Financial Education

Free Checking with the Bank that Puts You First

September 30, 2026

Your checking account should make everyday banking easier—not add another monthly expense to your budget.

At First Bank and Trust Company, our Free Checking account is designed around the basics that matter: easy access to your money, convenient digital banking, and no monthly service charge or minimum balance requirement.

If you’ve been thinking about moving your money to a bank that combines modern banking tools with a community-bank approach, here are a few reasons to take a closer look at First Bank and Trust Company.

1. Keep more of your money with no monthly service charge

Why pay a monthly fee just to access your own checking account?

With First Bank and Trust Company Free* Checking, there is no monthly service charge and no minimum balance requirement. You can open the account with a $50 deposit and enjoy unlimited transfers to other accounts.

*Free Checking requires a $50 opening deposit. eStatement enrollment is required to avoid a $2 paper statement fee.

2. Bank wherever life takes you

Your banking shouldn't be limited to branch hours.

Free Checking includes online and mobile banking, online bill pay, eStatements, telephone banking, mobile deposit, card management and other digital tools designed to help you manage your money on the go.

Whether you're checking your balance between errands, paying a bill from home or depositing a check from your phone, you can take care of everyday banking without making a trip to the branch.

3. Get convenient access to your cash

Need cash while you're traveling or away from your usual branch?

First Bank and Trust Company customers have access to more than 55,000 ATMs through the Allpoint Network, giving you convenient access to your money in locations across the country.

4. Enjoy the convenience of a modern debit card

Your First Bank and Trust Visa Debit Card gives you an easy way to make everyday purchases, with the convenience of contactless payments and Tap to Pay. Simply tap your card at participating contactless-enabled terminals for a fast, convenient way to pay. Digital banking tools also let you manage and control your card.

First Bank and Trust Company also offers debit card rewards, with eligible card purchases earning points when you enroll in digital banking.

5. Get digital tools without giving up personal service

Moving your money doesn't have to mean giving up the personal side of banking.

First Bank and Trust Company combines community banking and modern digital convenience, with a focus on customer service. The bank has offered free checking since 1979 and provides online account opening for eligible accounts.

That means you can manage your account digitally while still having access to a community banking relationship when you need it.

6. Make the switch on your terms

Changing banks can feel like a hassle, but it doesn't have to be complicated.

Start by looking at your current checking account and identifying the services you use most—direct deposit, automatic payments, debit card purchases, ATM access and mobile banking. Then compare those features with what First Bank and Trust Company's Free Checking offers.

If the features fit your needs, you can open a Free Checking account online with First Bank and Trust Company.

Is it time to move your money?

A checking account is one of the financial products you use most often. If you're paying a monthly maintenance fee, dealing with balance requirements or simply want a different banking experience, it may be worth reviewing your options.

First Bank and Trust Company Free Checking gives you:

  • No monthly service charge
  • No minimum balance requirement
  • Online and mobile banking
  • Online bill pay
  • eStatements
  • Mobile deposit
  • Visa Contactless Debit Card
  • Access to more than 55,000 Allpoint ATMs
  • Unlimited transfers to other accounts
  • Digital banking tools designed for everyday financial management

Your money should work for you—and your checking account should make managing it easier.

Ready to explore Free Checking? Visit First Bank & Trust Company's Free Checking page  to learn more and get started.

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