not featured
2-minute

What Is a Rewards Checking Account & How Does It Work?

Man researching all of his amazing checking account rewards from Academy Bank.

Remember the days when banking felt one-sided? You would keep your money safe at a bank, and in return… well, not much else. Times have changed. Today, your everyday checking account can actually work harder for you. So, if you want banking with benefits, you are in the right place! Keep reading while we explain rewards checking accounts and how they work.

What is a Rewards Checking Account?

A rewards checking account is exactly what it sounds like—a checking account that rewards you for banking. Unlike regular checking accounts that simply hold your money for making transactions, rewards checking accounts provide extra perks like cash back on debit card purchases, discounts at retailers, and special security protections.

Rewards checking accounts are a smart choice if you are looking for more value in your banking experience. But what makes them special? They bundle everyday banking with services you would normally pay for separately. In other words, it is money management mixed with special extras.

How Rewards Checking Accounts Work

Rewards checking accounts are easy to use. They function similarly to traditional checking accounts, but with some exceptions:

  • Depositing Money: Fund your account through direct deposit, online transfers, digital check deposit, or visiting a nearby branch.
  • Transactions: Use your debit card (physical or digital) to make purchases, set up bill pay for automatic payments, or write checks for expenses.
  • Withdrawing Money: Access your cash at ATMs or local banking centers.
  • Managing Account: Online banking tools let you check your balance, transfer funds, or even set budgeting goals.
  • Enjoying Account Rewards: When you open a rewards checking account, you receive instructions for activating your benefits online. Some perks start automatically, while others require quick registration to unlock their value.

The beauty of checking account rewards is they turn your banking activities into extra value. Whether it’s saving money on movie tickets, shopping online, or monitoring your credit file, the benefits work in the background while you manage your money.

Open Rewards Checking at Academy Bank

If you are looking for the best bank account for rewards checking, Academy Bank makes it easy to get the MOST from your money. Our Select Rewards Checking Account is designed for real life—not just transactions.

Enjoy the following features and rewards:

  • Cashback shopping rewards
  • Discounts from thousands of local and national businesses
  • Access to 38,000+ free ATMs1
  • Get paid one day sooner with Early Pay2
  • Fuel rewards for gas savings3
  • Travel and leisure discounts
  • Buyers’ protectionand extended warranty
  • Access to online and mobile banking4 plus budgeting tools
  • Roadside assistance
  • Cell phone protection
  • FDIC insurance coverage
  • Identity theft protection and resolution services
  • AND SO. MUCH. MORE!

You deserve a checking account that LOVES YOU BACK! Explore our Select Rewards Checking Account online or stop by your local branch to work with a personal banker. (Find banks near me).

Checking Account Rewards

Still weighing your account options? Compare checking accounts to find the right fit.

 

Opening deposit required. Monthly service charge applies. Closing new accounts within 90 days of opening will result in a $25 early closure fee.

1 No fees for withdrawals, transfers, balance inquiries or denied ATM transactions at ATMs in the MoneyPass® Network if you have a MoneyPass® logo on the back of your card. MoneyPass® Network ATMs are within the U.S. only.

2 Direct deposit required. Maximum ACH credit is $15,000.00.

3 Restrictions apply. See AcademyBank.ClubChecking.com for details.

4 Message and data rates charged by your mobile carrier may apply.

INSURANCE DISCLOSURE: Insurance products are NOT insured by FDIC or any Federal Government Agency; NOT a deposit of or guaranteed by the bank or any bank affiliate. Coverage is provided through the company named in the Guide to Benefit or on the certificate of insurance.