It looks like you're using an outdated browser.
For a better experience, we recommend switching to a more modern browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Learn more.

News & Tips

The Top 5 Benefits of Free Checking at SCCU

Everybody should be able to keep their hard-earned money in a checking account with no strings attached. That’s why Space Coast Credit Union (SCCU) offers a Free Checking account with no hidden fees or restrictions to help you save money and simplify your financial life. 

Ready to enjoy more freedom, flexibility, and convenience with a checking account? Whether you’re considering opening a free checking account or already have one here at SCCU, let’s explore the top 5 benefits of having one with us! 

Why is it Important to Have a Free Checking Account? 

Your checking account is like a “grand central station” where earnings flow in and purchases and payments flow out. This account should add more convenience—not stress—to your life. With a truly free checking account that doesn’t charge monthly service fees, you’ll save more money and get more peace of mind.

While some financial institutions claim they have a “free checking account,” they may waive monthly service fees only if you meet certain requirements. But that’s not the case with a Free Checking account at SCCU. You won't have to jump through any hoops to enjoy no monthly services fees, and you can delight in all the benefits below.

Are SCCU Free Checking accounts insured?

Yes! They’re federally insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Association (NCUA), a U.S. government agency.

#1 Get Paid Up to Two Days Early42

Yes, you read that right! With SCCU’s Free Checking, you can get your direct deposit up to two days early.42 Forget about the wait for your next paycheck, and enjoy that “Friday Feeling” even earlier! Plus, an earlier direct deposit means you can stress less about making payments on time, and you’ll be able to get a head start on getting what you need or want. Learn more about direct deposits.

#2 Say Goodbye to Monthly Fees and Hello to Savings!

SCCU Free Checking accounts have no monthly service fees, no minimum daily balance, and no low balance fees. The average monthly service fee for noninterest checking accounts is $5.47, so you could be saving more than $65 a year with an SCCU Free Checking account. 

You also don’t have to worry about using your debit card a certain amount of times a month or setting up a direct deposit (but you can receive your paycheck two days earlier42 if you do)! 

#3 Save While You Spend with SCCU Saving Cents

SCCU Savings Cents is like a digital version of a spare change jar and puts your savings on autopilot! The difference? You’ll earn interest on that change!

You can link your SCCU Free Checking account to a Saving Cents account, which rounds up eligible debit card transactions to the nearest dollar and deposits the spare change. Little by little, the change will add up, helping you get one step closer to your savings goals!

Check out this calculator that shows how much you can save in 6 months on spare change with common purchases, such as lunch, gas, or coffee. 

#4 Access a Large Network of Fee-Free ATMs

How about pocketing even more savings? While ATM fees continue to climb among banks (average total cost for an out-of-network ATM is $4.77), you can save on ATM fees with an SCCU Free Checking account. An SCCU debit card (for your Free Checking account) gives you access to over 20,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide, including SCCU’s own network of ATMs. See all of our ATM locations

#5 Monitor Spending and More with Manage Cards

Since every SCCU Free Checking account comes with a debit card, you’ll have access to the Manage Cards feature in Online & Mobile Banking at SCCU, allowing you to take control of your debit card with just a few clicks! 

Here are the top features of Manage Cards:

  • Get spending insights: You can see how much you’re spending every month, where you’re spending every month, and how much you’re spending in different categories.
  • Control usage: You can turn your cards on or off, set up alerts for transactions, set a spend limit per transaction, and restrict usage for certain locations, transaction types, and merchant types.  

Plus, you can add your card to your digital wallet, manage travel plans, and set your PIN. Learn more about everything you can do with Manage Cards.

Additional Benefits of Online & Mobile Banking

With Online & Mobile Banking at SCCU, not only will you have access to Manage Cards, but you’ll also be able to access these features: 

  • Bill Payer: Manage your bills with third party payees all in one place. 
  • Mobile Deposit: Deposit checks in a snap!
  • eStatements: With electronic statements, you can view your transactions, which keeps important account information out of your mailbox.

You’ll also be able to see your FICO Score. Learn more about digital banking at SCCU.

SCCU Fraud Prevention Features

At SCCU, our top priority is protecting your financial interests. Some of the top fraud prevention features SCCU offers with a Free Checking account:

  • 2Way Text Fraud Alerts: With this service, we send you real-time texts when we detect suspicious activity. 
  • Visa® Zero Liability Protection14: This helps ensure you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your account. 
  • Free account alerts: You can set up account alerts in Online & Mobile Banking to notify you of transactions, ATM activity, and more. 

If you’d like to learn more, visit our Fraud Prevention Center

Make the Switch to an SCCU Free Checking Account!

What are you waiting for? Make the switch to a free checking account today! You can conveniently apply online for Free Checking at SCCU with just a $25 opening deposit. Once opened, you’ll receive a debit card with these beneficial services. We also offer a helpful step-by-step Switch Kit that makes switching primary checking accounts even easier, eliminating overwhelm! 

See “A Beginner’s Guide to a Free Checking Account” for more information. 

About SCCU

SCCU is a not-for-profit financial institution and the third-largest credit union in Florida that serves members in 30+ counties with more than 60 branches and 24/7 Online and Mobile Banking. Membership is open to relatives of current members and anyone who lives or works in any of our service counties. As a credit union, we’re all about helping our members get the best rates for accounts and loans. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with us

Apply online for a Free Checking account at SCCU today!

How Does APR on a Credit Card Work?
February 6, 2025 By Space Coast Credit Union
Learn how APR on a credit card works, its difference from interest rates, and its impact on your finances.
The Top 5 Benefits of Free Checking at SCCU
January 21, 2025 By Space Coast Credit Union
Discover the benefits of SCCU Free Checking. No fees, early direct deposit, fee-free ATMs, and more. Open your account and start saving today!
Debunking the Most Common Credit Union Myths
December 12, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
Discover the truth about credit unions! Learn how credit unions offer a variety of financial products and convenience with great member benefits.
How to Maximize Your Credit Card Rewards
November 8, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
Learn how to earn even more credit card rewards with this step-by-step guide!
Common Checking Account Fees to Avoid
August 21, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
Opening a checking account? Let’s help you steer clear of common fees. We’ll guide you through them and share how to open a Free Checking account at SCCU.
How to Help Kids and Teens Save More Money
June 20, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
This article will cover a variety of tips to help kids and teens learn practical hands-on ways to build essential money management skills.
Definitive Guide to Student Credit Cards
May 28, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
High school students can practice financial responsibility through a student credit card!
How to Open a CD in Florida with Space Coast Credit Union
April 26, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
See all the steps to open a CD in Florida with Space Coast Credit Union.
Does Paying Off Loans Early Hurt Your Credit?
April 5, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
Are you worried about what will happen to your credit score if you pay a loan off early? Learn more here.
Why Visa Signature is the Best Points Credit Card (With No Annual Fee!)
February 23, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
Looking to get a credit card? Here are numerous reasons why Visa Signature is the best points-based credit card (with no annual fee!).
How Do Credit Card Balance Transfers Help Slash Debt?
January 22, 2024 By Space Coast Credit Union
Learn more about what a balance transfer is and how it can help you cut down on debt and save more money.
Secured Credit Cards vs. Secured Loans
December 15, 2023 By Space Coast Credit Union
Secured lending refers to loans requiring collateral for loan approval. Types of collateral loans include secured credit cards & loans secured by bank accounts.
10 Easy Ways to Save Money in College
August 31, 2023 By Space Coast Credit Union
Here are 10 ways to save money while in college, allowing you to spend less time staring at an empty bank account and more time living the fun college life.
Alternative Ways to Save for Retirement Beyond 401(k)s
August 18, 2023 By Space Coast Credit Union
Perhaps your employer doesn’t offer a 401(k) or you’re self-employed. See some of the best alternative ways to save for retirement.
How Many Credit Cards Should I Have?
July 27, 2023 By Members' Watchdog
You might receive offers in the mail or at stores to apply for a credit card. But you might be concerned that having too many credit cards may negatively impact your credit.
How to Choose the Best Student Checking Account for Teens
June 2, 2023 By Members' Watchdog
We break down how to find the best student checking account for teens in just five steps. See them here!
Money Market Accounts: Everything You Need to Know
March 10, 2023 By Members' Watchdog
Money market accounts offer a plethora of savings benefits. Explore them all here.
How CD Laddering Works and Benefits of this Savings Strategy
February 13, 2023 By Space Coast Credit Union
Laddering CDs involves opening multiple CDs with staggered maturities. Let’s break down CD ladders so you can divide and conquer! 
Debit Card vs. Credit Card: Which One is Better?
February 3, 2023 By Space Coast Credit Union
We’ll go over the advantages and disadvantages of debit cards vs. credit cards. Plus, we’ll answer when’s the best time to use each card.
How to Make a Budget
December 28, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
In this article, we’ll break down how to make a budget for beginners and how to stick to a budget once you’ve created one.
Certificates of Deposit (CDs): What You Need to Know
December 19, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
Certificates of deposit (CDs) are a special type of savings account with a guaranteed rate of return over a certain timeframe so you can give your savings a raise even while you sleep!
10 Tips to Improve Your Financial Wellness
December 9, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
We’re sharing our top financial tips, with words of wisdom from SCCU Team Members, to help you improve your overall financial wellness.
Building Credit with a Secured Credit Card
November 25, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
When you’re seeking a Visa card and all its conveniences—but facing a roadblock with a lack of credit history—a secured credit card can help.
Benefits of a Visa Signature® Credit Card at SCCU
October 19, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
Visa Signature offers a rewards program, travel perks, low variable rates, security features, and more. We’ll give you the 360-degree view of why this card is worth having in your pocket.
The Ultimate Guide on High-Yield Savings Accounts & Saving Money
October 4, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
By regularly depositing your hard-earned money into a high-yield savings account, you could be on a faster path to achieving your dreams.
Florida Credit Unions: Why Choose Space Coast Credit Union (SCCU)?
September 23, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
We offer a full financial suite of products and services. Let’s dive into all of them!
How to Consolidate Debt
September 16, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
Perhaps unexpected expenses are piling up, and you’re scrambling to figure out how to pay them all. We’ll cover how to consolidate debt in this article, which could be a light at the end of the tunnel for you. 
Why Visa Platinum is the Best Cash Back Credit Card
September 9, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
Who doesn’t love earning money while spending money? Space Coast Credit Union’s (SCCU)’s Visa® Platinum—the star of the best cash back credit cards—gives you the power to do just that.
How a Good Credit Score Can Impact Purchasing Power
August 26, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
You’re probably well aware of what a credit score is, but what exactly determines your overall credit, and how does it benefit you?
Money Market vs. CD: Which is Better?
August 19, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
Both CDs and money market accounts offer low-risk ways to earn more interest on your savings. Find out which one's for you here.
Comparing the Differences: Visa Platinum vs. Visa Signature
July 21, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
With everything from rates to perks, you may find yourself on the fence as you're making your decision between Visa® Platinum or Visa Signature®. This article provides a comparison between the two to help you decide.
Hurricane Preparation Checklist
July 13, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
It's always a good idea to prepare for a hurricane before it's even on the radar. Here's a checklist to help you get started.
What is the Difference Between an IRA and a 401(k)?
June 29, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
Not sure if it's better to get an IRA or a 401(k)? Learn more about their differences here and how they can help you save for retirement.
How to Switch to a Free Checking Account in 5 Steps
June 22, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
From depositing checks to paying bills, your checking account should work FOR you and not against you with unnecessary extra monthly fees. See why it's worth switching to a Free Checking account at SCCU.
Unleash the Hidden Benefits of Digital Wallet
February 23, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
You’re walking along the beach and begin to feel thirsty. Your heart sinks once you realize your wallet is over a mile away. But then you realize that you have your phone with you, which means you can still access all of your cards through your digital wallet app! Learn more about all of its benefits here.
Which Credit Card Benefits are Better: Cash Back or Points?
February 15, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
Credit cards offer several benefits from covering emergencies to earning rewards. But with so many card options available (and vying for your attention) with cash back or points, it can be overwhelming to choose a rewards program that’s best for you. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type to help you score rewards in no time! 
A Beginner’s Guide to Free Checking (What It Is & Why You Need It)
January 28, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
Checking accounts are like a Grand Central Station for your money—flowing in and out with deposits and withdrawals. Many banks and credit unions offer free checking accounts, but what exactly is a free checking account and why should you get one?
The Beginner's Guide to a Good Credit Score (& How to Get One)
January 7, 2022 By Space Coast Credit Union
When you want to borrow money—perhaps for a mortgage or a car loan—or to get approved for a credit card, lenders typically require a decent credit score. But, what is a good credit score, and how can you make sure you have one?
Visa® Platinum Benefits: A Guide to Receiving Credit Card Rewards
December 21, 2021 By Space Coast Credit Union
Today, strategically selecting whether or not to use a credit card and which one to use can be part of savvy financial management. We're taking a look at why the Visa® Platinum credit card at SCCU may be the one for you.
10 Creative Ways to Save Money
December 10, 2021 By Space Coast Credit Union
Saving money can be challenging. But after the holiday season, it’s often a top New Year’s resolution. From joining special savings accounts to making some daily item switches, we’ve rounded up 10 ways that could save you thousands of dollars a year! 
Holiday Shopping with Credit Cards Do’s and Don’ts
November 12, 2021 By Space Coast Credit Union
Here are our top do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while holiday shopping with credit cards. 
What are Secured Credit Cards?
September 28, 2021 By Space Coast Credit Union
Maybe you’ve run into the following paradox: How do I get a credit card with less-than-perfect credit (or no credit) if I need a credit card to build my credit? You’re in luck because secured credit cards break this cycle!
7 Savvy Skills Teens Gain from a Student Checking Account
September 21, 2021 By Carmen Tapanes
While teens can watch hundreds of videos on the Internet about finances, experience is often the best teacher when it comes to managing money. But it can feel overwhelming for them to know where to start learning the fiscal ropes. Opening a checking account gives them a learner’s permit to handling financial matters with the peace of mind of having an adult as the co-owner. 
How to Choose the Best Free Checking Account
September 14, 2021 By Space Coast Credit Union
When searching for the right checking account, most people would prefer one that’s “free” — and rightly so. But it can be hard to know what exactly “free” means today when we know that fees and terms are often the name of the game. The reality is that financial institutions will define "free" in different ways.
Choosing the Best Credit Card to Fit Your Needs (+ Where to Get It)
July 23, 2021 By Space Coast Credit Union
Credit cards can be an excellent tool for building credit when you’re financing purchases both big and small. Most credit cards today deliver some form of benefit with membership—accumulating points, cash back, airline miles, or other deals, consumers have a wealth of choices.
Financial Peace: Pay Your Dues & Your Debts + Restore Hope in 5 Simple Steps
February 3, 2021 By Space Coast Credit Union
Discover how to obtain financial peace in 5 simple steps. Learn how to pay off your debts the right way and educate yourself on how to live financially free.
The Definitive Guide to Achieving Financial Freedom
January 29, 2021 By Space Coast Credit Union
This guide offers steps that you can put into practice immediately as you work towards financial freedom.
4 Perfect Times to Consider a Personal Loan
February 16, 2017 By Space Coast Credit Union
Virtually everything costs money, and it’s often more than you’d expect it to be.
Common Mistakes During Open Enrollment
November 3, 2016 By Space Coast Credit Union
Be sure to watch out for these three common pitfalls when enrolling in workplace benefits.
Was this helpful?
Thank you for your feedback!