Free Checking

Yes! Use the Open Account button above to open your new account today.

You may open an account online, stop by your local branch, or call to schedule an appointment. Here's what you'll need to have on hand to apply.

1. Social Security Number of all account owners
2. Driver’s license or State ID card
3. Home address and phone number

Switching banks? Check out our How to Switch Banks guide for all the details.

Once your checking account is open, you may decide you'd like to add someone - by making them a joint-owner - or remove someone from your account.

• To add an owner: You can add an owner to an existing account anytime by visiting your local branch with the additional owner.
• To remove an owner: To remove someone from your Checking account, you'll need to close your current account and open a new one. Please note that if you are a parent/guardian and would like to remove yourself from your child's account when he/she turns 18, you will follow a separate process and not need to close the account.

A Universal Banker at your local branch can assist with any account ownership questions you may have.

Yes, our Free Checking offers free:

• Online Banking and Mobile Banking†  with mobile deposit.
• Debit card with custom controls in Online & Mobile Banking.
• ATM access at these locations.
• eStatements.

If you'd like to order checks or use any additional services, please contact us about fees associated with those services.

To order checks you may login to your Online & Mobile Banking Banking and click the Order Checks link on the Accounts Summary page next to the appropriate account. You may also contact us.

Keeping your personal information safe is a top priority. Learn how we protect you and what you can do to protect yourself from fraud.

Interested in learning more about how FDIC insurance protects your deposits up to $250,000? Read more from the FDIC. If you have deposits with us that far exceed the $250,000 FDIC insurance threshold and would like to consider other options, please visit with us about the possibility of ICS/CDARS.

Businesses that originate a direct deposit into your bank account, such as your employer, financial advisor or social security office, or pull automatic payments, such as your utility company, fitness center or clinic/hospital, will provide you with an authorization form that asks for your account information. If any of it is incorrect it will delay the transaction in your account.

1. The Merchants Bank routing number is: 091900193
2. Identify your account type correctly. If this is incorrect the deposit will not reach your account.

• Select Checking for these account types: Diamond Money Market, Health Savings Account, Personal Checking Accounts, Business Checking Accounts
• Select Savings for these account types: Basic Savings, Advantage Savings, Kids Savers Club, My Future Fund, Summer or Winter Fund. 

Please note: All savings types can receive direct deposit, but only Basic and Advantage Savings can accommodate automatic payments. 

3. Provide your Full Account Number. For security reasons, we only display a partial account number in Merchants Online Banking and on account statements. If you need assistance confirming your full account number, please contact your local branch.

It's easy - just use our guide to switching your checking account.

All tax forms, including 1099, will be sent to the mailing address on file with Merchants Bank by January 31 each year. Please note that tax forms are not available through Online & Mobile Banking.

Merchants Mobile Banking is free. However, text or data charges may be imposed by your mobile provider. Check your plan for details. Your carrier may limit access outside the U.S.

Children as young as 13 years old may be well served by Student Checking, but children under 18 must have an additional adult account owner.