Regions Bank does not charge an upfront fee to open a checking account

You do not need to pay money to start a checking account at Regions. The bank does not have an account opening fee. However, Regions does charge a monthly maintenance fee on most of its checking accounts — usually between $8 and $15 per month — unless you meet certain conditions that waive it.

The amount you need to deposit to open the account depends on which checking product you choose. Some accounts require a minimum opening deposit, while others do not. Once your account is open, you may also need to maintain a minimum balance to avoid the monthly fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Regions charges no fee to open a checking account, but most accounts have a monthly maintenance fee of $8 to $15.
  • The minimum opening deposit varies by account type — some accounts require $25 or more, while others have no minimum.
  • You can waive the monthly fee by keeping a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or maintaining a linked savings account.
  • Regions offers different checking accounts for different needs, so the total cost depends on which account you choose and how you use it.

Minimum deposits to open a Regions checking account

Regions offers several checking account options, and the opening deposit requirement differs for each. Some accounts ask for $25 at opening, while others may have no minimum deposit requirement. The specific amount depends on which account type you select.

When you visit a Regions branch or open an account online, the bank will tell you the opening deposit for the account you are choosing. If you do not have that amount available right now, ask the banker or customer service representative whether a different account option has a lower opening deposit.

Monthly maintenance fees and how to avoid them

Most Regions checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee — typically $8 to $15 depending on the account. This fee is charged every month unless you meet one of the bank's waiver conditions.

Regions usually waives the monthly fee if you do one of the following: maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500, depending on the account), set up direct deposit of your paycheck, or keep a linked savings account with a minimum balance. Some accounts also waive the fee if you maintain a certain number of debit card transactions per month.

Ask your banker which waiver option is easiest for your situation. If you receive a paycheck by direct deposit, that alone may cover the fee. If you do not, keeping the minimum balance might be simpler than trying to hit a transaction target.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, Regions will issue you a debit card, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You will also receive checks if you requested them. Your account number and routing number will be available when ready so you can set up direct deposit or transfers right away.

The monthly maintenance fee will begin on your first statement date. If you have already met one of the waiver conditions — for example, you set up direct deposit before that date — the fee will not appear on that first statement.

Comparing Regions checking accounts by cost

Regions offers more than one checking account, and the fees and requirements vary. The most common options are a basic checking account and a premium or rewards checking account. The premium account may have a higher monthly fee but could offer benefits like higher interest rates, fee reductions, or cash back on debit card purchases.

Before you decide, think about how you plan to use the account. If you will receive direct deposit and keep a steady balance, the fee waiver is likely automatic. If you are not sure you can meet the waiver conditions, ask whether Regions has a lower-cost account option that still fits your needs.

Opening your account in person or online

You can open a Regions checking account at any Regions branch or through the bank's website. Opening online is faster — you can usually complete it in 10 to 15 minutes — and you can do it any time. Opening in a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and understand the fee structure before you commit.

Either way, you will need a government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). If you are opening online, have a photo of your ID ready. If you are opening in a branch, bring the documents with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Regions charge a fee just to open the account?

No. Regions does not charge an account opening fee. You may need to make a minimum deposit to open the account, but that money goes into your account — it is not a fee.

What if I cannot meet the minimum balance to waive the monthly fee?

You will pay the monthly maintenance fee, usually $8 to $15. However, ask a Regions banker whether a different account type has a lower fee or easier waiver conditions. Some accounts waive the fee with direct deposit alone, which costs you nothing.

Can I open a Regions checking account with no money down?

Some Regions checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit, while others require $25 or more. Call your local branch or check the Regions website to see which accounts have no opening deposit requirement.

How long does it take to open a Regions checking account?

Online opening usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account is ready to use the same day. Opening in a branch may take 20 to 30 minutes. Either way, your debit card arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Will I be charged if I do not use my account?

No. Regions does not charge an inactivity fee. However, you will still owe the monthly maintenance fee unless you meet one of the waiver conditions, even if you do not use the account.