In an era where consumers expect more from their banks, premium checking accounts have evolved beyond simple banking tools—they now offer valuable rewards, travel perks, interest earnings, and concierge-like service. If you’re someone who maintains a higher balance, travels often, or enjoys exclusive benefits, a premium checking account with rewards could significantly upgrade your banking experience.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the top premium checking accounts in 2025, highlighting their features, fees, and the kinds of rewards you can expect. Let’s explore the best options and help you decide which one fits your lifestyle and financial needs.
🌟 What Is a Premium Checking Account?
A premium checking account is an upgraded version of a standard checking account. These accounts typically offer:
- Higher interest rates (APY)
- ATM fee reimbursements
- Priority customer service
- Travel and lifestyle perks
- Cashback or reward points
- Waived overdraft fees
However, they often require a higher minimum balance or monthly fees, which may be waived if balance thresholds are met.
🎁 Types of Rewards Offered
Premium checking accounts can offer a wide variety of rewards. Here are the most common:
| Reward Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Interest Earnings | Higher APY on account balances |
| Cashback Rewards | Earn cashback on purchases or debit card transactions |
| Travel Perks | Airport lounge access, travel insurance, or priority boarding |
| Fee Waivers | No foreign transaction, ATM, or overdraft fees |
| Exclusive Discounts | Offers from partner retailers or brands |
🏆 Best Premium Checking Accounts with Rewards in 2025
Let’s break down the top contenders this year based on rewards, fees, and user benefits.
1. Chase Sapphire Banking
Best For: Travelers and Chase Sapphire credit card users
Monthly Fee: $25 (Waived with $75,000 in combined balances)
Key Rewards:
- No ATM fees worldwide
- Priority customer service
- Relationship rates on savings accounts
- Early access to Sapphire events
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Trusted brand with strong digital banking tools
Cons:
- High balance requirement for fee waiver
Rating: ★★★★☆
2. SoFi Checking & Savings (with SoFi Plus)
Best For: Tech-savvy savers looking for high rewards and no fees
Monthly Fee: $0 (With direct deposit)
Key Rewards:
- Up to 4.60% APY on savings
- 0.50% APY on checking balances
- Up to 15% cashback at select retailers
- Free overdraft coverage
Pros:
- No fees
- Excellent mobile app and budgeting tools
- Strong APY for checking
Cons:
- Requires direct deposit to unlock full benefits
Rating: ★★★★★
3. Bank of America Advantage Relationship Banking
Best For: Long-time BoA customers with investment accounts
Monthly Fee: $25 (Waived with $10,000 combined balance)
Key Rewards:
- Preferred Rewards Program: up to 75% more credit card rewards
- No fees on ATM withdrawals
- Interest on checking balance
- Fee waivers on select services
Pros:
- Tiered benefits as your balance grows
- Large ATM and branch network
Cons:
- Less tech-forward compared to fintech options
Rating: ★★★★☆
4. Citigold Checking by Citi
Best For: High-net-worth individuals seeking white-glove service
Monthly Fee: $0 (Requires $200,000 in Citi accounts)
Key Rewards:
- Dedicated Citigold team
- No fees on domestic/international wires
- Access to wealth management advisors
- Exclusive events and offers
Pros:
- Concierge-level banking support
- Strong investment advisory services
Cons:
- Extremely high balance requirement
Rating: ★★★★☆
5. Axos Bank Rewards Checking
Best For: Online users who want high interest earnings
Monthly Fee: $0
Key Rewards:
- Up to 3.30% APY on checking balance
- Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements
- No overdraft fees
Pros:
- Competitive APY for a checking account
- 100% digital banking experience
Cons:
- No physical branches
- Must meet specific activity requirements to earn full APY
Rating: ★★★★☆
🧾 Comparison Table: Premium Checking Accounts with Rewards
| Bank | Monthly Fee | Key Rewards | Minimum Balance to Waive Fee | APY Offered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire | $25 | No ATM fees, VIP access, event perks | $75,000 combined | None |
| SoFi Checking | $0 | 4.60% APY, cashback, overdraft protection | Direct deposit required | Up to 0.50% (Checking) |
| BoA Advantage | $25 | Credit card boost, no ATM fees | $10,000 | Yes (varies) |
| Citigold | $0 | Concierge banking, travel perks | $200,000 | Yes (tiered) |
| Axos Rewards | $0 | 3.30% APY, no ATM/overdraft fees | None | Up to 3.30% |
🔎 Who Should Open a Premium Checking Account?
Premium checking isn’t for everyone. Here’s who will benefit most:
✔️ Ideal Candidates:
- High earners or investors who want better service
- Frequent travelers who benefit from no-fee ATMs and travel rewards
- Loyal bank customers who already meet combined balance requirements
- Freelancers or professionals looking for high-interest checking
❌ Might Not Be Worth It If:
- You struggle to maintain minimum balances
- You’re looking for a no-frills account
- You rarely use premium features like wire transfers or travel perks
💡 How to Maximize Rewards from Premium Checking Accounts
- Maintain Required Balances
Always keep enough in your account to waive monthly fees. - Use Partner Services
Many premium accounts reward loyalty—bundle checking with savings, credit cards, or investing. - Enroll in Promotions
Some banks offer cash bonuses ($200–$1000) for new premium account holders. - Leverage Reward Points
Link checking to rewards programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Bank of America Preferred Rewards. - Utilize All Perks
Take full advantage of free wires, ATM reimbursements, and travel protections.
📱 Digital vs Traditional Premium Checking
| Feature | Digital Banks (SoFi, Axos) | Traditional Banks (Chase, Citi) |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Lower to zero | Higher, but waiver options available |
| Rewards | Higher APY, more cashback | Lifestyle perks, VIP access |
| Customer Service | App-first, responsive | In-person support, relationship managers |
| Accessibility | Online only | Branch + digital |
| Travel Benefits | Limited | More robust with premium tiers |
🧠 Final Thoughts: Are Premium Checking Accounts Worth It?
If you can meet the minimum balance requirements or are already deeply integrated with a bank’s ecosystem, a premium checking account with rewards can significantly enhance your financial experience. These accounts aren’t just about status—they offer tangible benefits like cash bonuses, higher interest, concierge support, and travel perks.
For those who want a modern, no-fee, high-earning experience, SoFi and Axos offer unbeatable value. But if you’re seeking prestige, wealth advisory, and event access, Citigold or Chase Sapphire is your go-to.
Ultimately, the right premium checking account combines reward value, usability, and financial convenience. Evaluate your lifestyle, spending habits, and financial goals to choose wisely.
🔍 FAQs: Premium Checking Accounts with Rewards
1. Do premium checking accounts come with sign-up bonuses?
Yes, many banks offer bonuses from $200 to $1,000 for new premium account openings with qualifying activities.
2. Can I get travel rewards from a checking account?
Yes, accounts like Chase Sapphire and Citigold offer travel perks like airport lounge access, fee-free foreign transactions, and concierge services.
3. Are rewards taxable?
Some rewards, especially those earned through spending, are not taxable. However, interest earned on deposits is taxable income.
4. Is a high APY more important than other rewards?
It depends on your goals. If your priority is earning passive interest, go for a high APY like SoFi or Axos. If you want VIP experiences, other perks may outweigh APY.