Huntington Bank's checking account fees depend on which account you open
Huntington Bank does charge monthly fees on most checking accounts, but the amount and whether you can avoid it depends on the specific account type. The bank offers several checking products, each with different fee structures and ways to waive the monthly charge. Understanding which account fits your banking habits will tell you whether you'll pay a fee each month.
Huntington's main checking accounts include the Huntington Checking account, Huntington Premier Checking, and Huntington Voice Checking. Each one has a different monthly maintenance fee and different requirements to waive it. The bank also offers accounts with no monthly fee, but they come with limitations on features or transaction types.
Key Takeaways
- Huntington's standard checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee, typically between $5 and $15, depending on the account type.
- You can waive the monthly fee by maintaining a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or meeting other account requirements that vary by product.
- Huntington offers at least one checking account with no monthly fee, though it may have restrictions on features or transaction limits.
- Additional fees apply for overdrafts, ATM use outside Huntington's network, wire transfers, and other services beyond basic checking.
- Comparing your expected monthly balance and deposit habits to each account's waiver requirements will show you the true cost of banking with Huntington.
Monthly maintenance fees and how to waive them
Huntington Checking, the bank's standard account, carries a monthly maintenance fee. You can waive this fee by maintaining a minimum daily balance, setting up a direct deposit, or meeting other conditions. The specific balance requirement and alternative waiver methods change periodically, so the current terms depend on when you open the account and your location within Huntington's service area.
Huntington Premier Checking is designed for customers who want higher account benefits and typically charges a higher monthly fee than the standard checking account. This account usually waives its fee at a higher minimum balance threshold or through multiple direct deposits per month. Premier accounts often include perks like higher interest rates on balances, fee reductions on other products, or priority customer service.
Huntington Voice Checking is marketed toward customers who prefer phone and mail banking over digital channels. This account may have different fee structures and waiver requirements than the online-focused accounts. If you rarely use online banking or mobile apps, this account type might align better with how you actually bank.
No-fee checking accounts and their trade-offs
Huntington does offer checking accounts with no monthly maintenance fee, but these accounts typically come with restrictions. A no-fee account might limit the number of transactions you can make per month, restrict check writing, or require you to maintain a very low minimum balance. Some no-fee accounts are designed for specific customer groups, such as students or seniors, and require proof of may be able to access.
Before opening a no-fee account, confirm what restrictions apply and whether they match your banking needs. If you write many checks, make frequent transfers, or need unlimited transactions, a no-fee account with transaction limits may cost you more in the long run through inconvenience or forced account changes.
Overdraft fees and other charges beyond the monthly fee
Beyond the monthly maintenance fee, Huntington charges for overdrafts when you spend more than your account balance. An overdraft fee applies each time your account goes negative, and the bank may charge multiple fees per day if you remain overdrawn. The overdraft fee amount varies but is separate from your monthly maintenance charge.
Huntington also charges fees for services outside routine checking: wire transfers (both incoming and outgoing), stop payment requests on checks, replacement debit cards, and ATM withdrawals at non-Huntington machines. Using an out-of-network ATM typically costs $2 to $3 per transaction. If you frequently need cash from ATMs outside Huntington's network, these charges can add up quickly.
How to find the current fee schedule for your account
Huntington's fee structure changes over time and may differ by state or branch location. The most accurate way to learn what you'll pay is to visit Huntington's website, call a local branch, or speak with a banker in person. When you contact the bank, ask specifically about the monthly maintenance fee, the minimum balance or direct deposit requirement to waive it, and any other fees tied to your account type.
If you already have a Huntington account, your monthly statement or online banking portal will show all fees charged that month. Review several months of statements to see whether you're consistently paying the monthly fee or successfully waiving it. If you're paying the fee every month, you may be able to switch to a different account type or adjust your banking habits to meet a waiver requirement.
Comparing Huntington checking to other banks
Many banks now offer checking accounts with no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. Online banks and credit unions often have lower or no monthly fees than traditional banks like Huntington. If Huntington's fee structure doesn't match your banking habits, comparing accounts at other institutions may show you a lower-cost option.
When comparing, look at the full picture: monthly fee, minimum balance to waive it, overdraft fees, out-of-network ATM fees, and whether the bank has branches or ATMs near you. A bank with a slightly higher monthly fee but a large ATM network might cost less overall than a no-fee bank if you frequently need cash. The cheapest account is the one whose fee structure matches how you actually bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I avoid Huntington's monthly checking fee?
Yes. Most Huntington checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other requirements. The specific waiver method depends on which account you open. Contact Huntington directly to learn the current waiver options for your account type.
What happens if I don't meet the minimum balance to waive the fee?
If you don't meet the waiver requirement, Huntington will charge the monthly maintenance fee to your account. This fee is deducted automatically each month. You can avoid future fees by increasing your balance, setting up direct deposit, or switching to a different account type with lower or no monthly fees.
Does Huntington charge for using ATMs outside their network?
Yes. Withdrawals at non-Huntington ATMs typically cost $2 to $3 per transaction. Some Huntington accounts may offer a small number of free out-of-network ATM withdrawals per month, but this varies by account type. Check your account terms or ask a banker about ATM fee policies.
Are there any Huntington checking accounts with truly no fees?
Huntington offers checking accounts with no monthly maintenance fee, but these accounts may have transaction limits, check-writing restrictions, or may be able to access requirements. Review the full terms before opening to confirm the account has no hidden fees or restrictions that would affect your banking.
What is Huntington's overdraft fee?
Huntington charges a fee each time your account goes negative. The exact amount varies, and multiple overdraft fees can be charged in a single day if you remain overdrawn. Check your account agreement or contact Huntington for the current overdraft fee amount.