Looking for an easy bank account you can open from your couch in a few minutes? You’re not alone. Many people want to skip the paperwork and branch visit and get started online fast. But not all banks make the process smooth.
In this guide, you’ll find the easiest bank accounts to open online today. These options offer quick applications, low or no fees, and modern banking features. I’ll also share tips to help you pick the right one for your needs.
7 Best Bank Accounts You Can Easily Open Online
If you want a bank account you can open quickly, these options are some of the best. They are easy to apply for and come with useful features that make everyday banking simple.
1. SoFi Checking and Savings
Features & Benefits
- Sign-up bonus up to $300 with qualifying direct deposits
- No monthly fees or minimum balance
- Earn up to 3.80% APY on savings
- Over 55,000 fee-free ATMs
2. Current Account
Features & Benefits
- Build credit with your debit card purchases
- Up to 4.00% APY on savings pods
- Early paycheck access and real-time spending alerts
- Up to $200 overdraft protection with qualifying deposits
3. Chime® Online Checking
Features & Benefits
- No monthly fees or minimum balance
- SpotMe overdraft up to $200
- Early direct deposit
- Access to 60,000+ fee-free ATMs
4. GO2bank Checking
Features & Benefits
- Earn up to 4.50% APY on savings vaults (up to $5,000)
- No monthly fee with qualifying direct deposit
- $200 overdraft protection
- Early paycheck access on direct deposit
5. Ally Bank Spending Account
Features & Benefits
- No monthly fees or minimum balance
- Earns 0.10%–0.25% APY depending on balance
- 75,000+ fee-free ATMs and ATM fee reimbursement
- Mobile check deposit and 24/7 support
6. Upgrade Rewards Checking Plus
Features & Benefits
- Earn up to 2% cash back on everyday expenses and subscriptions
- Get paid up to two days early with direct deposit
- No overdraft fees
- Earn up to 4.02% APY with Performance Savings
7. Capital One 360 Checking
Features & Benefits
- No monthly fees or minimum balance
- 0.10% APY on balances under $10,000
- Access to over 70,000 fee-free ATMs
- Early direct deposit and branch access
What Makes a Bank Account Easy to Open Online?
Not every online bank account offers a smooth sign-up process. Some banks still have hoops to jump through, while others make it easy to get started fast.
Here is what I looked for when selecting the easiest bank accounts to open online:
- No credit check required: Many of these accounts do not pull your credit report, which can save you time and protect your credit score.
- No ChexSystems check or easy approval: Some banks use ChexSystems to screen applicants. The accounts listed here either do not use ChexSystems or offer more lenient approval criteria, making them easier to open even if you have a history of banking issues.
- Simple application: You can complete the application online in just a few minutes—no paperwork, no waiting in line at a branch.
- No minimum deposit required: You are not required to fund the account immediately unless you want to. This gives you flexibility to open the account first and deposit money later.
How to Choose the Right Online Bank Account
Opening an account online is quick, but choosing the right one takes a little thought. Not all bank accounts offer the same features, so it helps to know what matters most to you.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when comparing your options.
Make Sure Your Money Is Insured
One of the first things to check is whether your deposits will be insured. Look for a bank that is covered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or a credit union insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).
This protects your money up to $250,000 per account holder, per institution, in case the bank or credit union fails.
Think About How You Plan to Use the Account
Before you open an account, consider how you will use it day to day. Will this be your primary checking account? Do you plan to save a larger balance? Are features like early direct deposit or overdraft protection important to you?
Knowing what you want from the account will help you pick one that fits your needs without unnecessary extras.
Compare Products, Rates, and Fees
Some accounts offer higher annual percentage yields (APYs) on savings or checking, while others stand out by offering truly free checking with no monthly fees or minimums.
Compare the APYs, monthly maintenance fees, overdraft policies, and ATM access to see which bank provides the best value for how you manage your money.
Look for Helpful Digital Banking Features
Good online banking should make managing your money easier. Look for features like early paycheck access, budgeting tools, mobile check deposit, and instant transaction alerts.
Also consider the bank’s mobile app experience, since that is likely where you will do most of your banking. A well-designed app can save you time and hassle.
Final Thoughts
Opening a bank account online has never been simpler. The key is picking one that fits the way you manage your money.
The accounts on this list are easy to open, offer solid features, and can help you handle everyday banking without hassle. Whether you want to earn interest, avoid fees, or get paid early, there is an option here for you.
Take a few minutes to choose the right account for your needs. You can be set up and banking online today.
