Rewards Checking Preferred - Up to 2% Cash Back | Upgrade
Rewards Checking Preferred
The debit card with up to 2% cash back on purchases
- No monthly maintenance fees
- It's quick, easy, and free to open an account
Up to $250,000 in FDIC or NCUA insurance through Cross River Bank or Participating Institutions. See disclosures below.
Maximize your rewards with a $1,000 monthly direct deposit
Higher Rates (APY) on Savings
Add a Performance Savings account when you open your checking account to earn up to 3.05% APY.
Up to 2% Cash Back
On common everyday expenses, recurring payments and subscriptions.
Mobile Check Deposits
Deposit checks right from your mobile phone.
All customers enjoy these benefits
Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit
Pay bills, go shopping, or have a night out!
No Overdraft Fees
We have safeguards to prevent you from overspending, but on the rare chance it happens, we won't charge you any fees.
No Monthly Maintenance Fees
No recurring fees just to access and manage your account.
Allpoint ATM Network
Access your money easily at over 55,000 fee-free ATMs.
Reach your goals faster with a Performance Savings Account
Pair Performance Savings with Rewards Checking Preferred
0.38 APY
National savings average
3x
1.5%
APY
Rewards Checking Preferred
With performance savings
8x
3.05%
APY
Rewards Checking Preferred
With performance savings + $1000 direct deposit
Instant transfers between Upgrade checking and savings accounts.
FDIC or NCUA Insured up to $250,000
No minimum balance requirements.
No monthly maintenance fees.
Manage your money on the go
- Secure 24/7 access to your money
- View balances, transfer money between accounts
- You’re in control. Set up real-time alerts
Point your phone's camera at this code to download the app.
Joint Accounts
New Rewards Checking Preferred and Performance Savings accounts are available as a joint account for two account holders.
Smart Transfer Tools
Managing your money is easy with our suite of features designed to automate transfers.
Save My Paycheck
Put your savings on autopilot by moving a portion of your paycheck directly into your Performance Savings account.
Bill Pay Guard
Avoid bill payment failures due to insufficient funds with this tool that automatically pulls money from your savings account when your checking account balance is lower than the amount due for scheduled payments.
Auto Balance
Create custom rules to transfer money between your checking and savings accounts whenever your balance crosses a specific threshold.
Allpoint® ATM Network
Explore our expansive fee-free ATM network through our partnership with Allpoint®, featuring over 55,000 locations nationwide. Conveniently access your cash without fees at popular retail spots like Walgreens® and CVS Pharmacy®.
From Our Customers
“Amazing helpful place with easy self service! 100% recommend these guys to anyone looking for help.”
Rating points 5 of 5
How it Works
- Apply for an account online in just a few minutes.
- Fund your account with the click of a button or set up direct deposit to have your paycheck deposited automatically each pay period.
- Use your Rewards Checking Preferred debit card anywhere Visa® is accepted and earn up to 2% cash back.
Switching to Rewards Checking Preferred is as easy as 1-2-3!
Our switch kit makes it easy to close your existing accounts and transfer your automatic deposits and withdrawals to your checking account with Upgrade – follow three simple steps and start enjoying the benefits of Rewards Checking Preferred.
Where can you earn up to 2% Cash Back?
- Convenience and Drug Stores
- Gas Stations
- Restaurants
- Monthly Subscriptions
- Utilities
FAQ
What is a Rewards Checking Preferred account?
Rewards Checking Preferred accounts are an easy way to upgrade your checking account experience. You’ll get an online checking account with no monthly maintenance fees.
You can maximize your rewards with an Active Account with monthly $1,000 direct deposit. When you use your Upgrade Visa® Debit Card for purchases, you can earn up to 2% cash back on common everyday expenses (maximum of $500 in 2% rewards per calendar year).
Is money deposited in my Rewards Checking Preferred or Performance Savings account FDIC insured?
Yes! Deposits are insured up to $250,000 in FDIC or NCUA insurance through Cross River Bank or Participating Institutions.
How do I access my money?
You can use your Rewards Checking Preferred Upgrade Visa® Debit Card wherever Visa® is accepted.
How do I set up direct deposit?
Setting up direct deposit is easy!
- You can set up direct deposit automatically - all you have to do is find your payroll company or employer and provide your login credentials OR,
- You can set up direct deposit manually by generating a pre-filled letter to send to your employer’s payroll department.
Why should I set up direct deposit?
- Up to 2% cash back on purchases
- Add Performance Savings to earn up to 3.05% APY
- Access to mobile check deposit feature
How does early paycheck work?
Customers who set up direct deposit can get paid up to two days early to pay bills, go shopping, or have a night out!
Who can open a joint account?
Joint accounts are available to new Upgrade customers or existing Rewards Checking Preferred, and Premier Savings customers.