Truist's student checking account is called the Student Checking Account, and it's designed for people under 25 with no monthly maintenance fee
Truist offers a Student Checking Account specifically for customers under 25 years old. The account has no monthly maintenance fee, which means you won't be charged just for having the account open. It comes with a debit card, online banking, and mobile banking access.
The account is available at Truist branches and through their website. You'll need to bring a valid government-issued ID and proof of current address (like a utility bill or lease) to open it in person, or you can start the process online and finish it at a branch.
Because Truist is a large regional bank with branches across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, availability depends on whether there's a branch near you. If you don't have a Truist branch in your area, you won't be able to open this account.
Key Takeaways
- Truist's Student Checking Account has no monthly maintenance fee and is open to people under 25.
- You get a debit card, online banking, and mobile banking with the account.
- You must open the account in person at a Truist branch or start online and finish at a branch.
- The account is only available if you live in or near a Truist service area in the Southeast or Mid-Atlantic.
What's included with the Student Checking Account
The Student Checking Account comes with a Visa debit card you can use to withdraw cash at ATMs and make purchases. Truist offers access to their ATM network, and you can also use ATMs outside their network, though out-of-network withdrawals may have fees depending on the ATM operator.
Online and mobile banking are included at no extra cost. You can check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks by taking a photo of the front and back with the mobile app. You can also set up direct deposit, which is useful if you have a job or receive student loan disbursements.
The account does not require a minimum balance to keep it open, which means you can maintain the account even if you have very little money in it. However, you should check current terms with Truist directly, as account features and fee structures can change.
When the Student Checking Account closes
The Student Checking Account is designed for people under 25. When you turn 25, Truist will convert your account to a regular checking account, which may have different fees and features. Truist will notify you before this happens so you're not surprised by a change in your account terms.
The conversion is automatic—you don't have to do anything. However, you should review the terms of the regular checking account to understand what fees or requirements might explore after the conversion.
How to open the Student Checking Account
You can start the process online at Truist's website or visit a branch in person. If you start online, you'll need to complete the process and then visit a branch to finish opening the account and receive your debit card.
Bring a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement from the past 30 days works as proof of address. If you're opening the account as a minor, a parent or guardian will need to be present.
Once your account is open, you'll receive your debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your online banking login to access your account when ready while you wait for the physical card.
Comparing Truist's Student Checking to other options
Many banks and credit unions offer student checking accounts with no monthly fees. Some have lower or no out-of-network ATM fees, while others offer higher interest rates on savings accounts. If you don't have a Truist branch nearby, you might find a student account through a bank or credit union in your area that offers better terms.
Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and others also offer checking accounts with no monthly fees and nationwide ATM access, though they don't have physical branches. The choice depends on whether you prefer in-person banking, what ATM access matters to you, and what other features you need.
If you're comparing accounts, look at the monthly fee (Truist's is zero), out-of-network ATM fees, minimum balance requirements, and whether the bank offers the features you use most—like mobile check deposit or bill pay.
What happens if you don't meet the age requirement
The Student Checking Account requires you to be under 25. If you're 25 or older, you won't be able to open this specific account. Instead, Truist offers regular checking accounts that may have monthly maintenance fees unless you meet certain conditions, like maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit.
If you're just over 25 or approaching that age, ask a Truist representative about their other no-fee checking options. Some banks waive fees for accounts with direct deposit or a minimum balance, which might work for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Student Checking Account online without visiting a branch?
You can start the process online, but you must visit a Truist branch in person to complete the opening and receive your debit card. Truist requires in-person verification for new accounts.
What happens to my account when I turn 25?
Truist automatically converts your Student Checking Account to a regular checking account. They'll notify you before the conversion so you know what fees or terms will explore to your new account type.
Are there any fees if I use an ATM outside Truist's network?
Out-of-network ATM fees depend on the ATM operator, not Truist. The ATM owner may charge a fee, which Truist cannot control. Truist may also charge its own fee for out-of-network withdrawals—check their current terms for the exact amount.
Do I need a minimum balance to keep the Student Checking Account open?
No minimum balance is required. You can keep the account open with any amount of money in it, including zero dollars, as long as you remain under 25.
Can a parent or guardian open the account for me if I'm a minor?
Yes. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present when you open the account in person. Both of you will need to bring valid ID and proof of address.