Classic Checking Account

A fresh start for building stronger everyday money habits.
Everyday banking access
Easy ATM access
More Checking Account Options

Start your next financial chapter.

Classic Checking is designed for members looking for a straightforward way to manage everyday money while building stronger financial habits.

You’ll have access to the banking tools you need for purchases, bills, deposits, and account management, along with an opportunity to become eligible for Premier Checking as you demonstrate responsible account use.*

Classic Checking benefits

  • Mastercard® debit/ATM card
  • More than 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide
  • Online and mobile banking
  • Electronic bill pay
  • Unlimited check writing
  • 24/7 support through 365 Live
  • Contactless payment capability

Build toward Premier Checking

Classic Checking is not meant to be the end of your journey.

After six months, you may become eligible to transition to Premier Checking by demonstrating responsible account management. This includes maintaining regular deposits, keeping the account from remaining negative, avoiding overdrafts, and having no legal orders, levies, or liens against the account.

Tools to help you stay on track

Online Banking and the Michigan First Mobile App make it easier to monitor your account and build consistent habits.

Check balances regularly, review transactions, set account alerts, and keep track of deposits and spending so you know where your account stands.

Frequently asked questions

Michigan First members have access to approximately 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide through the CO-OP ATM network, including more than 1,600 in Michigan. Use Michigan First’s location finder or the Michigan First mobile app to find a participating ATM near you. The owner of an ATM outside the network may charge a fee.

Michigan First offers Premier Checking, Classic Checking, and First Gear Checking. Premier Checking is designed for convenient everyday money management, Classic Checking provides a straightforward option for members establishing their banking relationship, and First Gear Checking is designed for young adults ages 17-25. Compare Michigan First checking accounts to find the option that fits your needs. 

Yes. Michigan First offers checking account options with no monthly maintenance fee, including Premier Checking and First Gear Checking. Account features and eligibility requirements vary, so review each option before opening an account.

Michigan First deposits are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) for up to $250,000 and privately insured by Excess Share Insurance for up to an additional $250,000. Together, this provides up to $500,000 in coverage for qualifying deposits based on account ownership category. Coverage applies to eligible checking, savings, money market, and certificate accounts.

Yes. Michigan First offers two options that may help cover transactions when your checking account does not have enough available funds. Overdraft Transfer Service transfers available money from a linked savings account, while MoneyNow is an overdraft line of credit available to qualifying members. Fees and eligibility requirements may apply.

Yes. Michigan First members can use Online Banking and the Michigan First Mobile App to view balances and transactions, transfer money, pay bills, deposit checks, access statements, create account alerts, and manage eligible debit and credit cards. The mobile app is available for Apple and Android devices.

Yes. Eligible members can use Mobile Check Deposit to deposit personal checks and paychecks using the camera on an Apple or Android device. Follow the instructions in the Michigan First Mobile App and retain the original check until you confirm that the deposit has been accepted.

Yes. Zelle® is available through the Michigan First Mobile App and Online Banking. Eligible members can use it to send or receive money with people they know and trust using an email address or U.S. mobile number.

Banking designed for young members.

Help your child learn to save, spend and manage money with confidence.
Youth Accounts

*(1) You demonstrate responsible account management – such as making regular deposits; (2) Account does not have a negative balance; (3) You avoid over-drafting your account; and (4) There are no legal orders, levies or liens against the account.