying the monthly maintenance fee.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Gold Checking account

You’ll need to go to a branch to open an account. To find out more, call customer service at 888-796-6887, but you’ll most likely be asked to bring documentation such as your Social Security card and state-issued ID.

The Military Interest Checking account is only for active duty, retired or reserved personnel, which can include Department of Defense civilians. Account holders can get their first order of standard checks for free, e-statements and online and mobile banking. You’re not charged ATM fees and can get up to five out-of-network ATM refunds a month.Although there is a monthly maintenance fee, you can get that waived if you make a monthly direct deposit of at least $1 from your Defense Finance and Accounting Service paycheck. If you sign up for e-statements and Synovus digital banking, you can get a $2 credit toward your monthly maintenance fee — that is, if you need to pay it for any given month.

One more thing: You do earn interest, but the rates aren’t available on its website. To find out the rates, it’s best to contact Synovus Bank.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Military Interest Checking account

Show up at a Synovus Bank location to open an account. You’ll most likely need to provide funds to open the account, your Social Security number and proof of employment.

This account is a simple savings account that’s best for those who don’t want to worry about minimum balance amounts and are interested in getting ATM access. If you have a checking account, you can link your savings account and access your funds using your Visa check card. Otherwise, when we contacted Synovus Bank on Oct. 22, 2018, customer service mentioned you can request an ATM card. Either way, you have access to over 1,190 surcharge-free ATMs through the Publix Presto! ATM network.

Other features include bill pay, e-statements and online banking. Federal Reserve Regulation D allows up to six certain withdrawals a month, but Synovus Bank will charge you $3 each time you go over two withdrawals in a month.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Signature Personal Savings account

To open a Signature Personal Savings account, go to a Synovus Bank location. You’ll be asked for information such as your name, address and Social Security number, but you can call customer service 888-796-6887 to find out.

The Minor Savings account is available to those younger than 18 (or 19 if you’re not married and residing in Alabama) who agree to have a parent or guardian as the joint owner. There is no ATM access, which Synovus Bank told us when we contacted it on Oct. 22, 2018. Once the minor reaches adulthood, this will be converted to a Signature Personal Savings account.

You don’t need to pay any fees unless you end up making more than two withdrawals a month. Go over that amount and you’re looking at $3 per withdrawal.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Minor Savings account

You and your child will need to head to a branch to open an account. You’ll both likely need to bring a state-issued ID and Social Security card. You’ll also need a method to fund the account.

If you’re after a savings account dedicated to your short-term savings goals, the Holiday Savings account is an option. Think of it like a certificate of deposit where you set aside money for a specific amount of time — in this case annually — and set automatic deposits to the account until the period is up. Synovus Bank will then automatically deposit your balance into your checking account, or you can have a check mailed to you.

Unfortunately, the rates aren’t advertised on the website, so you’ll need to do your own research and call Synovus Bank to find out. And, yes, you can take money out anytime, but you’re looking at a $5 fee each time you do so. Also, federal Regulation D allows you up to six certain withdrawals a month, meaning your account could be converted to a checking account if you continually make excessive withdrawals.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Holiday Savings account

Like all the other accounts so far, you’ll need to head to a branch to open this one. You may need to bring along items such as your Social Security card and state-issued ID.

The fixed-rate CDs have a wide variety of terms — anywhere from less than three months to five years or more. Unfortunately, the rates aren’t advertised, including the current promo rates that require a higher minimum opening deposit. To find out, you can call customer service at 888-796-6887 or stop by one of Synovus Bank’s branches.

The interest you earn for the CD is compounded daily and credited monthly, though you can request other options. These CDs renew at maturity, though you can make changes during the 10-day grace period such as making additional deposits and withdrawals or renewing for another term.

How to get Synovus Bank’s CDs

The only way to open a Synovus Bank CD right now is to head to a branch. Documents you may need to bring include your Social Security card and state-issued ID, as well as funds to open the account. It’s probably best to call customer service at 888-796-6887 before you go.

The Signature Money Market account offers higher APYs the more you have on deposit, though you’ll need to contact customer service since the rates aren’t advertised on Synovus Bank’s website.

There is a monthly maintenance fee, but you can waive it if you can either maintain a $1,000 minimum daily balance or $2,500 average daily balance. We found out when we contacted the bank on Oct. 22, 2018, that you also get limited check-writing capabilities, as well as free notary services and online and mobile banking.

Since this is considered a savings account, Regulation D allows up to six certain withdrawals a month. Otherwise, you’re looking at a $15 excessive transaction fee for each withdrawal you go over.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Signature Money Market account

You’ll need to head to a branch to open a Signature Money Market account. Like other deposit accounts, you’ll most likely need your Social Security number and state-issued ID to open one.

The Premium Money Market account could offer higher rates, though you’ll need to contact Synovus Bank because they aren’t advertised on the website. But with higher rates comes a higher cost — a much bigger minimum opening deposit amount. This could be limiting for many, especially those who don’t have that much money sitting around. It’s something to consider before opening any money market account.

You don’t get ATM access but there are limited check-writing capabilities, according to an Oct. 22, 2018, conversation with customer service. You also get online and mobile banking access. As for the monthly maintenance fee, you can get that waived if you can maintain either a $20,000 average daily balance or a $10,000 minimum daily balance in your account. You’re also allowed up to six certain withdrawals a month thanks to Regulation D. You could be paying a $15 excessive transaction fee for each withdrawal one go over.

How to get Synovus Bank’s Premium Money Market account

To open the Premium Money Market account, go to a Synovus Bank location. You may be asked to provide your Social Security card and state-issued ID, so it’s best to be prepared.

Synovus Bank’s IRA CD accounts are essentially the same as the regular CDs, except they’re either tax-sheltered or deferred. You may also be limited to how much you can contribute per year because of IRS regulations.

You can choose from a wide range of terms, though to find out the exact rates you’ll need to contact Synovus Bank. As for the interest, it’s compounded daily and credited either to your account annually or at maturity. The IRA CD will automatically renew unless you make changes during the 10-day grace period. This can include making withdrawals or additional deposits or renewing it for another term.

How to get Synovus Bank’s IRA CDs

You can open an account by going to a Synovus Bank location. It’s best to call customer service at 888-796-6887 to make sure, but you’ll most likely need to provide your Social Security number and a state-issued ID.

Access Checking may be a basic checking account, but the fee structure is high and a bit complicated. For an account that doesn’t have extensive features or pay interest, the monthly maintenance fee is astoundingly high.

Access Checking includes standard features such as ATM access, free online access and bill pay, and it even throws in additional perks such as a rate discount on a home equity line and a free savings account. However, if you agree to both eStatements and the suppression of paper statements, you only get a $2 discount on the high monthly fee. With many other banks, eStatements are enough to waive the fee altogether.

To drop the Access Checking fee to $0, you must meet one of the following qualifications: keep a minimum daily balance of $1,000.00; have a direct deposit; be a full-time college student; be a business owner with a Comerica business checking account; be a member of the U.S. military; or be a Comerica Platinum Circle Checking household.

This account also has a high overdraft fee that increases with the number of occurrences.

The high-priced and convoluted fee structure found in Comerica Bank’s Access Checking account continues with the bank’s interest-bearing Rich Rewards Checking Account. With this account, the monthly fee is even higher, and the hurdles to get the fee waived are commensurately higher as well. The increasing overdraft fee structure is also in place with this checking account.

Although Rich Rewards Checking pays interest, the rate is extremely low. The account does come with additional service enhancements, however, including the following:

• A waiver of the first-year, $65 annual fee on a home equity line, along with a 0.25% APY discount
• A 0.50% APY discount on a home equity loan
• A 0.50% APY discount on non-real estate installment loans
• Enhanced interest rates on new-money CD and IRA deposits
• Up to $50 off the cost of a safety deposit box rental, with an additional $5 discount with autopay

As with Access Checking, Rich Rewards Checking comes with a free savings account as well.

Premier Checking offers the same benefits as the bank’s Rich Rewards Checking account, with a few enhancements. Notably, Premier Checking offers another rate bump on CDs with maturities of one year or longer, along with free Comerica Advantage-style checks and a waiver of overdraft protection transfer fees. While the account has a small minimum opening deposit, the fee is another step higher than that on the Rich Rewards Checking account, and it can only be waived with large balances in this or other Comerica Bank accounts. The interest rate is not tiered and is noncompetitive as well.

Comerica Bank’s Platinum Circle Checking account is the queen bee when it comes to accounts at the bank. Unlike many banks, there’s actually no monthly maintenance fee for this top-level account; however, if you can’t maintain the significant required balances in the account, your account may be converted to a Rich Rewards Checking account, thereby disqualifying you from all of the benefits of the Platinum Circle account.

One of the main benefits of this account is that it qualifies account holders for higher interest rates on CDs and in the High-Yield Money Market Investment account. Other features, on top of those offered by the other checking accounts at the bank, include the following:

• A Statement Savings account and a High-Yield Money Market Investment account for no monthly fee
• Waived overdraft protection transfer fees
• Free Comerica Bank checks of any style
• A free checking account for a household member
• A dedicated customer service number
• Discounts on certain residential mortgage closing costs
• Professional investment, insurance and banking services

This account also pays the best checking account interest rates at the bank, although they still remain low.

How to get Comerica Bank’s checking accounts

As mentioned above, only the Access Checking account can be opened online. Other account types can only be opened at a Comerica Bank branch.

Statement Savings is a basic savings account, with features you’d expect from most entry-level accounts. A Comerica Bank ATM card gives you 24-hour access to Comerica ATMs, although you’ll pay a fee for non-network machines. The high overdraft fees of the bank’s checking accounts apply to the savings account as well. After six debit transactions per month, Comerica Bank will charge a $5 fee per additional transaction.

As with any HSA, Comerica Bank’s Health Savings account can only be opened by individuals with a HSA-qualified, high-deductible health plan, or via rollover from another HSA. Per IRS rules, contributions may be tax-deductible, and distributions can be tax-free when used for qualifying medical expenses. Unlike come corporate-sponsored health plans, there is no “use-it-or-lose-it” provision with an HSA; balances can be maintained regardless of the change in calendar.

How to get Comerica Bank’s savings accounts

The Statement Savings account can be opened online using the application on the bank’s website. To open a Health Savings account, you’ll have to contact the bank directly.

Fixed-Rate CDs at Comerica Bank have a complicated payment structure. Each maturity is broken down into eight payment tiers, between $1 and $500,000, although each tier currently pays the same APY for each maturity.

If you have a Rich Rewards Checking account, you’ll earn more on maturities of longer than one year; rates increase even more if you have a Premier Checking account. Customers with a Platinum Circle Checking account earn the highest rates of all.

The bank offers a wide range of maturities, from seven days to 10 years. Interest is generally paid or compounded monthly, except for terms of seven to 29 days, where interest is paid at maturity. Maturing CDs automatically renew for the same term at the then-current rate. The grace period to withdraw funds after maturity is three days, for maturities of less than 30 days, and 10 days for longer maturities.

Comerica Bank’s Flexible-Rate CDs come in a single maturity of one year. Rates are tiered, but the APY paid doesn’t vary much between tiers — and it’s extremely low across the board. The main advantage of this CD is the ability to add money to it at any time, in increments of $100 or more, and its flexible withdrawal structure.

Unlike most regular CDs, the Flexible-Rate CD allows you to take a one-time withdrawal of up to 50% of your account balance without penalty, as long as the withdrawal comes after seven days of opening the account or making an additional deposit.

As with the bank’s regular CDs, Flexible-Rate CDs automatically renew, but there’s a 10-day grace period during which you can withdraw your maturing funds.

How to get Comerica Bank’s CDs

You can open a Fixed-Rate CD using the bank’s online application, but for a Flexible-Rate CD, you must contact the bank directly.

Comerica Bank’s entry-level money market account offers ATM access and a check-writing option, although checks and certain other debits are limited to six per month. There’s a $5 fee per withdrawal after six transactions per month.

The minimum opening deposit is quite small for a money market account. But to avoid the high monthly fee, customers need to increase their minimum deposit to a more traditional level. The fee can also be avoided through various checking account relationships with the bank, such as having a Comerica Platinum Circle Checking account. Overdraft fees are quite high, although they can be reduced a bit with overdraft protection.

Comerica Bank’s High-Yield Money Market Investment account is really designed for customers that also have a Platinum Circle Checking account. This entitles account holders to much higher yields on their balances. However, this account also has a much higher monthly fee than the regular money market account, and it requires a much larger maintaining balance to eliminate the monthly fee. As with the regular money market account, Comerica Bank assesses a $5 fee per withdrawal from this account, after six debits that are allowed per month.

How to get Comerica Bank’s money market account

You can get Comerica Bank’s regular money market account via the online application. For the High-Yield Investment Money Market account, you’ll need to contact a branch.

Even the IRA Fixed-Rate CDs have a complicated payment structure at Comerica Bank. Currently, rates are the same in each of the eight payment tiers that are available for each maturity. Rates improve on the 1 year or longer CDs if you have a Rich Rewards Checking account, then bump up again if you have a Premier Checking account. Customers with the top-tier Platinum Circle Checking account earn the highest rates of all.

Maturities span a wide range, from seven days to 10 years. Interest is generally paid or compounded monthly, except for terms of seven to 29 days, where interest is paid at maturity. Maturing CDs automatically renew for the same term at the then-current rate. The grace period to withdraw funds after maturity is three days for maturities of less than 30 days, and 10 days for longer maturities.

Comerica Bank’s Flexible-Rate IRA CDs are only available in a one-year maturity. Although the APY you can earn increases slightly across the eight tiers, from $1 to $500,000, rates are very low across the board. You can add money to this IRA CD at any time, in increments of $100 or more. The highlighted feature of the Flexible-Rate IRA CD is the ability to withdraw up to 50% of your IRA CD balance without penalty, as long as the withdrawal comes after seven days of opening the IRA CD or making an additional deposit. Bear in mind that the money can come out of the IRA CD product but must remain within the IRA account as a whole to avoid additional taxes and possible IRS penalties. Flexible-Rate IRA CDs automatically renew, but there’s a 10-day grace period during which you can withdraw your maturing funds.

How to get Comerica Bank’s IRA accounts

IRA accounts cannot be opened online at Comerica Bank. You must visit contact the bank directly.

Sharonview Federal Credit Union’s Free Anywhere Checking account doesn’t have an opening deposit requirement. You can set this up with a deposit of any amount, or even without adding money at first. This account also does not have a minimum balance requirement or monthly maintenance fee.

But the Free Anywhere Checking account does not earn interest. If you spend on the account’s debit card, you’ll earn reward points that can be used for all kinds of rewards such as travel, merchandise, cash and discounts on loans at Sharonview Federal Credit Union.

If you use an out-of-network ATM, Sharonview Federal Credit Union does not charge a fee. It will also refund up to $10 a month in fees charged by other ATM owners. To qualify for the refund, you must be enrolled in online and mobile banking. Each month, you also need to make at least one purchase on the debit card and have one direct deposit come into your account. The refund only applies to withdrawals in the U.S. International transactions do not qualify.

Before you can open the Free Anywhere Checking account, you must join Sharonview Federal Credit Union. You can apply online or by visiting one of its branches.

The membership application will ask for your personal information, Social Security number and your driver’s license or other state ID. You also need to open a Regular Share account with a $5 deposit. Every credit union member needs this account.

You can apply for Sharonview Federal Credit Union’s Free Anywhere Checking account at the same time using this information. You can add money at this point, but you don’t have to since there’s no initial deposit requirement.

When you apply to join Sharonview Federal Credit Union, you need to open one of its Regular Share accounts to complete the process. This account requires an opening deposit of $5.

This account does not charge a monthly maintenance fee, so there’s never a cost for keeping your account open. The Regular Share account pays interest on all balances, but the rate is low. It always stays the same and does not increase when you deposit more.

Since this is a savings account, there’s a limit to how often you can take out money because of federal Regulation D. Each month, you are allowed to make up to six transactions such as debit purchases, transfers to other accounts, wires and automatic withdrawals. If you make more than six, Sharonview Federal Credit Union charges a $20 fee for each transaction. This rule doesn’t apply to ATM or in-person withdrawals, so you can make as many of these as you want without a fee.

If you have a specific savings goal in mind, you can set up a separate account called a Special Share. There’s no minimum deposit to open this side account, and it earns the same interest rate as Regular Share.

Before you can open the Regular Share savings account, you must join Sharonview Federal Credit Union. You can apply online or by visiting one of its branches.

The membership application will ask for your personal information, Social Security number and your driver’s license or other state ID. You will also need to make your $5 minimum deposit. At this point, you could open other Sharonview Federal Credit Union deposit accounts.

Sharonview Federal Credit Union also offers a Holiday Share savings account. It’s nearly identical to the Regular Share account. There’s no monthly fee and it earns the same interest rate. This account also does not have a minimum opening deposit requirement, so you can set things up for any amount.

The main difference with this account is it’s designed to motivate you to save for the holidays. You are only supposed to make withdrawals during the holiday season from Oct. 15 to Jan. 31. If you make a withdrawal outside this period, Sharonview Federal Credit Union charges a $5 penalty for each transaction.

Since this is a savings account, there’s a limit to how often you can take out money because of federal Regulation D. Each month, you are allowed to make up to six transactions such as debit purchases, transfers to other accounts, wires and automatic withdrawals. If you make more than six, Sharonview Federal Credit Union charges a $20 fee for each transaction. This rule doesn’t apply to ATM or in-person withdrawals, so you can make as many of these as you want without owing the bank fee.

Before you can open the Holiday Share savings account, you must join Sharonview Federal Credit Union. You can apply online or by visiting one of its branches.

The membership application will ask for your personal information, Social Security number and your driver’s license or other state ID. You also need to open a Regular Share account with a $5 deposit. Every Sharonview Federal Credit Union member needs this account.

You can apply for Sharonview Federal Credit Union’s Holiday Share account at the same time using this information. You can add money at this point, but you don’t have to since there’s no initial deposit requirement.

Sharonview Federal Credit Union offers eight types of Share Certificates, which range from seven months to 84 months (seven years). You must deposit $500 to open a Share Certificate and keep at least this much in your account to earn the APY.

Sharonview Federal Credit Union’s short-term rates are average, but it pays more generous amounts for longer terms, especially once you get to 60 months or longer.

If you take any of your deposit out of the Share Certificate before the maturity date, Sharonview Federal Credit Union will charge an early withdrawal penalty. The penalty depends on your Share Certificate’s term:

• For terms of less than 12 months, the penalty is 90 days’ interest on the amount withdrawn
• For terms of 12 months to less than 72 months, the penalty is 180 days’ interest on the amount withdrawn
• For terms of 72 months and higher, the penalty is one year of interest on the amount withdrawn

Before you can open a Share Certificate, you must join Sharonview Federal Credit Union. You can apply online or by visiting one of its branches. The membership application will ask for your personal information, Social Security number and your driver’s license or other state ID. You also need to open a Regular Share account with a $5 deposit. Every Sharonview Federal Credit Union member needs this account.

Once you’re a member, you can set up a Share Certificate. These accounts cannot be opened online. You can apply at a branch or by mailing in the new account forms to the credit union. You can make your initial deposit by transferring money from another Sharonview Federal Credit Union account or by sending in a check.

Sharonview Federal Credit Union’s Money Market account does not have a minimum opening deposit requirement. You can open one up for any amount — you can even start an account without making a deposit.

After you open, this account does not charge a monthly fee, regardless of your balance. If your balance stays above $500, you earn a rate that is above average.

Since this is a money market account, there’s a limit to how often you can take out money because of federal Regulation D. Each month, you are allowed to make up to six certain transactions to take money out of your account. This includes debit purchases, transfers to other accounts, wires and automatic withdrawals. If you make more than six, Sharonview Federal Credit Union charges a $20 fee for each transaction.

Before you can open a Money Market account, you must join Sharonview Federal Credit Union. You can apply online or by visiting one of its branches.

The membership application will ask for your personal information, Social Security number and your driver’s license or other state ID. You also need to open a Regular Share account with a $5 deposit. Every Sharonview Federal Credit Union member needs this account.

You can apply for the Money Market account at the same time using this information. You can add money at this point, but you don’t have to since there’s no initial deposit requirement.

If you plan on keeping a balance of $5,000, Sharonview Federal Credit Union offers an Investor Money Market account with a higher rate. This account is only available after you open a Sharonview Financial Services investment account and develop a relationship with one of its advisers. The adviser needs to refer you to this account and will set your opening deposit.

To qualify for the money market rate, you must have a balance of $5,000 or more. If your balance falls below $5,000, you earn the Regular Share rate instead. This account does not charge a monthly fee, even if you fall below the balance requirement.

Since this is a money market account, there’s a limit to how often you can take out money because of Regulation D. Each month, you are allowed to make up to six certain transactions to take money out of your account. This includes debit purchases, transfers to other accounts, wires and automatic withdrawals. If you make more than six, Sharonview Federal Credit Union charges a $20 fee for each transaction.

Before you can open an Investor Money Market account, you must join Sharonview Federal Credit Union. You can apply online or by visiting one of its branches.

The membership application will ask for your personal information, Social Security number and your driver’s license or other state ID. You also need to open a Regular Share account with a $5 deposit. Every credit union member needs this account.

You also need to have an investment account with Sharonview Financial Services before you can open the Investor Money Market account. After you meet these requirements, you can apply at a branch by meeting with your investment adviser. This account is not available online.

You can open any of Sharonview Federal Credit Union’s Share Certificates as part of an IRA. It offers terms that range from seven months up to 84 months (seven years).

You must deposit $500 to open Sharonview Federal Credit Union’s IRA Certificate and keep this much in your account to earn the APY. The credit union’s IRA CD rates are just OK for its short-term options, but they are very competitive for terms of 60 months or longer.

If you take any of your deposit out of the IRA Certificate before the maturity date, Sharonview Federal Credit Union will charge an early withdrawal penalty. The penalty depends on your IRA Certificate’s term:

• For terms of less than 12 months, the penalty is 90 days’ interest on the amount withdrawn
• For terms of 12 months to less than 72 months, the penalty is 180 days’ interest on the amount withdrawn
• For terms of 72 months and higher, the penalty is one year of interest on the amount withdrawn

Before you can open an IRA Certificate, you must join Sharonview Federal Credit Union. You can apply online or by visiting one of its branches. The membership application will ask for your personal information, Social Security number and your driver’s license or other state ID. You also need to open a Regular Share account with a $5 deposit. Every credit union member needs this account.

Once you’re a member, you can set up an IRA Certificate. You can open these accounts online or by visiting a Sharonview Federal Credit Union branch. You will need to make your deposit of $500 along with your application.

Sharonview Federal Credit Union also offers an IRA Savings account to go along with its IRA Certificates. With an IRA Savings account, there isn’t a set timeline for depositing your money. You can take funds out without owing Sharonview Federal Credit Union an early withdrawal penalty.

In exchange, these accounts pay less interest than IRA CDs. But Sharonview Federal Credit Union pays an excellent rate for this type of IRA account.

Sharonview Federal Credit Union’s IRA Savings account does not have a minimum opening deposit requirement. You can start one with any amount. But if your balance is below $500, you only earn the lower savings account rate. To earn the higher rate, your balance must stay above $500, but there’s no fee if you fall below.

Before you can open an IRA Savings account, you must join Sharonview Federal Credit Union. You can apply online or by visiting one of its branches. The membership application will ask for your personal information, Social Security number and your driver’s license or other state ID. You also need to open a Regular Share account with a $5 deposit. Every credit union member needs this account.

Once you’re a member, you can set up an IRA Savings account. You can open these accounts online or by visiting a Sharonview Federal Credit Union bank branch.

This package is a combination of a checking and savings account, which does have the ability to earn interest, though you will need to contact the bank to find out the rates.

It also comes with free standard personalized checks, unlimited check writing, free check images, free ATM withdrawals on both in-network and out-of-network ATMs when minimum balances are maintained (there’s no requirement for the checking account, but it’s $3,000 for the savings account), a debit card with the potential to earn shopping rewards and free travelers checks.

This account does not have the ability to earn interest. However, it does come with a low opening deposit requirement, and no monthly service charges or minimum balance requirements. It also provides a free first order of 50 standard personalized checks, a debit card offering shopping rewards, unlimited check writing and free check images.

This non-interest bearing student account is available to students ages 13 to 23. Those ages 13 to 17 need to open the account jointly with a parent or guardian. The account holder will need to be sure to transfer the account’s funds to another account before his or her 24th birthday.

This account also requires the owner to receive statements electronically, Otherwise, the minimum opening deposit and balance requirement are extremely low, and the account comes with a free debit card with the potential to earn shopping rewards, a free first order of 50 personalized checks, unlimited check writing and free check images.

This interest-bearing checking account has many of the same benefits as the bank’s other checking accounts, though it has a pretty steep minimum balance requirement to avoid its monthly fee. You’ll need to contact the bank to obtain the current rate.

The account also offers 50 free checks, unlimited check writing, free check images and a debit card with the potential to earn rewards.

This basic checking account has a low opening deposit and no minimum deposit requirement. It also comes with a low monthly fee, as well as an additional fee if you exceed eight withdrawals in a month, though that shouldn’t be too difficult to avoid. This account also comes with 50 free checks, and a debit card with the potential to earn rewards.

How to get The First National Bank of Long Island’s checking accounts

All of The First National Bank of Long Island’s checking accounts must be opened in person at a branch. Visit the website to find the location nearest you.

The First National Bank of Long Island advertises this account as being beneficial for affluent customers. It has a pretty steep minimum opening deposit requirement and minimum balance requirement to avoid the monthly fee. In comparison, its minimum balance to earn interest appears to be on the low end. Contact the bank to obtain current rate information.

As with all savings accounts, this one is subject to Federal Reserve Regulation D, which limits certain debits up to six per month.

This account is a great option to teach kids and grandkids about good saving habits early in life. It’s available to those under age 18 and comes with a special interest rate for the first 90 days the account is open. From there, the more they save, the more interest they will earn, with up to a $15 credit every year. There is no minimum balance requirement to earn interest, and no monthly maintenance fee. You’ll need to contact the bank to obtain current rate information. Account holders have the choice of a passbook or statement savings account with unlimited access to in-branch withdrawals and free electronic statements. This account is opened as a Uniform Transfer to Minor account. It is subject to Federal Reserve Regulation D, which limits certain withdrawals and transfers up to six per month.

This account is meant specifically for saving up for the holidays. Interest is earned on all balances at the end of the holiday year, and there is no minimum opening deposit or monthly maintenance fee. You’ll need to call the bank to obtain current rate information. Account owners can set up an automatic transfer from their First National Bank of Long Island checking account.

This account comes with electronic statements and renews automatically every year, with the money credited back into your checking account at the end of the year. Account holders also have the option to set up a 50-week payment schedule, though a fee may apply if it is closed before the final payment. Contact a branch for more information about this. As with all savings accounts, this one is subject to Federal Reserve Regulation D, which limits certain withdrawals and transfers up to six per month.

This traditional passbook savings account earns interest from the day of deposit to the day of withdrawal. It has a low minimum opening deposit and a minimal balance requirement to earn interest and avoid the money fee. Contact the bank to obtain current rate information. It is also subject to Federal Reserve Regulation D, which limits certain withdrawals and transfers to six per month.

How to get The First National Bank of Long Island’s savings accounts

The First National Bank of Long Island’s savings accounts must be opened in person at a branch. Visit the website to find one near you.

As with a few of the bank’s savings account, this one boasts having a money market rate — as it should, since it’s a money market account by name. It also has a low opening deposit requirement, and fairly low balance requirements to earn interest and avoid incurring the monthly fee. Be sure to contact the bank to get current rate information. As a savings account, it is subject to Federal Reserve Regulation D, which limits certain debits up to six per month.

How to get The First National Bank of Long Island’s money market account

As with all of The First National Bank of Long Island’s personal account products, this one must be opened in person at a branch. Visit the website to find a location near you.

You can open a Customers Bank Convenience Checking account with a deposit of just $10. However, you’ll need to keep much more money with Customers Bank for this account to make sense. It charges a whopping $29 monthly fee, unless you have a combined $5,000 balance in deposit accounts or outstanding loans with the bank. If you meet the account balance requirements, the Convenience Checking account also refunds all fees from out-of-network ATMs, so you can access your money for free from anywhere. If you don’t meet the balance requirements, it will not refund ATM fees for that month.

The Convenience Checking account doesn’t earn any interest, and only comes with online banking and a debit card.

You can open a Customers Bank’s Convenience Checking account online or at one of their bank branches. You’ll need to provide your address, Social Security number, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

Customers Bank’s FREE Checking account requires an opening deposit of at least $10. After that, this account does not have a minimum balance requirement and does not charge a monthly fee.

This account does not earn interest, and only comes with basic checking services like online banking and a debit card. If you use an out-of-network ATM, Customers Bank will not refund any fees charged from the ATM owner.

You can open Customers Bank’s FREE Checking account online or at one of their bank branches. You’ll need to provide your address, Social Security number, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

Customers Bank’s Bonus Checking account earns one of the best interest rates you’ll find anywhere on a checking account. To qualify, you must spend at least $500 each month on your debit card. The top rate applies to your entire balance up to $100,000 and then you earn a lower rate for any amount over $100,000.

However, if you don’t meet the $500 debit card spending requirement in a month, you’ll earn a lower rate on your entire balance.

You only need to deposit $10 to open the Bonus Checking account. After that, this account does not have a minimum balance requirement and does not charge a monthly fee. This account does not refund fees on out-of-network ATM use.

You can open Customers Bank’s Bonus Checking account online or at one of their bank branches. You’ll need to provide your address, Social Security number, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

Customers Bank’s Reserve Savings account requires an opening deposit of $10. After that, there’s no minimum balance requirement and this account does not charge a monthly fee.

The Reserve Savings account earns interest on all balances, though the rate is on the low side. It always stays the same and will not increase for larger deposits.

Since this is a savings account, there’s a regulatory limit on how often you can take money out. Each month, you are allowed to make up to six certain transfers or withdrawals out of the account including checks, drafts, debit card purchases and transfers to other accounts because of a federal government rule, Regulation D.

If you make more than six per month, Customers Bank will first send you a warning letter saying you have gone over the limit. If you go over the limit multiple times, they will close your money market account.

You can open Customers Bank’s Reserve Savings account online or at one of their bank branches. You’ll need to provide your address, Social Security number, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

Customers Bank’s Ascent Money Market Savings account is not meant for small amounts of money. You must deposit at least $25,000 to open and you need to keep at least this much in the account to earn interest — if you do, you’ll earn an excellent rate.

If your balance falls below $25,000, you’ll stop earning interest. However, there’s no monthly fee with this account, even if you fall below this limit. In addition, this account doesn’t offer a debit card or checks, as it is not designed for frequent withdrawals and everyday spending.

You are only allowed to make up to six certain transfers or withdrawals out of the account per month because of a Federal Reserve Regulation D. This includes checks, drafts, debit card purchases and transfers to other accounts.

If you make more than six per month, Customers Bank will first send you a warning letter saying you have gone over the limit. If you go over the limit multiple times, they will close your money market account.

Customers Bank’s Ascent Money Market Savings account is online only and must be opened through the bank’s website. You’ll need to provide your name, address, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

Customers Bank has a wide variety of CDs with terms that range from three months all the way up to 60 months, equivalent to five years. All of Customers Bank’s CDs require a minimum opening deposit of $500 and you must keep at least that amount in your account to earn the APY.

Their regular CD rates are quite low — however, they also offer a promotional 24-month CD with a much higher rate. You can only open the promotional CD with new deposits, not with money already at Customers Bank. At the end of the two years, Customers Bank will automatically convert your promotional CD to a regular 24-month CD with a lower rate, unless you tell them not to.

If you take money out of your CD before the maturity date, Customers Bank will charge an early withdrawal penalty, depending on your CD term:

• For CD terms of 12 months or less, the penalty is three months of interest on the amount withdrawn.
• For CD terms over 12 months, the penalty is 365 days of interest on the amount withdrawn.

You can open Customers Bank’s CDs online or at one of their bank branches. You’ll need to provide your address, Social Security number, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

Customers Bank’s Money Market account requires an opening deposit of at least $50. This account will charge a $5 monthly fee if your balance ever falls below $1,000, but it’s free so long as you stay above this limit.

The Money Market account earns interest on all balances and the rates are OK. To earn the highest rate, you need a daily balance of at least $250,001.

Since this is a money market account, there’s a limit on how often you can take money out. Each month, you are allowed to make up to six certain transfers or withdrawals out of the account — this includes checks, drafts, debit card purchases and transfers to other accounts — because of a government rule, regulation D.

If you make more than six per month, Customers Bank will first send you a warning letter saying you have gone over the limit. If you go over the limit multiple times, they will close your money market account.

You can open Customers Bank’s Money Market account online or at one of their bank branches. You’ll need to provide your address, Social Security number, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

Customers Bank offers a special promotion for new money market accounts. If you set up your account with new money (funds not already deposited at Customers Bank), you’ll receive a higher interest rate for the first six months.

The rate depends on where you open this money market account: in Pennsylvania, the Hamilton, Yardley, Doylestown and Langhorne branches offer a higher rate than Customers Bank’s other locations. After six months, the promotion ends and you go back to earning the regular money market rates.

The promotional account has the same rules as the regular money market account. You must deposit at least $50 to open and the account charges a $5 monthly fee if your balance falls below $1,000.

Since this is a money market account, there’s a limit on how often you can take money out. Each month, you are allowed to make up to six certain transfers or withdrawals out of the account including checks, drafts, debit card purchases and transfers to other accounts because of Federal Reserve Regulation D.

If you make more than six per month, Customers Bank will first send you a warning letter saying you have gone over the limit. If you go over the limit multiple times, they will close your money market account.

You can only open a Customers Bank Promo Money Market account at one of their bank branches; this account is not available online. You’ll need to provide your address, Social Security number, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

All of Customers Bank’s regular CDs can be part of an IRA. You must deposit at least $500 to open an IRA CD and keep that amount in the account to earn the APY. However, their IRA CD rates are on the low side.

If you take out some of your IRA CD deposit before the maturity date, Customers Bank will charge an early withdrawal penalty. The penalty depends on your IRA CD term:

• For IRA CD terms of 12 months or less, the penalty is three months of interest on the amount withdrawn.
• For IRA CD terms over 12 months, the penalty is 365 days of interest on the amount withdrawn.

You can open Customers Bank’s IRA CDs online or at one of their bank branches. You’ll need to provide your address, Social Security number, a form of government-issued ID and your initial deposit to open the account. You can make your initial deposit by bank transfer, money wire or by sending in a check.

Delta Community Credit Union’s Personal Checking account does not have a minimum opening deposit requirement. This account is also completely free and does not have a monthly maintenance charge, regardless of your balance.

The Personal Checking account earns interest, but only if you have a balance of  $5,000 or more. The rate is also very low, even if you earning the highest rate with a balance of $25,000. If you make purchases using the account debit card, you’ll earn reward points which you can redeem for travel, merchandise, gift cards and cash back. The account earns one point for every $3 made in eligible purchases. Terms apply.

You can make free withdrawals from any Delta Community ATMs, as well as any ATMs in the CO-OP network. If you use another ATM, Delta Community doesn’t charge anything, but they will not refund any fees from the ATM owner.

Before you can open a Personal Checking account, you’ll first need to join Delta Community Credit Union; you can apply online or by visiting one of their branches.

The application asks how you qualify for membership, and requires you to provide your address, Social Security number and a form of government ID. As part of the application, you’ll also need to open a Delta Community Savings account with a deposit of at least $5. Every member is required to have this account.

You can open a Delta Community Personal Checking account at the same time using this information — there’s no initial deposit requirement, so you can set up an account without adding money.

To join Delta Community Credit Union, you need to open their Personal Savings account as part of your application. You must deposit at least $5 when you open and keep at least $5 in the account to maintain your membership. However, this account does not charge a monthly maintenance fee regardless of your balance.

Delta Community’s Personal Savings account earns interest on all deposits and the rate is respectable. It always stays the same so you won’t earn more for a larger balance.

Since this is a savings account, there are limits on how often you can take money out because of a government rule, Reg. D. Each statement cycle, you are allowed to make up to six certain withdrawals/transfers including debit card purchases, checks, bill payments and transfers to other accounts. If you try to make more than six, Delta Community will deny the transaction. This rule does not apply to ATM withdrawals, so you’re able make as many of those as you need without any problems.

Before you can open a Personal Savings account, you’ll first need to join Delta Community Credit Union; you can apply online or by visiting one of their branches.

The application asks how you qualify for membership, and requires you to provide your address, Social Security number and a form of government ID. You will also need to make your deposit of at least $5. As you apply for the Personal Savings account for your membership, you can also open other Delta Community deposit accounts at the same time.

Delta Community Credit Union offers five different CD terms, ranging from six months up to 60 months (five years). You need to deposit at least $1,000 to open a Delta Community CD and keep this much in the account to earn the APY.

Delta Community’s CD rates are average and straightforward: you earn more by committing to a longer amount of time.

If you take money out of your CD before the maturity data, Delta Community charges an early withdrawal penalty. The penalty depends on your CD term:

• For a 6-month term, the penalty is 60 days of interest.
• For a 12-month term, the penalty is 90 days of interest.
• For 24 or 36-month terms, the penalty is 180 days interest.
• For a 60-month term, the penalty is 270 days interest.

These CDs automatically renew after the maturity date unless you tell Delta Community not to continue. If your CD renews, you have a 10-day grace period to cancel without an early withdrawal penalty.

Before you can open a CD, you’ll first need to join Delta Community Credit Union; you can apply online or by visiting one of their branches.

The application asks how you qualify for membership, and requires you to provide your address, Social Security number and a form of government ID. As part of the application, you’ll also need to open a Delta Community Savings account with a deposit of at least $5. Every member is required to have this account.

You can open a Delta Community Certificate of Deposit at the same time using this information. You will need to provide your deposit along with the application.

Delta Community Credit Union’s Personal Money Market account does not have a minimum opening deposit requirement. You can set one up for any amount or even with no deposit at all.

This account does not charge a monthly maintenance fee. It stays free no matter how low your balance drops. However, you will need a balance of $1,000 or more before you start earning interest. The interest rates gradually increase as you deposit more, before maxing out at a balance of $100,000. Still, Delta Community’s Money Market rates are just OK.

Since this is a money market account, there are limits on how often you can take money out because of a government rule, Reg. D. Each statement cycle, you are allowed to make up to six certain withdrawals/transfers including debit card purchases, checks, bill payments and transfers to other accounts. If you try to make more than six, Delta Community will charge a $20 excess transfer fee on the extra transactions.

While Regulation D does not apply to ATM and bank withdrawals, Delta Community also puts a monthly limit on these. You are allowed up to 10 free withdrawals per month, and if you make more, Delta Community charges a $20 fee on the additional withdrawals.

Before you can open a Personal Money Market account, you first need to join Delta Community Credit Union; you can apply online or by visiting one of their branches.

The application asks how you qualify for membership, and requires you to provide your address, Social Security number and a form of government ID. As part of the application, you’ll also need to open a Delta Community Savings account with a deposit of at least $5. Every member is required to have this account.

You can open a Delta Community Credit Union Personal Money Market account at the same time using this information. There’s no initial deposit requirement, so you can set up an account without adding money.

Nearly all of Delta Community Credit Union’s CDs can be set up as part of an IRA; the only one that isn’t available is the 6-month CD. Everything else can be used as an IRA CD and the rates are the same.

You must deposit at least $1,000 to open a Delta Community IRA CD and keep at least this much in your account to earn the APY.

If you take money out of your IRA CD before the maturity data, Delta Community Credit Union charges an early withdrawal penalty. The penalty depends on your IRA CD term:

• For a 12-month term, the penalty is 90 days of interest.
• For 24 or 36-month terms, the penalty is 180 days interest.
• For a 60-month term, the penalty is 270 days interest.

Before you can open an IRA CD, you’ll first need to join Delta Community Credit Union; you can apply online or by visiting one of their branches.

The application asks how you qualify for membership, and requires you to provide your address, Social Security number and a form of government ID. As part of the application, you’ll also need to open a Delta Community Savings account with a deposit of at least $5. Every member is required to have this account.

Once you’re a member, you can apply for a Delta Community IRA CD. However, these accounts are not available through their online portal; instead, they ask you to download the IRA application form through their website. You can either complete the application at home and mail/fax to Delta Community’s IRA department or you can visit a branch to complete everything in-person.

Delta Community Credit Union also offers an IRA Savings account to go along with their IRA CDs. There is no minimum opening deposit requirement so you can set one up for any amount. In addition, this account does not charge a monthly fee.

Delta Community’s IRA Savings account earns interest on all balances. You earn more for larger deposits before the rate maxes out at balances of $100,000+.

The IRA Savings account rates are lower than their IRA CDs. In exchange, this account gives you more flexibility to take money out. There is no early withdrawal penalty and you can move money out when you want.

Before you can open an IRA Savings account, you first need to join Delta Community Credit Union; you can apply online or by visiting one of their branches.

The application asks how you qualify for membership, and requires you to provide your address, Social Security number and a form of government ID. As part of the application, you’ll also need to open a Delta Community Savings account with a deposit of at least $5. Every member is required to have this account.

Once you’re a member, you can apply for a Delta Community IRA CD. However, these accounts are not available through their online portal; instead, they ask you to download the IRA application form through their website. You can either complete the application at home and mail/fax to Delta Community’s IRA department or you can visit a branch to complete everything in-person.

Unfortunately, there’s not much that stands out about the Personal Checking account. You get free online and mobile banking, an ATM or debit card and unlimited check-writing capabilities. If you’re looking for a no-frills checking account, it could be a good choice to cover your basic needs.

To waive the monthly maintenance fee, you’ll need to maintain at least a $350 average daily balance or a $100 minimum daily balance.

How to get First National Bank of America’s Personal Checking account

You’ll need to visit a branch to open an account. You’ll be asked to provide the bank with your address, Social Security number and state-issued ID. You can call customer service at 800-968-3626 to find out more.

There isn’t much of a difference between the Personal Checking and Simple Checking accounts, except that you can earn a little bit of interest with this one.

The monthly maintenance fee is slightly higher at $6, but you can get that waived if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance or a $750 average daily balance each month.

Like with the Personal Checking account, you get free online and mobile banking and an ATM or debit card. Keep in mind that the rate for the Simple Checking account isn’t advertised on the bank’s website, so it’s best to call to find out the current one.

How to get First National Bank of America’s Simple Checking account

To open a Simple Checking account, visit a branch. The bank could require information such as your address and Social Security number. You can call customer service at 800-968-3626 for more details.

With the only savings account offered at First Bank of America, you get ATM access, but the APY rate is still pretty low.

Account holders do get online and mobile banking access, as well as itemized monthly statements. You’re allowed up to six certain withdrawals a month because of the Federal Reserve’s Regulation D, and you’ll need to pay a $5 excess transaction fee each time you go over.

To waive the monthly maintenance fee, you’ll have to maintain an average balance of $199.

How to get First National Bank of America’s Statement Savings account

Visit a branch to open a Statement Savings account. Customer service may ask you for personal information such as your address and state-issued ID. To find out more, call customer service at 800-968-3626.

These CDs offer a guaranteed rate of return — assuming you leave all funds in the account until maturity — so it’s best for those who want to ensure a steady return on their investment. It appears as though First National Bank of America is trying to be more competitive, as this is one of the few deposit accounts you can open online.

Any interest you earn is compounded and credited quarterly to your account. When your account matures, you have a 10-day grace period in which you can make changes such as an additional deposit or withdrawal, as well as renew for another term. Otherwise, the CD will automatically be renewed.

The Flex CD offers you the opportunity to increase your rate once during your CD term. If you see that the rate for your current term has increased, you can request a rate increase for the remainder of your CD. Like with the fixed-rate CD, interest is compounded and credited to your account quarterly.

Upon maturity, your CD will be renewed automatically unless you make changes — such as additional deposits and withdrawals or renewing for another term — during the 10-day grace period.

How to get First National Bank of America’s CDs

To open either type of CD, go to First National Bank of America’s website and fill out an online form. You’ll need to agree to the online disclosures and pick the CD term you want. You can then complete the rest of the application by entering your personal details such as your name, employment information and Social Security number before funding the account.

Although this is a money market account, it operates like a regular checking account in that you get ATM and check-writing capabilities, plus you can get unlimited transactions. That means you’re not limited to six withdrawals a month like with other savings accounts, and you’re not subject to a excess transaction fee. You also get a free ATM or debit card, bill pay and online banking.

First National Bank of America also guarantees that it’ll have the best money market rate in the area. If you can find a better money market rate from a Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.-insured bank in East Lansing, Grand Rapids or Traverse City, Mich., the bank will beat or match it. But promo rates that are offered for less than six months or rates that require loan or additional deposit requirements are excluded.

You’ll be able to waive the monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a $1,000 minimum daily balance.

How to get First National Bank of America’s HomeTowne Money Market Checking account

To open the HomeTowne Money Market Checking account, you’ll need to head to a branch. You may be asked to provide your Social Security number and state-issued ID. If you choose, call customer service at 800-968-3626 to find out more.

The IRA CDs are a fixed-rate account that could be best for those who are interested in a more conservative investment vehicle. Interest is compounded and credited quarterly, but the APY assumes you’ll keep all funds earned in the account until it matures. When it does, your account will automatically be renewed unless you make changes within the 10-day grace period. This can include making additional deposits or a withdrawal, as well as renewing for another term.

How to get First National Bank of America’s IRA CDs

You need to open an IRA CD account in person. It’s a good idea to call customer service at 800-968-3626 to confirm, but you’ll most likely need to bring your Social Security card and state-issued ID.