Get a fresh start with Essential Checking.

Whether you want to get your banking back on track, improve your money management skills, or give your student a smart start, the right no minimum balance checking account is Essential.

Unexpected fees and unfair charges are not Essential.

No Overdraft Fees

Put the fear of overdraft fees behind you, and enjoy no monthly minimum balance requirements.

55,000 Free ATMs

Easily access your cash using your new debit card and our nationwide network of ATMs.

$10 to Open

Get your banking back on track with only a $10 minimum deposit to open.

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Why BayFirst?

At BayFirst, we’re Here for What’s Next®, especially if that means putting your banking challenges in the past. For more than 20 years, we’ve helped customers in Tampa Bay regain their financial footing by offering one of the best second-chance bank accounts available. Enjoy safe banking and help from local banking experts whose main goal is to help you reach yours.

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A fresh start with all the features.

Account Features*

  • Free, instant-issue contactless debit card
  • Access to 55,000 free ATMs
  • No minumum account balance
  • No overdraft or dormancy fees
  • $10 minimum deposit to open
  • $1.95 monthly service fee
  • Non-interest bearing

Online & Mobile Banking

  • BayFirst Mobile Banking App
  • 24/7 Online and Mobile Banking 
  • Online bill pay and mobile deposit
  • Free eStatements and bank-to-bank transfers
  • Get paid up to two days early with Forward Pay
  • Send money for free

Other Benefits

  • Free credit score monitoring
  • Free coin counting
  • Four free cashier's checks per month
  • Up to $250,000 insured by the FDIC
  • Customer support through the BayFirst Call Center

Ready to get started?

  • Gather Your Information

    You'll need your social security number and a valid government-issued ID with current address.

  • Find the Nearest Banking Center

    Stop into your nearest BayFirst banking center to open your account.

    Find a Location

Essential Checking FAQ

Second-chance banking accounts are no minimum balance checking accounts designed to help you get back on your feet financially. These accounts are great for people trying to rebuild their credit, those who may be recovering from a financial misstep, and students looking for a smart start.

BayFirst’s Essential Checking account gives you a second chance to build your credit and learn how to better manage your finances. After 12 consecutive months of demonstrating responsible banking behavior, you can explore other BayFirst checking accounts with even more perks.

Benefits include access to banking services like check writing, debit cards, online/mobile banking, direct deposit, automatic bill pay services, etc., which all helping to rebuild financial credibility.

Stop into a banking center to learn more about your options and get started.

Yes, Essential Checking meets The Bank On National Account Standards, meaning that it is a safe and affordable starter account with important features including low fees, no overdraft charges, online bill pay and more, which are ideal for those looking to begin or restart their banking relationship with the right tools to manage their money effectively. It is one of the many ways BayFirst shows its commitment to financial inclusion.
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Still have questions?

*BayFirst does not charge a fee for the use of Mobile Banking or Mobile Deposit. Data rates may apply. Debit Cards are subject to approval. BayFirst does not charge a fee for the use of Online Banking or Bill Pay. However, fees may apply for certain transactions like expedited payments and transfers to non-BayFirst accounts. No dormant fees and no early closure (within 90 days) fees.  Free eStatements or $2 paper statement fee. $2 out-of-network ATM fee.