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Open/Add a Checking Account

All accounts include a free VISA® Debit Card.

Compare checking options such as our free rewards-earning Kasasa® checking accounts.

Compare checking accounts

Need more checks?

If you have ordered checks through Alternatives previously, click here.

If you have not previously ordered checks through Alternatives, please contact the branch by calling 607-273-4611 or send us a secure message through Online Access or the mobile app, and we will place the order on your behalf.

"Alternatives is always supportive and a great resource. They have helped me in many ways, both personal finances and business."

High Dividend Checking Account

Earn really high dividends on your balance and refunds on your ATM withdrawal fees, nationwide!* There is no monthly maintenance fee, and no minimum balance requirement to earn your rewards.

Cash Back Checking Account

Earn cash back refunds on your debit card purchases every month and refunds on your ATM withdrawal fees, nationwide!* There is no monthly maintenance fee, and no minimum balance requirement to earn your rewards.

Free Checking with paperless statement

There is no better place to start than with basic checking.

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Details

  • Everyday checking account
  • $2 monthly service fee, waived if member opts out of paper statements and receives only eStatements
  • No minimum balance requirements
  • Unlimited check writing
  • Free Online Access
  • Free Mobile Access
  • Free eStatements
  • Free debit card
  • Nationwide Shared Branching via the CO-OP Network.
  • For new members: 
    • $2 one-time fee required to open account
    • $5 must remain on deposit to retain your membership of Alternatives Federal Credit Union

View schedule of fees

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Fresh Start Checking Account*

We believe that everyone deserves a second chance to start over financially. Take advantage of this free account and get started on your new journey today.

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Details

  • Rebuild your credit
  • No monthly service fee
  • No minimum balance requirements
  • Unlimited check writing
  • Free online access
  • Free mobile access
  • Free eStatements
  • Nationwide Shared Branching via the CO-OP Network
  • No minimum deposit to open

*Deposits will be subject to "exception" holds under our check hold policy for Fresh Start account holders. If the Fresh Start account overdraws during the six month period, it may be closed immediately or the exception hold period may be extended. The Alternatives VISA Debit Card is not available for a savings account, or for the first three months of a Fresh Start checking account. After three months of maintaining a problem-free checking account, you may apply for the Debit Card. Only one Fresh Start Account per person. If the Fresh Start Account is closed due to overdrafts, you may not have another account with Alternatives Federal Credit Union.

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Be ready for your next check-up with a tax-advantaged* HSA. It works with your high-deductible health plan (HDHP) to help you pay for medical expenses as they arise.

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Details

  • Greater personal control over healthcare management and expenses
  • Prepare for qualified medical expenses
  • Provides triple tax savings
  • Contributions are tax-free and can be made by you, your employer, or a third party
  • Funds can be withdrawn at any time**
  • $10 annual fee
  • No minimum balance requirements
  • Free Debit Card
  • Unused funds remain in account year after year; no "use it or lose it" policy
  • Keep your HSA in your name, regardless of career or life changes
  • No minimum deposit to open

*Consult a tax advisor.

**You can withdraw funds at any time for any purpose. However, if funds are withdrawn for reasons other than qualified medical expenses, the amount withdrawn will be included as taxable income, and is subject to a 10% penalty.

Alternatives Visa Debit Card

Imagine getting through life without ever having to dig for change or write a check. Use your free Alternatives VISA® Debit Card for any purchase — whether at home or abroad.

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Details

  • Use money from your checking account without having to write a check
  • Welcome at places that won't accept checks
  • Access to cash throughout the U.S. and around the world
  • Joint account holders may each receive a card (no need to share one checkbook)
  • Make withdrawals, transfers, inquiries, and deposits (where allowed) at ATM terminals
  • Nationwide Shared Branching via the CO-OP Network
  • Get cash back at participating merchants when using PIN debit
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of money
  • Authorization process limits your risk for lost or stolen cards
  • Each transaction appears on your monthly statement
  • Text Fraud Alerts sent to your mobile phone for added security

Alternatives VISA Debit Card with a Line of Credit

A combination debit and credit card, the Alternatives VISA Debit Card with Line of Credit provides access to your Alternatives checking account and a credit line for when you are short on funds.

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