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Checking accounts: Charles Schwab Bank High Yield Investor Checking vs. Ally Bank Interest Checking

Quick Verdict

Both Charles Schwab Bank High Yield Investor Checking and Ally Bank Interest Checking are strong contenders for a checking account. Charles Schwab stands out with its unlimited ATM fee rebates worldwide and access to brokerage services, making it ideal for those who also invest. Ally Bank provides tiered interest rates and a solid ATM network, suitable for those prioritizing interest earnings and convenient ATM access.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeCharles Schwab Bank High Yield Investor CheckingAlly Bank Interest Checking
Interest Rate (APY)0.20% (Some sources mention 0.45% or up to 3.30% APY, but these may be outdated or related to specific promotions)0.10% APY for daily balances less than $15,000; 0.25% APY for daily balances of $15,000 or more (variable rates)
Minimum Balance to Open$0.01$0 (account may be closed if not funded within 30 days)
Monthly Maintenance Fee$0$0
ATM Fee PolicyUnlimited worldwide ATM fee rebates. Schwab reimburses all ATM fees.Free access to Allpoint ATMs in the U.S.; No fees at Allpoint or MoneyPass ATMs in the U.S.; Up to $10 reimbursement per statement cycle for fees charged by other ATMs nationwide; International transaction fees of up to 1% may apply at ATMs outside the U.S.
Overdraft Fee$0$0
Mobile Deposit AvailabilityYesYes, via Ally eCheck Deposit through the Ally Mobile App
Bill Pay FeatureYes, free bill pay is available online and via the mobile appYes, schedule and make payments, set up recurring payments, and view bill details online
FDIC InsuranceUp to $250,000 per depositorYes, up to $250,000 per depositor for each qualifying account ownership category
Debit Card AvailabilityYes, a Schwab Bank Visa Platinum Debit Card is providedYes, a Debit MasterCard is available
Online Banking AccessYes, available at Schwab.comYes
Mobile App Rating (iOS)Not availableNot available
Mobile App Rating (Android)Not availableNot available

Overall Comparison

Charles Schwab: Unlimited ATM rebates, Ally Bank: Up to 0.25% APY on balances over $15,000, Both: No monthly fees, No overdraft fees.

Pros and Cons

Charles Schwab Bank High Yield Investor Checking

Pros:
  • Unlimited worldwide ATM fee rebates
  • No monthly fees
  • No overdraft fees
  • User-friendly online platform and mobile app
  • Easy to transfer funds between accounts
  • Strong security measures
  • Access to financial experts and tools via linked brokerage account
Cons:
  • Interest rate may be relatively low compared to other high-yield checking accounts

Ally Bank Interest Checking

Pros:
  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • Free access to Allpoint ATMs
  • ATM fee reimbursement up to $10
  • Mobile deposit availability
  • Bill pay feature
  • FDIC insured
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Easy-to-use mobile app
  • No overdraft fees
  • Free standard or expedited ACH transfers
Cons:
  • No major disadvantages reported.

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