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Washington Mutual Free Checking Review

How the Washington Mutual Free Checking Account Works

By Justin Pritchard, About.com

The Washington Mutual free checking offer is stirring things up in the banking world. While almost everybody has a free checking account, the Washington Mutual free checking account offers just a bit more. This page gives you the details on what to expect.

Washington Mutual Free Checking Overview

Like most free checking accounts, you won’t pay monthly service fees, and you get a book of checks for free.

The highlights of the Washington Mutual free checking offer are:

  • No minimum balance
  • No direct deposit required
  • Free checks for life
  • Free outgoing wire transfers
  • Free check return or imaging
  • One free overdraft per year The free checks for life, free wire transfers, and one free overdraft are the three features that get my attention. Since overdraft protection plans cost money, most consumers end up paying dearly for mistakes. You get one mistake free, and I think that’s a good deal.

    Washington Mutual Free Checking Extras

    There are a few extras on the account. Of course you get a debit card, and you can sign up for things like fraud protection and reward programs. After you open your Washington Mutual free checking account, they will likely pursue other relationships with you as well – Washington Mutual provides loans, savings, and other services.

    Washington Mutual Free Checking Pitfalls

    As with other free checking offers, the Washington Mutual free checking account does not pay interest. Your cash will just sit there – which is fine if you’ll be using it soon. If not, consider linking your account to an internet bank account so that you can actually earn something on those dollars.

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