Things You'll Need

Instructions

1

Visit a state-chartered bank that offers free checking. Complete an application for a new “free checking” account. Submit a deposit to fund the new account. A few of the state-chartered banks that offer free checking are Bank Of The West, Gilmore Bank, American Riviera Bank, Union Bank and Bank Of The Sierra. For a complete list of California-chartered banks, see the link that is located in the “Resources” section of this article.
2

Apply for a free checking account by visiting a national bank, instead of a California-chartered bank. National banks are regulated by the federal government, whereas state banks are regulated by the state. A couple of the national banks in California that offer free checking or “conditional” free checking are Bank Of America and Wells Fargo. To see a list of all the national banks located in California, search the Federal Reserve System's National Information Center (see Resources).
3

Apply for a free checking account through one of California's credit unions. As a courtesy to it's members, most credit unions do not charge fees for checking accounts. In order to apply with a credit union, you must have an affiliation with the union or have a family member who is affiliated. Some of the credit unions in California are California Credit Union, Credit Union Of Southern California and California Coast Credit Union.