A full-service checking account without the monthly service fees.
The BBVA Compass ClearChoice Free Checking account might be right for you if you’re looking for a free account that offers more than just the basics. It has a low minimum opening deposit, no monthly service fees and free access to a large network of Allpoint ATMs.
With online and mobile access and over 700 locations across Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, New Mexico and Texas, you’ll never be far from your money.
| Monthly fee | $0 |
|---|---|
| Minimum deposit to open | $25 |
| ATMs | 1,000 fee-free ATMs across the country |
| ATM transaction fee | $0 |
| Out-of-network ATM fee | $3 |
| Foreign transaction fee | 3% |
| Overdraft fee | $32 |
| Nonsufficient funds fee | $32 |
| Deposit methods | Cash by teller Cash by ATM Check by teller Check by ATM Mobile/remote check deposit Wire transfer Direct deposit |
What are the benefits of BBVA Compass ClearChoice Free Checking?
Aside from being a free and secure checking account with no monthly fees, the BBVA Compass ClearChoice Free Checking account offers these benefits:
- No fees at BBVA Compass ATMs. You won’t be charged any ATM fees when using BBVA Compass ATMs.
- Add a savings account. When you open your checking account, consider adding a ClearChoice Savings Account as well. It costs $15 per quarter and garners a 0.05% APY, though you can qualify to have the fee waived.
- Get a Visa debit card. Personalize your Visa with your own image and use it to earn cash back at specified retailers.
- Convenient checking account perks. Set text-message alerts for your checking account, receive online statements and write unlimited checks — all for free.
- BBVA Compass ClearBenefits. BBVA members can enroll in this program to get access to perks like roadside assistance, identity theft protection, cell phone protection and more.
BBVA Compass ATM network and fees
This account comes with a Visa debit card, allowing you to make purchases almost anywhere. Plus, you’ll get access to a network of domestic ATMs.
- Use any of the 1,000 BBVA Compass ATMs in the US for free.
- For a $5 add-on charge per month, BBVA will waive their out-of-network ATM fees and you’ll receive up to four rebates per statement cycle to put toward other bank’s ATM fees.
- You’ll be charged 1% of each transaction when you use an ATM outside the US.
- You’ll be charged 3% of each transaction when you use your card outside of the US.
What should I look out for?
While you won’t need to jump through hoops to avoid monthly fees with this account, there are a few things to look out for:
- Not as many ATMs as other banks. Larger banks have more ATMs than you’ll find with BBVA — and you’ll pay a fee each time you use an ATM out of network.
- High service fees. BBVA charges a $32 NSF fee, $32 overdraft fee, $12 inter-account transfer fee to cover overdrafts and more.
- Limited branches. BBVA Compass only has branches in seven states, so if you live outside this service area, you won’t be able to get face-to-face customer service.
- No interest. Some checking accounts pay interest on the daily balance, but this one does not.
Compare with other checking accounts
How do I apply?
You can open the BBVA Compass ClearChoice Free Checking account online, by phone or at a branch:
Online
- Visit the BBVA Compass website and click Checking.
- Scroll down to Free Checking and click Apply Now.
- Enter your personal information, then proceed to the next step.
- Decide whether you’d like to open a BBVA ClearChoice Savings account or just fund this account.
- Review and confirm all details.
Eligibility
In order to open this account, you’ll need to meet a few eligibility requirements:
- Social Security number or tax ID number
- Government-issued ID
- Valid address
- $25 minimum deposit
Required information
However you decide to apply for an account, you’ll be asked for the following information:
- Name, date of birth and address
- Social Security number or tax ID number
- Government-issued ID number
- Contact information (phone and email)
- Employment information
What other checking options does BBVA Compass offer?
Beyond the BBVA Compass ClearChoice Free Checking account, BBVA Compass offers a few other checking accounts:
- ClearConnect Checking. This online account is designed for people on the go. It offers easy online and mobile access and has no monthly service fees or ATM fees.
- Interest Checking. A high-interest checking account that offers all of the standard BBVA perks and earns up to 0.50% interest while your money sits in the account.
- Easy Checking. A simple checking account that’s designed to help you move your finances in the right direction.
Bottom line
This free checking account can be good if you’re looking for a standard product and live near a BBVA Compass branch. It offers easy online and mobile access along with free ATM use at over 1,000 ATMs across the country.
However, this bank doesn’t have nearly as many domestic ATMs as larger banks and only has branches in seven states, which could limit your banking opportunities.
With so many banks and products out there, it’s important to compare your options to find the right checking account for you.
