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U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking account has been recognized for students on a budget 

Money.com recently recognized the U.S. Bank Smartly Checking account as among the Best Student Bank Accounts of 2023.

To get a behind-the-scenes look at how U.S. Bank meets the needs of today’s students, we sat down with Kiley Bradfish, a  recent college graduate and a client relationship consultant at the U.S. Bank branch on campus at the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. 

What unique banking needs do college students have?

For many students, they get their first bank account on their own when they head off to college. They might need to pay bills for the first time, digitally pay friends with Zelle, or learn how to make deposits and withdrawals. For those further along in their banking journey, they might be looking to establish a savings account or open a credit card to begin building credit. 

How is U.S. Bank meeting those needs?

It is expensive to be a college student. Between tuition, books and housing – it really adds up. Our checking account has no monthly maintenance fees for clients under the age of 25, which gives students a great financial resource during college and after graduation. They also then have a network of branches in 28 states and our great digital tools that help you bank when and where it is convenient for you.

Part of that is our U.S. Bank Mobile App! I hear from so many students that their hometown bank didn’t have anything like this. They are so relieved and excited for the upgrade. Whether it’s sending money via Zelle, using mobile check deposit, managing their debit card or checking balances – students want banking to be easy and our app helps do that.

We have an opportunity to help students understand the basics of banking, their accounts, and how to be responsible with their money.

What is the U.S. Bank Smartly Checking account all about?

Our core consumer checking account is the U.S. Bank Smartly Checking Account, which offers special benefits and features to both young adults ages 18 through 24 and youth ages 13 through 17. These age groups receive a lot of great benefits including:

• $0 month maintenance fee or minimum balance requirement 
• $0 overdraft fees when overdrawn by $50 or less, plus Overdraft Fee Forgiven program
• $0 ATM transaction fees at U.S. Bank ATMs and on first four Non-U.S. Bank ATM transactions per statement period
• Access to a savings account with low or no minimum balance requirement 

What are some key considerations for students opening their first checking account? 

There are so many choices today for where students can keep their money, some of which have an entirely digital presence. Sometimes students, especially those newer to banking, don’t know the type of support and resources they need until they realize they don’t have it. I tell my clients to think about what kind of service you’ll expect and the ways your institution can support you. When you’re just starting out or in new phase of life where you need more from your financial partner – such as help budgeting, establishing good credit, and saving for emergencies – it’s important to know there are financial institutions that can offer you more. U.S. Bank has made it a priority to support our young clients.