15 Best Georgia Banks Worth Switching To This Year
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The weather in Georgia may make you sweat, but the banks there shouldn’t. Keep reading to learn more about the best banks in Georgia that you can trust.
Online accounts you can open from any stateAccounts shown here reflect the most viewed listings on this page based on reader engagement. We may receive compensation from some companies listed. This does not influence ranking order or our editorial scores.
Local branches are only half the picture. These five are available nationwide, so they compete with anything in your state and usually pay more to switch.
Georgia is known for many things, including its peaches, and as the birthplace of the great Martin Luther King Jr. But did you know that Atlanta was nicknamed “Transaction Alley” because 70% of the country’s financial transactions go through this historic city?
In fact, Georgia is home to over 100 financial technology (fintech) companies. That fact alone should make finding quality banks in Georgia a breeze.
If you live in Georgia, you can choose from several banks to manage your money. Our guide includes over a dozen you can partner with to improve your financial future.
While some banks on our list serve customers nationwide, a few are region-specific. These banks often give local customers a break on fees and may offer special discounts.
No matter which bank in Georgia you choose, you can find several ways to manage your money, from checking and savings accounts to CDs and money market accounts. With these Georgia banks, it’s easy to achieve your financial dreams.
Are you ready to learn more about the best banks in Georgia? Let’s get started!
15 Best Banks in Georgia
Many of the banks in Georgia below feature some of the best banking apps you can download. These make it easy and convenient to bank on the go.
Chase runs 118 branches in Georgia, and it will pay you $400 to open a checking account. That is the largest new-checking bonus any major bank is offering right now, and it is money most Georgians leave on the table by keeping the account they opened years ago.
Here is the entire requirement. Open a new Total Checking account, then have $1,000 or more in qualifying direct deposits arrive within 90 days of enrolling in the offer. It is cumulative, so two or three ordinary paychecks clear it, and the bonus is paid within 15 days of you meeting the requirement. The $15 monthly service fee drops to $0 in any statement period with $500 or more in qualifying electronic deposits, a $1,500 daily beginning balance, or $5,000 in average beginning day balance across linked accounts. One trap to know: Zelle, cash, checks, wires and interest do not count toward either number.
Past the bonus, the footprint is the argument. 118 Georgia branches plus 5,000+ branches and 14,000+ ATMs nationwide means you can deposit cash near home and still use the account anywhere you travel. Zelle is built in, the mobile app is well rated, and you can add a Chase savings account or credit card later under the same login.
The catch worth naming: the bonus is only open to people who are not already Chase checking customers, and you can collect one new-checking bonus every two years. It is reported to the IRS on a 1099-INT. If that fits you, open a Total Checking account and route your paycheck to it.
If you want the biggest checking bonus on the market alongside a real Georgia branch network, claim the $400 with Chase here.
An Atlanta commute plus rent leaves a thin margin in the last week of the month. The gap between when a bill is due and when your paycheck lands is where most budgets actually break, and it is the specific problem Current is built for.
The signup math is simple. Open an account with promo code WELCOME75 and get $75 once your Eligible Payroll Deposits total $1,500 or more in your first 35 days. It is cumulative rather than one big deposit, it is new customers only, and the cash arrives about 10 business days after you cross the line. Recurring wages from an employer, a payroll provider or a government payer count. Non-direct-deposit ACH transfers, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, PayPal, Google Pay, mobile check deposits, cash and one-off deposits such as a tax refund do not.
The feature that earns its keep after the bonus is Paycheck Advance, which lets you draw up to $750 of pay before payday and is offered by Finco Advance LLC rather than a bank. There is no monthly fee on the account, and the whole thing opens from your phone, which is the point in a state where the nearest branch may not be convenient.
One thing to be clear about, because it is routinely written up wrong: Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services come from Choice Financial Group and/or Cross River Bank, both Member FDIC, so deposit insurance reaches you on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 and depends on those conditions being met. If that structure is fine with you, open an account with code WELCOME75 and claim the $75.
3. SoFi
SoFi is one of those banks that actually makes things easy. When you open a SoFi Checking and Savings account and set up direct deposit, they’ll give you up to a $475 bonus just for doing what you already do.
I like that there are no account fees, you can get your paycheck up to two days early, and the app is clean and simple to use. You can see everything in one place, from your checking and savings to investing.
It’s FDIC-insured and feels more modern than a traditional bank. If you want a bank that rewards you for being smart with your money, SoFi is worth checking out.
4. Wells Fargo
With over 200 branches and ATMs across the Peach State, Wells Fargo is a trusted name in Georgia. Residents in Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta benefit from the Everyday Checking account, which offers a $325 bonus for new customers.
Open an account with just $25, receive $1,000 or more in qualifying direct deposits within 90 days, and claim your bonus. Wells Fargo also provides 24/7 fraud monitoring and top-rated digital tools, making banking secure and easy. The $10 monthly service fee can be waived with qualifying activities.
You can visit over 1,000 branches and 2,500 ATMs within the Fifth Third Bank network. Its standard checking account has no minimum balance requirements, overdraft fees, or monthly fees.
Unfortunately, Fifth Third Bank charges $5 for its savings plan. However, you can avoid this fee altogether with a Fifth Third Momentum® Checking account.
Fifth Third also offers a healthy selection of credit cards. If you want to build your credit history, Fifth Third Bank credit cards could be the ticket.
6. First Citizens Bank
Speaking of credit cards, First Citizens Bank also offers credit cards, loans, mortgages, and insurance. You can also open a checking account for free if you have $50 to deposit into it and opt for paperless statements.
First Citizens Bank offers savings accounts with no monthly fees as well. You can also earn 0.03% APY, which is nothing stellar, but it’s still better than nothing.
You can find over 50 First Citizens Bank locations in Georgia. First Citizens Bank is also available in 18 other states.
7. Ally Bank
Technically speaking, Ally Bank serves more than just Georgia residents. However, it’s one of the premier online-only banks that brings a wealth of savings to its members nationwide.
Ally can offer lower rates for its accounts because it doesn’t have the overhead associated with traditional brick-and-mortar financial institutions. Though it doesn’t provide any credit cards at the moment, the plan to reintroduce this service is still unfolding.
You can open several accounts with Ally Bank, from checking and savings to investments. Ally also offers mortgages and personal and auto loans.
If you open a savings account, Ally offers 1% APY. It’s not much considering the best savings accounts offer upward of 3%, but it’s better than most banks can offer.
8. Ameris Bank
Unlike Ally, Ameris Bank is regional to Maryland, Virginia, the Carolinas, Florida, Alabama, and, you guessed it, Georgia. However, Ameris Bank offers mortgage-only services in various states nationwide.
Open your free Ameris Bank checking account, and you’ll be subject to a monthly service fee that ranges from $6 to $20. You can also waive this monthly fee by meeting specific criteria.
Ameris also offers a savings account with an $11 quarterly fee. Again, you can waive this fee by always having at least $300 in your account.
You must have at least $200 in your savings account to earn interest, which is set relatively low. You’re also limited to six withdrawals every three months.
In addition to free checking and savings accounts, Ameris offers limited ATMs. It’s a contender if you live in Georgia and want to switch banks.
9. Bank of America
Ranked among the largest banks in the nation, Bank of America offers a large selection of checking and savings accounts and credit cards. While the accounts are not free, you can waive the fees with certain criteria.
Bank of America promotions run year-round, so check out what the financial institution offers new customers to take advantage of these offers. You’ll need between $25 and $100 to open an account, depending on which you choose.
Monthly maintenance fees for BofA accounts vary from $4.95 to $25. The Advantage Savings plan, for instance, has an $8 monthly fee but allows you to earn up to 0.04% APY.
Bank of America also offers a wide selection of credit cards you can apply for. Check out the details on BofA’s website for more information.
10. Navy Federal Credit Union
If you’re looking for some of the best money market accounts, Navy Federal Credit Union ranks high on the list. However, joining the credit union requires you to be an active military member or immediate family.
You can also earn up to 0.45% APY with NFCU’s Flagship Checking account. Check out NFCU’s savings accounts, money market accounts, CDs, and credit cards to see how they can help you achieve your financial future.
11. PNC Bank
With over 10,000 ATMs and 2,500 physical branches, PNC Bank commands one of the largest presences in the nation. It offers Virtual Wallet accounts you can use to combine both your checking and saving needs.
PNC Bank charges $7 in monthly fees, but you can easily waive them. You’ll also pay a $15 monthly fee for savings accounts.
12. Regions Bank
Proud to serve the Midwest and South, Regions Bank has over 2,000 ATMs in 16 states. It also requires new members to deposit at least $10 to $50 into their new accounts.
Like many banks on our list, Regions offers special discounts for seniors and students. Savings accounts come without a monthly fee, but checking account fees range from $5.90 to $18.
Regions Bank offers several credit cards you can choose from. Depending on your zip code, You can earn up to 0.01% APY.
13. Truist Bank
The product of a merger between Branch Banking and Trust Company and SunTrust Banks, Truist Bank operates in 15 states nationwide, including Georgia. If you want to avoid overdraft fees, Truist Bank’s Prepaid Money Account can help.
Truist Bank charges between $5 and $20 monthly for checking accounts. If you open a savings account, you’ll have access to 0.01% APY, no monthly fees, and no minimum opening deposit requirements.
14. United Community Bank
Headquartered in Blairsville, Georgia, United Community Bank serves much of the southeast portion of the nation. It offers a network of nearly 200 ATMs and APYs up to 0.05%.
Though United Community Bank doesn’t offer free checking or savings accounts, you can get a discount if you’re a kid, senior, or student. In addition, you can also waive your monthly fees with attainable requirements.
15. Wings Financial Credit Union
Regarding savings accounts, Wings Financial Credit Union offers a high-yield savings account that others find hard to match. Wings Financial also offers several interest-bearing checking accounts as well.
Besides savings accounts, Wings Financial also deals in home loans and IRAs. The NCUA insures its members for up to $250,000.
While Wings Financial isn’t as widespread as other banks on our list, it does offer checking and savings accounts that can be opened without a minimum investment or monthly fees. You can also open money market accounts with this Georgia credit union.
How to Choose the Best Bank
Though the best bank account bonuses can make it tempting to jump on the highest offer, here are a few questions you’ll want to ask yourself as you look for banks in Georgia:
What types of accounts does the bank offer?
How much does the bank charge in fees?
Does the bank allow you to waive monthly fees?
What interest rates does the bank offer?
Are your funds covered by FDIC or NCUA insurance?
Does the bank have physical branches or a robust ATM network?
You can also order these features according to preference and compare banks accordingly. Finding the best banks in Georgia shouldn’t be difficult after that.
Georgia banking questions, answered
Which bank has the biggest sign-up bonus in Georgia?
Chase Total Checking pays the biggest bonus on this list: $400 once your qualifying direct deposits total $1,000 or more within 90 days of opening. It is cumulative, so two or three normal paychecks clear it, and the cash lands within 15 days. You also get branch access across Georgia, plus 5,000+ branches and 14,000+ ATMs nationwide.
Which bank can spot me money when I need it?
Current lets you draw up to $750 of your next paycheck early, with no interest and no credit check. New customers can also earn a $75 bonus with code WELCOME75 after $1,500 or more in eligible payroll deposits within 35 days. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank; banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, both Members FDIC.
Are there any free bank accounts in Georgia?
Yes. Ameris Bank and Navy Federal Credit Union both offer free accounts to Georgia residents. Most other accounts on this page waive the monthly fee once you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance, so read the fee schedule before you pick one. Our guide to the best checking accounts compares no-fee options you can open from anywhere in Georgia.
What is the difference between a bank and a credit union in Georgia?
Credit unions require you to qualify for membership, while banks are open to anyone. In exchange, credit unions usually charge lower fees and pay better rates. Deposits are insured either way, by the NCUA at a credit union and the FDIC at a bank, both to $250,000. Our credit unions vs. banks comparison breaks down the trade-off.
What are the best banks in Georgia?
The best banks in Georgia include Wells Fargo, Chase, Regions Bank, and PNC Bank. Truist Bank and First Citizens Bank are also great banks to partner with in Georgia.
What should I look for in a bank?
You can look for many things in a bank, from the fees they charge to the perks they offer. It’s often best to narrow your search to a few banks and compare them side-by-side to make a more informed decision.
Banks as Sweet as a Georgia Peach
The state of Georgia certainly has its southern charms. From sweltering summer days to sweet Georgia peaches, what’s not to love about this part of the country?
If you’re a resident of Georgia, you have quite a few banks to choose from. You can pick from several traditional banks and a handful of credit unions.
We hope this article has helped you learn more about local banks to partner with. Many offer perks and discounts for new members and make banking a more pleasant experience.
What will you do with your new Georgia bank account?
$400 once your direct deposits total $1,000. You have 90 days from enrolling, and it is cumulative rather than one big deposit.
Paid within 15 days of hitting the requirement.
$15 monthly fee, waivable four ways. $500+ in qualifying electronic deposits, a $1,500 daily balance, $5,000 average across linked accounts, or linking a qualifying checking account. Zelle, cash, checks and wires do not count.
More than 5,000 branches and 14,000 ATMs.
Bonus paid within 15 days, and it is closed to existing Chase checking customers.
Pros & Cons
$400 for $1,000 of direct deposits, the best ratio here
Up to $475, and it is three separate bonuses. $50 for opening and depositing $500 within 21 days, $25 more for enrolling in SoFi Plus, and up to $400 on direct deposit.
The $400 tier is strict. Eligible direct deposits totalling $5,000 or more inside 25 calendar days. $1,000 to $4,999.99 pays $50, under $1,000 pays nothing.
No fees and no minimums, and savings earns 3.30% APY with eligible direct deposit activity.
Only real payroll counts. Check deposits, Zelle, PayPal, Venmo, Wise, wires and IRS tax refunds are excluded.
Paid within about 7 business days, and the offer runs to December 31, 2026.
Pros & Cons
Three bonuses stack to $475 if you qualify for all of them
3.30% APY on savings with eligible direct deposit
No monthly fee, no minimum, no overdraft fee
SoFi Bank, N.A. is itself a Member FDIC bank
Bonus pays within about 7 business days
The $400 tier needs $5,000 in eligible direct deposits
$1,000 to $4,999.99 pays only $50
Deposits are totalled over just 25 calendar days
P2P, wires, check deposits and tax refunds do not count
The $1,000 headline needs $200,000 deposited. The welcome bonus is tiered: $40 at $10,000, $100 at $25,000, $200 at $50,000, $425 at $100,000 and $900 at $200,000 or more, plus a Savings and CD Boost of $10 to $100 on top.
Code STACK has to be entered at sign-up, and it is new customers only.
The first deposit must be initiated by September 30, 2026. Balances then have to be maintained for 90 days, and the cash lands within 30 days of qualifying.
Raisin is not a bank. It is a marketplace over 100+ partner banks and credit unions. Your money sits at the partner institution through a custodial bank, so cover is pass-through FDIC or NCUA up to $250,000 per institution.
No platform fees and a $1 minimum to open a product. APY up to 4.40%, accurate as of September 28, 2026.
Pros & Cons
Access to 100+ partner banks and credit unions from one login
Up to 4.40% APY, well above a typical bank savings rate
No platform fees and a $1 minimum to open
Spreading across partners can reach $10M+ in FDIC or NCUA coverage
Move money between savings products as rates change
The $1,000 headline needs $200,000 deposited
First deposit must be initiated by September 30, 2026
Balances have to be maintained for 90 days
Code STACK must be entered at sign-up, new customers only
$1,500 in eligible payroll deposits within 35 days. This is the requirement people miss. It is cumulative, not a single deposit.
$75 with code WELCOME75. New customers only, and the code has to be entered at signup.
Paid within about 10 business days of your deposits reaching $1,500.
Transfers do not count. Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, PayPal, mobile check deposits, cash and one-off deposits like a tax refund are all excluded.
No credit check to open, and up to $750 before payday. Instant access carries a fee, or wait up to 3 days for free.
Current is a fintech, not a bank. Banking services come from Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, both FDIC members, so cover is pass-through up to $250,000.
Pros & Cons
No credit check to open
$0 monthly fee
Up to $750 of your paycheck before payday
No credit check on Paycheck Advance, and repayments are not reported
Realistic approval after a past bank closure
Needs $1,500 in eligible payroll deposits within 35 days
Smallest bonus here at $75
Venmo, Cash App, Zelle and PayPal do not count
Current is a fintech, not a bank, so FDIC cover is pass-through
Instant advances carry a fee unless you wait 3 days
3.75% APY on balances of $5,000 or more, and 0.25% below that. It is tiered, so your end-of-day balance sets the rate and it is paid on the whole balance.
$100 minimum to open, and no account opening or monthly service fees.
CIT Bank is a division of First Citizens Bank, FDIC insured to $250,000 per depositor per ownership category. Deposits across First Citizens divisions are combined for that limit.
Opening takes about five minutes online.
APYs accurate as of July 1, 2026 and variable, so confirm before funding.
Every figure above comes from each provider’s own page. For the full breakdown of the checking bonuses, including what counts as a qualifying direct deposit at each bank, see our guide to the best checking accounts.
CIT Platinum Savings APYs are accurate as of July 1, 2026: 0.25% APY on balances of $0.01 to $4,999.99; 3.75% APY on balances of $5,000.00 or more. Platinum Savings is a tiered interest rate account. Rates are variable and may change at any time without notice. $100 minimum to open. CIT Bank is a division of First Citizens Bank, Member FDIC.
Raisin bonus: new customers only, code STACK required at sign-up. Welcome Bonus is $40 at $10,000 through $900 at $200,000 or more, plus a Savings and CD Boost of $10 to $100. First deposit must be initiated by September 30, 2026 and balances maintained 90 days. Raisin is not a bank; deposits are held at FDIC-insured banks and NCUA-insured credit unions through a custodial bank. APY accurate as of September 28, 2026. Raisin charges no platform fees.
Before you go
Two accounts that pay you to switch
Both are open to residents of every state. The only real difference is how much you have to move to earn it.
Brian Meiggs founded My Millennial Guide and has spent over a decade writing about money. He tries every app and product before it goes on the site. No fluff, no guesswork. Named to the Northern Virginia 40 Under 40 earlier this year, and featured in WSJ, Business Insider, and Entrepreneur. Off the clock: chess, the gym, a quiet night in.
