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BBVA Online Checking account review
A full-service account with convenient, surcharge-free access to two massive ATM networks.
finder.com’s rating: 4.2 / 5.0
★★★★★
With the BBVA Online Checking account, you’ll have instant access to your money through mobile banking and at over 56,000 ATMs, plus potentially earn cashback rewards toward special offers — though the account doesn’t earn interest and you can only open it online.
$0
Monthly fee
0%
APY
$25
Minimum deposit to open
Details
| Monthly fee | $0 |
|---|---|
| Minimum deposit to open | $25 |
| ATMs | No ATM fees nationwide at more than 64,000 AllPoint, participating 7-Eleven and BBVA USA ATMs |
| ATM transaction fee | $0 |
| Out-of-network ATM fee | $3 |
| Foreign transaction fee | 3% |
| Overdraft fee | $38 |
| Nonsufficient funds fee | $38 |
| New account fee | $0 |
Expert review
Review by
Peter Carleton
peter.carleton@findercrew.comPeter Carleton is a writer that covers banking and investing, breaking down what you need to know about where you put your money. When Peter's not thinking about cutting-edge banking apps and robo-advisors, he runs a creative agency and spends his spare time cooking or reading.
Expert review
BBVA Online Checking account is best for those looking to manage their finances. It offers free access to over 56,000 ATMs around the world, cashback rewards and more.
However, the account doesn’t earn interest and BBVA has limited physical branch locations.
What are the benefits of the BBVA Online Checking account?
The BBVA Online Checking is a low-fee checking account that offers a number of other benefits:
- No service fees. You won’t pay a monthly fee or to open the account.
- Personalized debit card. Design your debit card with your own art work, pictures or choose from BBVA’s gallery.
- Cashback rewards. Activate Simple Cash Back to choose how you earn cash back from the retailers you use most.
- BBVA Wallet. The BBVA Wallet app manages your payment cards and provides convenient access to them when you need it.
- ClearBenefits program. This optional program offers roadside assistance, identity theft protection and cell phone protection.
BBVA ATM network and fees
This account comes with a Visa debit card that lets you make purchases nearly anywhere. Plus, you’ll get access to a network of BBVA and Allpoint ATMs.
- Use over 1,000 BBVA ATMs in the US for free.
- Use over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs in the world for free.
- BBVA doesn’t list exact fees for using ATMs outside of these networks, but states that you may be charged a fee on top of any ATM-owner fees.
- You’re charged 1% of each transaction when you use an ATM outside the US.
- You’re charged 3% of each transaction when you use your card outside of the US.
What should I look out for?
The BBVA Online Checking Account is a great way to manage your money, but there are a few things you should watch out for:
- No interest. Unlike some checking accounts, this one won’t earn any interest.
- Expensive fees. Watch out for the $30 outgoing domestic wire transfer fee, $15 incoming domestic wire transfer fee, $38 NSF fee, $38 overdraft fee, $12 inter-account transfer fee to cover overdrafts and other charges.
- Limited branch locations. BBVA only has branches in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, New Mexico and Texas.
- Only available online. Even if you live in a state with BBVA branches, you can only open this account online.
- Paper statement fee. You’ll be charged $3 per paper statement if you decide not to get your statements online.
- Minimum deposit. Unlike many checking accounts, this account requires an initial deposit of $25 to open.
If you prefer to do your banking in person or want more out of your account, you’ll want to keep looking. As always, compare your options when choosing a checking account.
Compare with other checking accounts
How do I open an account?
This account is only available online, but it’s easy to get started:
- Visit the BBVA website and click Checking.
- Scroll down to Online Checking and click Apply Now.
- Enter all of your personal information, then proceed to the next step.
- Decide whether you’d like to open a BBVA Online Savings account or just fund this account.
- Review and confirm all details.
Eligibility
To open this account, you’ll need to meet a few eligibility requirements:
- Social Security number or tax ID number.
- Address and contact information.
- Be 18 or older.
- Make an initial deposit of at least $25.
- Open the account online.
Required information
To apply you’ll need to provide the following information:
- Name, date of birth and address.
- Social Security number or tax ID number.
- Government-issued ID number.
- Contact information.
- Employment information.
What other checking options does BBVA offer?
If the BBVA Online Checking account isn’t right for you, the bank also offers a few other options:
- Free Checking. A full-service checking account with online, branch and ATM access, and no monthly fees.
- Premium Checking. A standard checking account that earns 0.50% interest while your money sits in the account.
How can I get in touch with customer service?
- By phone: 800-266-7277.
- On Twitter: @BBVA_USA
- Online: Log in to your account to send a secure message.
- At a branch: Locate your nearest branch on the BBVA website.
Frequently asked questions
Checking account ratings
★★★★★ — Excellent
★★★★★ — Good
★★★★★ — Average
★★★★★ — Subpar
★★★★★ — Poor
We analyze top checking accounts and rate them one to five stars based on factors that are most important to you. These factors include: monthly fees, the ease at which monthly fees can be waived, the breadth of ATM access, ATM and overdraft fees, and customer service.