Varo Bank Account
Free
Varo Bank Account combines checking and savings with no monthly fees, early direct deposit, and high-yield savings potential.

Our take
A forward-thinking account for modern banking needs.
Alright, so let's dig into the Varo Bank Account. First off, it's an online-only bank, which means you won't be walking into a branch to sort things out. For some folks, this is a plus because, hey, no lines. But if you're someone who likes the human touch, this might feel a bit impersonal. One thing that stands out is that there are no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. That’s a big relief if you’re tired of the sneaky fees that traditional banks often slap on you. It's all about keeping more of your money in your pocket, which is always a win.
Now, when it comes to interest, Varo doesn't start off with the highest APY (Annual Percentage Yield) you’ve ever seen. However, if you jump through a couple of hoops, like making a few direct deposits or swiping your card a certain number of times a month, they’ll bump up your interest rate significantly. If you can manage those requirements, it’s a sweet deal, but it’s not exactly a set-it-and-forget-it situation. So, if you're the forgetful type or just want simplicity, this might feel like a hassle.
The app itself is pretty slick. It’s intuitive and makes managing your money straightforward, which is always a bonus. There are nifty features like automatic savings tools that help you stash away a bit of cash without you even realizing it. However, it’s worth mentioning that customer service isn’t available 24/7. So, if you’re the kind of person who likes to sort things out at odd hours, you might be left hanging till morning. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Another thing to consider is the cash deposit situation. Since Varo doesn’t have physical branches, depositing cash can be a bit of a pain. You’ll have to use third-party services, which sometimes charge a fee. If you’re someone who deals in cash often, this could be a bit of a nuisance. For those who live in a digital world and rarely see cash, this might not even register on your radar. But, it’s a tradeoff worth thinking about depending on your lifestyle.
Overall, Varo seems to be a solid choice if you’re looking to ditch traditional banks and their fees. The interest rates are competitive if you can meet the criteria, and the app's design is user-friendly. Just be sure you’re okay with the trade-offs, like limited access to customer service and the hassle of cash deposits. If you’re cool with those, you’ll likely enjoy the fee-free life Varo offers. It’s all about weighing what matters most to you in a banking experience.
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