First Republic Basic Checking Account

Good solution for those:

  • with lower balances,
  • who don't make many transactions per month,
  • who rarely use checks.

securely on the bank's website

The First Republic Basic Checking is a low-fee checking account featuring all you need for basic, everyday banking.

If you decide to open this checking account, you will receive a First Republic ATM card you can use for ATM cash withdrawals and PIN-enabled payments worldwide. Thanks to Visa Zero Liability Protection, you'll be protected against unauthorized transactions, and your identity kept safe with 24/7 fraud monitoring. Additionally, there are card alerts and control you can turn on for an extra layer of protection.

In addition to personalized support, First Republic Online Banking services enable you to bank at your convenience. You can use available features to check your balances, view transaction history, pay bills, and transfer money. You can also set up low balance alerts to inform you when's your balance is getting low, so you can fund your First Republic Basic Checking. While you could choose an overdraft protection plan to prevent having transactions declined due to insufficient funds, you'd still be charged some overdraft or NSF fees. So, the best way to go if you want to avoid rejected transactions and fees is to keep your balance positive at all times.

If you install the First Republic Mobile Banking app, you'll be able to access your Basic Checking using your Android or iOS device, so you can keep an eye on your account wherever you are, instead of relying on desktop-only banking. The app includes all the features as the online banking platform, plus the option to make mobile check deposits. Speaking of checks, the First Republic Basic Checking account is not really a check-friendly account, even though you'll receive your first set of checks for free. If you plan on writing a lot of checks, this checking account is not for you, as you only get to write 8 checks per month free of charge, after which you'll be charged a $1 fee per each cleared check. (Other First Republic checking accounts charge no per-check fees, though.)

Since things can sometimes get complicated, especially if you're new to digital banking or banking in general, then you should know that there's an entire team of First Republic Digital Banking Specialists there to help you get started. You can ask them any questions you may have about your Basic Checking account or digital banking features and services.

Overall, the First Republic Basic Checking is merely a checking account. We've seen much better checking account offers, whether it be free, regular or online checking accounts. That said, if you think you'd be happy with this one, then you should go for it!

Checking account details

Checking account fees

  • Monthly Fee
    $3
  • APY
    0.00%
  • Minimum Deposit to Open
    $25
  • Out-of-Network ATM Transaction Fee
    $0
  • Out-of-Network ATM Withdrawal Fee
    $0
  • Overdraft Fee
    $30
  • Non-Sufficient Funds Fee
    $30
  • Foreign Transaction Fee
    1%

First Republic Basic Checking Account FAQ

1. How can I open a First Republic Basic Checking account?

If you'd like to open a First Republic Basic Checking, you can contact a First Republic banker at (888) 408-0288 or have someone from the bank contact you by completing this form. You can also visit a First Republic branch directly, if there's one in your area.

You can't apply for the First Republic Basic Checking online.

2. How can I change my First Republic ATM card PIN?

If you want to change the PIN of your First Republic ATM card, especially if you haven't selected one at account opening, you can do so at any First Republic ATM or through First Republic's Automated Banking System or ABS.

3. What is First Republic Automated Banking System?

The First Republic Automated Banking System (ABS) is the bank's free telephone banking service in which you need to enroll by calling their Client Care Center at (888) 408-0288. You'll also have to set up a separate PIN to access the service following enrollment. Once enrolled, you can use First Republic's phone banking, available 24/7 at (800) 392-1407, to, for example, transfer funds between your First Republic accounts, pay your First Republic loans or get your First Republic Basic Checking account information. You can also use ABS to change your ATM card PIN, as well as for some other banking tasks.

4. What can I use the First Republic Mobile Banking app for?

The First Republic Mobile Banking app allows you to manage your First Republic Basic Checking account, as well as any other bank account of yours in an easy and convenient way. It's optimized for mobile devices, so you can bank while on the go as if you were at home.

You can use the app to:

  • check your account balances, see recent transactions, and monthly statements,
  • find and deposit checks,
  • transfer money between your First Republic accounts, as well as between your First Republic accounts and those you have with other banks,
  • send money to people and businesses,
  • pay bills, make one-time payments, and set up recurring payments,
  • turn on account and card alerts,
  • find your routing and account numbers,
  • contact customer support,
  • add any other bank account of yours for a full financial picture, and more!
5. Where can I download the First Republic Mobile Banking App?

You can get the First Republic Mobile Banking App on the App Store or Google Play, depending on the type of your mobile device.

6. What is the First Republic ATM card I get with a First Republic Basic Checking?

When you open a First Republic Basic Checking, you'll receive a Visa ATM card you can use worldwide for ATM cash withdrawals, as well as for in-store and online purchases.

Your Visa ATM card comes with Visa Zero Fraud Liability, and 24/7 fraud monitoring and client support, available at (800) 392-1407.

You'll be able to view your ATM card transactions on your monthly statements, so as to keep an eye on your ATM card usage, spending activity, and security overall. Card controls and alerts available in First Republic Digital Banking can also be of use here.

7. What kind of card controls can I set up in First Republic Digital Banking?

First Republic's mobile banking app lets you control your First Republic ATM card the way you want, thanks to various features you can turn on and off, including:

1. Card usage: Block/Unblock: If your First Republic ATM card has been lost or stolen, you can temporarily lock it to prevent its being used, and then unlock it once it's been found.

2. Card preferences: You can set purchase limits, and card alerts (transaction amounts, transaction declined, unusual activity). This way, you'll receive instant notifications when one transaction you specified is triggered or a potential fraudulent activity detected.

All is done in a few simple steps, so you'll be able to manage your ATM card easily, and on your own.

8. What should I do if my First Republic ATM card is lost or stolen?

If your First Republic ATM card is lost or stolen, you must report it immediately to First Republic at (888) 408-0288. You should contact the same number in case of unauthorized card transactions - even if you're only in doubt! Also, don't forget to block the card from within the app, so no one is able to use it!

9. What can a First Republic Digital Specialist help me with?

First Republic Digital Specialists are digital banking experts, there to help you get the most out of digital banking. You can receive a personal support by reaching out to a First Republic Digital Specialist with any related question you may have. Whether you're a first-time digital banking user, and need guidance with how to set up your online account or want to learn about everything you can do in online and mobile banking, a dedicated professional can help you through the process. You can schedule a internet security health check, done at no additional cost for you, to evaluate your internet safety knowledge, and learn how to stay protected when banking online.

To get started, drop them an email at digital@firstrepublic.com.

10. How do I find my First Republic routing number?

You can find your First Republic routing number at the bottom left of your checks and deposit slips. It's 321081669.

Check Out Other Products From First Republic
Bank Monthly Service Charge Minimum Deposit to Open APY
First Republic Classic Checking Account $25 (can be waived) $500 0.00%
First Republic Basic Checking Account $3 $25 0.00%
First Republic ATM Rebate Checking Account $25 (can be waived) $500 0.001%*
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