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February 20, 2010

CheckingFinder – Get Better Banking Deals

CheckingFinder is an online tool that lets users compare free checking accounts from community banks and credit unions across the country. Instead of calling dozens of banks and spending hours researching the best rates online, CheckingFinder has done the work and compiled all the necessary data points, which it posts in one, centralized location. Not only that, but users can also open new high-yield checking accounts directly through the CheckingFinder site.

Based on your zip code, CheckingFinder will come up with a list of accounts that you’re eligible to open. Not all accounts will necessarily be listed with banks in your hometown, though, since many come from institutions and credit unions that offer free online banking services elsewhere in the country. Use the compare tool to see side-by-side comparisons of checking accounts at up to three banks at once—showcasing any ATM fees, interest rates, or special rules that are necessary to qualify for an account. Once you find the option that looks right for you, click Open and begin the process of opening a new account.

Verifying your identity on CheckingFinder is quick and easy, and the site says it can help most people open a new checking account from scratch in just seven minutes—eliminating the need to produce excessive paperwork or visit a bank branch in person. If you are someone who does not have time to waste searching for the best high-interest checking accounts and doesn’t mind doing their banking online, then CheckingFinder is certainly a website worth checking out.

Practical Uses:

  • Find a free checking account that offers a high-interest rate
  • See how much you could be saving by switching to a better account
  • Search only for banks with high-interest yields
  • Compare accounts to see if the one you currently have is really your best option

Insider Tips:

  • Use the site calculator to estimate your annual return based on your ATM habits and estimated balance
  • Click “How do I qualify?” to read specific qualification requirements
  • Sort accounts by bank distance or interest rate
  • Use the compare tool to see side-by-side comparisons of up to three accounts

What we liked:

  • CheckingFinder lists the full details and requirements for opening each account
  • Gives users from across the country a way to take advantage of great rates at a community bank
  • Accounts can be opened from your own home in a matter of minutes
  • Once the application is complete, all future transactions are done through the specific institution

What we didn’t like:

  • CheckingFinder only lists free checking accounts offered through community banks and credit unions, so it isn’t the best solution for anyone interested in going with a nationwide institution

Alternatives:

Company Info:

Costs:

  • Free

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