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START SMART Checking (Ages 18-24)

Start your first checking account

Manage your financial responsibilities with an affordable banking account that rewards you.

Overview

This free checking account with no minimum balance requirement gives you the freedom to manage your money without worrying about expensive fees.

Highlights

No initial deposit or minimum balance requirement

There's no initial deposit required to open your account, no minimum balance requirement, and no monthly fees with Start Smart checking.

Free debit card & rewards1

Use your free debit card to shop online or in-store. Plus, you'll earn points you can redeem for cash back, gift cards, and more!

Free overdraft protection options

There's nothing better than the peace of mind that comes with knowing your transactions won't bounce.

Learn about our options

Person to person payments (RCUpay)2

Send money to friends and family right from the RCU app or online banking. Use the free RCUpay feature to pay your roommate, landlord, or nearly anyone!

And more...

Good to know

Must be between 18-24 years old

Designed for students and young adults just starting out, this account is only available to those in the 18-24 age range.

Why Choose RCU?

At RCU, we’re passionate about helping our Members improve their lives. If you want a credit union that keeps your unique needs in mind and helps you envision and manage your financial future, the friendly experts at RCU are here for you.

America's Best Credit Unions by Newsweek 2024

Named one of America’s Best Credit Unions by Newsweek

America's Best Small Employers by Forbes 2023

Recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Small Employers 2023

Have invested with RCU since I was 18. Never will I leave this incredible institution who truly cares about its community."

— Troy L.
Credit Builder Card

Build or repair your credit

A low credit score should not be where your financial future ends - the Visa® Credit Builder credit card can help you build a better score to help you qualify for various loans, including housing and vehicle loans.

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Financial wellness tools

Learn to manage money wisely - Use our free learning modules to help you build credit, save for emergencies, create a budget, and more!

Have a question?

At RCU, we're known for our reliable service, and we'll answer your questions and calls quickly.

Be in control of your own money

Enjoy a free Start Smart checking account with benefits to help you succeed.

  • 1Cash advance transactions and balance transfers are excluded from earning points. Debit rewards available for personal accounts only and on signature-based and PIN-less transactions only. Business accounts are ineligible for debit rewards. All rates, terms and special offers subject to change. Certain restrictions apply.

    2Certain restrictions may apply. Recipient must have a U.S. bank account. Once a recipient claims their funds, transfers are generally completed within 1 business day or less, but may take up to 3 business days. Message and data rates may apply. Mobile banking from RCU is free, but you may incur data charges from your carrier/service plan. Please check with your carrier and service plan on specific charges.

    3First two non-RCU ATM fees reimbursed with active checking; first four non-RCU ATM fees reimbursed with active checking and active RCU loan or credit card. Active = at least one transaction or payment in prior month. (Up to $10 per transaction, casino/gambling and ATMs outside U.S. excluded from reimbursement).