Regions Bank does not charge an opening deposit to start a checking account

You can open a Regions checking account with zero dollars. Regions does not require a minimum opening deposit, which means you can complete the account setup process and begin using the account immediately without putting money in first. You will need to fund the account before you can write checks or make purchases, but that funding can happen after the account is open.

The account itself is free to open. What matters more than the opening cost is the monthly maintenance fee — which varies depending on the type of checking account you choose — and whether you meet the conditions to waive it.

Key Takeaways

  • Regions checking accounts have no opening deposit requirement, so you can open one with no money down.
  • Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $12 depending on the account type, and most can be waived by meeting a single condition.
  • The most common way to waive a monthly fee is to set up a direct deposit of any amount, which counts even if it is a small transfer from another account.
  • You will need a government-issued ID and Social Security number to open an account, whether you do it online, by phone, or in a branch.
  • Once the account is open, you can fund it by transferring money from another bank, depositing a check, or visiting a branch with cash.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Regions offers several checking account types, and each one has a different monthly maintenance fee structure. The Regions NOW Checking account charges $12 per month, but the fee is waived if you set up a direct deposit, maintain a $500 minimum balance, or keep an average daily balance of $1,500. The Regions Essentials Checking account has no monthly fee at all, making it the lowest-cost option if you do not want to worry about balance requirements.

If you have a student account or are over 62, Regions offers age-specific accounts with no monthly maintenance fee. The Regions Student Checking account is free for students under 25, and the Regions 62+ Checking account is free for older adults. Both accounts come with no balance requirements and no direct deposit requirement.

For most people, the easiest way to avoid a monthly fee is to set up a direct deposit. This does not have to be a paycheck — it can be a transfer from another bank account, a government benefit, or even a small recurring transfer you set up yourself. Once the direct deposit is active, the monthly fee disappears.

What you need to open an account

You will need a government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number. Regions accepts a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you are opening the account online or by phone, you will also need to provide your date of birth and current address.

You do not need to have money in the account at the time you open it. If you are opening in person at a branch, bring your ID and be ready to provide your Social Security number. If you are opening online, you can complete the entire process from your computer or phone in about 10 minutes.

How to fund the account after it opens

Once your account is open, you have several ways to put money in. The fastest method is usually an electronic transfer from another bank account you own — this typically takes one to two business days. You can also deposit a check by taking it to a Regions branch, using mobile check deposit through the Regions app, or mailing it to the address on your account statement.

If you want to deposit cash, you will need to visit a Regions branch in person. Regions does not accept cash deposits at ATMs. The branch can deposit the cash immediately, and the money will be available in your account right away.

Account features included with checking

All Regions checking accounts come with a debit card, online banking access, and the ability to set up bill pay through the Regions website or app. You can also link external accounts and transfer money between them. Most accounts include overdraft protection, which means Regions can cover a transaction if your balance goes negative — though this typically comes with a fee of around $35 per overdraft.

Regions checking accounts do not earn interest. If you want interest on your deposit, you would need to open a savings account or money market account separately. Checking is designed for frequent transactions, not for saving.

Opening online versus in person

You can open a Regions checking account entirely online through the Regions website or mobile app. The online process is faster — usually 10 to 15 minutes — and you can do it at any time. You will need to verify your identity by providing your ID information and answering security questions based on your credit history.

You can also open an account by phone by calling Regions customer service, or in person at any Regions branch. Opening in person takes longer but may be easier if you have questions or prefer to speak with someone face-to-face. In-person opening also lets you deposit cash immediately if you want to fund the account right away.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is approved, Regions will issue you a debit card. If you opened online or by phone, the card will be mailed to your address — this typically takes 7 to 10 business days. If you opened in person at a branch, you may be able to get a temporary card immediately or have one ordered to your home.

You can start using online banking and bill pay as soon as the account is open, even before your debit card arrives. If you set up a direct deposit, it can begin processing right away. Your account number and routing number will be provided when you open the account, so you can give those to your employer or benefit provider to set up deposits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to keep a minimum balance after I open the account?

It depends on the account type. Regions Essentials Checking has no minimum balance requirement. Regions NOW Checking requires either a $500 minimum balance, a $1,500 average daily balance, or an active direct deposit to waive the monthly fee. Student and 62+ accounts also have no minimum balance requirement.

Can I open a Regions checking account if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Regions requires a Social Security number to open any deposit account. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from the IRS first, though Regions may not accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security number — contact your local branch to ask about their specific policy.

What if I close my Regions checking account and want to reopen one later?

You can reopen a Regions checking account at any time. There is no waiting period or penalty for reopening. However, if your previous account was closed due to fraud or repeated overdrafts, Regions may review your history before approving a new account.

Does Regions charge a fee to close a checking account?

No. Regions does not charge a fee to close a checking account. You can close it online, by phone, or in person at a branch. Make sure your account balance is zero or transferred out before you close it.