Opening a bank account is an important step in managing your money, and choosing the right one can make everyday banking much easier. A Comerica checking account gives you an easy way to handle deposits, pay bills, and keep track of your spending.
This review will walk you through the types of accounts Comerica offers, explain their features and fees, and help you decide if this regional bank is the right fit for your financial needs.
Comerica Checking Account Overview
Comerica is a regional bank in the United States that has a lengthy history of providing client service. The bank operates mainly in five states: Michigan, Texas, California, Arizona, and Florida. Unlike nationwide or online-only banks, Comerica focuses on these areas and provides a mix of personal service and modern banking tools.
Comerica offers a wide range of products. For individuals, there are checking accounts, savings accounts, and credit services. For businesses, there are accounts, loans, and cash management solutions. But in this article, we will look closely at personal checking accounts.
Here’s a quick introduction to the options:
- Access Checking: This is the simplest and most affordable option. It gives you all the basic features you need to manage your day-to-day money without extra costs or complicated rules.
- Rich Rewards Checking: A great choice if you want your money to work for you. This account earns interest and comes with added benefits like better rates on savings products.
- Premier Checking: Ideal for those with growing financial needs. It includes more perks, better savings tools, and fee refunds that help you save money across all your accounts.
- Platinum Circle Checking: Comerica’s most exclusive checking account. It’s made for customers who keep high balances and want top-tier benefits, including personal service and premium banking tools.
In the sections below, we’ll dive deeper into what makes each checking account unique so you can decide which one is right for you.
Comerica Checking Account Options
Comerica provides four main personal checking accounts. Each one has its own rules for fees and benefits.
Access Checking
If you’re looking for a low-cost way to manage your money, a Comerica Bank Access checking account is a great place to start. It’s ideal for students, young adults, or anyone who doesn’t need fancy features. You get the basics and can still access real people if you need help.
- Best for: Everyday banking with low requirements.
- Minimum to open: $50
- Monthly fee: $13 (waived with $1,000 balance, direct deposit, student status, military ID, or business account holder)
Key Features:
- Free Comerica Web Banking and Web Bill Pay
- Mobile check deposit
- Comerica Debit Mastercard
- Statement Savings Account (no fee)
- Check Safekeeping (no paper checks returned)
- Rate discounts on some loans
- Access to financial guidance and advice
Pros:
- Easy to qualify for fee waivers
- Great for students and new account holders
- Free digital tools and bill pay
- Financial education support
Cons:
- No interest on deposits
- No physical check returns (copies only)
- Limited rewards or premium perks
Rich Rewards Checking
Rich Rewards is perfect for people ready to grow their finances. If you keep a decent balance and want to earn interest, this is a good step up. Plus, you get access to wealth planning and discounts on other banking products.
- Best for: Earning interest and building long-term wealth.
- Minimum to open: $50
- Monthly fee: $18 (waived with $5,000 daily balance or $7,500 combined balance in linked accounts)
Key Features:
- Interest on your checking balance
- Free Comerica Advantage checks
- Increased rates on new CDs and IRAs
- Discounts on installment loans and home equity lines
- Safe Deposit Box discount (up to $50)
- Free check images (CheckPhoto)
- Free Statement Savings Account
Pros:
- Earn interest on your balance
- Access to professional financial advice
- Enhanced CD and IRA rates
- Loan discounts with autopay
Cons:
- Lower interest rates compared to high-yield options
- Monthly fee if balance requirements aren’t met
Premier Checking
If you manage more money and want a few premium perks, Premier Checking is a great middle-ground. You’ll get added benefits without needing the $50,000 balance required for Platinum Circle. It’s a solid choice for professionals or families building long-term financial strength.
- Best for: People with bigger balances and more banking activity.
- Minimum to open: $50
- Monthly fee: $22 (waived with $7,500 daily balance or $20,000 combined balance)
Key Features:
- Interest-bearing checking
- Free Comerica Advantage checks and CheckPhoto
- Free Money Market Investment Account or Statement Savings Account
- Increased rates on CDs and IRAs
- Home loan closing cost discounts
- Safe Deposit Box discount (up to $50)
- Refunds on non-Comerica ATM fees (first four per month)
Pros:
- Better savings and investment tools
- Access to premium loan discounts
- Broader fee waivers across banking products
- Refunds on out-of-network ATM fees
Cons:
- Higher balance needed to avoid fees
- Still modest interest rates on checking
Platinum Circle Checking
Platinum Circle is for those who expect more from their bank. If you have a high income, large savings, or managed investments, this account treats you like a VIP. You’ll get access to dedicated experts, premium rates, and exclusive services.
- Best for: High-net-worth individuals with complex banking needs.
- Minimum to open: $50
- Monthly fee: $0 (with $50,000 deposit balance or $2.5M in managed assets)
Key Features:
- Highest interest among Comerica checking accounts
- Free Web Banking, Bill Pay, and ATM usage
- Free Safe Deposit Box (up to $200 value)
- Free checks
- Increased CD and IRA rates
- Access to dedicated customer service line
- Family banking perks (free accounts for household members)
- No-fee domestic and international wire transfers
- High ATM withdrawal limits
- HY Money Market and Statement Savings with no fees
Pros:
- Full suite of concierge-level banking services
- Earns more interest than other checking accounts
- No maintenance fees with qualifying balance
- Includes wealth management services and family benefits
Cons:
- High balance requirement to qualify
- Overkill for average banking needs
Comparing Comerica Checking Accounts
Here’s a side-by-side look at all options available to assist you in selecting the checking account that best suits your needs and lifestyle:
| Feature | Access | Rich Rewards | Premier | Platinum Circle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | $13 | $18 | $22 | $0 (with balance) |
| Interest Bearing | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| CD/IRA Rate Boost | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ATM Fee Refunds (non-Comerica) | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ (4/month) | ✅ (unlimited) |
| Free Checks | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Safe Deposit Discount | ❌ | 25% | 50% | Free ($200 value) |
| Dedicated Support Line | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Family Account Perks | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Account Features and Services
No matter which Comerica checking account you choose, you’ll get a decent set of features designed to make banking easier.
- Online and Mobile Banking: All accounts include free access to Comerica Web Banking and Mobile Banking. You can check balances, transfer money, pay bills, and set up alerts on your computer or smartphone.
- Debit Card Access: You’ll receive a Comerica debit card with ATM access. You can use it for everyday purchases and withdrawals.
- Branch Access: Comerica is mainly a regional bank, so branch service is limited to five states: Michigan, Texas, California, Arizona, and Florida. If you live in one of these areas, you can visit a branch in person to open accounts or talk to a banker. However, if you live outside these states, branch access is not available.
- Web Bill Pay: Skip the hassle of mailing checks or remembering due dates. Comerica’s bill pay tool lets you schedule payments, set up reminders, and pay bills automatically to help avoid late fees.
- Overdraft Protection: Comerica offers ways to help you avoid overdraft fees. You can link a savings account or apply for a line of credit, such as a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). If your checking account goes below zero, Comerica may transfer money from the linked account to cover the charge, though some fees may still apply.
- Wealth Management Support: If you choose the Rich Rewards, Premier, or Platinum Circle accounts, you’ll get access to special perks like financial planning sessions. For Platinum Circle customers, this includes one-on-one help from Comerica’s financial advisors.
- Family Banking Benefits: Platinum Circle customers can add household members (like a spouse or child) to their account. They can open free checking accounts under the same relationship, which is a nice perk for families managing money together.
But keep in mind, they’re most valuable if you use them actively and meet balance requirements to avoid Comerica checking account fees.
Comerica Checking Account Fees
While Comerica Bank checking accounts offer a lot of value, it’s important to understand the fees that may come with them. Each account has a monthly maintenance fee, but the good news is that most of these Comerica Bank checking account fees can be waived:
| Account Type | Monthly Maintenance Fee | Minimum to Waive Fee | Minimum Opening Deposit | Other Key Fees / Discounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Access Checking | $13.00 | – $1,000 minimum daily balance- OR 1 direct deposit of $250+/month- OR full-time student under 26- OR U.S. military ID holder- OR part of a Platinum Circle household | $50 ($0 online) | – $2 discount with eStatements- Free Web & Mobile Banking- Free Statement Savings Account |
| Rich Rewards Checking | $18.00 | – $5,000 minimum daily balance- OR $7,500 combined balance across up to 3 linked Comerica accounts | $50 | – $2 discount with eStatements- Free Advantage checks- Discounted loan rates and Safe Deposit Box |
| Premier Checking | $22.00 | – $7,500 minimum daily balance- OR $20,000 combined balance across up to 3 linked accounts or a Home Equity account | $50 | – $2 discount with eStatements- Free MMIA or Statement Savings- Discounted CD/IRA rates & mortgage costs |
| Platinum Circle Checking | $0.00 | – $50,000 avg daily combined deposit balance- OR $2.5M in eligible Comerica Wealth/Investment balances | $50 | – Free Wire Transfers (domestic & foreign)- Free Safe Deposit Box- Dedicated service line & family perks |
Some other charges may apply, such as fees for overdrafts, wire transfers (except for Platinum Circle Checking customers), and excessive paper statement requests:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Out‑of‑network ATM | About $2.50 per transaction |
| Overdraft fee | $26 for the first, $34 for each additional on the same day |
| NSF (returned item) | $26 |
| Overdraft protection transfer | $8 |
| Stop payment | $34 |
| Incoming wire transfer | Domestic $14, International $17 |
| Returned deposited item | $13 |
You should always check your account terms or speak to a Comerica representative if you’re unsure about your fee schedule.
By staying informed and using Comerica’s tools wisely, you can enjoy modern, full-service banking without paying extra.
Interest Rates and Balances
If you’re looking to earn interest from your checking account, Comerica may not be the best choice. Most of its checking options offer little to no interest. Here’s what you can expect:
| Account Type | Comerica Checking Account Interest Rate | Conditions to Earn Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Access Checking | 0.00% | No interest available |
| Rich Rewards Checking | Up to 0.05% | Maintain required daily balance and meet account activity rules |
| Premier Checking | Up to 0.08% | Higher balances typically required |
| Platinum Circle Checking | Up to 0.10% | Maintain $50,000+ in combined balances or meet relationship status |
Note: APY rates may vary by region and individual financial circumstances. For the most accurate information, it’s best to check directly with Comerica or your nearest branch.
To compare, many online banks offer high-yield checking or savings accounts with APYs over 1.00% or even 4.00%. That’s much higher than what Comerica pays.
So, if your main goal is to grow your money through interest, you might want to look into a high-yield savings account or a money market account instead. Comerica’s checking accounts are better suited for people who want access to banking services and customer support, not those seeking strong returns on their money.
Comerica Checking Account Bonus
Comerica occasionally offers promotions to attract new customers. These include cash bonuses for opening a new checking account or rewards through referrals. This is the latest Referral Bonus program you can try as of August 2025:
New customers can receive a $50 Mastercard Reward Card when referred by an existing Comerica customer.
To qualify, the new customer must:
- Make two direct deposits of $150+
- Complete four debit card purchases of $20 or more
- Maintain the account open for a minimum of 60 days.
- The referring customer also receives a $50 reward.
Comerica Bank checking account bonuses, however, are typically only available for a short period of time and change frequently. To see the most up-to-date bonus offers, check Comerica’s official website or contact your nearest branch. Also, make sure to read the terms carefully, some offers have specific eligibility rules or require a promo code during account opening.
Comerica Checking Account Requirements
Before you can open a checking account at Comerica, there are a few basic requirements you’ll need to meet. These steps help the bank verify your identity and make sure you’re eligible for the account you want.
What You’ll Need:
- Valid Photo ID: A government-issued photo ID is required. This could be a driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or passport.
- Social Security Number or ITIN: Comerica will ask for your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to confirm your identity and report to tax authorities.
- Proof of Address: You may need to show a document that proves where you live, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
- Opening Deposit: Most Comerica checking accounts require an opening deposit of at least $50 if you’re opening in person. Some online openings may allow you to start with no deposit, but it depends on the account type.
How to Open a Comerica Checking Account
Opening an account with Comerica Bank is straightforward. However, you need to visit a branch to get started:
- Choose the Right Account: First, decide which checking account suits your needs: Access, Rich Rewards, Premier, or Platinum Circle. If you’re just starting out, Access Checking may be the easiest. If you’re looking for financial perks and wealth services, consider Premier or Platinum Circle.
- Gather Your Documents: Prepare your photo ID, SSN or ITIN, and proof of address. Also, have your funding method ready.
- Apply In Person: Visit a Comerica banking center. Comerica operates branches in five main states: Arizona, California, Florida, Michigan, and Texas.
- Fund Your Account: Most accounts require an opening deposit of at least $50. You can use a debit card, credit card, bank transfer, or check.
- Verify Your Identity: Comerica may run identity checks through systems like ChexSystems to review your banking history. If everything looks good, your Comerica checking account application will be approved.
- Start Banking: After approval, you’ll receive a debit card by mail and gain access to online and mobile banking. You can then begin managing your money digitally or in person.
Tips to Use a Comerica Checking Account Effectively
If you’re thinking about opening a Comerica checking account, here are some helpful tips from someone who’s worked in banking for years:
- Try to avoid monthly fees whenever you can. Comerica charges a monthly service fee on most accounts, but the good news is, you don’t always have to pay it.
- Watch out for overdraft fees. These can add up fast. To prevent this, link your checking to a savings account or set up overdraft protection using a line of credit. That way, money is automatically transferred to cover any shortfall, possibly with a smaller fee or no fee at all.
- Check your account balance often. Comerica processes transactions quickly, and if your Comerica checking account balance drops below zero, the bank doesn’t wait long to apply fees. Try to review your account at least once a day, especially if you’re using your debit card frequently.
- Use Comerica’s digital tools to stay in control. You can log in online or use the mobile app to pay bills, move money, or set up alerts. For best results, check your app regularly and make sure notifications are turned on.
- Get to know your local branch. Customer service can vary a lot from one location to another. Some branches have friendly, knowledgeable staff who go the extra mile. Others might not. Visit in person if you can and see how the team treats customers.
- Understand the rules for premium accounts. The Premier and Platinum Circle accounts come with great benefits. But those perks only make sense if you consistently maintain a high balance or have a strong relationship with Comerica through other accounts. If you can’t meet those requirements, the monthly fees may not be worth it.
These simple tips can help you avoid unnecessary costs and get more value from your Comerica checking account. The key is to choose the right account for your habits, stay organized, and make smart use of the bank’s tools and services.
Comerica Checking Account FAQs
Does Comerica Bank use ChexSystems?
- Yes, Comerica Bank uses ChexSystems to review your banking history during account opening. Negative records, such as unpaid overdrafts, may affect your approval.
Can I open Comerica checking account online?
No, all Comerica Bank checking accounts require visiting a branch in person.
Does Comerica offer free checking accounts?
- Comerica does not offer a completely free checking account by default. However, you can avoid monthly fees by meeting conditions like maintaining a Comerica checking account minimum balance or setting up direct deposits.
How long does it take to get a Comerica debit card after opening a checking account?
- After opening your account, you’ll typically receive your Comerica debit card within 7 to 10 business days by mail.
What ATMs accept Comerica Bank cards?
- Comerica debit cards work at all Comerica ATMs and most ATMs nationwide with the Mastercard, Cirrus, or Maestro logos. Some out-of-network ATMs may charge a fee unless your account includes fee reimbursements.
How do I close a Comerica checking account?
- To close your Comerica checking account, visit a branch in person or call customer service at 800-266-3742. Make sure your balance is zero and all pending transactions have cleared before closing.
A Comerica checking account is a solid choice if you prefer a branch-based bank with clear account options. It works best for people who can keep the required balance and want extra services like advice and loan discounts. However, if you need a modern app or live outside their branch states, this bank may not fit your needs. Take time to compare, and pick the account that matches your habits and goals.
