Family Trust Blog

If you’ve ever wondered whether your checking account could be doing more for you, you’re not alone.

Most traditional checking accounts are designed for convenience, not earning. They hold your money, help you pay bills, and make everyday spending easy, but they don’t usually help your balance grow. That’s where high-yield checking comes in.

Let’s break down what earning potential can really look like and how Loyalty Checking at Family Trust is designed to reward everyday banking.

What does “high-yield” really mean?

A high-yield checking account pays significantly more dividends than a standard checking account, while still giving you full access to your money.

With Loyalty Checking, members can earn 4.00% APY on balances up to $20,000¹. Any amount over that earns 0.10% APY¹.

In simple terms: the money you already keep in checking can start working harder for you.

How much could you actually earn?

Let’s look at a few straightforward examples.

Example 1: $5,000 balance

If you kept $5,000 in Loyalty Checking and earned 4.00% APY¹, you could earn around $200 in dividends over a year.

Example 2: $10,000 balance

With $10,000 in checking, that same rate could earn you around $400 per year.

Example 3: $20,000 balance

At $20,000 could earn around $800 annually.

Now compare these examples to a traditional checking account earning little to nothing and the difference becomes clear. A high-yield checking account might be the best place for your extra cash.

(These examples are estimates. Actual earnings depend on your average daily balance and meeting account requirements. Your results may vary.)

Why earning in checking can make a big difference

High-yield checking can help you earn more with money you already use every day.

For many members, checking is where paychecks land, bills are paid, and balances naturally sit between expenses. Instead of letting that money stay, Loyalty Checking helps it earn along the way.

Over time, those dividends can:

• Help offset everyday expenses
• Add a little cushion to your budget
• Support savings goals without extra effort

What does it take to earn the high rate?

Loyalty Checking is designed to reward engaged members, not make things complicated.

To earn the high dividend rate, members simply:

• Use their debit card 20 or more times per month²
• Have qualifying direct deposit²
• Keep their account active with online banking and eStatements

There is a $7.95 monthly fee, but it’s waived² when those everyday activities are met, meaning you may never have to pay it.

If you already use your checking account regularly, you may be closer than you think.

Is high-yield checking right for you?

High-yield checking can be a great fit if you:

• Keep a consistent balance in checking
• Use your debit card for everyday purchases
• Want your money to work without giving up access

It’s a great way to get more from what you’re already doing.

Ready to see what your checking account could earn?

If you’re curious whether Loyalty Checking fits your financial routine, we’re here to help you explore your options.

Learn how Loyalty Checking works, see current rates, and decide if it’s the right move for you.

At Family Trust, we're always in your corner.

Start Earning - Open a High Yield Checking Account

1. The Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective as of 04/01/2025, is variable and may change after the account is opened. The dividend period, dividend compounding and crediting are monthly. Stated APY applies to balances up to $20,000. Balances over $20,000 earn 0.10% APY (effective as of 04/01/2025). Rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice.

2. Fees may reduce earnings on the account. The $7.95 monthly maintenance fee can be waived with a qualifying direct deposit and at least 20 debit card or Platinum/Traditional credit card transactions posted the previous month. Deposits that do not meet eligibility include deposits or transfers made at a branch, through Digital Banking, by a debit, credit or prepaid card, or through a payment App or service. One Loyalty Checking account per member permitted.