Checking Accounts
Checking Solutions, Shared Features
At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we believe your checking account should fit the way you live—reliable, straightforward, and built on personal service. Our range of personal checking options provides the flexibility you need for everyday banking, supported by secure digital tools and the local attention you deserve.
Online Banking
Online Banking with Bill Pay and Mobile Check Deposit
E-Statements
E-Statements, including check images
ATM Access
Allpoint ATM Network Access; 55,000+ ATMs, Surcharge-Free **
Visa Debit Card
Direct Deposit
Unlimited Check Writing
Personal Checking Accounts
Free Checking
The Farmers & Merchants Free Checking Account offers true simplicity—no fees, unlimited check writing, widespread ATM access, modern digital tools, and the benefit of personal service from a trusted community bank since 1919. Perfect for anyone seeking straightforward, reliable checking.
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Interest Checking
Interest Checking combines everyday ease with financial growth—no monthly fees if you keep your balance above $600 —and pays interest on those funds. It’s a smart upgrade from a basic free checking account if you regularly maintain a higher balance but still want flexibility and convenience.
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Prime of Your Life Checking
The Prime of Your Life Checking account is a premium, interest-bearing checking solution —exclusively designed for those 55 and up. With strong safeguards, convenient access, and thoughtful extras like free checks and safe-deposit discounts, it’s a top-tier account that respects your years of experience.
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Compare Personal Checking Accounts
| Feature | Free Checking | Interest Checking | Prime of Your Life Checking (55+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $5* | $0 |
| Minimum Average Balance Requirement | None | $600 (to waive fee) | $1,000 (interest tier applies) |
| Interest Bearing | – | Yes (on average daily balance ≥ $600) | Yes (on average daily balance ≥ $1,000) |
| Additional Perks | – | Interest Benefits | Interest + free standard checks, notary services, $5 safe-deposit discount |
| Best For | Low-balance users & students | Those with ≥ $600 seeking interest | Age 55+ preferring fee-free interest, perks |
* To avoid a fee, maintain an average daily balance of at least $600.
** There is a $1.50 Farmers & Merchants Bank foreign ATM transaction fee.
Free Checking Account
Discover truly hassle-free banking.
Why You’ll Love It
- Absolutely no monthly fee: No minimum balance requirement, no maintenance charges, and no per-item fees—just straightforward, worry-free banking.
- Unlimited writing privileges: Write as many checks as you want without extra charges. Monthly account statements include check images for easy tracking.
- Access to over 55,000 ATMs: Enjoy surcharge-free ATM use nationwide through the STAR, Cirrus, and Allpoint networks.**
Perfect For You If
- You want to avoid fees and minimums
- You need everyday flexibility like check-writing and ATM access
- You prefer full-featured digital services
- You appreciate local banking with top-tier convenience
Interest Checking Account
An everyday account that pays you back.
Why You’ll Love It
- Interest bearing account: Earns interest on your balance by maintaining an average minimum daily balance of $600, helping your savings grow over time.
- No monthly fee: Keep your account fee-free by maintaining an average minimum daily balance of $600.
- Low opening requirement: Just $25 to open.
- Unlimited check writing: Enjoy the convenience of issuing checks as needed—no per-check fees.
Perfect For You If
- You want an intelligent checking account that earns interest
- You can maintain a $600 balance to avoid any monthly charges
- You prefer a checking account with no per-check fees
- You appreciate modern banking conveniences like mobile deposit, e‑statements, and alerts
Prime of Your Life Checking
Enjoy banking designed just for you—fee-free, interest-bearing, and packed with perks.
Core Benefits
- No monthly service fee or minimum balance requirement—ever.
- Interest earned when maintaining a $1,000 average daily balance—grow your money even as you spend.
Special Perks for Prime Account Holders
- ATM fee-free access within the STAR network—say goodbye to hidden charges.
- Complimentary standard checks and optional check style discounts—enjoy polished checks without extra cost.
- Debit card with no fee, plus no-charge Official Checks and Notary services—added value when you need it.
- $5 annual discount on any Safe Deposit Box —secure your valuables with savings.
- Direct deposit enabled for easy, timely access to paychecks and benefits.
Perfect For
- Individuals 55 or older seeking a checking account tailored to their lifestyle and financial habits.
- Those maintaining an average balance of $1,000—enjoy interest without worrying about fees or minimums.
- Anyone who values simplicity, savings, and rewards in everyday banking—combined with exceptional service.
Your Farmers & Merchants Visa® Debit Card — Convenience at Your Fingertips
Make everyday spending simple, secure, and rewarding with a Farmers & Merchants Bank Visa® Debit Card. Whether you’re shopping in-store, online, or on the go, enjoy instant access to your checking account funds — plus the confidence of worldwide Visa® acceptance and advanced security features.
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Easy Purchases Anywhere Visa® is Accepted
Use your debit card for everyday shopping, travel, dining, and online purchases. - Safe & Secure — Equipped with EMV chip technology.
- 24/7 Account Monitoring — Easily track spending, set alerts, and manage your card through Online and Mobile Banking.
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Allpoint® ATM Network
Enjoy surcharge-free access to over 55,000 ATMs nationwide through the Allpoint® network — giving you more places to get cash without paying a fee. **
** There is a $1.50 Farmers & Merchants Bank foreign ATM transaction fee.
Your Money. Your Way.
With your Farmers & Merchants Bank Visa® Debit Card, you can shop, pay bills, and access your cash whenever you need it — all with the hometown service and support you trust.